Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse Le Thi Bich Tran and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation arrived at Melbourne airport on March 4, beginning their trip to attend the ASEAN - Australia Special Summit and official visit to Australia.

Welcoming them at the airport were Australian officials, Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Andrew Goledzinowski, Vietnamese Ambassador to Australia Pham Hung Tam and representatives of the overseas Vietnamese community in Australia.

The Summit marks the 50th anniversary of the ASEAN - Australia dialogue relations and will be followed by an official visit to Australia from March 5-9 at the invitation of Australian PM Anthony Albanese.

Themed "A Partnership for the Future," the Summit presents an opportunity for both sides to reflect on their five-decade relationship and plan for future development in line with bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership established in 2021.

PM Chinh, along with other ASEAN and Australian leaders, will outline visions, directions, and concrete measures to expand cooperation in the coming years. Notably, Australia is to propose new cooperative initiatives, which, if agreed upon, could lead to breakthroughs in bilateral relations and further bolster ASEAN-Australia relations.

While in Australia, the Vietnamese PM will engage in talks and meetings with Australia's top leaders. He will attend the Vietnam - Australia business forum, visit an exhibition showcasing investment projects in Vietnam, and hold working sessions with Australian business associations and major corporations. Furthermore, he is set to tour various socioeconomic and scientific research facilities and interact with Vietnamese and Australian intellectuals and experts.

Beyond evaluating the progress of bilateral ties, particularly within the framework of the Vietnam - Australia strategic partnership, both sides will map out future cooperation directions. These efforts aim to elevate bilateral relations to a new height, with a focus on trade and investment cooperation, especially in education-training, sci-tech, innovation, digital economy, and green economy.

The visit is expected to culminate in the signing and exchange of cooperation agreements in various fields, including education, energy, minerals, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, science and technology, innovation, law, finance, trade and investment.

Deputy PM proposes expanded partnership with P&G

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang has proposed US consumer goods giant P&G consider expanding its partnership with Vietnam and facilitating the entry of Vietnamese firms into its global supply chain.

During a reception in Hanoi on March 4 for P&G Vice President Nitin Darbari, Deputy PM Quang hailed the corporation’s investments in Vietnam, totaling 450 million USD since 1995, acknowledging their significant contributions to the country’s socio-economic development and the Vietnam-US relationship.

He also suggested the company pay attention to human resources training in Vietnam.

The Vietnamese Government always attaches importance to improving the business environment and promoting transformation to create favourable conditions for foreign enterprises to do long-term business in Vietnam, he said.

Darbari, for his part, commended the Vietnamese Government's efforts in positioning Vietnam as a foreign investment hub and overcoming the global headwinds to achieve an impressive growth of over 5% last year.

He thanked the Vietnamese Government for its support to P&G during the COVID-19 pandemic and stressed that P&G considers Vietnam one of its strategic markets, aiming to establish the Southeast Asian nation as a regional manufacturing hub and a sustainable supply source for its other markets.

Deputy PM calls for Samsung's help in training semiconductor engineers

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang received General Director of Samsung Vietnam Choi Joo Ho in Hanoi on March 4.

Speaking highly of Samsung’s investment that has contributed to Vietnam’s import-export revenue as well as economic development, Quang affirmed that the Vietnamese Government has paid due attention to improving the domestic business climate to facilitate foreign enterprises’ long-term production and business in the country.

He highly evaluated Vietnamese engineers working at Samsung R&D Centre, asking Samsung, with its considerable experience and capacity, will continue cooperation with the Vietnam National Innovation Centre (NIC) and help Vietnam realise its set goals of training 50,000 semiconductor engineers by 2030.

Choi, meanwhile, said Samsung invested an additional 1.2 billion USD in 2023, increasing its total investment in Vietnam to 22.4 billion USD, and the group will continue funneling 1 billion USD into the country each year.

There are 2,400 engineers working at the Samsung R&D Centre, with Vietnamese engineers playing a key role in studying the application of the AI into the Galaxy S24 line of phones, he said, highlighting Samsung will continue studying the possibility to expand cooperation with the NIC and support Vietnam to train semiconductor human resources.

He affirmed that Vietnam’s development is also Samsung’s development, and the group's development will contribute to the country’s socio-economic development.

Regarding the cooperation with the NIC, Samsung and the innovation centre last year signed a Memorandum of Understanding on implementing development activities for Vietnam’s young generation who will lead the success of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

The Republic of Korea-based group had also entered a cooperation document with the Vietnam National University, Hanoi on providing training for some 40 excellent students of the university in four years to become future leaders of the semiconductor industry.

Vietnam, Russia hold 13th diplomacy - defence - security strategy dialogue

Standing Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu and Russian First Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Vladimir Titov co-chaired the 13th Vietnam – Russia diplomacy - defence - security strategy dialogue in Hanoi on March 4.

In the spirit of traditional friendship, openness, trust and mutual understanding, both sides reviewed the bilateral cooperation in all areas, particularly in politics - foreign affairs, defence - security, and trade - investment as well as cooperation at multilateral forums, while discussing regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Speaking highly of the efficiency of the strategy dialogue, they recognised the results that have been achieved over the past time, especially the exchange of delegations at all levels in 2023 which laid a foundation to bolster cooperation and promptly remove bottlenecks, making contributions to consolidating the Vietnam – Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The two diplomats affirmed the resolve to maintain and promote the practical and effective bilateral ties in the coming time, and make efforts to implement the signed agreements and cooperation projects in the context that the two countries will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on Principles of Friendly Relations (June 1994 - 2024) and the 75th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations (January 1950 - 2025).

Titov said Russia treasures and wants to develop its practical ties with Vietnam, and considers Vietnam a trustworthy partner, suggesting the two foreign ministries promote their coordinating roles in implementing the bilateral agreements, and promoting the removal of roadblocks to expand cooperation in potential fields that meet the development requirements in each country.

As the region and the world are witnessing rapid changes, it is necessary to maintain the efficiency of the annual strategy dialogue to promptly enhance bilateral cooperation, exchange information and coordinate at multilateral forums.

They also affirmed to maintain close cooperation at the United Nations, the ASEAN-Russia cooperation framework as well as other international forums for peace and stability in the region and the world.

On this occasion, a cooperation plan between the two foreign ministries for the next period was signed. 

Vietnam values traditional friendship with Russia: Party official

Vietnam always treasures its traditional friendship and Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Russia, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of its Commission for External Relations Le Hoai Trung said on March 4.

