Party General Secretary and State President Nguyen Phu Trong address the opening ceremony (Photo: VNA)

The 23rd ASEAN 3 Summit and 15th East Asia Summit along with a series of ASEAN 1 summits are scheduled to take place on November 14 as part of the 37th ASEAN Summit and related meetings.

The ASEAN – US Summit is expected to discuss orientations and measures to implement the ASEAN – US strategic partnership, making the two sides’ cooperation more substantial and effective, and exchange views on international and regional of shared concern.

ASEAN and the US officially set up their dialogue ties in 1977. The US joined the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) in July 2009, and was among first dialogue partners to establish a diplomatic mission at ASEAN and sent its resident ambassador to ASEAN in 2010.

The two sides set up the strategic partnership at the third ASEAN – US held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in November 2015.

At the 22nd ASEAN 3 Summit between ASEAN and China, Japan and the Republic of Korea which took place within the framework of the 35th ASEAN Summit and related meeting in Thailand, leaders affirmed the importance of the ASEAN 3 cooperation mechanism toward peace, security and prosperity in the region based on the principles of trust, respect and interest sharing.

The East Asia Summit (EAS) process was formed in 2005 with the first meeting held in Kuala Lumpur. The event saw the participation of 10 ASEAN member countries, Australia, China, Japan, India, the RoK and New Zealand.

At the first EAS meeting, leaders signed the Kuala Lumpur Declaration of the East Asia Summit. At the 34th EAS meeting, participating countries said that this was the leading dialogue mechanism on security, strategies in the region.

Also on November 14, the ASEAN smart logistics network will be launched with the introduction of first project – Vinh Phuc ICD Logistic Centre in (SuperPort) in the northern province of Vinh Phuc.

The 37th ASEAN Summit and related summits, chaired by Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, are running virtually from November 12 to 15. It offers opportunities for ASEAN member nations to comprehensively evaluate the results of intra-bloc cooperation as well as cooperation between the group and its partners, towards setting priorities for the next stage.

One soldier killed, one injured while working bomb clearance

One soldier was killed and another critically injured after a bomb they were working on detonated in the Northern Province of Ha Giang, local authorities confirmed yesterday.

The blast occurred at around 3:00 pm on November 12, when a team of soldiers of the Division 316 under the Ministry of Defense were clearing bombs and mines to prepare for the search and collection of martyrs’ remains in Thanh Thuy Commune in Vi Xuyen District.

While working, a warhead exploded, killing 20-year-old soldier Ban Van Thuy and severely injuring 21-year-old Hoang Van Huynh; both hailing from the Northern Province of Lao Cai.

Thuy was killed on the spot while Huynh was admitted to the Ha Giang General Hospital for emergency treatment.

Due to his serious wound, doctors at the infirmary had to perform an amputation surgery.

Local officials have visited the injured soldier and extended their condolences to the deceased victim's family members.

Remarks by PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc at third Paris Peace Forum

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has delivered his message to the third Paris Peace Forum which is being held online.

Southeast Asian countries record thousands of new COVID-19 cases

Indonesia on November 13 announced an additional 5,444 new cases of COVID-19, the highest daily increase ever in this Southeast Asian country, and 104 more deaths.

The country recorded a total of 457,735 COVID-19 patients, including 35,094 recoveries and 15,037 fatalities - the highest in Southeast Asia. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Health, the pandemic has spread to all 34 provinces across the country.

On the same day, the Philippine Ministry of Health said that the country reported an additional 1,902 cases of COVID-19, bringing the total to 404,713. The total number of deaths due to the disease is currently 7,752 while 362,903 patients have recovered.

On November 12, speaking at the virtual 37th ASEAN Summit, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said that the COVID-19 pandemic is a big challenge for the generation. He also called for strengthening regional cooperation to protect public health while promoting economic recovery.

Meanwhile, Malaysia's Ministry of Health stated that in the past 24 hours, the country has detected 1,304 more coronavirus infections, bringing the total number of cases to 45,095. Of the new cases, only four were "imported".

Malaysia also recorded one more death, raising the total fatalities from the disease to 304./.

ASEAN wishes to foster cooperation with US: PM Phuc

ASEAN wishes to enhance effective cooperation and close coordination with the international community and partners, including the US, in order to promptly and effectively cope with emerging challenges, including the COVID-19, thus maintaining a stable environment for countries to develop sustainably.

The remarks were made by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc while addressing the eighth ASEAN-US Summit which was held virtually in Hanoi on November 14.

ASEAN countries and the US have maintained their partnership on the basis of mutual trust, respect and understanding for the common purpose of promoting stability, development and cooperation for mutual benefit.

As a strategic partner of ASEAN since 2015, the US has responsibly joined and contributed to efforts to consolidate trust and dialogue in the region through ASEAN-hosted frameworks.

It is an urgent need for countries to step up cooperation and coordination between countries amidst the outbreak of the COVID-19 as well as traditional and non-traditional challenges, he said.

“We appreciate the US as one of the partners that have actively promoted many result-oriented cooperation initiatives to support ASEAN countries and the Southeast Asian region to improve their capacity for coping with the pandemic.”

Assistant to the US President for National Security Affairs Robert C. O’Brien commended Vietnam for its ASEAN Chairmanship 2020 amidst a range of challenges and thanked the country’s leadership in advancing the strategic partnership between ASEAN and the US.

The ASEAN-US strategic partnership has become more important as they work together to combat the coronavirus, he said, appreciating ASEAN partners’ efforts to keep a key supply chain open.

Over the past four years, cooperation in science, health, education, livelihood and security between the sides has grown dramatically, especially in the sphere of security, he said.

The US has invested economic growth in Southeast Asia, O’Brien said, adding that in 2019, trade between the grouping and the US reached over 354 billion USD.

“Our strategic partnership, representing aspects of billions, billions people, has never been stronger. It is the partnership of free, equal and independent nations,” he said.

The ASEAN-US Summit is of significance, demonstrating the importance both sides have attached to the ASEAN-US strategic partnership.

The US-ASEAN dialogue ties began in 1977 and the two sides established an enhanced partnership in 2005. The US joined the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in July 2009.

The US proposed and organised the first foreign ministers’ meeting with four lower Mekong countries (Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam) in July 2009.

The US was also one of the first dialogue countries to officially establish a diplomatic mission in ASEAN and send its resident ambassador to the ten-member grouping in 2010.

The ASEAN-US was elevated to a new height as the two sides officially set up a strategic partnership at the third ASEAN-US Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in November 2015.

On November 13, the White House said in a statement that the US is pleased to mark the 5th anniversary of the US-ASEAN strategic partnership./. 

