Vietnam news in brief - October 23

Vietnam, Laos strengthen border management 

Vietnam and Laos have agreed to strengthen cooperation in border management and protection. It's part of the issues inked on October 22 in Moc Chau by Vietnamese Defence Minister Phan Van Giang and his Lao counterpart Chansamone Chanyalath. They emphasized strengthening military ties, addressing non-traditional security challenges and training personnel. 

Foreign Ministers discuss strengthening Vietnam-Japan cooperation

Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son and his Japanese counterpart Iwaya Takeshi discussed strengthening Vietnam-Japan cooperation during a phone talk on October 22, focusing on economic ties, official development assistance and the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro. Son invited Iwaya to co-chair the Vietnam-Japan Cooperation Committee for 2025, highlighting cooperation on green transition, digital transformation, and key projects.

Quang Ninh celebrates milestone of 3 millionth international visitor

Quang Ninh on October 21 welcomed its 3 millionth international visitor from Viking Orion cruise ship, marking an important milestone in its tourism recovery. Quang Ninh targets 19 million tourists this year, including 3.5 million foreign visitors.

Vietnam launches national brand website

Vietnam launched its first official national brand website on October 22 at thuonghieuquocgia.nhandan.vn. The website features key sections on brands, enterprises, news and multimedia, providing detailed information on leading national brands.

The move aims to protect and promote Vietnamese brands globally, while raising awareness of Vietnam's high-quality products and services. An English version of the site will be launched soon.

Ho Chi Minh City plans riverside parks

Ho Chi Minh City plans to develop 42 riverside parks along the Saigon River to expand the city's green spaces. The initiative, part of a wider 2020-2045 riverside development project, will target areas such as Thu Duc City and Districts 1, 7 and Binh Thanh. The parks will enhance landscapes, support economic growth, regulate water, and reduce flooding.

Southern Vietnam named top destination by Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet has named southern Vietnam a top destination for November due to its dry season. Highlights include the beaches of Phu Quoc Island and the Hon Thom cable car, as well as Tay Ninh's Ba Den Mountain. The region is ideal for relaxation and cultural exploration during this time.

The pristine whiteness of Bai Kem beach - one of the most stunning in the world. Photo: thanhnien.vn

Mekong Delta Kickboxing Championship to foster regional talent

The 2024 Mekong Delta Kickboxing Championship will be held on October 20-26 in Vi Thanh City, Hau Giang Province, to promote the sport in the region. The event, which gathers 134 athletes from 11 provinces, aims to strengthen the kickboxing movement throughout the Mekong Delta.

Over 200 athletes to compete in National Fencing Championships

The 2024 National Fencing Championship, held in Hanoi on October 22-28, will see 200 athletes from eight provinces compete in 15 events as scouts prepare for the SEA Games 33 selection. Winners on the first day of competition include Nguyen Phuoc Den in men's épée and Phung Thi Khanh Linh in women's sabre.