Vietnam news in brief - June 24

UN agencies support Vietnam’s shift to sustainable food systems

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other UN agencies have pledged to continue supporting Vietnam’s transition to a sustainable food system. At a consultation on June 24 in Hanoi, partners emphasized the importance of technical assistance, policy development, and mobilizing private investment under Resolution 68. The program aims to bolster food security and assist Vietnam in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Vietnam eases citizenship rules to attract foreign talent

The National Assembly's amended Law on Vietnamese Nationality, which will come into force from July 1, 2025, will ease requirements for foreign investors, scientists, and experts to obtain Vietnamese citizenship. Eligible individuals may retain or regain Vietnamese nationality with presidential approval. Applicants abroad can submit documents via the Vietnamese missions. This change aims to attract high-quality foreign talent and promote international integration.

Vietnam Airlines adjusts operations amid Vinh Airport closure

As the airport, located in the central province of Nghe An, will be closed from July 1 to December 31 for infrastructure upgrades, the national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines will suspend all flights to and from Vinh and increase service to nearby airports, such as Hanoi and Thanh Hoa. Affected passengers can change their itineraries or receive refunds free of charge. The airline will resume operations once conditions allow.

Vietnam aviation sees strong growth in H1/2025

In the first half of 2025, the Vietnamese aviation sector carried more than 41.3 million passengers, up 10% year-on-year, including traffic from international destinations rose to 23 million passengers (up 13%). Cargo volume reached nearly 696,000 tons, representing a 14.6% increase. These figures highlight the sector's strong recovery from the pandemic, especially in international transport.

Vietnam chairs 35th UNCLOS member states conference

Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Vu has been elected chair of the 35th United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) Member States Conference, marking the first time Vietnam has held this role. Vietnam also hosted a reception to support the candidacy of Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh for the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) during the 2026–2035 term.

Vietnam’s train route gains global acclaim

Vietnam’s Reunification Express topped Lonely Planet’s 2025 list of the world’s 24 best train journeys, the first Southeast Asian route to do so. The 1,700-kilometer ride, which connects Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, is praised for its cultural richness and sustainability. This global recognition supports Vietnam’s efforts to promote immersive, sustainable tourism experiences.

Vietnam Fine Arts Museum unveils new folk-art space

The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum on June 24 launched its new exhibition space dedicated to applied and folk art, marking the museum’s 59th anniversary. The space features handcrafted works showcasing traditional aesthetics and cultural identity. Upgraded with 3D mapping, interactive displays, and modern lighting, the gallery enhances visitor experience and highlights the depth of Vietnam’s artistic heritage.

Phu Quoc ranks among top 3 islands in Asia-Pacific

In Travel + Leisure’s 2025 Asia-Pacific Luxury Awards, Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island ranked third, following Bali and Koh Samui. Renowned for its pristine nature, vibrant culture, and diverse resorts, Phu Quoc attracted over 4.4 million visitors in the first half of 2025, a 76.7% year-over-year surge.