November 25, 2023

Da Nang Hosts Inaugural Korea Game Week 2023

Da Nang – The central city of Da Nang recently witnessed the first Korea Game Week 2023, a two-day event showcasing the latest gaming technologies and cultural elements from the Republic of Korea (RoK). This event marks a significant step in promoting cultural and technological exchange between Vietnam and South Korea, particularly in the gaming sector.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the Korea Game Week was co-organized by the RoK Embassy in Vietnam, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and the Vietnam - Korea University of Information and Communication Technology. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huynh Cong Phap, the principal of the university, noted that the event offered visitors a chance to experience RoK's advanced gaming technology and culture. He highlighted the event as a platform for fostering cooperation between Korean enterprises and Vietnamese educational institutions, especially in training human resources for the gaming industry.

The Korea Game Week 2023 featured a variety of activities including a game programming and designing contest, an e-sport competition, and interactive sessions with popular gamers, streamers, and influencers. The event also included an exhibition of entries from the Game Graphic Design Contest, as well as an exhibition dedicated to the Korean game industry and a space showcasing Korean culture. These activities were aimed at providing an immersive experience and fostering deeper understanding and collaboration in the gaming and cultural sectors between the two countries.

November 25, 2023

Japan-Vietnam Relations Deemed Vital for Global and Regional Stability by Japanese Ambassador

Hanoi, Vietnam - The upcoming visit of Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong to Japan symbolizes the significant role that Japan-Vietnam cooperation plays in promoting global and regional peace and prosperity. This perspective was shared by Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yamada Takio in an interview with the Vietnam News Agency, in anticipation of the President's visit from November 27-30, which is at the invitation of the Japanese State.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the year 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Vietnam, a period characterized by strong development in various fields including politics, economy, and culture. The ambassador expressed his belief that President Vo Van Thuong's visit will be historically significant and a highlight of the year-long celebration of bilateral ties. This visit presents an opportunity for both nations to reflect on their cooperative achievements.

The Japanese ambassador emphasized Japan's continued support for Japanese companies investing in Vietnam, recognizing the nation's economic growth amid shifting global supply chains. He noted the potential for Japan and Vietnam to become innovation partners, particularly in green and digital transformation, leveraging their strengths in training highly skilled human resources in information technology.

Japan also aims to reignite momentum in Official Development Assistance (ODA), especially in infrastructure cooperation. Politically, Japan views Vietnam as a crucial ally in achieving the vision of "a free and open Indo-Pacific." In light of increasingly complex situations in regions like the East Sea, Japan is committed to deepening cooperation to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order, based on the rule of law.

Regarding people-to-people and cultural exchanges, Ambassador Takio highlighted the rapid increase in visits and exchange activities between delegations at various levels, including state leaders. With approximately 500,000 Vietnamese people living in Japan, the ambassador underscored the importance of promoting cultural, sports, and tourism exchanges, particularly among the younger generations and between localities of the two countries.

November 25, 2023

Vietnamese Ambassador Honored with Cuban Friendship Medal for Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Havana, Cuba - Le Thanh Tung, the outgoing Vietnamese Ambassador to Cuba, has been awarded the Cuban friendship medal in recognition of his significant contributions to fostering the long-standing and robust relationship between Vietnam and Cuba. The award ceremony took place in Havana on November 24, marking a significant moment in the ambassador's diplomatic tenure.

According to Vietnam News Agency, who spoke at the medal presentation ceremony, the bilateral relations between Vietnam and Cuba have seen remarkable growth during Ambassador Tung's term, which lasted over three years and four months. Rodríguez highlighted achievements in various sectors such as agriculture, trade, biotechnology, construction, education, finance, and tourism, which have flourished under Tung's diplomatic guidance.

Rodríguez specifically noted Tung's instrumental role in reinforcing mutual trust and friendship between the governments and people of the two nations. She emphasized his effective contributions, particularly in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and in enhancing the presence of Vietnamese businesses in Cuba. Vietnam is currently the largest Asia-Pacific investor in the Caribbean Island nation.

In his response, Ambassador Tung expressed his deep gratitude for the unwavering support from the Cuban Party, State, and people towards Vietnam's liberation and nation-building efforts, as well as for the personal growth he experienced during his tenure. Honored by the prestigious award from the Cuban State, Tung pledged to continue his efforts in nurturing and promoting the special relationship between the two countries, even after the conclusion of his diplomatic mission.

The ceremony comes shortly after an earlier meeting on November 18, where Tung was received by Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee and President of Cuba, before concluding his diplomatic mission.

November 25, 2023

Vietnam Partners with UNESCO for National Education Initiative on Sustainable Development

Hanoi, Vietnam - Vietnam is taking significant strides in integrating sustainable development into its national education framework. The Ministry of Education and Training, in collaboration with the UNESCO Hanoi Office, conducted a consultation workshop on November 24 to discuss the national education for sustainable development initiative. This initiative aligns with global efforts promoted by UNESCO, especially in regions prone to climate change and extreme weather events.

According to Vietnam News Agency, education and training play a critical role in addressing global challenges and ensuring sustainable development. He acknowledged the Vietnamese government's existing policies and actions aimed at enhancing the quality of education and training. However, Phuc noted that further efforts are necessary to transform education into a driving force for sustainable development.

