Vietnam news in brief - April 21 

Vietnamese President Luong Cuong to visit Laos 

Vietnamese President Luong Cuong will pay a state visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic on April 24-25 at the invitation of Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and coordinate major events in 2025 to celebrate the deep solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

Vietnam, China deepen people-to-people exchanges

A high-level delegation from the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front began an official visit to China on April 21. The visit includes friendly exchanges, meetings with Chinese officials, and joint activities to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations (1950-1975) and the Vietnam-China Year of People-to-People Exchange.

Vietnam nears goal to replace dilapidated houses by 2025

Vietnam is on track to replace 201,651 dilapidated houses nationwide, with 105,968 completed and 95,683 under construction as of April 20. The figures are part of a nationwide movement to eliminate substandard housing by 2025.

Airlines increase flights to HCMC for national holiday

Vietnamese airlines will increase flights to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) during the April 30-May 1 holiday, especially on the Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh City route. Airlines will also operate more flights during off-peak hours and at night to meet rising demand during the five-day national holiday.

Vietnamese students take 2nd at World Robotics Championship

Students from Hanoi Amsterdam High School for the Gifted won the Finalist Alliance title at the 2025 FTC World Championship. Hosted by the US-based organization FIRST, the FTC Championship is the world's premier robotics event for high school students, promoting STEM education and international cooperation.

Cambodian and Lao soldiers join parade rehearsals

Military personnel from Cambodia and Laos joined parade rehearsals in the southern province of Binh Duong on April 21 in preparation for Vietnam's 50th Liberation Day on April 30. This is the first time foreign military units to take part in a national parade, strengthening diplomatic ties and regional defense cooperation. The official parade will be held in Ho Chi Minh City, which has great symbolic and international significance.

Power company adopts AI to enhance customer service

Ho Chi Minh City Power Corporation (EVNHCMC) has adopted AI and digital technologies to improve the customer experience across its operations. The utility has fully automated its network, installed remote monitoring meters, launched a multi-channel customer service platform, and developed the EVNHCMC app for usage tracking. The company has also promoted cashless payment solutions in partnership with banks and intermediaries, making electricity services more accessible and efficient.

Tourism season kicks off in Thanh Hoa 

Kicking off on April 26 in the central province of Thanh Hoa, the Sam Son Sea Festival will mark the start of the 2025 summer tourism season. Featuring large-scale performances, fireworks, and interactive shows, the event celebrates local heritage and is expected to attract more than 300,000 visitors before the April 30 holiday, transforming Sam Son into a vibrant entertainment and cultural hub.