Death toll from Typhoon Vamco in Philippines increases to 42

The death toll from Typhoon Vamco in the Philippines has risen to 42, Philippine authorities said on November 13.

The Philippine National Police said 20 were still missing and 43 others were injured from the typhoon that tore through the country on November 11 and 12.

Typhoon Vamco, the 21st cyclone to hit the country this year, made landfall on November 11 night. It unleashed fierce winds and intense rains, triggering flash floods that left thousands of homes in the capital of Manila and other regions submerged.

It struck while the Philippines is still reeling from the onslaught of Typhoon Goni, the most powerful typhoon in the world this year, which lashed the country early this month.

Vamco also triggered landslides, mudslides, and rockslides in many regions. Among the casualties, five people died and six others went missing in a landslide in Banaue town of Ifugao province on November 12.

After devastating the Philippines, the typhoon entered the East Sea and forecast to make landfall in Vietnam’s central region on November 14 night or early November 15./.

Overseas Vietnamese scientist gives books worth US$1.15 million to universities

Visitors tour a library where keeps scientist Han's donated books (Photo: SGGP)

 

Overseas Vietnamese scientist Vo Ta Han has given 9,338 books, worth over VND26 billion (US$1.15 million), to universities in Vietnam. 

Scientist Han yesterday donated 942 books worth nearly VND3 billion ( or $130,397) to the library of the Ho Chi Minh City-based Van Hien University through the city Committee for Overseas Vietnamese under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These nearly VND3 billion rare books on technology are published by World Scientific Publishing headquartered in Singapore.

Van Hien University is the first school receiving donated technical books followed by Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Duy Tan, University and Thu Duc College of Technology. In generally, a total of 9,338 books have been given in November worth over VND26 billion.

On behalf of the Committee for Overseas Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City, Chairman of Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Phung Cong Dung highly appreciated the book donation of scientist Vo Ta Han who wants to contribute to the country’s growth by heling young people to access to rare books.

Before, scientist Vo Ta Han donated 1,301 books worth VND3.4 billion ( or $150,000) to the library of the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT).

From 1996 till now, scientist Han has given more than one millions of books to higher education institutions around the country for research works and teaching purpose.

Additionally, he also set up a scholarship fund named Vo Ta Han to give financial aid to poor but good students in disadvantaged districts in the countryside for over the past five years.

Vo Ta Han, a financial expert working in the US, Canada and Singapore, has brought more than one million precious books to Vietnam for the goal of raising training quality in HCMC particularly and the country generally.

One touring Prentice – Hall Publishing House in Singapore, Dr. Han accidentally discovered a forgotten “mountain of books” laying across, he tried to persuade the publishing house to sell all books which were transported to higher educational facilities in Vietnam later.

Realizing that Vietnam is short of technical, economic, and financial books, he started to ask for books from all publishing houses and universities. He has sent more than one millions of books to Vietnam which are displayed in schools’ libraries countrywide.

No COVID-19 case recorded on November 14 morning

Vietnam recorded no new COVID-19 case over the past 12 hours, keeping the national tally at 1,256 as of 6am on November 14, according to the National Steering Committee on COVID-19 Prevention and Control.

Of the cases, 691 were locally infected. As many as 1,101 patients have recovered, and the fatalities remain at 35.

Among those still under treatment, 18 tested negative once for coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease, 10 twice and 11 thrice. No patients were in critical conditions.

A total of 15,513 people who had close contact with COVID-19 patients or returning from pandemic-hit areas are under health monitoring nationwide.

As of November 14 morning, Vietnam entered the 73rd consecutive day without COVID-19 infections in the community.

The Ministry of Health recommended people to continue serious following its message featuring 5K (in Vietnamese) Khau trang (facemask)- (Khu khuan) disinfection- (Khoang cach) distance- (Khong tu tap) no gathering – (Khai bao y te) health declaration in order to live safely with the COVID-19 pandemic in ‘new normal’./.

Announcement made on new schedule for national team in World Cup qualifiers

Members of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Competition’s Committee agreed to devise a new schedule for qualification matches for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar during a recent online meeting chaired by Tran Quoc Tuan, vice president of the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF). 

As part of World Cup qualifiers in the Asian region, the nation will take on Malaysia in an away tie which is scheduled for March 30, 2021.

Following this, the country will then host Indonesia on June 7, 2021.

Furthermore, the national team will be away to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on June 15, 2021.

As a result of the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, locations and timings could be swiftly changed following discussions held among the AFC’s members, although it would require approval from the world’s football governing body (FIFA) and the AFC.

Despite changes to the second round of qualifying matches in the Asian region for the 2022 World Cup, fixtures must end on June 15, with the final regional qualifying round of the global tournament is due to take place between September 2 and September 7 next year.

Moreover, during the online meeting on November 11 delegates agreed to hold the AFC U-16 Championship’s finals in Bahrain from April 1 to April 18, 2021, whilst the AFC U-19 Championship finals will be staged in Uzbekistan between March 3 and March 20, 2021.

Medical experts warn of dangers of prediabetes

Most people with prediabetes are not aware of their health condition, putting them at high risk of diabetes, health experts warned.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, about 5.3 million people in Việt Nam have prediabetes, accounting for 8.6 per cent of the total population.

The number of people with prediabetes is 1.4 times higher than the number of people with diabetes.

Studies show that about 11 per cent of people with prediabetes turn into diabetes patients annually. 

About 15-30 per cent of people with prediabetes would suffer diabetes in five years and up to 50 per cent in 10 years.

It is predicted that by 2045, about 7.9 million in Việt Nam will have prediabetes which is a serious health condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.

The figures were unveiled at an event organised by Vietnam Association of Diabetes & Endocrinology and Merck Export GmbH Việt Nam (Merck Việt Nam) to raise public awareness of prediabetes and in response to World Diabetes Day (November 14).

At the event, president of the association Trần Hữu Dàng said early detection and intervention for people with prediabetes could help reduce diabetes cases.

Moreover, early detection and treatment would help avoid the disease’s implications, reduce medical costs and improve quality of life, Dàng said.

However, he was very concerned that few people had a proper understanding of prediabetes, resulting in a lack of awareness of the health conditions.

“Almost all people know they are living with prediabetes thanks to medical checkups, diabetes screening programmes or by accident when they undergo medical treatment for other diseases,” Dàng said.

“It’s time to consider prediabetes – a medical danger that needs to be warned,” he said.

Prediabetes doesn't usually have any signs or symptoms. Many risk factors can increase chances of developing prediabetes including being overweight, inactive, having high blood pressure, having high cholesterol, having a close family member with type 2 diabetes or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 4kg.