Trung made the statement while hosting a reception for Russian First Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Vladimir Titov, who is on a visit to Vietnam for the 13th Vietnam – Russia diplomacy, defence and security strategy dialogue.

Congratulating the success of the dialogue, Trung affirmed that the Vietnamese Party, State and people always bear in their mind the valuable support that the Russian people have given to Vietnam during the past struggle for national independence and the current process of national construction and defence.

He also discussed several measures to strengthen the bilateral ties in all areas with his Russian guest.

The Russian diplomat, for his part, spoke highly of the positive development of the Vietnam – Russia relations, and affirmed that Russia has attached much importance to consolidating and developing its ties with the Southeast Asian country.

Titov shared Trung’s recommendations to enhance the bilateral relationship in the coming time, particularly promoting high-level visits in 2024.

Vietnam strengthen defence cooperation with Laos, Cambodia

Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) and Deputy Minister of National Defence Sen. Lieut. Gen. Nguyen Tan Cuong had bilateral meetings with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and  Minister of National Defence Gen. Chansamone Chanyalath, and Cambodian Deputy Minister and Minister of National Defence Gen. Tea Siha in Luang Prabang, Laos, on March 4.

The meetings took place as Cuong is in Laos to attend the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Retreat (ADMM-Retreat) from March 4 to 6.

Meeting with the Lao official, Cuong affirmed that the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence always supports and stands ready to assist the Lao side to successfully organise military-defence events when Laos is holding the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2024.

Chansamone, for his part, welcomed the high-level delegation from the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence to attend the ADMM-Retreat, expressing his belief that their attendance will contribute to the meeting’s success.

Both sides evaluated the bilateral cooperation over the past time, and discussed cooperation orientations in the coming time, particularly in the areas of Party and political affairs, border management and protection, human resources training and defence industry.

The Lao official said he hoped the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence will support the Experts’ Working Group on Humanitarian Mine Action of the ADMM Plus (ADMM+) for 2024-2027 co-chaired by Laos and Russia.

In the meeting with Tea Seiha, Cuong expressed his delight at the sound Vietnam - Cambodia defence cooperation in 2023 as both sides worked closely and effectively in the fields of high-level delegation exchanges, human resources training, and exchange of young officers.

They agreed that the two armies should continue their traditional cooperation and solidarity, serving as a pillar in the Vietnam-Cambodia good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, and comprehensive cooperation and long-term sustainability.

Besides, they concurred to direct competent agencies and units to carry out and review the protocol on defence cooperation between the two ministries during the 2020-2024 period and map out another for the 2025-2029 period.

Cuong took this occasion to invite leaders from the Cambodian defence ministry, royal military and enterprises to attend the 80th founding anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army, and the 2nd Vietnam International Defence Expo scheduled to be held at the end of this year.

Vietnam seeks solutions to environment challenges at int'l conference

The 4th International Conference on Environmental Pollution, Restoration and Management kicked off in the south coastal province of Binh Dinh on March 4 to seek solutions to address environment challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable future for Vietnam and the world.

The four-day event was co-hosted by the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Asia-Pacific, the US’s Auburn University, the Rencontres du Vietnam and the International Centre for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE).

In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Le Cong Thanh affirmed the Vietnamese Party and State’s consistent policy of pursuing economic growth alongside environmental protection for sustainable development. 

Environmental issues remain central to the country's agendas, strategies and development plans, he said, adding that the ultimate goal is to protect public health, ensure environment quality, and protect biodiversity and ecosystems.

According to the official, an important task that Vietnam needs to focus on recently is to perform policies on green transition, develop a low-carbon economy, and reduce emissions based on the principles of fairness, justice and proactive response to climate change.

Thanh wished that Vietnamese and foreign experts would engage in open discussions on environment challenges specific to Vietnam, and find the most effective and suitable solutions to address them, contributing to the country's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The discussions will cover a diverse range of topics, including plastic pollution, chemical contamination, environment monitoring, pollution treatment technologies, ecological risk assessment, and human health impacts.

There will be three short training courses and eight sessions on various topics, with nearly 50 presentations delivered by domestic and foreign scientists and managers, including world-renowned experts and young scientists.

A dialogue between the Vietnamese Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and domestic and foreign scientists is also planned, aiming to share information on pressing environment issues in Vietnam, establish networking opportunities and foster international cooperation in environmental protection.

Vietnam deepens international cooperation in environment, energy transition

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Dang Quoc Khanh discussed cooperation in environment and energy with Ambassador of the Netherlands to Vietnam Kees van Baar in Hanoi on March 4.

During the meeting, the minister expressed his belief that the ambassador will act as a bridge for the Netherland to extend support for Vietnam in building a bill on geology and minerals, conducting surveys and planning of water resources, and perfecting the legal framework on water resource management.

He also sought the Netherlands' assistance in post-graduate training and technical support in renewable energy development, particularly solar power technology, offshore wind power and integration of renewable energy sources in power system operation.

The minister asked the Netherlands to help Vietnam in developing a circular economy through recycling and policies and technical standards for the development of waste-to-energy projects. He was also looking for experience sharing and technical assistance in the management, development and application of technologies for treatment of domestic waste, common industrial waste and specific waste in order to limit greenhouse gas emissions.

On the same day, the minister met with Honna Hitoshi, chairman of Japan’s Erex Group, a leading company in biomass energy in Japan. The group is looking to invest in a biomass power plants and material areas in Vietnam, as well as in converting coal-fuelled power plants in Vietnam to biomass-fuelled ones.

Minister Khanh said the company's investment strategy suits Vietnam's situation and its commitment to net zero emission by 2050.

Disaster risk reduction partnership planning 2025-2030 relevant to Vietnam’s priorities: UNDP Resident Coordinator

The disaster risk reduction partnership's plan for 2025-2030 will be developed in accordance with the Government of Vietnam's priorities on natural disaster prevention as well as in line with the strategic goals of all partners, Pauline Tamesis, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations in Vietnam has said.  

She made the remark at a meeting to build the plan organised by Vietnam Disaster and Dike Management Authority (VDDMA) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on March 2, which saw the participation of representatives of disaster risk reduction partners such as UN Women, Action Aid, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Vietnam Office and Plan International in Vietnam.  

Tamesis said the plan will aim to strengthen Vietnam's resilience through focusing on key areas such as coordinated policies, risk-inclusive development planning and community awareness.

Addressing the event, Pham Doan Khanh of the VDDMA said the development of the plan is important to coordinate efforts to reduce natural disaster risks, enhance Vietnam's resilience to natural disasters.

