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29/11/2024 10:27 (GMT+07:00)

Vietnam News Headlines November 29/2024

Techfest 2024 connects venture capital funds, local start-ups

An innovative start-up investment conference was held on November 27, focusing on the cooperation between venture capital funds, supporting organisations, start-up incubators to promote the development of innovative startups.

The event was part of the National Innovative Entrepreneurship Day (Techfest Vietnam 2024).

Speaking at the event, Pham Hong Quat, Director of the Department of Market and Business Development under the Ministry of Science and Technology, said that Vietnam's innovative startup ecosystem is on the verge of strong development, but the sector is going through somewhat of a downswing at the moment.

According to a report by global market data analysis platform Tracxn, total investment in Vietnamese technology startups has decreased by 52.7%, from 98.5 million USD in the first six months of 2023 to 46.5 million USD in the same period this year. This figure underscores the urgent need to improve the quality and strengthen the resilience of start-ups through close cooperation between investors and supporting organisations.

He noted that building a sustainable ecosystem requires not only capital but also effective partnerships which improve the quality of startups and help them develop with a long-term vision.

Quat mentioned some orientations in promoting innovative start-up investment connections such as organising intensive training programmes, connecting investment funds directly with innovative start-up support centres to help start-ups better prepare for the fundraising and development process.

He suggested investors focus more on areas with long-term development potential and positive impacts on society such as green technology, energy and logistics.

Participants at the conference were informed about solutions to promote the sustainable development of the innovative startup ecosystem in Vietnam; the key role of incubators and innovative startup support centres; international experience in building the capacity of innovative start-up support organisations in Singapore, the participation of international venture capital funds in the Vietnamese market, and recommendations for further cooperation./.

Vietnam, Singapore cooperate in potential leadership training

It is held by the National University of Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in collaboration with Temasek Foundation, and the Ho Chi Minh Academy of Politics.

Led by Pham Tat Thang, member of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vice Chairman of its Mass Mobilisation Commission, the Vietnamese delegation is focusing on public sector governance, digital transformation, green transition, and economic development strategy, among others.

At the opening ceremony of the six-day event, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the People’s Committee of Quang Ngai province Nguyen Hoang Giang highlighted the robust Vietnam – Singapore friendship and cooperation over the past five decades, adding the Vietnamese Party and State have paid due attention to exchanging information and experience in sustainable development, science – technology development, and State management with Singapore.

According to Associate Professor Vu Minh Khuong from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, the programme reflects Vietnam's resolve to make extraordinary progress so as to become a developed country in the next two decades.

The first course of the programme was arranged in August./.

Vietnam, Finland enhance cooperation in meteorology, environmental protection

A workshop was held in Hanoi on November 27 to enhance cooperation between Vietnam and Finland in meteorology and environmental protection by the Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE).

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Le Cong Thanh highlighted the joint work in the field between the two countries, saying that collaborative projects have significantly contributed to weather forecasting, early warning of natural disasters, and the modernisation of Vietnam's meteorological sector.

Moreover, Vietnamese personnel in the meteorological sector have received training and capacity-building support from Finnish experts, enabling them to master advanced technologies.

Thanh hoped the Finnish government, and its Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to support the MoNRE in the coming time, helping Vietnam to enhance its resilience against natural disasters, and response to climate change.

Sami Kiesiläinen from the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) noted that their project modernising meteorological services has enhanced the capabilities of the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting in early warning for tropical storms, strong winds, and heavy rainfall.

The long-standing collaboration between the meteorological agencies of Finland and Vietnam has greatly contributed to modernising Vietnam's meteorological observation and weather forecasting systems, he said, adding that the improvement allows Vietnam to better respond to the escalating impacts of climate change.

Meanwhile, the FMI is implementing another project on promoting the modernisation of air quality monitoring and management systems in urban areas of Vietnam.

Vietnam and Finland have organised workshops on air quality to share experience in developing air quality monitoring networks.

At the November 27 workshop in Hanoi, Vietnamese experts shared findings on the characteristics of thunderstorms in Vietnam, solutions on weather, air quality monitoring, and future cooperation in the area./.

Vietnam, South Africa look to advance traditional friendship

Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Hang and South African Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Anna Thandi Moraka co-chaired the 6th meeting of the Vietnam - South Africa Intergovernmental Partnership Forum in Pretoria on November 27, during which they discussed ways to promote future all-around cooperation.

The forum serves as a regular mechanism to comprehensively review and discuss measures to strengthen Vietnam-South Africa relations across areas. Its 6th meeting holds special significance as it coincided with the 20th anniversary of the forum's establishment and the formation of the Partnership for Cooperation and Development - the first and only partnership framework to date between the two nations to date.

In her remarks, Moraka hailed Vietnam's achievements in socio-economic development and its role and position in the region and at international forums.