However, prediabetes can be tackled through positive changes in lifestyle like a healthy diet, increased physical exercise and not smoking.

If changed lifestyle fails to control blood sugar levels, people with prediabetes need to take medicine for 3-6 months.

According to statistics from the International Diabetes Federation, Việt Nam has 3.53 million people living with diabetes, and 80 deaths due to diabetes complications per day. 

Diabetes has reportedly started to harm more and more young people,

Associate Professor Tạ Văn Bình, former director of the National Hospital of Endocrinology and former head of the National Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, said that about 30 years ago, it was rare to find a 40-year-old type 2 diabetes patient. 

However, now, the average age of diabetes patients around the world is 40 years old. More young people are being diagnosed with diabetes, with the disease even affecting patients aged between 15 and 20.

Australian PM affirms ASEAN’s central role in regional recovery

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) plays a central role in the region’s recovery and the post-COVID-19 regional order, said Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison

In his media statement released on November 13 to announce that he will participate in the virtual ASEAN-Australia Summit and the virtual East Asia Summit, Morrison affirmed that the group remains at the heart of Australia’s vision for a peaceful, stable, inclusive, sovereign, prosperous and resilient Indo-Pacific.

As scheduled, at the ASEAN-Australia Summit, Morrison will discuss Australia’s role in the region’s response to COVID-19 recovery with the role as a strategic partner of ASEAN and the oldest dialogue partner of the group.

Meanwhile, at the East Asia Summit, he will highlight the importance of post-pandemic recovery being guided by the principles set out in the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, including transparency, inclusivity, good governance and respect for international law.
Morrison will also participate in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Summit on November 15

According to Morrison, RCEP brings together Australia’s top regional trading partners into a single economic framework and will link Australia more closely with this dynamic region.

In the statement, the Australian leader congratulated Vietnam for its stewardship as ASEAN Chair during a very challenging year and for Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc’s hosting of the ASEAN-Australia, East Asia and RCEP Summits.

On November 13 evening, Morrison attended and delivered a speech at the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (ASEAN BIS) 2020 , which was also held online.

Da Nang launches Circular Economic Hub towards green environment

Da Nang Entrepreneurship Support Company Ldt (DNES) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the Da Nang Circular Economic Hub (DCEH) and the Green Avengers in Da Nang on November 11.

The establishment of the DCEH aims to mobilise the participation of the community to find synchronous solutions regarding environmental activities.

With the support from experts of Accelerator Lab (AccLab) Vietnam, a member of the global AccLab of the UNDP, members of the DCEH will be provided with training to spread awareness and create impact in the community in the central of the Central Highlands region.

According to UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Vietnam Sitara Syed, Da Nang Circular Economic Hub will focus on human resources and the building of resources for sustainable development while practicing circular economy in the Central region, as well as promoting the current solid waste management system and advocacy for green consumption. Thus, we will see positive benefits to the environment and community that the DCEH will bring about in the future, she noted.

After its launch, the DCEH commenced the Green Avengers with the participation of 35 members selected from more than 100 registered people working in different fields.

Members will be trained with knowledge of circular economy, waste management, system thinking and others to form project groups and implement projects for green environment in central provinces.

Better care for employees to enjoy Tet

The complicated outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic since the beginning of the year has affected the production and business activities of enterprises, causing lost jobs and income reduction for employees.

In addition, the recent storms and floods in several central provinces have caused severe damage for the local people, including many families of workers and employees living and working in many other provinces and cities around the country. Experts and trade unions predicted that many workers from the central region will not return to their homeland to enjoy Tet (the Lunar New Year) in 2021 because they have to save and send money to help their families. Therefore, it is necessary to proactively develop and implement a plan of caring for workers and employees in accordance with practical conditions right now towards the goal of all trade unions’ members and employees having an enjoyable Tet.

On the occasion of the Lunar New Year in 2020, nearly eight million employees and workers received aid worth a total of almost VND4.1 trillion; meanwhile, over 1,600 workers were handed new houses. Accordingly, following the seven consecutive years since successfully launching the campaign “Tet sum vay” (Tet Gathering), over 30 million employees were presented gifts and donations worth a total of over VND15 trillion.

Also according to the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour, an aid package worth hundreds of billions of Vietnamese dongs will be granted to its members and employees. The 2021 “Tet Gathering” campaign will continue to be implemented and spread, focusing on the grassroot level, industrial and export processing zones and enterprises. In particular, employees and workers who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters will receive special attention. Through the campaign, Party committees, authorities, organisations and the whole political system will together join the activities of caring for employees ahead of Tet.

In addition to the thoughtful organisation of free and safe buses for trade union members and workers to return their homes to enjoy Tet, trade unions at all levels should hold more entertainment activities as well as visiting and presenting gifts to employees who are not able to return their hometowns. Trade unions should also proactively coordinate with the relevant agencies to thoroughly grasp outstanding salaries, social and health insurance from enterprises to propose settlement solutions to the local authorities while urging and inspecting the payment of salaries and bonuses for Tet. It is also crucial to promptly detect and take measures to protect the interests of workers in enterprises that were affected by COVID-19 and flooding and at risk of going bankrupt.

Trade unions must continue to inspect and supervise employersin their implementation of the law on working conditions, workand rest time, not allowing employers force workers to increase shifts and work overtime as well as limiting labour disputes and effectively preventing illegal strikes. They should also propose business owners pay visits and present gifts to employees in addition to wages or organise other encouragement and careactivities.

Trade unions at grassroot level need to thoroughly grasp and promptly report the situation of enterprises facing difficulties in production and businesses or business owners running away from the unions to superior agencies. In addition, the propaganda and encouragement of trade union members and employees to celebrate Tet festival economically and safely as well as obeying the provisions of the law and returning to work on time should be enhanced. Employees and workers who have to be on duty and work shifts are required to perform their duties well, ensure labour and traffic safety and avoid social evils.

In order to better care for employees, trade unions at all levels should further uphold the resources of the whole society, the responses and support of the local authorities, organisations and enterprises. The unions must then report aid packages for Tet to the Party committees, authorities and leaders in the localities. The organisation of free buses for workers and trade union members to return to their homes to enjoy Tet should be safe, thoughtfully organised and economical. Accordingly, employees who are living in difficult circumstances must be prioritised.

Canada provides US$400,000 aid to support flood-hit Ha Tinh and Quang Tri

The Canadian Government will provide CAD555,300 (US$426,000) through CARE Canada and Oxfam-Quebec to support approximately 32,000 people in Ha Tinh and Quang Tri province overcome the consequences of the recent floods.

The aid package will last for six months with a focus on improving the capacity to ensure food security, housing, water resources, and sanitation.