The plan should encourage the participation of all members of the partnership in disaster risk management activities, establish a unified forum to promote mutual support among members and facilitate access to funding sources for disaster risk reduction initiatives, the official said, adding that the plan will also create a favourable legal environment for the implementation of disaster risk reduction activities of all partners and ensures their compliance with regulations of the Vietnamese Government.

Participants engaged in discussions related to early actions, disaster information, public awareness enhancement and community-based disaster risk reduction, emergency response, knowledge exchange and capacity building for disaster risk reduction partners.

Nearly 500,000 hectares of land cleared of bomb, mine in 10 years

Nearly 500,000 hectares of land were cleared of bombs, mines, and explosives in the 2014-2023 period, informed the Vietnam National Mine Action Centre (VNMAC) at a ceremony to mark its 10th founding anniversary and receive the Fatherland Protection Order, third-class, on March 4.

VNMAC General Director Maj. Gen. Tran Trung Hoa said that in 2010, the Vietnamese Government issued a National Action Programme to overcome the consequences of post-war ordnances in the 2010-2015 period (Programme 504). To manage, coordinate and implement the programme, on March 4, 2014, the Government established VNMAC, under the direction of the Prime Minister and the management of the Ministry of National Defence.

The centre has presided over and coordinated with relevant agencies to research, propose policies, identify goals, and develop plans to overcome consequences of the deadly legacy of the wars in the medium and long terms; mobilised funding at the national level; organised and coordinated the implementation of projects and tasks; supported victims; and stepped up dissemination in this field.

Praising the centre’s achievements in the past 10 years, Sen. Lieut. Gen. Phung Si Tan, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army, proposed it well perform its tasks, with focus on promoting research, analysis, and forecasting of international and domestic situations related to the work to improve the quality of consultations and build plans to implement Programme 504; and coordinating with relevant agencies to build a plan to overcome the consequences for the 2026 - 2045 period, with orientations to 2050.

The VNMAC needs to complete the building of the content of the Ordinance on overcoming post-war bomb and mine consequences in Vietnam; effectively implement dissemination to raise public awareness of accident prevention; and work with international organisations to provide training on bomb and mine settlement and first aid in accordance with international standards, he added.

Vietnamese cuisine introduced in Switzerland

The Permanent Delegation of Vietnam to the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and other international organisations has participated in a food festival in Grand Saconnex in Geneva city of Switzerland.

The annual international event aimed to introduce to local people traditional dishes of countries around the world, attracting the attention of locals and foreign visitors.

On the occasion, Ambassador Mai Phan Dung briefed on major tasks of the Vietnamese delegation in Geneva, affirming the delegation's wish to contribute positively to the development of Grand Saconnex.

Dung said the event was a great opportunity for the Vietnamese delegation to promote images of the Southeast Asian country and its people and culture to people in Geneva with the hope that more international friends will visit Vietnam to explore and enjoy more delicious foods.

A photo exhibition on cultural activities of ethnic groups in Vietnam was also arranged at the event.

Czech President lauds traditional friendship with Vietnam

President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel affirmed he always treasures and highly evaluates the traditional friendship and multi-faceted cooperation with Vietnam while receiving Vietnamese Ambassador Duong Hoai Nam who came to present President Vo Van Thuong's credentials in Prague on March 4.

President Pavel asked Nam to convey his best wishes and regards to Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, President Vo Van Thuong and other high-ranking leaders of Vietnam.

The President expressed his impression of important achievements Vietnam has recorded in socio-economic development and international integration after nearly 40 years of Doi moi (Reform).

He also commended contributions by the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic to socio-economic development in the host country, especially during the COVID-19 outbreak.

As the two countries will celebrate the 75th founding anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025, the leader suggested the Czech Republic and Vietnam step up cooperation, especially in economy-trade-investment through coordination in implementing the free trade agreement and the investment protection agreement between Vietnam and the European Union (EU), and soon launch direct flights to boost their economic-trade and tourism ties, as well as people-to-people exchanges.

Nam thanked the President for his good sentiments towards Vietnam, and his attention to the bilateral relations and the over 100,000-strong Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic.

The Vietnamese Party, State and people always consider the Czech Republic a leading partner in Europe, the ambassador stressed, pledging to work as a bridge to contribute to advancing the bilateral relationship to a new height.

HCM City to bolster grassroots healthcare

Patients receive medicine at a hospital in HCM City. —Photo vietnamnet.vn

HCM City is committed to investing in grassroots healthcare with a focus on the mental and physical health of its citizens and addressing issues related to an ageing population.

Phan Văn Mãi, chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, said the city planned to empower young talent to play a leadership role in the city’s healthcare sector.

“The rapid urbanisation and changes in lifestyle have had a major impact on the mental and physical health of the residents, particularly young people,” he said.

To address these growing concerns, the city plans to develop a programme that focuses on the mental and physical health of young people, as well as addressing the psychological pressures of modern urban living.

The city is also dealing with the issue of an ageing population, according to Mãi.

With advancements in healthcare and technology, the population is living longer than ever before, posing new challenges for providing care for the elderly and addressing their unique needs.

It is essential to focus on these issues for the well-being of the city’s residents.

Mãi called for a scientific approach, taking into consideration the latest research and advancements in the field of gerontology and mental health.

“By taking a proactive approach to these challenges, the city will be able to ensure the well-being of its residents, both young and old,” he said.

Mãi ordered the healthcare sector to continue to pay attention to preventive healthcare, investment in grassroots healthcare, and the comprehensive use of resources to tackle these issues.

He also recommended a focus on the training of personnel to use technology.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, the city has issued various policies for the healthcare sector, such as a policy on the network of healthcare collaborators and the development of comprehensive and specialised healthcare.

Mãi expresses gratitude to generations of doctors and medical staff for making great contributions to the city’s healthcare and protection of people’s health.

“Throughout the recent period, with their expertise, professional ethics, and dedication, medical professionals have always treated patients as family members,” he noted.

Tăng Chí Thượng, director of the Health Department, highlighted the 10 significant events in the healthcare sector in 2023.

These included the effective deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) at communal health stations, the resolution of serious overload at the Oncology Hospital, and health examinations for elderly people.

Thượng proposed the city approve the construction of a new Mental Hospital in Tân Phú Ward in Thủ Đức City.

He also proposed the city approve an ambitious project to develop the city’s healthcare system into a regional healthcare centre for ASEAN by 2030 and beyond.