She emphasised South Africa's priority to strengthen cooperation with Vietnam, expressing a desire to boost exchanges and meetings between the two countries to effectively promote cooperation in various fields, particularly in politics, diplomacy, economy, trade, and investment; and to promote the voice and role of developing countries in global issues. For her part, Hang congratulated South Africa on its development achievements under the leadership of the Government of National Unity (GNU), affirming that Vietnam attaches importance to developing the Partnership for Cooperation and Development with the African nation.

South Africa is one of Vietnam's top important partners in Africa, Hang stated, suggesting the two sides strengthen exchanges and reach consensus on measures to create breakthroughs, thus elevating the traditional relationship and cooperation to new heights.

Both officials showed their pleasure at the positive development of the bilateral relations, which brings practical benefits to the two countries' people, especially after the visit to South Africa by Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan, and the visit to Vietnam by South African Vice President Paul Mashatile in 2023.

There remains great potential for developing the bilateral relations, they said, agreeing to closely coordinate in developing a programme for high-ranking delegation exchanges in 2025 to foster political trust and create new momentum to push multi-faceted cooperation.

Applauding Vietnam's role, status, and contributions in global issues, particularly in its capacity as the G20 host in 2025, the South African side welcomed Vietnam's participation in shaping the G20 agenda. Moraka congratulated Vietnam on assuming the host of the Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit, saying that as a member of P4G, her country is willing to support Vietnam to successfully perform the role, contributing to global efforts for rapid and sustainable development.

Agreeing on the need to step up economic, trade and investment cooperation as a key pillar in the bilateral relations, the two put forth several important measures to fully tap the potential and strengths of both countries, including enhancing trade promotion delegations; sharing market information and trade and investment cooperation opportunities; collaborating on conducting a feasibility study for the possibility of negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU); and expanding cooperation in emerging fields such as the Halal industry, renewable energy, food processing, and agricultural products.

They also emphasised the importance of promoting cooperation in defence - security, judicial affairs, environment, higher education, training, tourism, culture, and people-to-people exchanges; saying that it is necessary to effectively implement signed agreements and accelerate negotiations of key cooperation documents in these fields to create a favourable legal framework for bilateral collaboration. Vietnam and South Africa agreed to strengthen coordination and mutual support in regional and international forums, particularly within the United Nations, G77, the Non-Aligned Movement, ASEAN, and the African Union (AU). They agreed to uphold multilateralism and international law, and support the peaceful resolution of disputes, as well as the reform of the global governance system, making it more balanced and effective, while emphasising the role and voice of developing countries.

The South African side expressed respect for ASEAN's consistent stance on resolving international disputes through peaceful measures in accordance with the UN Charter and international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

During her working trip to the African nation from November 25 to 27, Deputy FM Hang had working sessions with Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Narend Singh, CEO at the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry Alan Mukoki, and representatives from the South African National Halal Authority and outstanding businesses operating in the Halal industry./.

Vietnamese athletes to take part in 16th SEA Youth Athletics Championship

Vietnam will send athletes to vie for gold medals at the 16th SEA Youth Athletics Championship in Malaysia.

The November 27-December 1 tournment will feature approximately 600 young athletes from 11 Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam, with the hosts contributing around a hundred participants.

“The 18 athletes in my delegation have great potential," said Nguyen Duc Nguyen, head of the Vietnam contingent. "We are asking them to give their best at the tournament so that they would achieve as good results as they did during training and strive to win gold medals.

“At this event, our athletes will not only show their abilities but also recognise quality of athletes from other countries. So it will be good for their training plan and future careers.”

Among those faces, Duong Phu Toan and Nguyen Ngoc Khanh Bang who won gold in the boys' 800m event and girls' shot put categories at the recent 13th ASEAN School Games in June in Da Nang.

Last year, Vietnam brought home three golds from the tournament./.

Vietnam, Japan discuss new approaches to reduce natural disaster risks

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) on November 28 organised the 12th Vietnam-Japan disaster management cooperation dialogue, discussing new approaches to flood reduction using risk information.

The dialogue brought together representatives from Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development of northern and central provinces and cities in Vietnam.

Speaking at the event, Director of the Department of Dike Management and Disaster Prevention Pham Duc Luan said that the dialogue provided an opportunity for Vietnamese and Japanese experts to exchange experiences, find solutions to minimise the risk of natural disasters, particularly floods and landslides.

Nguyen Xuan Tung, an officer from the department said that Vietnam is vulnerable to many kinds of natural disasters, especially floods which occur in all three regions across the country.

To minimise damage caused by floods, he pointed to the need to improve the legal framework and policies on natural disaster prevention and control, raise public awareness on natural disasters, strengthen community-based risk management, and enhance capacity of natural disaster prevention, control, search and rescue.

