Vietnam news in brief - June 11
Stay informed on Vietnam with The Hanoi Times' daily news briefing.
Vietnam promotes ASEAN–MERCOSUR trade ties
Amid shifting global dynamics, Vietnam is urging stronger ASEAN–MERCOSUR trade through high-level engagement and a potential free trade deal. The two blocs offer complementary strengths, with ASEAN in manufacturing and services and MERCOSUR in agriculture and energy. Bilateral trade hit US$33.3 billion in 2023, underscoring untapped potential.
Vietnam–Mongolia boosts judicial cooperation
Vietnam and Mongolia solidified their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership by strengthening court-to-court collaboration focused on artificial intelligence (AI), training judges and developing electronic courts. The two sides pledged to share expertise, apply AI, develop e-courts, and enhance legal outreach for overseas Vietnamese.
Vietnam aims to become a key financial gateway
Deputy PM Nguyen Hoa Binh has unveiled plans to establish international financial centers in Ho Chi Minh City and Danang with tailored legal frameworks and diverse ecosystems. Vietnam aims to enter the top 75 of the Global Financial Centres Index by 2035 and the top 20 by 2045, focusing on business environment, finance, infrastructure, talent, reputation, and fintech.
Cambodia Culture Week 2025 features rich heritage
Cambodia Culture Week 2025 kicked off in the southern province of Bac Lieu from June 9 to 14, marking the 58th anniversary of Vietnam–Cambodia diplomatic ties. As part of the 2023–2027 cultural cooperation plan, the event featured artistic performances and cultural exchanges, highlighting shared traditions and strengthening solidarity. Bac Lieu, home to 78,000 Khmer people, served as a fitting host for the celebration.
The art performance presented by Cambodian and Vietnamese artists. Photo: Department of International Cooperation
Khanh Hoa announces green tourism standards
The central province of Khanh Hoa announced its Green Tourism Standards on June 11 for accommodations and tourist sites. These standards enable businesses to self-assess and improve their services, hygiene, and waste management in accordance with international practices. By leveraging its natural and cultural assets, Khanh Hoa hopes to establish a green tourism brand that benefits the community and visitors alike.
Lim Festival recognized as national intangible heritage
The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism officially declared the Lim Festival in the northern province of Bac Ninh a national intangible cultural heritage on June 10. The festival, held on the 12th and 13th days of the first lunar month, preserves and promotes spiritual traditions and historical values, especially Quan Ho (love duet) folk songs, which are inscribed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.
