Vietnam news in brief - February 12

Vietnam reaffirms commitment to 2005 UNESCO Convention

Vietnam reaffirmed its support for the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions at the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Convention, held from February 11 to 14. In 2024, it strengthened cultural policies, increased investment and developed human resources. Vietnam also prioritized cultural industries with Government Directive 30/CT-TTg and a strategy through 2045. Hanoi, Da Lat and Hoi An were designated UNESCO Creative Cities.

Vietnam attends AI Summit in Paris

Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Bui Hoang Phuong attended the AI Action Summit in Paris, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi from February 10-13. Phuong and representatives from 59 other countries signed the Paris AI Joint Declaration, calling for global AI governance to ensure transparent and sustainable development. Vietnam's participation demonstrates its commitment to AI development and opens up opportunities for cooperation and learning in the effective application of AI in various fields.

Danang approves US$260-million industrial park project

The central city of Danang has approved Thanh Binh Phu My Corporation to invest VND6.2 trillion (US$260 million) in Hoa Ninh Industrial Park, Hoa Vang. The project aims to build a modern, high-tech, and environmentally friendly industrial park to boost investment and create jobs. The park will operate for 50 years, with construction completed in 42 months. Danang has six major industrial parks covering over 1,160 hectares, strategically located for industrial growth.

Vietnam Airlines increases direct flights between Vietnam and China

Vietnam Airlines, the country's flag carrier, will launch a direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Beijing Daxing Airport in China on March 30, flying five times a week with Airbus A321 aircraft. The airline will also increase its frequency on the Hanoi-Beijing route to seven flights per week. The increase brings Vietnam Airlines' total number of routes between Vietnam and China to six, offering 40 frequencies per week.

Airbus A321 aircraft of Vietnam Airlines. Photo: Vietnam Airlines

Vietnam is among the world's top three rice exporters

Vietnam maintains its position as one of the world's top three rice exporters. In 2024, Vietnam shipped over 9.03 million tons of rice worth nearly US$5.67 billion abroad, an increase of 21.2% from 2023. So far, Vietnamese rice has been shipped to 150 markets.

Danang boosts flu vaccinations  

Danang has seen a surge in flu vaccinations, with nearly 10,850 doses administered in 10 days at 24 vaccination sites amid the global flu outbreak (February 1-10). The city recorded 122 flu-related hospitalizations in January. Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated, wear masks and practice good hygiene. Vaccination centers have extended hours to meet increased demand.

Ho Chi Minh City adds more than 53 hectares of green space

Ho Chi Minh City has developed over 53 hectares of public green space, exceeding its target by 540% between 2021 and the end of 2024. These efforts support sustainability and improve urban living conditions. The city also expanded public parks and planted over 42,500 trees. By 2030, it aims to add another 10 hectares of green space and plant 50,000 new trees.