He also proposed the new construction of an Orthopedic Trauma Hospital, and the inclusion of the “Establishment of a Health Examination and Disease Screening Centre using high technology in HCM City” project at the Oncology Hospital.

He recommended enhancing human resources for commune health stations based on population scale.

In addition, he proposed the city cooperate with the Cuban Ministry of Health to develop a pilot implementation of the “family doctor model”.

He recommended developing a project to develop young talent in the healthcare sector.

The meeting also discussed specialised training for a high-quality healthcare workforce that meets international standards; and emergency medical services by air, among others. 

Traffic accidents, fires, explosions and environmental violations increased during Tết holiday

The number of traffic accidents, fires, explosions, and environmental violations across the country, in the first two months, increased considerably compared to the same period last year, according to police figures.

In one month, from January 15 to February 14, there were 2,421 traffic accidents nation-wide, including 1,583 traffic collisions, causing 1,013 deaths and nearly 2,000 injuries.

Compared to the same period last year, the number of traffic accidents was 2.9 times higher and 3.7 times the number of traffic collisions.

The number of deaths is up 1.9 times, the number of injured people is 3.3 times and the number of people with minor injuries is 3.7 times higher.

In the first two months of this year, 4,855 traffic accidents happened across the country, including 3,272 less serious traffic accidents and 1,583 traffic collisions, killing 1,980 people and injuring nearly 4,000 people.

The number of traffic accidents in the first two months tripled and the number of traffic collisions quadrupled compared to the same period last year.

The number of deaths is 1.9 times and the number of injured people is 3.4 times higher than last year.

On average, in the first two months this year, there were 78 traffic accidents nation-wide per day, including 52 traffic accidents and 26 traffic collisions, killing 32 people and injuring more than 60 people.

Also in February, departments of natural resources and environment and police departments of provinces and cities have discovered 2,367 cases of environment violations and collected total fines of VNĐ28.6 billion (US$1.16 million), increasing by 9.7 per cent and 56.7 per cent compared to last month and same period last year, respectively.

During this month, 449 fires and explosions occurred nation-wide, killing 11 people and injuring 12 people, with an estimated loss of VNĐ27.4 billion ($1.11 million), an increase of 40.4 per cent compared to the previous month and 2.9 times higher than the same period last year.

In the first two months this year, there were 825 fires and explosions in the country causing 16 deaths and injuring 13 people.

The total loss is estimated VNĐ46.9 billion ($1.9 million), 2.8 times higher than the same period last year. 

Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Reserve to be expanded

The Mekong Delta province of Tien Giang plans to expand its Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Reserve to better biodiversity conservation and spur tourism development.

Accordingly, the reserve, located in Thanh Tan commune, Tan Phuoc district with its existing core area of approximately 107 hectares, will be expanded by 244 hectares.

The expansion will be carried out in two phases, with the first from 2024 to 2025, under which the province will reclaim 60 hectares for afforestation and expand the existing area, including 30 hectares in the north and 30 hectares in the south.

In the second phase, from 2026 to 2030, Tien Giang will expand the remaining parts based on the local socio-economic situation.

The locality also calls for investments in eco-tourism in the Dong Thap Muoi sub-region and the reserve in particular, said Chairman of the Tan Phuoc district People’s Committee Tran Hoang Phong.

To boost eco-tourism, Tien Giang has invested in various items, including parking areas, bird observatories, and transport infrastructure.

Established in 2000, the reserve is now home to over 12,000 birds, including many rare species listed in Vietnam and the word’s red books, along with eight species of fish, 19 species of reptiles, 16 species of mammals, and more than 6,000 native plants.

HTV to broadcast new music/talk show about HCM City

HCM City Television will broadcast a new music/talk show about HCM City and its people.

The show entitled “Trò Chuyện Cùng Thời Gian” (Conversation about Life) will feature famous songs about the country, HCM City and love, which are familiar to Vietnamese people in different generations.

The programme will attract veteran singers such as People’s Artist Thanh Thuý, Cẩm Vân, and Thanh Ngọc, who will talk about beautiful songs of the city, and the music careers of well-known composers and participating singers.

Singer Thuý will talk about her youth life and music journey in the city, while Vân will tell interesting stories of Trịnh Công Sơn, one of the most famous Vietnamese composers.

The artists will perform Thành Phố Tình Yêu Và Nỗi Nhớ (The City of Love and Nostalgia) composed by Phạm Minh Tuấn to Nguyễn Nhật Ánh’s poem, and Con Đường Có Lá Me Bay (Streets of Tamarind Trees) composed by Hoàng Hiệp to Diệp Minh Tuyền’s poem, and Sơn’s compositions Diễm Xưa (Diễm, My Cherished Old Flame) and Sóng Về Đâu (Where Waves Go).

Thuý, one of the most popular Vietnamese singers of folk and revolutionary music, won the HTV Singing Contest in 1994 when she was 17, and gained first prize at the National TV Singing Contest in 1997.

In 2023, she was conferred the title of People’s Artist. She is currently the deputy director of the city Department of Culture and Sports.

Meanwhile, Vân rose to fame in 1981 after a performance of Bài Ca Không Quên (Unforgettable Song) by composer Phạm Minh Tuấn.

She has won several awards at national music festivals and singing contests, and been invited to perform in many countries including France, Germany, Australia and the US.

The “Trò Chuyện Cùng Thời Gian” show will be broadcast on HTV Music channel at 9pm on the second Friday of each month starting in March. Tùng Leo will be the host of the show. 

NA Chairman attends Binh Dinh industrial park, township opening

National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue attended the inauguration of the first phase of the Becamex VSIP Binh Dinh Industrial Park and Township in the central province of Binh Dinh on March 4.

Work on the industrial park and township, located in Canh Vinh commune of Van Canh district, was launched in September 2020 by the Investment and Industrial Development Corporation (Becamex IDC) and the Vietnam - Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) Group.

Invested with more than 7.5 trillion VND (303.6 million USD), it covers a total area of 1,374ha in the Nhon Hoi Economic Zone, comprising 1,000ha of industrial park and 374ha of resettlement, residential, trade, and service facilities.

The first phase, covering about 230ha, is now ready for secondary investors and has attracted four projects worth 96 million USD in total from Germany, Hong Kong (China), the Republic of Korea, and the Netherlands. About 90ha of residential land has also been put into use.

In his remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha considered the inauguration as important to industrialisation and urbanisation in Binh Dinh along with the transformation of the Nhon Hoi Economic Zone into a dynamic coastal one.