CARE Canada and Oxfam-Quebec are members of the Humanitarian Alliance currently present in 154 countries around the world. When a disaster occurs in a locality, members of the Alliance can devise quick and appropriate responses and solutions.

Canada has been a development partner of Vietnam for the past 25 years.

Since 1990, Canada has provided more than CAD1.5 billion in development assistance through a variety ofchannels to support Vietnam's efforts in poverty reduction and development, in accordance with Vietnam's strategic priorities.

To-be Thu Duc City to face overstaffing
 
Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) People’s Committee has just submitted a report to the Government about the rearrangement of its administrative units in the period from 2019-2021, and the establishment of Thu Duc City – its satellite city. When formed, this new city will employ 822 state officers out of the current 1,221 ones, which means a surplus of 399 people.

At the moment, HCMC has 322 wards in 24 districts. After the rearrangement, it will have only 312 wards in 22 district-level units (consisting of 1 city, 16 central districts, and 5 suburban districts).

In the ward level, there will be a reduction of wards in Districts 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, and Phu Nhuan.

Particularly, in District 2, An Khanh Ward (with a surface area of 1.74km2 and 124 residents) will be merged into Thu Thiem Ward (with 1.5km2 and 304 residents); Binh Khanh Ward (with 2km2 and 4,300 residents) will be merged with Binh An Ward (with 1.9km2 and 18,800 residents) into the new An Khanh Ward.

In District 3, Ward 6 (with0.88km2 and 7,263 residents) will be merged with Ward 7 (with 0.9km2 and 12,600 residents) and Ward 8 (with 0.4km2 and 16,900 residents) into the new Vo Thi Sau Ward.

In District 4, Ward 5 (with 0.16km2 and 5,100 residents) will be merged into Ward 2 (with 0.19km2 and 11,900 residents); Ward 12 (with 0.4km2 and 7,300 residents) will be merged into Ward 13 (with 0.42km2 and 11,200 residents).

In District 5, Ward 15 (with 0.19km2 and 10.900 residents) will be merged into Ward 12 (with 0.38km2 and 6,400 residents).

In District 10, Ward 3 (with 0.1km2 and 6,000 residents) will be merged into Ward 2 (with 0.2km2 and 18,00 residents).

In Phu Nhuan District, Ward 12 (with 0.16km2 and 6,800 residents) will be merged into Ward 11 (with 0.22km2 and 8,600 residents); Ward 14 (with 0.15km2 and 7,200 residents) will be merged into Ward 13 (with 0.14km2 and 9.400 residents).

In the district level, Districts 2, 9, and Thu Duc will be merged into the new administrative unit – Thu Duc City. In 1997, Thu Duc District was divided into the three districts of 2, 9, and Thu Duc.

After 20 years, these 3 districts have carried out many critical infrastructure upgrades, including the new construction of Saigon Hi-tech Park (attracted an investment of over US$7 billion and an export value of $77 billion), the University Village in the Eastern area (having more than 100,000 students and 2,000 doctorate lecturers), Ring Road No.3, Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro Station, Thu Thiem new urban area, Cat Lai Port (the largest sea port in Vietnam).

Last year, the three districts accounted for one-third of HCMC’s Gross Regional Domestic Products (GRDP), which means around 7 percent of the national GDP (higher than the ones of Binh Duong Province and Dong Nai Province).

Therefore, the establishment of Thu Duc City is expected to be a positive boost for the economic growth of HCMC in particular, and the Southern key economic region in general.

Thu Duc City aims to become an innovative and highly interactive urban area of HCMC, operating based on the knowledge economy and digital economy, along with the focus on a friendly neighborhood and sustainable families.

HCMC People’s Committee will observe the national law to employ 822 state officers for the to-be Thu Duc City out of the current 1,221 people in the current 3 districts.

The unnecessary staff will be transferred into different organizations in Thu Duc City itself or in other districts of HCMC; the policy of state officer reduction and retirement will also be applied on these people, along with the implementation of Decree No.26/2015 issued by the Government on regimes and policies applicable to officials ineligible for re-election and re-appointment to termed posts or titles.

In addition, the surplus number of state officers now responsible for general tasks in wards will receive support from HCMC People’s Committee and Council.

EU, FAO donate nearly US$900,000 to flood-hit people in Central Vietnam

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Vietnam has just announced an emergency aid project to help flood-hit central provinces of Vietnam. 

Via FAO in Vietnam, the European Union (EU) will donate €500,000 (US$587,000) in cash to at least 6,000 flood-hit households in provinces of Quang Binh, Quang Tri and Thua Thien - Hue for buying food and essential stuffs.

In addition, FAO will give an aid package of US$300,000 from the Belgium Government via the Special Fund for Emergency and Rehabilitation Activities (SFERA) to help flood affected residents in Quang Binh and Quang Tri provinces restore their breeding and production activities.

Hanoi to celebrate 650th death anniversary of eminent educator Chu Van An

Educator Chu Van An. Photo: The National Museum of Vietnamese History

A range of events aim at honoring the life and career of Chu Van An and his contribution to the country’s education sector.

The Hanoi People’s Committee and relevant agencies in coordination with the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO will organize the celebration of the 650th death anniversary of Chu Van An, one of the most respected educators in Vietnam, stated the Standing Committee of the municipal Party Committee.

According to the conclusion, the organization of the event is required to be practical and meaningful in accordance with regulations and the situation of the Covid-19 pandemic in the city. Within the framework of the celebration, a delegation of the city leaders will offer incense at Chu Van An Temple in Chi Linh city, Hai Duong province.

The celebration is set to take place at 8pm on November 20 at the capital historic Temple of Literature with the participation of 500 delegates. An art program is expected to be held to commemorate legendary Confucius master Chu Van An and celebrate the Vietnamese Teachers' Day (November 20, 1982 - November 20, 2020).

Hanoi Radio Television will broadcast live the event as well as produce a documentary film about the life and career of Chu Van An.

Renowned educator Chu Van An was born in 1292 in Van Thon village, now part of Thanh Tri district in Hanoi. He is widely considered one of Vietnam’s most respected educators, a man who devoted his life to the humanistic education philosophy, regardless of the wealth of his students. One of his key teachings was learning should go hand in hand with practicing and learning is a lifetime undertaking.

His thoughts and wisdom not only left a lasting legacy on Vietnamese education, but also contributed to promote national humanistic values. Chu Van An’s educational perspective features a number of progressive values considered to be similar to the UNESCO’s four pillars of learning which are learning to know, learning to do, learning to live together, and learning to be humans.

