Vietnam news in brief - December 27

National Assembly Chairman bids farewell to Australian Ambassador

Chairman of the National Assembly Tran Thanh Man held a farewell meeting on December 26 with Australian Ambassador Andrew Goledzinowski, who is ending his term in Vietnam. The Chairman praised the Ambassador's efforts in strengthening bilateral ties, especially in upgrading the partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Goledzinowski highlighted the robust economic cooperation between the two countries and reiterated Australia's support for Vietnam's development goals.

Vietcombank leads Forbes Vietnam's top 25 brands for 2024

Vietcombank tops Forbes Vietnam's ranking of 25 listed brands for 2024 with a brand value of US$891.4 million. In 2023, it achieved total assets of US$73.5 billion and pre-tax profit of over US$1.5 billion. Vietcombank aims to remain Vietnam's leading bank and to be among the world's top 200 financial institutions by 2030.

Dak Nong wins global recognition for sustainable tourism

Dak Nong Province's Geopark, which covers an area of 4,760 km² with 65 geological heritage sites and nearly 50 caves, has been designated by UNESCO as a Global Geopark for the second time for the period 2024-2027. Ho Van Muoi, Chairman of the Dak Nong Provincial People's Committee, highlighted the park's role in sustainable tourism and cultural preservation, while Guy Martini, Chairman of UNESCO's Global Geoparks Council, praised its harmony between nature and man. With this designation, Dak Nong joins UNESCO's Global Geoparks Network, which includes 213 sites in 48 countries.

Quang Binh boosts tourism and sets targets for 2025

Quang Binh's tourism generated nearly $245 million in 2024, up 17.3% from 2023, with 5.2 million visitors, an increase of 15.3%. International arrivals reached 146,100, an increase of 23.8%. The province is targeting tourism revenues of $260 million and 6 million visitors in 2025, focusing on infrastructure upgrades, new projects and promotion of attractions such as Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

Inside Phong Nha cave. Photo: Cong Hung/Kinh te & Do thi

Vietnam strengthens ties with overseas community

Vietnam's remittances are expected to reach $16 billion in 2024, matching the record level of 2023, according to Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son. Nearly 6 million overseas Vietnamese living in more than 130 countries make a significant contribution to their homeland through remittances. Vietnam aims to improve policies and simplify procedures to strengthen ties with its diaspora and attract more investment.

Hue’s countdown event celebrates country’s new era

The "Countdown Hue 2025 - A New Era" art program will be held at the To Huu-Vo Nguyen Giap intersection in Hue from 9 pm on December 31 to 1 am on January 1, 2025. The event is expected to attract around 40,000 people to celebrate Hue's new status as a sub-national city. The program will feature a vibrant cultural display, including contemporary EDM performances.

Vietnam promotes tourism worldwide with CNN campaign

Vietnam has launched a 30-second promotional video on CNN showcasing the country's vibrant culture, historic sites and natural wonders. The video highlights landmarks such as Hue, Hoi An and the ancient ruins of Champa, while also promoting Vietnam's pristine beaches, adventure tourism and ecological treasures such as Son Doong Cave. The campaign aims to raise Vietnam's global tourism profile and attract international visitors in 2025.

Hau Giang reports strong economic growth, aims for 2025 development

Hau Giang Province's total budget revenue reached US$314 million (VND7,520 billion), up 23.52% from 2023, while the economy grew by 8.76%, ranking second in the Mekong Delta. The per capita income was about US$3,970 (VND93.78 million), up 14.2% year on year. The province aims to achieve an economic growth rate of at least 8.8% in 2025, focusing on improving the political structure and boosting key sectors.

The art performance show titled "Hoi An Memory" in Hoi An Ancient Town. Photo: Bao Ngoc

Vietnamese shooter named Outstanding Athlete of the Year 2024

Shooter Trinh Thu Vinh has been awarded the title of "Outstanding Athlete of the Year" in the 2024 National Sports Awards by the Sport Authority of Vietnam, scoring 1,286 points. She earned this recognition for her gold medal at the Asian Shooting Championship and a top 4 finish in the 10m air pistol event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The Miss Vietnam 2024 pageant will take place

The Miss Vietnam 2024 pageant is scheduled to run from January to June 2025, seeking contestants from provinces across the country. Focusing on the core values of beauty, culture, intelligence, and contribution, the pageant highlights humanitarian values, celebrates traditional culture, and showcases Vietnamese beauty on the global stage. Since its inception in 1988, the pageant has hosted 39 editions and featured renowned winners such as Mai Phuong Thuy, Do Thi Ha, Tran Tieu Vy, and Do My Linh.