He said the Becamex VSIP Binh Dinh Industrial Park and Township is a new model requiring a methodological and comprehensive approach that boosts digital transformation and green transition while ensuring the harmony between economic growth and environmental protection. This is an orientation and also a requirement during the development of concentrated industrial, urban, and service areas.

Ha asked Becamex and VSIP, as leading developers of industrial park infrastructure, to take the lead in changing mindset about digital transformation and green infrastructure. They should build their own criteria for selecting investors with green, clean, and smart technology.

Besides, urban areas connected with industrial parks also need to be green, smart, and sustainable ones that have their own identities and comprehensive infrastructure systems, he went on.

The Deputy PM also stressed high-quality human resources as a factor attractive to investors, recommending Binh Dinh devise mechanisms and policies for mobilising human resources to create new momentum and a worth-living environment for experts and scientists to come and contribute to local development.

He ordered the province to pay due attention to administrative reform, business climate improvement, and assistance for enterprises. It needs to propose facilities important to regional and inter-regional connectivity to be built, and promote its airport, seaport, and railway connectivity, including the East - West Economic Corridor and National Highway 19 that links Binh Dinh with the Central Highlands and Cambodia.

Trà Vinh Province to encourage farmers to diversify into aquaculture

Trà Vinh Province will support and encourage farmers in coastal regions to diversify into aquaculture and breed fishes, clam, sea crab, and others.

It targets annual aquaculture yields from coastal farming of over 200,000 tonnes by 2025, which will help increase the added value of the fisheries industry by 5 per cent.

This year it will continue to restructure the aquaculture and seafood processing industries. 

Its agricultural sector will review its policies to promote the application of technology in aquaculture to increase productivity and quality.

Trần Trường Giang, director of its Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said the province is carrying out research to produce high-quality fish fry.

It plans to have over 31,000ha of black tiger shrimp and white-leg shrimp farms, 23,000ha for sea crab farming and 800ha for others this year.

It encourages farmers living in coastal districts such as Duyên Hải, Cầu Ngang, Châu Thành, and Duyên Hải town to continue expanding extensive farming of various aquatic creatures such as black tiger shrimp, sea crab, sea urchin, and blood clam to increase their incomes.

The province also has favourable policies to foster investment and exploitation of around 50,000ha of coastal land and 15,000ha alluvial land and floating dunes to farm a wide variety of seafood. 

Trà Vinh hopes by 2025 to have 15,000ha of intensive aquaculture farms with geographical indications in its coastal areas, including 1,100ha industrial farms that use high technology to breed black tiger shrimp, white-leg shrimp, crab, and mollusc. 

Mekong Delta facing serious drought, saltwater intrusion, land subsidence

The volume of freshwater in the Mekong Delta region is gradually decreasing, leading to severe salinity intrusion, leaving behind harmful effects to local residents.

Although not at the peak of the dry season in the South, the weather at the beginning of March 2024 has been so harsh that drought is happening in several localities, causing substantial damages to local inhabitants.

In Ca Mau Province, the water levels in many canals have dropped so low that it is impossible to transport produce like rice via these waterways. Meanwhile, many roads are facing land subsidence or landslide, and thus unable to accommodate heavy vehicles. This leads to double shipping expenses for rice to VND250,000 – 500,000 (US$10-20) per tonne compared to the regular method of using waterways.

The People’s Committee of Tran Van Thoi District of Ca Mau Province reported that landslides and subsidence are happening on a daily basis in the areas fighting against saltwater intrusion. Since the beginning of this dry season, about 430 locations on 117 routes have witnessed these incidents, creating a damage of VND15 billion ($607,600) already.

Until this March, 34 spots with a length of more than 900m have been successfully addressed. The local authorities have sent warnings to residents to evacuate out of dangerous areas of landslides or subsidence. 250 warning signs have been installed, along with barriers, to limit traffic volumes there.

In Bien Bach Commune of Thoi Binh District, another story takes place. Local people are facing such a serious water shortage that the water supply stations there could only provide the service to upstream neighborhoods but not to the downstream ones, where dwellers have to wait for a long time to receive usable water from small boats.

Because the salinity intrusion this year comes too early and severely, yesterday, Cai Lon Sewer in Kien Giang Province had 7 out of its 11 gates closed. Those of Cai Be Sewer nearby will also be closed when the tide is high and reopened during low tide.

In Tien Giang Province, after Nguyen Tan Thanh Sewer had been closed on March 1 to prevent salinity from intruding farmland, the weather conditions here were closely monitored. If there are signs of water shortage for daily operations and production, especially for irrigation on the Winter-Spring rice crop land, the province will immediately request the agricultural sector to organize pumping activities.

The 6 sewers along Provincial Highway No.864 completed their upgrades in time to protect nearly 20,000ha of orchards along Tien River. Besides, in the islandic areas of Ngu Hiep and Tan Phong, the province has set up 20 deep-drilled wells to retrieve water for fruit trees there, particularly durian trees.

Similarly, Hau Giang Province is urgently directing functional agencies to close its sewer gates in Long My District to stop saltwater intrusion. Luckily, farmers in the district strictly followed instructions to sow rice seeds on time for harvesting, so they are not too afraid of negative effects of this intrusion right now.

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr Le Anh Tuan – former Vice Chairman of Research Institute for Climate Change (Can Tho University), local people from the provinces frequently receiving harmful influences of drought and salinity intrusion like Tra Vinh, Ben Tre, Tien Giang, Hau Giang, and Kien Giang have been more active in applying methods to fight against those disasters.

However, since individual reservoirs are rather limited in size, that water is normally saved for daily operations and animal raising. Experts propose that to reduce water evaporation, it is wise to cover the area right on rootstocks with straw to retain moisture and not to sow seeds for the new crop now to avoid unnecessary damages.

While inspecting the status of landslides and subsidence in the provincial traffic system, Vice Chairman Le Van Su of the People’s Committee of Ca Mau Province reported that water use and management in Tran Van Thoi District is not truly effective, resulting in water from rice fields and ponds leaking into canal beds. This is one main reason for landslides.

Therefore, he asked that the local authorities provide better instructions and more carefully monitor water use in the community during the drought. As to hot spots of land subsidence, it is necessary to adopt suitable measures to reduce the load on canal banks and sea dikes (pruning tree branches, moving heavy objects away, regulating traffic flows).

Cơ Tu community restores upstream forest

Ethnic Cơ Tu community in Hoà Bắc commune began planting trees as part of a restoration and afforestation project in an upstream area, strengthening water resources security for the central city and preventing erosion on the Cu Đê River banks.

