Vietnam news in brief - October 8

World Economic Forum highlights Vietnam's youth 

The World Economic Forum's Founder and Executive Chairman, Professor Klaus Schwab, led a dialogue with students on "Positioning Vietnam in the Smart Era," with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasizing the role of youth in driving the country's future. The dialogue discussed global trends, highlighting challenges, opportunities, and the need for innovation and digital infrastructure to help Vietnam thrive.

Vietnam targets 7% GDP growth in 2024

Vietnam targets GDP growth of over 7% in 2024, with 7.5-8% in the fourth quarter. At a government meeting on October 7, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh outlined 12 key tasks and urgent solutions to stabilize the macro-economy, control inflation and improve digital transformation, infrastructure and social welfare. Challenges such as natural disasters and economic pressures were also addressed.

Cat Ba Island - promised to be premier eco-tourism destination

Cat Ba Island has the potential to become Vietnam's "mini-Maldives" by becoming a premier eco-tourism destination. Experts stress the need for effective strategies to combat pollution and waste, with an emphasis on green transportation and infrastructure. Sustainable investments can transform Cat Ba into a thriving eco-island, significantly boosting tourism and benefiting the local economy.

An aerial view of the Cat Ba Archipelago. Photo: Haiphong.gov.vn

Vietnam urges German investment at sustainable development conference

Vietnam called on German businesses to invest more in manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure and artificial intelligence at a conference in Hamburg, Germany on October 7-8. Deputy Prime Minister Ho Đuc Phoc emphasized Vietnam's commitment to supporting European businesses by utilizing the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). He also reiterated Vietnam's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and called for international financial support for sustainable development initiatives.

Young people with disabilities honoured at Shining Vietnamese Willpower 2024

Thirty-eight outstanding young people with disabilities were honoured at the Shining Vietnamese Willpower 2024 programme held in Hanoi on October 7. The event celebrates those who have overcome challenges and made significant contributions to society. Since 2013, the program has recognized 237 young people with disabilities, highlighting their resilience and determination to succeed despite adversity.

Vietnam launches MicroDragon, NanoDragon 

Vietnam has mastered satellite technology with the launch of MicroDragon and NanoDragon after five years of implementing the National Remote Sensing Development Strategy. The country has developed a robust remote sensing infrastructure to support environmental monitoring, disaster prevention and climate change response. A national remote sensing database is also being developed and is expected to be completed by 2024, with the aim of improving resource management and environmental protection efforts.

Vietnam highlights consumers' rights 

The Ministry of Industry and Trade has planned activities for Vietnam Consumers' Rights Day 2025, aiming to create a healthy business environment, protect consumers' rights and promote business growth. With the theme "Transparent Information - Responsible Consumption", events will be run from November 2024 to 2025, focusing on the Lunar New Year and major shopping seasons.

Vietnam to boost billiards through international competition

The 2024 Hanoi Open Pool Championship, held from October 8 to 13, features 256 top players, including Shane Van Boening and Duong Quoc Hoang. With a prize pool of US$200,000, it will provide Vietnamese players with international competition experience. The Hanoi Junior Open will also showcase 64 under-17 talents.