Japan continues human resource development scholarship for Vietnam

Nearly 700 Vietnamese fellows have been granted the scholarship since the program was launched in Vietnam in 2000.

The government of Japan continues supporting Vietnam in improving human resource by the application of Japanese Grant Aid (JDS) 2020.

The launching of the JDS application 2020 last week took place under the support of the Embassy of Japan in Vietnam and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

JDS application 2020 is now open for the academic year 2021-2022 for Vietnamese young and highly capable government officials who are expected to contribute to the socio-economic development of Vietnam as Japan has been keen on.

Within the new framework of 2018 - 2021, JDS 2020 provides two-year master courses in various study fields including Economics, Urban Development/Transport, Energy, Agriculture, Environment, Legal System, and Public Administration at Japanese universities.

JDS program, formerly Japanese Grant Aid for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS), provides full scholarship including tuition fee, flight tickets, monthly scholarship, and the other allowances funded by the government of Japan through official development assistance (ODA).

JDS fellows are also expected to contribute to the enhanced bilateral relations between their countries and Japan, with well-rounded knowledge of Japan.

JDS project offers 2-year master courses at Japanese universities in English. JDS fellows will get a special opportunity for directly learning the forefront knowledge in the technological environment as well as for building the wide human networks.

The program has been implemented for Vietnam since 2000 and has dispatched 691 Vietnamese fellows to Japan.

The number of dispatches is up to 60 per year.

Australia provides new tech platform to transform breast cancer detection

VIETRAD, an online platform developed over the last year that uses machine learning technology to test, monitor and improve radiologic diagnosis of breast cancer, was launched on November 12.

The VIETRAD project was developed thanks to the funding of more than 340,000 AUD (245,700 USD) by the Australian Government through its Aus4Innovation programme.

VIETRAD uses a novel image interpretation and training approach from Australia, transferred by The University of Sydney. Using high quality mammograms from Vietnam and Australia, expert radiologists are able to practice reading images and improve their skill. Errors in diagnosis are identified, while machine learning technology helps to target training and further improve their capability.

This approach can transform radiologists’ efficacy in breast cancer detection on mammograms from below 50 percent today to 85 percent. This improvement is equivalent to that of Australian radiologists using the original platform.

Speaking at the launch event, Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Robyn Mudie said: “Australia is proud to have been providing long-standing support to Vietnam in innovation policy and practice. The Aus4Innovation Partnership Grants, which scale up innovative ideas for socioeconomic development, are supporting so many interesting projects like VIETRAD.”

In his remarks, Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan noted that VIETRAD platform is the first of its kind in Vietnam. “Now doctors and researchers can access to this advance system no matter where they are and improve their capability to detect breast cancer from reading mammograms,” he said.

The VIETRAD platform will be introduced and implemented in hospitals in Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City.
 
VIETRAD is funded by Aus4Innovation Partnership Grants, an important part of the 11 million AUD, four-year (2018-2022) investment by the Australian Government to help strengthen the Vietnamese innovation system. Aus4Innovation is co-funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and InnovationXchange (IXC).
 
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Vietnamese women, with over 10,000 new cases diagnosed annually. With most patients presenting in later stages, treatment is more difficult and survival rates are reduced. Early cancer detection depends on accurate interpretation of breast images by radiologists and this is essential to improving treatment efficacy and patient prognosis. In Vietnam, however, diagnostic efficacy in detecting abnormalities on mammograms is below 50 percent./.

Vietnam should take urgent action in face of natural disasters: WB

The World Bank (WB) recently released a report in which it called on the Vietnamese Government to take urgent action to ensure future growth in the face of natural disaster risks.

The report, “Resilient Shores: Vietnam’s Coastal Development between Opportunity and Disaster Risk”, says the Government has made impressive progress in managing disaster risks in recent decades, investing in structural and non-structural risk reduction measures, and adopting extensive legal, regulatory and policy frameworks to guide coastal development in safe and sustainable ways. However, these measures fall short of the country’s needs.

It notes that as disasters like floods have become more frequent while coastal populations and economic activities are growing, natural shocks already have a serious impact on Vietnam’s coastal development and these risks will increase.

Therefore, taking action is urgent to protect the obtained development achievements and ensure future development in the face of natural shocks, the report recommends.

It estimates that 12 million people in coastal provinces are exposed to the threat of intense flooding and over 35 percent of settlements are located on eroding coastlines, attributing the increase of disaster risks to rapid urbanisation, economic growth, and climate change.

The report presents a concrete action plan in five strategic areas that needs to be rolled out immediately and decisively, namely strengthening data and decision-making tools, factoring risks in zoning and spatial planning, strengthening the resilience of infrastructure systems and public services, taking advantage of nature-based solutions, and improving disaster preparedness and response capacity./.

Five new judges elected to International Court of Justice

The United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council on November 12 elected five judges to serve at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for a term of nine-year.

The five new judges are Yuji Iwasawa from Japan, Georg Nolte from Germany, Xue Hanqin from China, Peter Tomka from Slovakia and Julia Sebutinde from Uganda.

They are therefore duly elected members of the International Court of Justice to serve for a nine-year term commencing February 6, 2021.

The International Court of Justice holds the responsibility in rectifying the legal disputes between UN member states and is composed of 15 judges elected to nine-year terms by a vote held independently at the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly.

The ICJ is one of the UN's six principal organs and its election is held every three years for five seats with no bar on consecutive terms. During this year's election, eight candidates, four of which are current ICJ members, were contesting the five positions. Meanwhile, German jurist Nolte will serve his first term at the ICJ.

Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, head of the Vietnamese Mission to the UN, casted his vote at the UN Security Council, while Ambassador Pham Hai Anh, deputy head of the mission, voted at the UN General Assembly. This is the second time that Vietnam has elected ICJ judges as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and member of the UN. The first time was in 2008./.

Yachts contacting Immigration Bureau to allow passengers to visit Thailand

Since November 1, the government of Thailand has eased travel restrictions by allowing cruise ships and yachts to enter the country.

The Immigration Bureau reports that around 10 yacht operators have contacted Thai authorities to allow their passengers to disembark. However, they have to undergo strict screening similar to airport procedures.

The Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, Pol. Maj. Gen. Archayon Kraithong, said that more than 10 yachts sailing international waters have asked for the bureau’s permission to enter the country’s ports. Most passengers are from Singapore and Malaysia. They want to visit Thailand after the Thai government eased measures to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Starting November 1, international visitors are allowed to enter the country via cruise ships and yachts, under the Special Tourist Visa (STV) arrangement. Thai officials are now inspecting their travel documents, including reservations of accommodation. Once granted permission, the ships will dock in Phuket and Pattaya ports.