The project, which was implemented by GreenViet, an NGO, with fundraising from the UpRace campaign, domestic businesses and donors, aims to grow nearly 40,000 precious timber species (dalbergia tonkinnensis and pterocarpus macrocarpus) on 26ha between February and March of 2024.

Vice chairman of Hoà Bắc commune Trương Thanh Nhân said the project will be a key factor contributing to sustainable development in Đà Nẵng.

He said the commune conserves 32,000ha of primary forest, 50 per cent of all of Đà Nẵng’s forest area, to develop forest-based tourism and forestry products.

Deputy director of GreenViet Hoàng Quốc Huy strongly committed to support the ethnic Cơ Tu group promote community-based tourism and medicinal herb farming in the forest, as well as boosting forest protection in the area.

He said most of the Cơ Tu population in Tà Lang and Giàn Bí villages lives in the buffer zone of the Bà Nà-Núi Chúa nature reserve, so the afforestation was a significant event in the biodiversity protection in Đà Nẵng.

Last year, GreenViet and community in Hoà Liên commune completed the growing timbers project on 18.1 hectares with funding by Ecoculture of the US.

GreenViet plans to raise funds for an 18ha afforestation project in Hoà Phú commune in an extended campaign of replacing acacia with indigenous larger timber species.

Đà Nẵng has been selected as one of three cities in Việt Nam implementing the ‘One Million Trees Plantation’ project by GreenViet in 2021-25.

Big trees had been grown to create a landscape and habitat for the endangered red-shanked doucs langurs in Sơn Trà Nature Reserve of Đà Nẵng.

The European Union (EU) funded a biodiversity protection and environmental sustainability project in Đà Nẵng from 2020-23.

A total budget of US$4.4 million has been planned for conservation, forest protection and afforestation on 43,722ha in Đà Nẵng by 2030.

Vietnam Army Corps of Engineers installs clean water supply station, serving Abyei's people

The Vietnam Army Corps of Engineers’ team in Abyei region, Africa, has installed a clean water supply station outside the Highway barracks, to serve local people near the barracks.

The Abyei region is now in the dry season while the local people are almost entirely dependent on water from wells dug by the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), or even relying on stagnant water puddles.

The team said that the water was treated with a water filtration system that meets the United Nations standards. The water pipes are put underground to minimise damage.

The water supply is available from 9-11am and 3-5pm, with an average daily flow of 6-8 cubic metres.

At first, the team will arrange officers and employees to guide the local people to collect water, and install a notice board to help them to know the time and how to get water correctly.

Major Vũ Trí Xuyên, deputy captain of the team, said: “Through our work at the UNISFA Mission, we knew some of the difficulties of the local people in the Abyei area, especially the needs to use water during the dry season.

“Most local people depend on stagnant puddles for daily drinking water,” he said.

Therefore, the team planned to install the clean water supply station near the barracks to support local people’s water needs.

After the clean water supply station was operation, not only the local people near the barracks but also many people from far away came to get water, he said.

The team would upgrade the system to be able to provide 10 - 12 cubic metres of water daily, meeting the clean water needs of people in the central Abyei area in the coming time, he added.

He also said that the local people around the barracks area were grateful and thanked the team because they could use clean water instead of using water from stagnant puddles or having to go very far to get water from local rivers and lakes.

In addition to installing the clean water supply station for local people, the team also provides clean water, which is treated with RO filters and can be drunk directly, to Abyei Church every Friday so local people and the children at the church’s kindergarten can drink clean water. 

Vietnam ready to meet Japan in AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup

Việt Nam are ready to face defending champions Japan in their opening match of Group B today at the 2024 AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Ahead of the highly challenging match, Việt Nam's head coach, Akira Ijiri, has made comprehensive preparations in terms of tactics, physical health and team spirit to ensure that his players can maintain focus and maximise their potential.

"We still have many objectives to achieve, but we have already fulfilled everything within our capabilities," Ijiri said. 

"We arrived in Uzbekistan early to acclimate ourselves to the conditions. Early arrival is crucial for us to adapt to the cold weather,"

Assessing their first opponent, Japan, in the tournament, Coach Ijiri said: "The Japanese team, including the national team and young teams like the U20, possess many strong points in their similar training style and playing the same brand of football."

Furthermore, Ijiri highlighted the advantages of the Vietnamese players, adding: "Firstly, Vietnamese players fight for their teammates and the national flag. Secondly, they possess an indomitable spirit and a strong drive to compete. Thirdly, everyone on the team thoroughly understands the tactical instructions provided by the coaching staff and executes them effectively."

Prior to the match, Ijiri finalised the list of 23 players who will be participating in the tournament, adhering to AFC regulations.

The match between Việt Nam and Japan will kick off at 6pm. today. Following this match, Việt Nam will face the second runners-up, North Korea, as well as the 2006 champions, China.

In Group A, the host country, Uzbekistan, will compete against South Korea, Australia, and Chinese Taipei.

The top four teams from the competition will qualify as the AFC representatives for the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Colombia. 

Vinh Phuc to deploy stray dogs catchers

The northern province of Vinh Phuc’s authorities have instructed local communes to set up stray dog catching teams who will also enforce the use of muzzles.

The move came after a resident in Lap Thach District died of rabies in early February.Vinh Phuc has set a goal to ensure a vaccination rate of over 70 percent for local dogs and cats during the 2022-2025 period.

The provincial Department of Health is responsible for communication activities to raise improve awareness of the dangers of rabies and preventive measures against the disease.

Those bitten by suspected rabid dogs or cats must beclosely monitored.

Last year, Vietnam recorded 82 deaths related to rabies, up 12 against last year.

Between January 1 and February 20, as many as 17 people in Vietnam died of rabies, up 8 cases from the same period last year.

Hue-Danang tourism train to be put into use

A train route linking the central cities of Danang and Hue serving tourists is scheduled to be opened on March 26.

Representatives from Thua Thien-Hue Province’s authorities worked with Vietnam Railway Corporation on the service.

According to Hoang Hai Minh, vice chairman of the provincial board people’s committee, the locality conducted a survey to gather opinions from over 400 passengers and residents on service quality on the route.

Dang Sy Manh, General Director of Vietnam Railway Corporation, said that the service would offer passengers opportunities to see mountainous landscapes andcoastal areas, especially the area through Hai Van Pass.

Travel time from Hue to Da Nang by train takes from 3.5 hours to four hours, however the trains run into the centre of the two cities, making it convenient for passengers, especially tourists.