At the event, Mizushima Yusuke from Department of International Affairs, the MLIT’s Bureau of Water and Disaster Management said that in Japan, information on natural disaster risk is available on the ministry’s disaster risk map portal.

This map will show the frequency of floods and flood water levels. In addition, authorities guide people to move to areas with lower risk.

In Japan, it is mandatory to present a disaster risk map when conducting real estate transactions and provide information on the location of the relevant real estate. Authorities must develop evacuation plans.

According to him, the Japanese government is launching an initiative urging people to call and inform their families or relatives to promptly evacuate and respond to risk warnings in the areas where they live when a natural disaster happens.

Minamitani Taichi from the Department of Global Environment under the Japan International Cooperation Agency said that Vietnam and Japan have been coordinating in several flood management projects.

He noted that it is important to conduct flood risk assessment, develop integrated flood management planning, response plans, and an early warning system, and strengthen capacity-building.

Participants also proposed that Japan coordinate and support Vietnamese localities in building natural disaster maps, particularly floods and landslides/.

Female golfers to vie for national club championship title

The Vietnam Club Championship - VCC Ladies 2024 will be held December 4-5 at the Dragon Golf Links in the northern port city of Hai Phong.

The biennial event will gather golfers from 16 clubs nationwide, including Ba Ria Vung Tau Golf Association, Golf Life Club, Women Leaders Golf Club, and Quảng Ninh Golf Club.

Nine others qualified from three regional qualifications, while three were given wildcards by the Vietnam Golf Association (VGA) by way of thanks for their outstanding achievements in developing women's golf.

Players will be divided into three groups based on handicaps, competing nine matches in two days under a match play format.

The first day will be fourballs and foursomes matches, while singles matches will be applied in the second day.

"The tournament is not only a professional opportunity for female golfers, but also an opportunity to promote the women's golf movement in Vietnam. It also creates chances to exchange ideas and learn from clubs nationwide," said Vi Quoc Tuan, VGA Vice President.

In addition to the championship title and attractive prizes, the top four teams will receive privileges to attend the 2026 tournament, in which the champion team will also be exempt from the participation fee.

VGA Vice President and Head of the Organising Committee Nguyen Thi Thu Ha said: "The strong development of women's golf in recent years is a good sign. We have seen a significantly increasing number of female golfers and their professional quality has improved.

"The VCC Ladies 2024 will be a vivid testament to this development. VGA wants to offer up the best conditions to push for women's golf sustainable development, making an important contribution to the overall growth of the game”./.

Vietnam’s premier golf festival opens in Khanh Hoa

The Vietnam – Nha Trang Golf Festival opened in Nha Trang tourist city, the south-central province of Khanh Hoa, on November 27, honouring the 100-year history of golf in Vietnam and its contributions to the country’s tourism development.

At the opening ceremony, Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Dinh Van Thieu said the event not only propels Vietnamese golf into the international stage but also provides an opportunity for Nha Trang city to affirm itself as a premier event and festival destination in Asia.

The three-day event also aims at promoting the development of golf tourism while popularising local traditional culture, cuisine, people, and images to both domestic and foreign visitors.

Diverse activities held within the festival include a Vietnamese golf exhibition and 3D golf training experiences.

Golf was introduced in Vietnam in the 1920s, having experienced significant transformations and evolved from a niche sport to a national tourism strategy.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1994 with the establishment of the Vietnam Golf and Country Club in Ho Chi Minh City, marking the beginning of a new era of the sport. The subsequent development of expansive golf courses like Dong Mo has made it more accessible to the Vietnamese public.

Vietnam has since emerged as an ideal golf destination in Asia, boasting stunning natural landscapes and a tropical climate conducive to golf tourism. The country currently houses approximately 100 18-hole golf courses, with 32 meeting 5-star standards and integrated with luxurious resorts./.

Vietnamese player wins regional table tennis championships

Nguyen Khoa Dieu Khanh topped the Southeast Asian Table Tennis Championships' women's singles event on November 24 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Vietnam failed in teams' categories after both men's and women's squads were eliminated from early rounds. However, they advanced to four other finals.

The Vietnamese champion defeated Malaysian Tee Ai Xin 4-0 to take the gold medal, completing the team's mission assignedprior to the competition.

It was the first time that Khanh took the title, making 2024 her most successful year as she won golds at the National Table Tennis Championship and National Table Tennis Team Championships.

In other categories in Bangkok, her teammate Nguyen Anh Tu secured a silver in the men's singles. The former SEA Games silver medalist regrettably lost 3-4 to Choong Javen of Malaysia in the final.

