Vietnam news in brief - November 22

Vietnam, Korea to strengthen digital cooperation in AI development

Vietnam aims to strengthen cooperation with Korea in digital transformation and AI development, the Vietnam-Korea Digital Forum 2024 heard on November 21. Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Phan Tam expected Vietnam to learn from South Korea in technology development to facilitate e-government, digital economy and digital society.

Vietnam plans international financial centers in Ho Chi Minh, Danang

The Politburo has approved a plan to establish an international financial center in Ho Chi Minh City and a regional financial center in the central coastal city of Danang. The initiative involves implementing eight policy frameworks and piloting six international policies through a phased roadmap by 2030. It also includes the establishment of several regulatory agencies to oversee and resolve disputes in accordance with international laws and practices.

Solutions put forward to develop cultural industries

Speaking at a conference in the central city of Danang on 21 November, Ha Van Sieu, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam National Tourism Authority, proposed the establishment of a national cultural tourism brand and the use of digital technology to promote cultural heritage. He emphasized the crucial role of cultural industries in driving tourism and highlighted strategies for development, especially in key regions.

Nghe An to host festival showcasing lotus cuisine

An event to promote lotus-based cuisine will be held in the central province of Nghe An from November 29 to December 1. In particular, the festival will showcase dishes made from lotus grown in Lang Sen (Lotus Village), the hometown of President Ho Chi Minh. This large-scale event will bring together businesses, seek to expand tourism routes in the central region, and establish lotus cuisine as a highlight on Vietnam's culinary map.

The lotus is typically found in shades of pink or white. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times

Danang attracts US$210 million in FDI with 60 new projects

As of October 2024, the coastal city of Danang has attracted approximately US$210 million in 60 newly approved FDI projects, bringing the total to 1,012 projects with nearly US$4.6 billion in capital. The city also secured about US$1.5 billion in domestic investment, implementing 380 projects outside industrial zones and nearly 400 within them. Danang is focusing on improving the business environment, removing barriers, and prioritizing high-tech investments such as AI, semiconductor design, and digital technology.

First Putaleng Festival highlights rhododendron forest and ethnic culture

The Putaleng Festival 2024 kicked off today (November 22) in the northern province of Lai Chau. In its first edition, the three-day festival offers an opportunity to explore majestic natural landscapes and experience the unique culture of ethnic minorities. During the event, a ceremony will be held to recognize Vietnam's largest rhododendron forest at Putaleng Mountain. The festival includes activities such as paragliding, the second extended Putaleng traditional race, and a culinary competition.