Tourists can take the train and stop at rural and lagoon destinations such as Huong Thuy, Cau Hai, Truoi, Thua Luu and Lang Co in Hue.

Work begins on road linking three provinces

Work has started on a new road connecting two south-central provinces — Khanh Hoa and Ninh Thuan — and the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong.

The project’s groundbreaking ceremony was held yesterday, March 1, attended by National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, and other high-ranking officials.

The 56.9-kilometer road will run from National Highway 27C to Provincial Road 656 on the border between Khanh Hoa and Ninh Thuan provinces.

The two-lane road will allow for a maximum speed of 60 kilometers per hour, occasionally reduced to 40 kilometers per hour in mountainous areas.

The project will require a total of VND1,930 billion, which will come from central and local budgets.

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

The road will help fuel socioeconomic development in the mountainous districts of Khanh Son and Khanh Vinh, according to the Khanh Hoa People’s Committee.

Extreme heat wave spreading across much of country

Warmer temperatures of up to 25 degrees Celsius returned to the capital city of Hanoi and much of the Northern region on March 3 after nearly ten days of cold air.
Despite tending to increase significantly, extremely cold temperatures will persist across the Northern mountainous areas.

The meteorologists said that temperatures in the capital city of Hanoi and the large parts of the Northern region would continue to rise gradually from March 4 to March 5.

By March 5, the highest temperatures could reach 30 degrees Celsius; and the provinces of Thanh Hoa, Nghe An and Ha Tinh will be sweltered under an intense heat.

The National Center for Hydrology Meteorology Forecasting reported that in March, the average temperature across the country has been rising about 0.5-1 degrees Celsius higher than the average for many years.

Similarly, temperatures in some places of the Northern, Central Highlands and Southern regions are forecast to be 1- 1.5 degrees Celsius higher than the average for many years.

Firefighters extinguish blaze at 150-sqm workshop in Đông Anh

A fire has caused serious damage to the workshop of a electrical equipment manufacturing company. 

The blaze broke out on Sunday afternoon inside the premises in in Thái Bình Village, Mai Lâm Commune, Hà Nội.

Smoke and flames also affected neighbouring properties. 

Two fire engines were dispatched to the scene but police asked Long Biên District’s Police Office and Hà Nội’s Police Department to send an additional four crews.

Eventually the blaze was brought under control around 4.30pm.

According to the People's Committee of the district, the burning substances were initial identified as packaging, containing stone powder and surface-coating films.

The fire did not cause any injuries but extensive damage to the property. The cause is being investigated.

Meanwhile, on Saturday afternoon, another fire happened at 3pm in two houses in the residential group No 17 in Phú Lương Ward, Hà Đông District, Hà Nội.

The district’s police fire-fighting prevention and control office brought the blaze under control after around 90 minutes.

The fire did not cause any loss of life, but did severely damage the two houses and belongings inside. 

Vietnam ranks second in number of foreign tourists to Laos

Nearly 837,632 Vietnamese tourists headed to Laos in 2023, the second biggest number of foreign visitors to the neighbouring country, according to figures given by the Laos Tourism Development Department.

A recent report compiled by the department indicates that Laos welcomed over 3.4 million international arrivals last year. Topping the visiting nationalities was Thailand with more than 1.3 million arrivals, followed by the likes of Vietnam, China, and the Republic of Korea.

The statistics revealed that the number of Vietnamese travelers to Laos in 2023 rose by 133% compared to 2022 and vice versa, with the number of Laotian tourists visiting Vietnam going up by 155% on-year.

Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang all proved to be among the favourite tourist destinations for Vietnamese tourists during their trip to Laos.

According to the Laos’ Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, the country aims to receive over 2.2 million domestic arrivals and nearly four million foreign arrivals this year, with tourism activities expected to generate around US$1.3 billion in revenue.

Laos recently launched the Visit Laos Year 2024 programme which consists of 79 activities nationwide. It provides an opportunity for the Asian country to introduce its unique culture and traditions to international tourists.

HCMC, Amcham Vietnam join hands to promote healthcare development

Amcham Vietnam has introduced a healthcare white book titled “A Partner in Promoting Health and Wellness in Vietnam”.

The white book centers around recommendations to promote healthcare and wellness development, such as increasing product access by streamlining registration and reimbursement processes, developing e-commerce, and enabling pharmacy chains by updating regulations.

It was introduced at a meeting held on March 1 on strengthening HCMC and Amcham Vietnam’s partnership in promoting health and wellness.

The meeting was attended by HCMC Chairman Phan Van Mai, U.S. Consul General Susan Burns, HCMC Vice Chairman Duong Anh Duc, and representatives of AmCham Vietnam – HCMC.

At the event, AmCham Vietnam – HCMC Vice Chair Michael Nguyen, expressed hope that the white book will create momentum for further discussions with HCMC leadership, and contribute to developing and promoting health and wellness in the city.

HCMC Chairman Phan Van Mai said at the event that city departments would consider the Committee’s recommendations in the context of current priorities, and continue to collaborate with the U.S. mission and AmCham Vietnam – HCMC to develop HCMC into a regional healthcare hub.

HCMC strengthens pilot mechanisms on science, technology and innovation

A work program on pilot mechanisms and policies on science, technology and innovation in Ho Chi Minh City was signed to increase scientific activities.

The Standing Committee of the HCMC Party Committee and the Party Civil Affairs Committee of the Ministry of Science and Technology held a conference to sign a work program on strengthening cooperation in directing and operating scientific activities in the city from 2024 to 2028.

The signing ceremony was held under the presidency of Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Van Nen and Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat.

The work program aims to concretize the implementation of the Politburo’s Resolution 31 on directions and tasks for developing Ho Chi Minh City to 2030, with a vision to 2045, in order to effectively deploy tasks and solutions in the National Assembly-approved Resolution 98 on piloting a number of specific mechanisms and policies for the development of Ho Chi Minh City.

Accordingly, the Party Civil Affairs Committee of the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Standing Committee of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee arrived at an agreement on strengthening cooperation in leadership, direction as well as carrying out pilot management mechanisms, policies on science - technology and innovation development in the southern largest city for the period 2024–2028.

The two party organizations will increase cooperation in leadership and direction of science, technology and innovation activities as well as conduct experimental mechanisms, policies, new products and services in Ho Chi Minh City during the above mentioned period.