Meanwhile, ships docked in countries with a low-risk of COVID-19 infection, can contact Thai embassies and consulates-general for similar assistance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will issue a certificate of entry into the kingdom to authorised operators, which they can present to the Immigration Bureau.

This year, 268 tourists arrived by air, on October 20, 26 and 28. They underwent screening and quarantine, as required by the Ministry of Public Health. They can now travel in the country. Immigration officers will monitor them regularly. After 90 days, these international visitors must prepare documents, including health examination documents, to apply for a visa extension./.

Over 340 Vietnamese citizens flown home from Japan

More than 340 Vietnamese citizens were flown home safely from Japan on a Vietnam Airlines repatriation flight on November 12 thanks to the collaboration of competent authorities of both sides.

On board the flight were children under 18, the elderly, pregnant women, people with illnesses, workers whose contact had expired, students without accommodation due to dormitory closure and others in extremely disadvantaged circumstances.

The Embassy of Vietnam sent representatives to the airport in Japan to help the passengers with all required pre-departure procedures. Meanwhile, national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines rigorously enforced in-flight safety and preventive measures against the COVID-19 to protect the passengers’ health and prevent the spread of the disease.

All passengers and crew members received medical checkups upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport before being sent to quarantine in line with regulations.

The repatriation of Vietnamese citizens in difficult circumstances abroad will continue to be conducted in line with citizens’ demand, the developments of the COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine capacity in Vietnam./.

HeartBeat Vietnam funds 8,000 heart operations for disadvantaged children

HeartBeat Vietnam, VinaCapital Foundation (VFC)’s healthcare programme, has funded 8,000 life-saving operations for disadvantaged children with congenital heart defects in Vietnam since the programme was launched in 2006.

The 8,000th operation was performed on a 11-year-old girl named H’Nhun Nie from the Ede ethnic minority group, who is living in Buon Ma Thuot City in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak with her parents and seven siblings, the VFC announced on November 12.

Under the programme, she received free surgery on September 3 and was discharged from hospital a week later. She is now in good health and has returned to school to pursue her dreams, according to her father.

Vietnam has reported a high number of children with congenital heart defects, and caring for a child with such problems can place considerable financial strain on families, particularly those from difficult background in rural areas. These children have few chances for cardiac diagnosis and consultancy, which results in life-threatening complications.

HeartBeat Vietnam has so far this year funded 528 heart operations for children, provided screening for 75 children and financially supported 27 disadvantaged families.

The programme aims to organise 80-100 charity trips annually to deliver free heart screenings to needy children in the coming time. The VFC will also hold capacity-building programmes for healthcare workers and donate medical supplies to localities./.

Science ministry receives draft Vietnamese history

The Ministry of Science and Technology held a ceremony in Hanoi on November 12 to receive the draft Vietnamese history after five years of compilation.

The draft history comprises 25 volumes of general history and five volumes of event chronicles.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Pham Cong Tac said the project, funded by National Foundation for Science and Technology Development, was carried out by nearly 300 scientists from research institutes and universities, mostly those in Hanoi, Thua Thien-Hue and Ho Chi Minh City.

He added that it is the first time a project has received great attention from scholars at home and abroad and the public.

Speaking at the hand-over ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam highlighted the significance of the national scientific project, saying that it is part of efforts to reach the final step of publishing an encyclopedia of Vietnamese national history.

He also lauded tireless dedication made by historians, including late Professor Phan Huy Le, for the compilation./.

Canada supports disaster victims in central region

The Canadian Government has announced a humanitarian assistance package worth 700,000 CAD (533,000 USD) for residents hit by recent floods in the central region, according to the Canadian Embassy in Vietnam on November 12.

Via the Canadian Humanitarian Assistance Fund, the Canadian Government will help the CARE Canada, Oxfam-Quebec and Vietnam’s partner organisations provide urgent relief for about 31,000 people hit by floods in Ha Tinh and Quang Tri, which will give them access to housing, clean water, food and hygiene services.

Canada will also help the Vietnam Red Cross Society provide assistance for around 160,000 affected residents, including urgent medical support, livelihoods, accommodation, clean water and hygiene. Such support will focus on disaster risk mitigation, community connectivity, accountability, safety protection and gender equality.

Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam Deborah Paul affirmed that Canada stays ready to stand united with Vietnam in supporting disaster victims.

Recently, floods and landslides have seriously impacted over 1.3 million people, inundated and damaged nearly 300,000 houses./.

Hong Kong Chief Executive receives outgoing Vietnamese Consul General

Chief Executive of Hong Kong Carrie Lam received outgoing Vietnamese Consul General in the Chinese special administrative region Tran Thanh Huan on November 12.

The host appreciated Huan’s contributions to the development of Vietnam-Hong Kong ties, noting that the country is currently Hong Kong’s third largest trade partner in ASEAN, with bilateral trade in 2019 rising 10 percent year on year to about 20 billion USD.

She expressed her hope that the signing of a free trade agreement between Hong Kong and ASEAN will create momentum for relations between Vietnamese localities and her region to grow further in the time ahead.

Lam said although the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted travel between the two sides, Vietnam is always an attractive destination for Hong Kong people, and that she hopes bilateral travel will be resumed soon as the Southeast Asian country has put COVID-19 under control.

Highlighting both sides’ flourishing ties, the official voiced her hope that Huan will always be a good friend of Hong Kong and continue helping to boost bilateral relations in his new position.

For his part, Consul General Huan thanked the Hong Kong Chief Executive for her assistance for himself and the Vietnamese Consulate General over the last three years, expressing his honour to have chances to contribute to Vietnam-China relations in general, and links between Vietnamese localities and Hong Kong in particular.

Vietnam always treasures the traditional friendship and comprehensive cooperation with China and considers this as one of the top priorities in its foreign policy. Together with the development of Vietnam-China connections, the cooperation between Vietnamese localities and Hong Kong has enjoyed encouraging strides, according to him.

Collaboration between Vietnamese localities and Hong Kong in culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchange has also been on the rise. The coordination in repatriating Vietnamese people illegally entering the Chinese region has also witnessed considerable progress.

The diplomat added that as important partners of each other, Vietnam hopes for a Hong Kong of stability and prosperous development, thus creating momentum for further enhancing win-win cooperation./.

Award ceremony for competition on Denmark

VIETNAM NEWS

Winners of the “Denmark in your eyes” competition at the award ceremony on November 12 (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi (VNA) – The award ceremony for the competition “Denmark in your eyes” was held in Hanoi on November 12.

Held annually since 2014, the event was meant to mark the 49th anniversary of Vietnam – Denmark diplomatic ties.