Mai Hoang My Trang and Nguyen Thi Nga were defeated 3-0 by Karen Lyne and Tee Ai Xin of Malaysia in the women's doubles while Nguyen Duc Tuan and Doan Ba Tuan Anh lost 0-3 to Javen and Wong Qi Shen and Qishen, also from Malaysia in the men's doubles.

Vietnamese athletes also took two bronzes in the men's singles by Tuan and Dinh Anh Hoang.

The regional tournament attracted almost of strongest players from Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam.

Vietnamese head coach Doan Kien Quoc praised his players and said Vietnam reached remarkable achievement in developing national table tennis recently. The results of the team in Thailand were appreciated. Khanh's gold medal especially would inspire young players to achieve higher results in the future./.

Vietnam joins hands in helping children with disabilities in Hungary

The Vietnamese Embassy in Hungary has recently participated in the 13th Diplomatic Charity Fair organised by the Diplomatic Spouses of Budapest.

This annualent aims to raise funds for Hungarian charity organisations that support children in need, including those with disabilities and autism. This year's fair saw the participation of over 20 embassies and foreign businesses in Budapest.

The Vietnamese embassy brought to this year’s fair the country’s handicraft products and traditional dishes such as spring rolls and iced milk coffee. It also took the time to discuss the socio-economic situation and investment opportunities of its provinces and cities.

At the end of the programme, the embassy handed over a majority of its proceeds to the organisers, who will forward the funds to charitable organisations in Hungary./.

New milestone in Vietnam – Russia economic training cooperation

The first meeting of the Vietnamese and Russian economic universities association was held in Moscow on November 26.

Established on September 10, the association aims to develop collaboration between higher education institutions of both countries as well as coordinate research projects and potential cooperation programmes. The Rector of the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation (FU) and the Chairman of the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) Council are the co-chairs of the association.

Nikolai Kudriavtsev, Deputy Director of the Department of International Cooperation under Russia's Ministry of Education, highlighted the robust educational relationship between the two countries. Russia annually provided 1,000 scholarships to Vietnamese students and approximately 3,000 Vietnamese students studying in the country in the 2022-2023 academic year.

Meanwhile, FU Rector Stanislav Prokofiev emphasised that the goal of the association is to deliver enhanced bilateral collaboration that the leaders of the two countries reached consensus on during President Vladimir Putin's visit to Vietnam in June 2023.

The initiative seeks to concretise specific results in scientific research collaboration, cultural understanding, and linguistic exchange, he said, expressing his hope that joining in the association will help education establishments improve their training quality while contributing to the development of the Vietnam – Russia relations.

For his part, UEH Council Chairman Nguyen Dong Phong described the association as a strategic step that is not merely an expansion of resources but also a platform to address global challenges through education and research cooperation.

He said he hopes that the event will serve as an important foundation to deepen the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

At the event, leaders from the UEH, Banking Academy of Vietnam, University of Economics and Business under the Vietnam National University, Hanoi, and Hanoi Financial and Banking University signed Memoranda of Understanding to join the association.

Ural State Economics University, Rostov State University of Economics and the Russian Foreign Trade Academy were also welcomed as new members./.

PM asks for greater efforts to develop innovative startup ecosystems

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh attended the opening ceremony of the National Innovative Entrepreneurship Day (Techfest Vietnam 2024) themed “Joining hands to develop Vietnam's innovative startup ecosystem” in the northern port city of Hai Phong on November 27.

In his remarks, the PM stressed that the Party and the State always pay special attention to science, technology, and innovation, considering them one of the top national policies for rapid and sustainable development.

Innovative startups are seen as a new motivation for growth, creating new productive forces for development in the new era, he noted.

Highlighting the contents of resolutions, strategies for socio-economic development, and laws and decrees related to innovation and startups, Chinh stated that under the decisive leadership of the Government and the Prime Minister, sectors and localities have implemented synchronously, decisively, and effectively tasks and solutions, achieving important results in developing the national innovative startup ecosystem.

He underlined the importance of time, intelligence, and decisiveness in order to catch up, move forward, and make breakthroughs in this scheme. He praised the efforts and important initial results that sectors, localities, and the Vietnamese startup community have achieved in recent times.

He held that Vietnam faces a great opportunity but also many challenges in science, technology, and innovation, and that the key requirement for developing the national innovative startup ecosystem is to attract resources from national and international corporations; and nurture and develop more tech unicorns in emerging technology fields.

He stressed that innovative startups require the collective effort, consensus and unity of the entire political system, the community, citizens, and businesses, noting that it is necessary to place people, especially youths; and businesses at the centre - as both subjects and the ultimate goal - serving as the driving force and the most valuable resource for development.

Innovative startups require change in mindset, and new awareness and approaches, he said, pointing out that this must be bold in thinking, taking action, and pioneering; accepting risks, and stepping up to challenge themselves, for the benefit and a brighter future for the nation.

