Vietnam news in brief - February 26

UNDP promotes sustainable plastics solutions in Vietnam

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the 2025 Plastic Innovation Program in Vietnam on February 26. The program aims to support sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions to reduce plastic pollution. UNDP and partners will provide funding of up to US$30,000 for six winning projects, focusing on innovative business models for plastic waste collection and recycling, technical guidance and new technologies to minimize plastic leakage.

Air Force history and achievements highlighted in national exhibition

The "Wings Guarding the Nation's Sky" exhibition is now on display in Hanoi through May 6 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Vietnam People's Air Force (March 3, 1955 - March 3, 2025) and the 60th anniversary of its first victory (April 3, 1965 - April 3, 2025). Featuring over 400 artifacts, it highlights the formation of the Air Force, key battles, and modernization efforts.

Technology competition highlights digital transformation efforts

The second "Technology with Heart" photo and video contest was launched on February 26 by the Vietnam News Agency and Viettel Group. The competition recognizes technological contributions that promote a digital society with better living standards. Open to all Vietnamese citizens, it offers prizes of up to $2,000 for works that highlight the role of technology in production, digital transformation, and cybersecurity.

Vietnam showcases cultural identity at EXPO 2025 Osaka

The official logo for the Vietnam Pavilion at EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai was unveiled on February 26. Inspired by Vietnam's cultural identity and the EXPO mascot Myaku-Myaku, the logo symbolizes tradition, modernity and friendship with Japan. A partnership with the media organization was also announced to promote Vietnamese localities and foster international business ties during and after EXPO 2025.

Logo of the Vietnam Pavilion at EXPO 2025 unveiled. Photo: VGP

Airline to resume direct flights between Vietnam and China

China's Colorful Guizhou Airlines will resume direct flights between Hanoi and Guizhou on March 11 to boost two-way tourism. The route will operate twice a week from March to May and September to October, and three times a week from May to July. The 1-hour and 20-minute flight will significantly reduce travel time compared to the 12-hour road trip.

Vietnam expands international flights to support economic growth

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has urged local airlines to expand international air services to support GDP growth of more than 8% by 2025. Airlines are encouraged to increase flights to key tourist destinations such as Danang, Nha Trang, Hue and Phu Quoc. Air traffic reached 7.3 million passengers in February 2025, up 12.4% year-on-year, with international passengers up 22% to 4.2 million.

VFF partners with Bundesliga to boost football development

The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) and the Bundesliga signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on February 26, covering technical, medical and coaching exchanges, as well as support for youth and women's football development. A key focus will be the Bundesliga Dream project, which aims to raise the quality of Vietnam's youth teams for greater success on the international stage.