Vietnam news in brief - April 3

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New head of State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Affairs appointed

Former Vietnamese Ambassador to Austria Nguyen Trung Kien has been appointed head of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese. He will oversee the committee's mission to manage state affairs for overseas Vietnamese, support integration, preserve cultural heritage, and involve overseas Vietnamese in national development.

Logo for 50th anniversary of Southern Liberation and Reunification unveiled 

Vietnam has unveiled the official logo for the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025). The design features a stylized "50" symbolizing unity, resilience, and victory, with red for revolution and blue for peace. It also depicts the Liberation Flag over the Independence Palace, representing national pride and historical continuity.

VPBank and GTEL partner to develop innovative fintech solutions

VPBank and GTEL, a technology and telecommunications firm under the Ministry of Public Security, have signed a partnership to develop innovative fintech products. VPBank will provide financial solutions to GTEL and its customers, including digital banking, payment and credit services. GTEL employees and partners will benefit from preferential loans, credit cards, and waived transaction fees.

VietinBank named Vietnam’s best SME bank for five consecutive years

VietinBank has been named Vietnam's Best Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Bank for five consecutive years (2021-2025) by The Asian Banker. The bank offers digital lending, green deposits and online guarantees, as well as streamlined access to credit. VietinBank continues to innovate and improve SME banking with fast approvals, competitive fees, and a seamless digital experience.

Vietnam partners with France to pilot carbon trading exchange

Vietnam worked with France to pilot its carbon trading exchange, which will be launched in June 2025, with a view to global integration by 2029. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in carbon market development, green finance, and policy frameworks. France will provide Vietnam with technical assistance on green taxation, carbon credit mechanisms, and sustainable investment strategies.

Vietnam launches “AI for All” program to enhance digital literacy

Vietnam's AI for All program was launched to provide accessible online AI courses for all citizens. In line with the Digital Literacy for All movement, the program offers two modules on AI awareness and ethics, with digital badges awarded upon completion. It supports digital transformation and workforce readiness.

Hundreds create map of Vietnam at Osaka cultural festival

Hundreds of people formed a map of Vietnam at the 8th Vietnam Cultural Festival on April 3 at Sakai City Hall in Osaka, Japan. The event, an important cultural milestone, also featured traditional performances, the commemoration of the Hung Kings, and exhibitions of Vietnamese products and cuisine. The festival aims to promote Vietnamese culture and strengthen ties between Vietnam and Japan, especially after the sister city relationship with Danang in 2019.

Vietnamese group captivates 5,000 spectators at cultural festival in Osaka

The “Kindergarten” (Nha Tre) group from the “Anh trai vuot nga chong gai” program delivered an explosive performance at the 8th Vietnam Cultural Festival in Osaka, Japan, captivating 5,000 spectators from various countries, including Vietnam. Their show included popular songs such as "Thu hoai" and "Diem xua." The event ended with a heartfelt tribute and certificates of appreciation for the performers.