He requested solutions to develop Vietnam's innovative startup ecosystem. These focus on perfecting legal framework for innovation and entrepreneurship; identifying priority areas to create new production forces and strategic sectors such as green economy, digital economy, and cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things; outlining orientations for innovative startups; ensuring financial resources and facilities; developing high-quality human resources and fostering creative entrepreneurship movements; and boosting international integration related to innovative startups.

He called on the business community, investors, and people to actively participate in creative startup activities, helping Vietnam to quickly catch up with other countries in the region and around the world.

The Government will create all favourable conditions to support and promote the development of innovative startup ecosystems, with the spirit of protecting the legitimate rights and interests of businesses, investors, and citizens, he said.

Standing ready to step into the nation’s era of rising

Vietnam's innovation startup ecosystem has developed strongly in recent years, driving the emergence of pioneering companies in applying new technologies and business models, ready to compete in the global market. Currently, Vietnam is home to around 4,000 innovative startups, including two unicorns and 11 companies valued at over 100 million USD.

Vietnam's global startup ecosystem index 2024 rose two places from 58th to 56th, ranking 5th in Southeast Asia and 12th in Asia-Pacific. Meanwhile, the country’s global innovation index in 2024 increased by four places compared to 2022, ranking 44th out of 133 countries and economies worldwide.

Thanks to the strong development of its innovation startup ecosystem, Vietnam has become one of the dynamic emerging economies and a hub for innovative startups in the Asia-Pacific region.

Through nine editions, Techfest Vietnam has attracted 21,000 participants, over 450 investors, more than 1,400 innovative startups, and facilitated over 800 domestic and international investment connections.

With nearly 150 activities, Techfest Vietnam 2024 offers a platform for finding cooperation and investment opportunities, as well as athe resources and partners to implement initiatives for developing innovation startup ecosystems. It also serves as a venue to showcase technologies, products, and services.

Through this, innovative startups can shape their future strategies, contributing to Vietnam's entry into a new era — the era of rising entrepreneurial spirit./.

Vietnam, China meet to discuss northern tourism cooperation

A cultural exchange was held in Hanoi on November 27, featuring the tourism of China's Guangxi province.

At the event, Ho An Phong, Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, highlighted the long-standing and traditional friendship between Vietnam and China and progress in bilateral cooperation in all fields, including culture and tourism.

Vietnam and China share a common border and cultural similarities, while their longstanding friendship has been fostered by generations of leaders of the two sides, creating favourable conditions for bilateral cultural exchanges, tourism promotion, and socioeconomic development, he said.

The official noted that in tourism, China is one of Vietnam's largest markets. In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, Vietnam welcomed 5.8 million Chinese visitors, accounting for nearly one-third of its total international arrivals, while about 4.5 million Vietnamese tourists traveled to China. In 2023, Vietnam welcomed over 1.7 million Chinese visitors, recovering 30% of the pre-pandemic level. In the first 10 months of 2024, more than 3 million Chinese tourists visited Vietnam, marking a 130% surge compared to the same period in 2023.

Recognising untapped potential in bilateral cultural and tourism cooperation, Phong called for deeper collaboration between the two nations in the future.

With support from the two governments, several cross-border tourism initiatives have been launched. The Ban Gioc (Vietnam) - Detian (China) Waterfall landscape site has officially opened, offering new opportunities for transnational tourism. The Beihai (Guangxi, China) – Ha Long (Quang Ninh, Vietnam) sea route is now operational, providing unique maritime experiences for travellers, the official said.

Chen Yijun, member of the standing board of the Guangxi Party Committee and Head of the Committee’s Publicity Department, expressed her hopes for enhanced cultural and tourism cooperation. She highlighted the upcoming 75th anniversary of Vietnam-China diplomatic relations in 2025 as a milestone for fostering deeper collaboration. Planned initiatives include promoting cross-border tourism, developing new tourism models such as cultural experiences and eco-resort stays, and organising exchange programmes for youth to strengthen traditional friendship.

The event featured presentations on Guangxi's unique tourism offerings, including its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture. Special winter tourism packages tailored for Vietnamese travelers were also introduced.

A highlight of the event was the signing of cross-border tourism cooperation agreements between Vietnamese and Chinese travel companies. These agreements aim to enhance mutual market access, expand tourism offerings, and facilitate the exchange of visitors.

Minh The Long, Deputy General Director of Kim Lien Travel, praised the event as an excellent opportunity for travel businesses from both countries to explore cultural and tourism resources. He noted that the similarities and differences in natural landscapes, cuisine, and culture make Vietnam and China attractive destinations for tourists seeking diverse experiences.

Long expressed his hope that travel companies in both nations will continue to promote tourism, increasing the flow of visitors and strengthening the bond between the people of Vietnam and China./.

