US Ambassador highlights positive outlook for US-Vietnam economic cooperation
Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien on February 14 held a meeting with US Ambassador Marc E. Knapper to discuss economic and trade collaboration. Ambassador Knapper emphasized that recent US tariffs were not aimed at Vietnam, with the new trade policy designed to ensure fairness, protect national interests, and support workers. Minister Dien said he agreed with this approach, reaffirming Vietnam's commitment to maintaining strong trade relations with the US.
AIDAstella Cruise Ship brings over 2,000 tourists to Phu Quoc
The AIDAstella cruise ship, from Italy, arrived at Phu Quoc International Passenger Port on February 14, bringing more than 2,130 tourists and 620 crew members. This marks the first international cruise to dock at Phu Quoc Island in 2025. The Phu Quoc International Passenger Port, which has received a total investment of over US$69 million, continues to be a key gateway for tourism to the island.
| The AIDAstella cruise ship arrives at Phu Quoc International Passenger Port. Photo: Cruise Panda |
2025 At Ty Spring ceremony held at Lac Giao communal house
The Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Dak Lak Province hosted the 2025 At Ty Spring Ceremony at the Lac Giao Communal House, a national historical site in Buon Ma Thuot, on February 14. The ceremony focused on praying for peace and honoring figures who pioneered new lands, established villages, and fostered unity among local communities. Attendees witnessed traditional rituals and enjoyed performances of "hat then" (then singing) and "dan tinh" (tinh instrument playing) by local artists.
HCM City Book Street's revenue reaches US$2.26 million in 2024
The management board of HCM City Book Street reported a total revenue of US$2.26 million in 2024, marking a slight 4% decline from 2023 due to economic fluctuations. Despite the drop in revenue, visitor numbers surged by 20%, as the Book Street was recognized as one of the top 50 tourist attractions in both HCM City and the Mekong Delta for 2024. Looking ahead, the management board aims to expand cultural and artistic programs in 2025 in anticipation of the street's 10th anniversary in 2026.
Binh Duong to Develop Eco-Industrial Park to International Standards
The southern province of Binh Duong held a workshop on February 14 to launch a feasibility study for an eco-industrial park (EIP) based on the World Bank's EIP 2.0 framework. The project aims to promote industrial symbiosis, optimize resource use, reduce environmental impact, and enhance economic value. Led by Professor Park Hang Suck, a South Korean expert in eco-industrial parks, the study is conducted in collaboration with Ulsan Eco-Industrial Development (Ulsan EID) and supported by the World Bank.