The organising board received nearly 16,000 entries answering a set of 20 questions about Denmark and ties between Vietnam and the European country.

The special prize was presented to Nguyen Duc Vuong, 15, a pupil from Hung Yen province. Consolation prizes were awarded to pupils from Hanoi, Khanh Hoa, Tien Giang, Dong Nai and Binh Thuan.

Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Le Cong Thanh said the activity conveyed messages to young Vietnamese generations such as green mind, green dream, sustainable green development, protection of environment and natural resources, as well as strengthening of friendship and cooperation between the two governments and peoples.

Apart from showing their deep understanding about Denmark, its history and culture, participating students sent thousands of wishes and messages towards the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties next year, he said./.

Vietnam-Cambodia border topographic maps handed over to ministries, agencies

Officials pose for a photo at the map hand-over event in Hanoi on November 12 (Photo: VNA)

An event was held in Hanoi on November 12 to hand over Vietnam-Cambodia border topographic maps with a scale of 1:25,000 to ministries, sectors, and central agencies and to provide training in the use of the maps.

It was held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is the standing agency of the State Steering Committee on Land Border Demarcation and Marker Planting, and the steering committee for border demarcation and marker planting at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

Representatives of 22 agencies were presented with the maps, accompanied by digital versions, and training on their use in performing border-related tasks.

The maps are legal and technical documents that fully reflect the land border demarcation and marker planting results the two countries have recorded so far, which is about 84 percent of the total workload, and also form an inseparable part of the Vietnam-Cambodia protocol on land border demarcation and marker planting, signed on October 5, 2019.

The two countries also signed a treaty on October 5 last year that supplements a 1985 treaty on the delimitation of national boundaries and the 2005 supplementary treaty.

They were created, printed, and bound under the strictest technical requirements for map publication, to ensure accuracy and objectivity. Vietnam and Cambodia contracted the Blom Infor company, later renamed NIRAS Mapping A/S, of Denmark, to produce the maps.

Together with the two legal documents signed in 2019 and the modern border marker system, the maps are considered a major achievement by both countries after more than 36 years of negotiations.

The results are attributed to goodwill and constructive cooperation, close coordination between border experts and legal and technical staff of both sides, and the support of related ministries, sectors, and localities.

The hand-over of maps and training on their use will continue to be carried out in the time ahead in Vietnamese provinces bordering Cambodia. It is expected to create the best possible conditions for ministries, sectors, and localities to prepare for the implementation of the two legal documents inked last year, especially the popularisation of border-related tasks, the management and protection of the borderline and border markers, the safeguarding of border security and social order and safety, and fighting cross-border crime.

The two countries’ land border runs between ten Vietnamese provinces (Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Binh Phuoc, Tay Ninh, Long An, Dong Thap, An Giang, and Kien Giang) and nine Cambodian provinces (Ratanakiri, Mondulkiri, Kratié, Tboung Khmum, Svay Rieng, Prey Veng, Kandal, Takeo, and Kampot)./.

ASEAN Studies Centre wins 2020 ASEAN Prize

Singapore-based ASEAN Studies Centre (ASC) of the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute (ISEAS) on November 12 was honoured with the ASEAN Prize, an annual regional premier award, for promoting greater understanding and awareness of ASEAN and contributing towards regional cooperation and integration.

Now in its third year, the ASEAN Prize honours the outstanding achievements of individuals or organisations who foster the ASEAN identity, promote the ASEAN spirit, champion the ASEAN way and have significantly contributed towards ASEAN community building efforts.

The ASEAN Prize 2020 recipient was announced at the 37th ASEAN Summit Opening Ceremony virtually hosted by Vietnam. In his keynote speech, Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc congratulated the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute for being awarded.

“ASC’s insights and analyses on developments and trends in the region through research, publications, media engagement and outreach activities, have helped policymakers, scholars and business leaders in their efforts in building and advancing the ASEAN Community,” said ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Lim in his congratulatory remarks.

Director of ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute Choi Shing Kwok, who is also Head of ASC, expressed his appreciation in receiving the award. “The accolade is a recognition of the collective efforts of the entire ASC team, past and present. I am sure this will further inspire ASC to continue building on our efforts and mission of promoting research and understanding of ASEAN from a regional perspective,” he said.

Administered by the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Prize is sponsored by Singapore’s Temasek Foundation and Malaysia’s Yayasan Hasanah. The Prize recipient will receive a trophy and a cash prize of 20,000 USD. This year’s award ceremony will be convened separately, following COVID-19 safety protocols.

Established in 2008, ASC conducts policy research and analysis on ASEAN’s development as an institution in support of ASEAN integration and community-building. Under this objective, ASC studies the political-security, economic and socio-cultural trends in ASEAN through a range of research programmes, publications, events as well as institutional engagement. ASC also provides a regular platform for policymakers, scholars, public intellectuals, and business leaders to discuss constructive ideas that will help shape the development of the region and foster a better understanding of ASEAN.

ASC is the first ASEAN-based organisation to receive the Prize. In 2018, Erlinda Uy Koe, a dedicated community leader and advocate of families with autism from the Philippines, received the inaugural ASEAN Prize for her contribution to foster an inclusive ASEAN community. Last year, Malaysian humanitarian leader Dr. Jemilah Mahmood was selected for the Prize for her dedication in providing emergency needs and humanitarian response to affected population in the region./.

Vietnam a crucial factor in boosting ASEAN-India relations: Indian scholar

Vietnam is an important factor in promoting relations between India and ASEAN, as it has a special relationship with India, which is reflected in deepening bilateral relationship between the two countries in all aspects, an Indian scholar has affirmed.

Prof. Dr. Rajaram Panda from the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) under the Indian government made the remarks in an interview granted to India-based Vietnam News Agency’s correspondent on the occasion of the ongoing 37th ASEAN Summit and related meetings.

Regarding Vietnam's role in ASEAN and in the relations between the bloc and powers, Panda said Vietnam has taken on a good role as the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2020.

The Southeast Asian nation not only effectively controlled the COVID-19 pandemic in a timely manner, but also shared its experiences with other countries in the work, he said, noting this shows that Vietnam is a responsible country in the global political arena.

For the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), he said there is not any possibility that India will change its decision to join the agreement.

There have been a lot of debates and exchange of views among Indian analysts and policymakers about whether to uphold or reverse the stance, but it is unlikely that the Indian government will change its decision unless issues related to the East Asian country’s economic interests and the trade imbalance are solved, he noted.

India will also have an unfavourable trade balance ahead of most ASEAN countries if it joins the agreement because the Indian government is responsible for protecting its domestic production industry, he said.