Legislature passes amendments to health insurance law

The 15th National Assembly (NA) on November 27 passed a law amending and supplementing several articles of the Law on Health Insurance with 446 deputies, or 93.11% of the total lawmakers, voting in favour.

Notably, under the new law, in addition to groups of health insurance participants specified in the current law, others stipulated in other laws are added. Village health workers and midwives will also enjoy support to participate in health insurance as a way to encourage and motivate them.

Further amendments will be considered for a complete revision of the law in the future.

The Government will continue to provide support for students in participating in health insurance, with increasing levels put into consideration.

The Ministers of Health, Public Security and National Defence will issue documents instructing health insurance card holders to register the medical facility for their first examination and treatment. They will also decide on the transfer from the first medical examination and treatment establishments to hospitals at higher levels. The law will take effect from July 1, 2025./.

Party official visits historical witnesses of Vung Ro Port

Nguyen Trong Nghia, member of the Politburo, Secretary of the Party Central Committee, and head of the committee’s Commission for Information and Education, on November 27 visited and presented gifts to historical witnesses who fought to protect the Vung Ro port and ships, and transport weapons from the “no-number ships” via the Ho Chi Minh Trail at Sea.

The activity was held on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Vung Ro Port in the south-central province of Phu Yen receiving its first shipment from the “no-number ships” (November 28, 1964 -2024).

Nghia visited Hero of the People's Armed Forces, Lieutenant Colonel Ho Dac Thanh, former captain of Ship 41, who commanded 12 no-number ship missions to transport weapons to the southern battlefield. He also met with Major Ngo Van Dinh, a former soldier of a unit responsible for guarding Vung Ro Port - K60 and head of the Vung Ro No-Number Ship Port Liaison Board.

Listening to the heroic stories of the no-number ships docking at Vung Ro, Nghia expressed his deep respect for the sacrifices and contributions by the historical witnesses.

He highlighted their exceptional creativity, bravery, and intelligence in managing the port, fighting, and securing supplies despite challenges, creating legendary feats of arms, symbolising revolutionary heroism and leaving an indelible mark on history.

Nghia wished the historical witnesses good health and encouraged them to continue inspiring future generations with their revolutionary spirit and patriotism.

Located in Dong Hoa township of Phu Yen, Vung Ro Port was a vital logistics base in central Vietnam. It was selected by central authorities and Military Region 5 to receive weapons and supplies from the no-number ships for the provinces of Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, and Dak Lak. Between November 1964 and February 1965, four no-number ships successfully docked at Vung Ro, three of which successfully delivered approximately 200 tonnes of weapons and supplies to the battlefield.

On November 26, 2024, the Prime Minister issued a decision designating the Ho Chi Minh Trail at Sea, which encompasses locations in Hai Phong, Phu Yen, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, and Ca Mau as a special national historic site./.

Photo exhibition marks National Action Month for Gender Equality

A photo exhibition in celebration of the National Action Month for Gender Equality and Gender-based Violence Prevention and Response opened in Hanoi on November 27.

The exhibition, jointly organised by the Ministry of Public Security (MoPSC) and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) will run until December 10 at the People’s Public Security Museum.

According to the organisers, the exhibition features 63 photos inspired by the result of the 2019 National Survey on Violence Against Women conducted by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, the General Statistics Office, and the United Nations Population Fund. It showed that 63% of married women have experienced violence in their lifetime, with less than 10% seeking help.

The photos highlight the crucial role of the People's Public Security forces in protecting women and children from gender-based violence. The images are presented in a positive light, encouraging women and girls who have experienced violence to seek support from public security forces. This is the first-ever exhibition in Vietnam on the subject.

On the sidelines of the event’s opening ceremony, Senior Lieutenant General Tran Quoc To, Deputy Minister of Public Security, received Christine Arab, Regional Director for UN Women in Asia and the Pacific. He spoke highly of the UN's overall efforts and UN Women's role in establishing global standards for gender equality and carrying out activities that benefit women and girls worldwide. The Deputy Minister affirmed the MoPSC's commitment to contributing effectively to joint efforts in implementing UN Women's overarching strategies. He also acknowledged the UN's general policies on promoting gender equality and empowering women as Vietnam is elected to the UN Women’s Executive Board for the 2025–2027 term.

For her part, Christine Arab reaffirmed the organisation's readiness to support the ministry in implementing initiatives related to gender-based violence prevention as well as realising the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security. She also expressed her hope to make cooperation with the ministry a role model at national, regional, and international levels./.

Strengthening cooperation on environment and climate adaptation

A working session between leaders of Can Tho and a delegation led by Daniel Stork, Consul General of the Netherlands in Ho Chi Minh City, was held in the Mekong delta city on November 27 to discuss opportunities for expanding bilateral collaboration in agriculture, environmental protection, and climate change adaptation.

