Vietnam news in brief - August 17

Mekong-Lancang Foreign Ministers outline crucial cooperation

The 9th Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting was held in Thailand on August 16, attended by representatives from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, China and Vietnam.

Country representatives at the 9th Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Photo: baoquocte.vn

The conference reviewed achievements, discussed future plans, and emphasized sustainable water management, infrastructure, and digital technology. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Hang reaffirmed Vietnam's commitment and effective contributions to the MLC's key initiatives for future cooperation.

India, Vietnam strengthen maritime cooperation

India and Vietnam held the 4th India-Vietnam Maritime Security Dialogue in Hanoi on August 16, focusing on intensifying cooperation in maritime activities and law enforcement.

Both countries stress the importance of maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. They are working together to ensure freedom of navigation and address common challenges such as piracy and territorial disputes. India has provided training to Vietnamese military personnel, particularly in submarine operations and language training.

Vietnam launches creative advertising awards

Launched on August 16, the 2024 Vietnam Creative Advertising Awards will honor outstanding individuals and organizations in the advertising industry, focusing on creative campaigns with a positive social impact. The competition will feature 70 categories and the awards ceremony is slated for December in Ho Chi Minh City.

Peace program celebrates 70th anniversary of 17th Parallel

The political art program "17th Parallel - Aspiration for Peace" was held on August 16 at the historic site of Hien Luong - Ben Hai in the central province of Quang Tri on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of Vinh Linh.

The event highlighted Vietnam's struggles and aspirations for peace. Featuring renowned artists, the program attracted thousands of spectators. The 17th parallel, established by the Geneva Accords of 1954, divided Vietnam along the Ben Hai River during the anti-American war.

Transport sector aims to disburse 98% of public investment funds this year

The Ministry of Transport plans to disburse nearly VND76,000 trillion (US$3.03 billion) or 98.5% of the public investment fund allocated to the ministry in 2024. As of the end of July, the ministry reported a disbursement rate of 49.2%. As the amount of capital to be disbursed in the remaining months of this year remains large, the pressure to meet the target is significant.

South Korea-Vietnam ICT investment cooperation

The South Korean Consulate General in the central coastal city of Danang hosted a conference on August 16 on the prospects of ICT investment cooperation between the two countries.

Participants agreed to strengthen cooperation in various sectors, including technology and science, information and communication, agriculture, and energy. The agreement will be implemented through the establishment of the Vietnam-Korea Institute of Science and Technology and the promotion of IT cooperation projects in digital transformation.

Vietnamese youth football teams target upcoming Asian tournaments

Vietnam's youth football teams are aiming for promising results at upcoming Asian events. Vietnam's U-16 team has gathered in Hanoi to prepare for the qualifiers for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2024, scheduled for October next year.

Vietnam will host two groups for the 2024: AFC U-17 Asian Cup qualifiers in Phu Tho Province from October 23-27 and the 2025 AFC U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers in Hai Phong City from September 21-29.

Seven out of ten foreign tourists to Danang visit Ba Na Hills

Seven out of ten international tourists arriving in the central beach city of Danang visit Ba Na Hills, one of Vietnam's most famous tourist destinations.

A highlight show in Ba Na this year: Fairy Blossom with a magical theme. Photo: Sun Group

Ba Na Hills captivates international tourists for many reasons, as it can satisfy visitors from all walks of life, no matter where they come from. Moreover, Ba Na Hills is an ever-changing destination. The most distinctive feature of Ba Na Hills is its four-season festive atmosphere through world-class shows.

Kien Giang welcomes over 573,000 international tourists

The southern province of Kien Giang welcomed more than 6.6 million visitors from January to July, including about 573,000 international tourists, generating VND15.6 trillion (US$665 million) in revenue, a significant increase year-on-year. By 2025, the province aims to attract 10.7 million visitors, including 900,000 international tourists, with a target revenue of VND38 trillion (US$1.6 billion).

Quang Ninh hosts first hot air balloon festival

The northern province of Quang Ninh will hold its first hot air balloon festival at October 30 Square and Ocean Park on September 1 and 2. The event, which celebrates the 30th anniversary of Halong Bay's UNESCO World Heritage status, will offer free balloon rides and promote the city's image. There will also be a night balloon on September 2 and paragliding activities.