In fulfillment of Vietnam's commitment at the UNESCO international conference on education for sustainable development in 2021, the Ministry has developed a national initiative for sustainable development in education, extending until 2030. This strategy is designed to strengthen and coordinate existing efforts for nationwide impact. Phuc underscored that sustainable development encompasses not only economic and social growth and ecological protection but also the fulfillment of basic human needs, including happiness. Hence, Vietnam has set a goal to establish 'happy schools' as part of this initiative.

Miki Nozawa, the education team leader at the UNESCO Hanoi Office, emphasized the significance of education for sustainable development. She pointed out that such education equips learners, from preschool onwards, with crucial knowledge, critical thinking, and teamwork skills necessary to tackle sustainability challenges. Nozawa expressed UNESCO's support for Vietnam's initiative, highlighting its timeliness and the eagerness of various stakeholders to contribute.

During the workshop, participants reviewed the current state of education for sustainable development in Vietnam and provided feedback on the draft initiative. The discussions also led to a consensus on the next steps and the establishment of an inter-sectoral coordination mechanism to effectively implement the initiative.

November 25, 2023

Quang Binh to Host Inaugural Music and Light Festival for New Year Celebrations

Quang Binh, Vietnam - The central province of Quang Binh is gearing up to host its first grand music and light festival, the Legend Festival, aimed at ushering in the New Year 2024 with a bang. Scheduled to run from December 23 to 31, this festival promises to be a major attraction in the region.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the Regal Group and provincial authorities, the festival will be held at the Regal Legend international tourism urban area in Dong Hoi city's Bao Ninh commune. This inaugural event is expected to draw audiences with a wide range of entertaining and engaging activities.

The festival's lineup includes a variety of themed events focusing on Christmas, love, international integration, and lighting. Attendees will be treated to an array of musical performances, interactive games, mystical magic shows, and a carnival showcasing traditional costumes from countries around the world. Additionally, a 3D mapping program is set to be one of the many highlights.

Notable features of the Legend Festival will include an international concert, a New Year countdown event, and a spectacular firework display scheduled for the night of December 31. These events are expected to create a memorable experience for both locals and tourists.

Quang Binh, often referred to as the 'kingdom of caves', has experienced a significant increase in tourist arrivals. The provincial Department of Tourism reported over 3.6 million tourist arrivals in the first nine months of 2023, marking a 2.32-fold increase compared to the previous year. This upcoming festival is anticipated to further boost tourism in the region, showcasing Quang Binh's cultural richness and hospitality.

November 25, 2023

Vietnamese Embassy Visits Nationals in Israel Following Ceasefire

Netanya, Israel - Following the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the Vietnamese Embassy in Israel seized the opportunity to connect with the Vietnamese community in the region. The truce, which came into effect on the morning of November 24, provided a safe window for the embassy delegation to organize a meeting with Vietnamese nationals.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the gathering took place in Netanya city, at the home of Hong Shuranys, a member of the Liaison Board of the Vietnamese Association in Israel. This was the first in-person meeting between the embassy and representatives of the Vietnamese community in Israel since the outbreak of the conflict. Ambassador Trung highlighted that throughout the period of heightened tension, the embassy maintained regular online contact with the community, emphasizing the embassy's commitment to the protection of its citizens.

The Vietnamese community in Israel, comprising about 500 expatriates, nearly 200 students, and several temporary workers, has remained safe, largely because they reside far from the conflict zones. The embassy has worked closely with the Liaison Board of the Vietnamese Association in Israel to implement measures ensuring the safety and security of Vietnamese nationals during this period of unrest.

This proactive approach by the Vietnamese Embassy showcases their dedication to safeguarding their citizens abroad, especially in regions experiencing conflict.

November 25, 2023

Phu Tho Province Receives Over 267 Tonnes of Rice for Disadvantaged Students

Phu Tho, Vietnam - In a significant move to support education for underprivileged students, the Department of State Reserves, overseeing Vinh Phuc and Phu Tho provinces, has distributed over 267 tonnes of rice to nearly 4,500 disadvantaged students in Phu Tho province. This initiative is part of a broader effort to alleviate the challenges faced by students from less privileged backgrounds in pursuing their education.

According to Vietnam News Agency, Decree 116/2016/ND-CP issued by the Vietnamese Government, students in specially disadvantaged communes are entitled to receive 15kg of rice each month for no more than nine months per year. The decree also provides for additional support in food and housing for these students. This policy aims to reduce the financial burden on students from low-income families and ensure their consistent attendance at school.

The rice support policy has been a cornerstone in the government's effort to enhance the quality of education in Phu Tho province. Implemented promptly and effectively for many years, the initiative has played a crucial role in helping disadvantaged students continue their education without the added stress of food insecurity. The positive impact of this policy extends beyond immediate nutritional support, contributing to broader improvements in the local educational landscape.

This initiative reflects the Vietnamese government's commitment to educational equity, ensuring that students from all socio-economic backgrounds have the opportunity to attend school regularly and achieve academic success.