For these reasons, Panda said he does not see any possibility that India will change its stance on the agreement during the fourth RCEP Summit, and even in the coming time, if the economic benefits of this country are not guaranteed./.

Malaysia believes in ASEAN’s role in addressing COVID-19 challenges

Malaysia firmly believes that the ASEAN continues to play a critical role in addressing challenges brought by the pandemic through the implementation of the many initiatives discussed through the various ASEAN-led mechanisms, the Malaysian News Agency (Bernama) reported.

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, in his intervention at the 37th ASEAN Summit plenary session held virtually on November 12 by host Vietnam, said it is important to ensure ASEAN’s initiatives serve as a platform for ASEAN to work collectively with external partners and other competent parties in alleviating and countering the impacts of COVID-19 in the region.

The Malaysian leader stressed that this is especially true when it comes to the development and access to COVID-19 vaccine. According to the leader, ASEAN must work hand-in-hand with relevant international organisations such as the World Health Organisation and countries to ensure the vaccine, once available, is affordable, accessible and equitably shared by all.

He also noted that it is imperative now for ASEAN, a regional bloc comprising mainly developing states, to focus on the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework (ACRF). ACRF is one of the three official documents that will be released at this summit.

The PM went on to say that ASEAN should strategise its approach in reviving the economy, trade and investment by embracing the new norm of conducting its economic engagement including through technology such as digital platforms.

In regard to the recent disruption of the global supply chain caused by COVID-19, Prime Minister Muhyiddin said as a region blessed with rich natural resources, it is time for ASEAN to look into possible ways to strengthen food security in the region, and seize opportunity to fortify the agro-foundation in the region./.

Vietnam reports three new imported COVID-19 cases

Vietnam recorded three new imported COVID-19 cases on November 13 afternoon, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 1,256.

The new patients included a 35-year-old woman and her 10-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter in Khuong Mai ward of Hanoi’s Thanh Xuan district, said the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control.

They returned to Vietnam from France on flight VN5010 on November 11 and have been quarantined right after their arrival at Ho Chi Minh City-based Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

The patients are now quarantined and treated at Cu Chi COVID-19 treatment hospital in HCM City.

Also on November 13, eight more patients were given the all-clear from the disease, raising the total of recoveries to 1,101, according to the subcommittee for treatment.

There are now no COVID-19 patients in critical condition while the number of deaths related to the pandemic is still kept at 35.

Among those still under treatment, 18 tested negative once for novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease, 10 twice and 11 thrice.

Vietnam has gone through 72 consecutive days without infections in the community despite complicated developments of the pandemic around the world.

As many as 15,280 people who had close contact with COVID-19 patients and entered Vietnam from pandemic-hit regions are being quarantined across the country, including 218 in hospitals, 14,071 in concentrated quarantine establishments and 991 others at their residences./.

Singaporean PM calls for stronger economic ties between ASEAN, key partners

ASEAN countries and their key partners should deepen economic cooperation and maintain connectivity to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has said.

Speaking at the summits between ASEAN and key partners held virtually on November 12 under the chair of Vietnam, the Singaporean PM said the conclusion of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade deal will reflect the commitment to "uphold a rules-based multilateral trading system and promote regional economic integration".

He was quoted by The Straits Times journal as welcoming Chinese President Xi Jinping's commitment to make vaccines a public good and prioritise the needs of the region, as well as China's participation in the Covax Facility, which he said reflects its close relationship with ASEAN.

At the ASEAN-the Republic of Korea (RoK) Summit, PM Lee said strengthening economic cooperation would help in the countries' recovery.

The work to update the ASEAN-RoK Free Trade Area will help businesses cope with the pandemic's impact and create more growth opportunities, he added.

On enhancing connectivity, he highlighted the need to maintain open and connected supply chains so trade flows - including of essential supplies such as food and medical equipment - are not impeded.

At the ASEAN-Japan Summit, PM Lee said Japan has also contributed to ASEAN's COVID-19 initiatives through consistent engagement and economic pacts. He also thanked Japan for its role in bringing the RCEP to "fruition".

At the ASEAN-India summit, PM Lee said: "We understand India's decision not to sign the RCEP at this time. But Singapore stands ready to welcome India to the RCEP, whenever it is ready to re-join."

PM Lee said COVID-19 has emphasised the importance of ASEAN strengthening its strategic partnership with India, including in research and development for vaccines and treatments for the virus. India, he noted, is a key player in the global pharmaceutical supply chain and has deep technological and biomedical expertise.

The RCEP, which will be the world's largest trade pact, involves 15 countries: ASEAN's 10 member states, as well as China, Japan, RoK, Australia and New Zealand. Together, they contribute about one-third of the world's gross domestic product.

The same day, The Nation journal of Thailand said that Thai Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit is scheduled to sign the (RCEP) on November 15 at a virtual meeting of ASEAN countries and their partners./.

Minister urges tightening of COVID-19 measures

Minister of Health Nguyen Thanh Long on November 13 called for COVID-19 prevention and control measures to be tightened, as many people in the community have dropped their guard.

At a meeting of the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control in Hanoi on November 13, the Ministry of Health (MoH) noted that the world had recorded nearly 52.5 million COVID-19 cases as of November 13, including 1.3 million deaths, in 219 countries and territories.

There were 6.5 million new infections and 95,000 fatalities in the first two weeks of November alone, including some days of 500,000 to 600,000 new cases and 10,000 fatalities.

Europe is currently the epicentre of the pandemic, where it is spreading quickly. Some countries in Southeast Asia have also posted sharp rises in new case numbers, such as Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

In Vietnam, the number of cases stands at 1,253, including 596 imported cases. It has now been free of community transmission for 72 consecutive days.

The MoH said, however, that the risk of transmission remains, especially as international flights are set to increase and the winter and spring provide conditions favourable for infectious diseases.

In calling for tightened anti-COVID-19 measures, the minister also urged greater resolve and that all forces be engaged in the task more strongly.

He added that it is impossible to guarantee there will be no local infections in the time ahead, so ministries, sectors, and localities must update their COVID-19 planning scenarios and gear up for the winter.

The MoH is boosting negotiations with foreign vaccine suppliers while stepping up domestic development and production, he said, stressing that the country should not rely only on vaccines and must remain vigilant and increase its anti-pandemic efforts.

Experts at the meeting also called for the acceleration of vaccine development and production and the strict management of people's entry into Vietnam.

With vigilance slipping, the committee decided to organise COVID-19 prevention and control exercises and to continue sending inspection teams to ports of entry and accommodation facilities for the foreseeable future.

Source: VNA/VNN/VNS/SGGP/VOV/NDO/Dtinews/SGT/VIR