During the meeting, Vice Chairman of the Can Tho municipal People’s Committee Nguyen Thuc Hien reiterated the city’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, in line with the country's pledge at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference.

As part of this commitment, the city is actively implementing measures to promote green growth, enhance climate resilience, and foster sustainable development, he said, adding that Can Tho wishes to cooperate with and learn experience the Netherlands has gained from its green, sustainable development and net-zero emissions projects and programmes.

Both the Netherlands and the Mekong Delta region face significant challenges from flooding and land subsidence due to their low-lying geographical characteristics.

Hien expressed his hope that increased cooperation with the Netherlands will lead to innovative projects aimed at addressing sea-level rise, flooding, and other climate-related risks.

According to the city's leader, Can Tho is currently proposing a large-scale project to tackle urban flooding and erosion while strengthening climate adaptation efforts. The project, which will focus on integrating flood prevention with urban planning across 2,770 hectares of the city, has an estimated budget of over 4.5 trillion VND (190 million USD) and is expected to be implemented between 2024 and 2030.

For his part, Stork expressed his belief in the deepening relationship between Vietnam, Can Thơ, and the Netherlands, noting that past successes have laid a strong foundation for future cooperation.

He emphasised that joint projects relating to green, sustainable agriculture, environment, and climate change adaptation are essential not only for the participating countries but also for global efforts to protect the planet.

He commended Can Tho's proactive approach to sea-level rise, noting the city’s progress in implementing both structural and non-structural solutions to improve climate resilience and protect urban areas from flooding.

According to the Can Tho Department of External Affairs, the city's exports to the Netherlands reached 22.01 million USD in the first nine months of this year. Key exports include seafood, agricultural products, processed foods, and textiles. The city also hosts a Dutch-funded project with 100% foreign direct investment.

In the non-governmental sector, Can Tho is involved in three major projects, including the automatic waste collection on the river in Can Tho funded by the Dutch Clean Seas Organisation worth 630,000 USD, the WaterWorX for climate-adapted water supply in the southwest Mekong Delta supported by Vitens Evides International B.V. with total aid of over 1.3 million USD, and the programe on Blue Dragon Vietnam - enhancing water resources management in the Mekong Delta financed by the Dutch Water Association and Blue Deal organisation with a total grant of 574,462 USD./.

Vietnam, Singapore cooperate in potential leadership training

The second course of the Potential Leaders’ Programme for Vietnamese officials opened in Singapore on November 27, aiming to improve the their capabilities by sharing the host country's expertise in addressing challenges.

It is held by the National University of Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in collaboration with Temasek Foundation, and the Ho Chi Minh Academy of Politics.

Led by Pham Tat Thang, member of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vice Chairman of its Mass Mobilisation Commission, the Vietnamese delegation is focusing on public sector governance, digital transformation, green transition, and economic development strategy, among others.

At the opening ceremony of the six-day event, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the People’s Committee of Quang Ngai province Nguyen Hoang Giang highlighted the robust Vietnam – Singapore friendship and cooperation over the past five decades, adding the Vietnamese Party and State have paid due attention to exchanging information and experience in sustainable development, science – technology development, and State management with Singapore.

According to Associate Professor Vu Minh Khuong from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, the programme reflects Vietnam's resolve to make extraordinary progress so as to become a developed country in the next two decades.

The first course of the programme was arranged in August./.

HCM City, north-west foster tourism links

Ho Chi Minh City will step up efforts to strengthen travel linkages with the expanded northwestern region to develop more unique tourism products, according to its Department of Tourism.

The number of tourists from HCM City to the region, comprising Dien Bien, Ha Giang, Hoa Binh, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, Son La, Yen Bai, and Phu Thọ provinces, is increasing.

Many inter-regional travel programmes have been exploited effectively by travel firms in the city, with millions of its tourists visiting the region and vice versa, according to statistics from 10 businesses that are members of the northwest working group.

The eight provinces in the region participated in the 20th HCM City Tourism Festival in 2024 with the theme “20 years of vibrant journey,” which attracted more than 150 tourism agencies from 45 cities and provinces and 50 tourism businesses.

The provinces also participated in the second HCM City River Festival which attracted 4.5 million visitors.

The tourism cooperation programme between the city and the northwest also included tourism promotion on the website dulichtaybac.vn, fanpage Sac mau Tay Bac – HCM City and on various social networking sites.

The city will organise a forum to review five years of implementing the tourism cooperation programme with the northwestern region next year./.

Vietnam, Finland strengthen cooperation in green transition

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on November 27 said Vietnam urgently needs Finland’s expertise and technology in green energy to expedite its energy transition.

