Vietnam news in brief - March 24 

Vietnam and Poland strengthen defense cooperation

Vietnam and Poland discussed strengthening defense ties during a meeting between Deputy Defense Minister Hoang Xuan Chien and his Polish counterpart Pawel Bejda on March 24. The talks focused on bilateral cooperation in military training, UN peacekeeping, defense industry, and young officer exchanges. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and Poland’s support for Vietnam-EU defense collaboration.

Tribute event honors heroic women of the resistance

A tribute to Vietnam's heroic mothers, female heroes of the armed forces, war invalids, former political prisoners, and Saigon Commandos was held on March 24. Marking the 50th anniversary of national reunification (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025), the event recognized their sacrifices and contributions and reaffirmed Vietnam's commitment to supporting those who have served the country.

Quang Ngai inaugurates 15,000 sqm conference center

The Quang Ngai Conference and Exhibition Center was inaugurated on the morning of March 24. The project, with a total investment of $11.7 million, includes a main building of nearly 15,000 square meters and an outdoor area of 27,000 square meters. Completed six months ahead of schedule since its groundbreaking in 2022, the center is inspired by Vietnam's 3,000-year-old Sa Huynh culture. It will serve as a venue for diplomatic and local events while providing cultural and recreational space for Quang Ngai residents. 

Vietnam achieves over 90% success rate in tuberculosis treatment

Vietnam achieved a tuberculosis cure rate of over 90% in 2024, surpassing the global average of 88%. Announced on World Tuberculosis Day 2025, this milestone was highlighted alongside advances in diagnostic technology, such as next-generation gene sequencing, for faster, more accurate detection. To eliminate tuberculosis by 2035, the Ministry of Health is prioritizing modern diagnostics, public awareness, and international cooperation.

Hanoi plans two major transport projects worth nearly US$3 billion

Hanoi plans to start construction of the Ring Road 4 project and the Tu Lien Bridge on May 19. The 112km Ring Road 4 project has a revised investment of about US$2.1 billion and includes eight major interchanges. It is expected to be operational by 2027. The Tu Lien Bridge project, including access roads, covers 5.15 km with an investment of over US$800 million. When completed, it will ease traffic congestion and expand Hanoi's development to the northeast.

Vietnam Railways opens ticket sales for summer 2025

Starting March 24, Vietnam Railways began selling train tickets for the Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh City route for the 2025 summer season to meet travel demand. Five pairs of Thong Nhat trains will run regularly, with various discount policies for round-trip, group, and individual tickets. Passengers should note that tickets purchased within two days of departure will be subject to a 5-7% fare increase.

BIDV leads Vietnam’s banking sector in Environmental, Social and Governance rankings

BIDV was named Vietnam's top ESG bank in the ESG10-2025 list on March 24. ESG is now essential in banking, with 78% of Vietnamese companies planning to increase ESG investments. Globally, 95% of investment decisions will take ESG into account by 2025. Vietnamese banks are leading the way in aligning with global sustainability commitments.

Exhibition to mark 70 years of Vietnam People's Navy in Danang

The exhibition "Vietnam People's Navy - 70 Years of Defending the Seas" was opened on March 24 in the central province of Danang. Commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Navy (1955-2025), it displays historical documents and artifacts highlighting Vietnam's sovereignty over the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa seas and the Navy's heroic contributions from 1955 to the present.

Aeon to invest in Vietnamese cinema market 

Aeon Entertainment, Japan's largest cinema operator, plans to open its first cinema in Vietnam this year, with a 4,000-5,000 square meter venue in the south. In partnership with Beta Media, Aeon aims to have 21 cinemas by 2030, with an investment of up to $200 million. Vietnam is Aeon's first overseas market, targeting growth amid limited local competition.