In particular, the southern metropolis will apply policies to attract and utilize talented people through incentives on salaries, wages, welfare regimes and other preferential policies for leadership positions in public science and technology organizations.

Additionally, the pilot application of specific policies for Ho Chi Minh City will be on the selection mechanism for science and technology programs and projects, financial mechanisms for science and technology programs and projects for budget preparation, approval of estimates, settlement, public procurement in priority fields.

In addition, the city will apply its specific policies on non-refundable support from the city's regular budget for incubation costs of innovation projects and creative startups in priority fields.

At the same time, HCMC will develop and pilot a policy of corporate income tax exemption for five years from the tax payable time of income from innovative start-up activities of startups.

The cooperation program also develops a pilot policy project to create motivation for commercialization, quickly bringing research results and intellectual property funded by the state into production and business.

Furthermore, the financial mechanism using the science and technology budget aims to support investment in facilities for laboratories, innovation centers, technology and innovation support centers, startup innovation support centers, science and technology organizations to enhance the city’s science and technology potential.

Moreover, the financial mechanism for using enterprises' science and technology development funds will be for the implementation of science and technology tasks, investment in creative start-up support activities in addition to assisting enterprises in science and technology development and carrying out technology transfer activities.

Last but not least, the city will develop and apply pilot testing mechanisms and policies for new products, new services, and new business models based on currently unavailable scientific, technological and innovation achievements regulations under its control. Besides, it will build and deploy the organization and operation model of the city Creative Startup Center according to international practices.

The event was seen the participation of Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Phan Van Mai, Standing Deputy Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Ho Hai, Chairwoman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Council Nguyen Thi Le, Deputy Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Phuoc Loc and staff in the Standing Committee of the HCMC Party Committee and the Party Civil Affairs Committee of the Ministry of Science and Technology.

Tornado rips up tens of houses’ rooftops in Lao Cai

A series of extreme weather battered the Northern Province of Lao Cai, prompting a rare tornado which ripped up tens of houses’ rooftops in the province.

From the night of March 3 to this morning, a tornado ripped through Lao Cai Province’s Sa Pa town, said the local authority.

The tornado completely collapsed one house and 3 other houses suffered 30 percent to 50 percent damage. Roofs of 17 houses in Ngu Chi Son, Ham Rong, Hoang Lien, Trung Chai communes and wards were blown off and damaged seriously.

At the same time, 10 livestock farms in Ngu Chi Son commune had their roofs blown off and were completely damaged. The tornado also knocked down three low-voltage electricity poles in this commune.

According to the meteorological agency, it is currently the season transition from winter to spring in the North. Due to the alternating hot and cold weather, causing temperature inversions, there is a high risk of thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hail. Therefore, meteorologists warned people to proactively take precautions.

Mekong Delta facing serious drought, saltwater intrusion, land subsidence

The volume of freshwater in the Mekong Delta region is gradually decreasing, leading to severe salinity intrusion, leaving behind harmful effects to local residents.

Although not at the peak of the dry season in the South, the weather at the beginning of March 2024 has been so harsh that drought is happening in several localities, causing substantial damages to local inhabitants.

In Ca Mau Province, the water levels in many canals have dropped so low that it is impossible to transport produce like rice via these waterways. Meanwhile, many roads are facing land subsidence or landslide, and thus unable to accommodate heavy vehicles. This leads to double shipping expenses for rice to VND250,000 – 500,000 (US$10-20) per tonne compared to the regular method of using waterways.

The People’s Committee of Tran Van Thoi District of Ca Mau Province reported that landslides and subsidence are happening on a daily basis in the areas fighting against saltwater intrusion. Since the beginning of this dry season, about 430 locations on 117 routes have witnessed these incidents, creating a damage of VND15 billion ($607,600) already.

Until this March, 34 spots with a length of more than 900m have been successfully addressed. The local authorities have sent warnings to residents to evacuate out of dangerous areas of landslides or subsidence. 250 warning signs have been installed, along with barriers, to limit traffic volumes there.

In Bien Bach Commune of Thoi Binh District, another story takes place. Local people are facing such a serious water shortage that the water supply stations there could only provide the service to upstream neighborhoods but not to the downstream ones, where dwellers have to wait for a long time to receive usable water from small boats.

Because the salinity intrusion this year comes too early and severely, yesterday, Cai Lon Sewer in Kien Giang Province had 7 out of its 11 gates closed. Those of Cai Be Sewer nearby will also be closed when the tide is high and reopened during low tide.

In Tien Giang Province, after Nguyen Tan Thanh Sewer had been closed on March 1 to prevent salinity from intruding farmland, the weather conditions here were closely monitored. If there are signs of water shortage for daily operations and production, especially for irrigation on the Winter-Spring rice crop land, the province will immediately request the agricultural sector to organize pumping activities.

The 6 sewers along Provincial Highway No.864 completed their upgrades in time to protect nearly 20,000ha of orchards along Tien River. Besides, in the islandic areas of Ngu Hiep and Tan Phong, the province has set up 20 deep-drilled wells to retrieve water for fruit trees there, particularly durian trees.

Similarly, Hau Giang Province is urgently directing functional agencies to close its sewer gates in Long My District to stop saltwater intrusion. Luckily, farmers in the district strictly followed instructions to sow rice seeds on time for harvesting, so they are not too afraid of negative effects of this intrusion right now.

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr Le Anh Tuan – former Vice Chairman of Research Institute for Climate Change (Can Tho University), local people from the provinces frequently receiving harmful influences of drought and salinity intrusion like Tra Vinh, Ben Tre, Tien Giang, Hau Giang, and Kien Giang have been more active in applying methods to fight against those disasters.

However, since individual reservoirs are rather limited in size, that water is normally saved for daily operations and animal raising. Experts propose that to reduce water evaporation, it is wise to cover the area right on rootstocks with straw to retain moisture and not to sow seeds for the new crop now to avoid unnecessary damages.

While inspecting the status of landslides and subsidence in the provincial traffic system, Vice Chairman Le Van Su of the People’s Committee of Ca Mau Province reported that water use and management in Tran Van Thoi District is not truly effective, resulting in water from rice fields and ponds leaking into canal beds. This is one main reason for landslides.

Therefore, he asked that the local authorities provide better instructions and more carefully monitor water use in the community during the drought. As to hot spots of land subsidence, it is necessary to adopt suitable measures to reduce the load on canal banks and sea dikes (pruning tree branches, moving heavy objects away, regulating traffic flows).

Source: VNA/SGT/VNS/VOV/Dtinews/SGGP/VGP/Hanoitimes