During a Helsinki meeting, Vietnamese and Finnish enterprises explored collaborative opportunities. The event, held within Ha's ongoing official visit to Finland, marked a key milestone in advancing bilateral cooperation toward a green economic transformation, featuring prominent Finnish companies such as Oilon, Merus Power, Operon, Hermia Business, and Wärtsilä, and presenting advanced solutions in renewable energy, wastewater treatment, carbon reduction, and smart technologies.

Operon Vietnam, a subsidiary of Finland’s Operon Group, highlighted its successful implementation of four major wastewater treatment projects in the Southeast Asian country. Funded through Finland’s Public Investment Facility (PIF) credit and valued at 120 million EUR (127 million USD), these projects have significantly improved the water quality and living standards in areas such as Pleiku, Ninh Thuan, and Binh Thuan.

Representatives of Vietnamese ministries addressed critical concerns raised by businesses, including the development of industrial emission standards for power plants and the inclusion of flexible power plants in Power Development Plan VIII. The government also committed to streamlining public investment approval processes for bilateral cooperation projects.

Ha highlighted Vietnam’s vast renewable energy potential, particularly in provinces like Ben Tre, known for their promising biomass energy resources.

He encouraged Finnish enterprises to invest in green hydrogen, wind and solar power, clean industries, and circular economy technologies. Stressing Vietnam’s early-stage development in green energy, Ha recognised Finland’s significant role, particularly its longstanding support in establishing clean water systems and assured commitment to fostering a transparent, fair, and globally aligned investment environment.

Finland’s innovative capabilities, combined with Vietnam’s untapped potential, position the Nordic nation as a regional leader in renewable energy. Additionally, Vietnam’s skilled workforce offers a possibility to quickly adapt to new technologies, fostering high-value collaborations with Finnish firms.

Key Vietnamese corporations such as PVN, EVN, and Vinalines engaged directly with Finnish enterprises, paving the way for partnerships in renewable energy, wastewater treatment, maritime transport, and smart technologies./.

Khanh Hoa takes drastic measures against IUU fishing

The south-central province of Khanh Hoa has been implementing robust measures to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

The province is committed to cracking down on all "three Nos" vessels - those lacking proper registration, fishing licenses, and inspection certifications.

Consequently, authorities at fishing ports in Nha Trang city, home to over 1,400 fishing vessels - the largest fleet in Khanh Hoa, have intensified their control over vessels entering and leaving ports.

Kiosks have been set up at almost ports for fishermen to install the electronic catch documentation and traceability system (eCDT) that monitors and ensures transparency and legality in certifying the origin of domestically-caught fish.

Nguyen Van Ba, head of the Hon Ro Fishing Port Management Board, noted that local fishermen now have a better understanding of the Law on Fisheries, adding they have voluntarily reported their activities upon traversing ports. The port management board has closely collaborated with other relevant forces in the communications work.

Khanh Hoa is taking the lead nationwide in implementing the eCDT system. So far, local authorities have licensed over 197 accounts on the eCDT platform and have guided hundreds of vessel owners in installing the application.

Lieutenant Colonel Vu Van Hung, head of the Cam Ranh Border Guard Station, reported positive results in managing fishing vessels in Cam Ranh city, saying competent forces have regularly conducted outreach activities and maintained strict supervisions over the operations of vessels.

Since the beginning of this year, 44 vessels at Da Bac fishing port in Cam Ranh have been found to have lost their Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) connections, with two vessels disconnected for over 10 days. Authorities have also imposed fines on eight others for their violations of fishing regulations.

The People’s Committees of districts, towns, and cities in Khanh Hoa have been instructed to monitor the locations and operations of vessels, enhance the eCDT system, strengthen patrols and controls at sea, and promptly detect and address cases of violations./.

Six Hanoi students represent Vietnam at int’l junior science olympiad 2024

The Hanoi Department of Education and Training held a meeting on November 27 with local outstanding students who will represent Vietnam at the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) 2024.

The six-member team includes three from the Hanoi-Amsterdam Gifted High School, one from the Nguyen Hue High School for the Gifted, and two others from the Newton Secondary and High School, who are selected from the over 200 participants in an exam for IJSO 2024. They have spent two months on intensive training with their teachers in preparation for the competition.

Praising the efforts and achievements of Hanoi's students in national and international competitions in recent years, director of the department Tran The Cuong expressed his belief that with their thorough and diligent preparation, the team will accomplish their tasks excellently and bring home proudworthy results.

IJSO 2024 will take place from December 2 to 12 in Romania, gathering students from 56 countries and territories worldwide. Candidates will compete in a 240-minute exam with questions in physics, chemistry, and biology.

Through the competitions from 2007 to 2023, IJSO Hanoi teams representing Vietnam have always achieved high results, winning 77 medals, including 16 golds./.