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Vietnamese Party General Secretary To Lam (R) and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Hanoi on April 27.

Party leader proposes major directions for Vietnam – Japan strategic cooperation

Party General Secretary To Lam highlighted major positive developments in Vietnam – Japan relations in recent times and outlined major directions to further strengthen strategic cooperation between the two countries during his meeting with visiting Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Hanoi on April 27.

Receiving the guest, To Lam described Ishiba’s visit as meaningful as it coincided with Vietnam’s solemn celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification. He affirmed that the visit holds great significance, opening a new phase in the development of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

He outlined strategies to reform Vietnam’s economic model for rapid and sustainable growth in a new era of national advancement, including creating breakthroughs in science and technology and streamlining the political apparatus.

On foreign policy, he reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, cooperation, development, multilateralization, and diversification of external relations, while affirming that Japan is one of Vietnam’s most important and long-term strategic partners.

Ishiba, for his part, congratulated Vietnam on its recent socio-economic achievements. He praised Vietnam’s proactive and positive initiatives amid complex international and regional developments, the success of Vietnam’s institutional reforms under the leadership of General Secretary To Lam, and Vietnam’s transition to a new era of development focused on economic growth and scientific and technological advancement.

He expressed confidence that Vietnam would achieve even greater successes in the future and affirmed Japan’s willingness to accompany Vietnam on its development path.

Highlighting the over 1,300-year history of exchanges between the two nations, To Lam noted that Vietnam - Japan relations have continued to florish across all fields, characterized by strong political trust. Since the two countries upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023, there have been vibrant high-level exchanges and dynamic cooperation in various sectors, including the economy, human resources, labor, education and training, and emerging areas such as green transition and digital transformation, along with deepening local-level, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges.

The top Vietnamese leader proposed that the two countries continuously enhance political trust, consolidate substantive and effective security-defense cooperation, and promote economic cooperation based on science, technology, and high-quality human resources, cited VOV.

He also encouraged Japan’s active participation in Vietnam’s major infrastructure projects through new-generation ODA funding.

Emphasizing that science, technology, and innovation should become new pillars of bilateral relations, the Party leader proposed boosting cooperation in these fields, including digital transformation and human resources training.

He urged both sides to explore new cooperation potential in labor, green transition, energy transition, and high-tech agriculture, and to deepen local cooperation and cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Meanwhile, Ishiba affirmed that Vietnam is an indispensable partner for Japan, stressing that Japan will continue to support Vietnam in building an independent and self-reliant economy, pursuing industrialisation and modernization, and achieving its strategic goals and socio-economic development plans in the new era.

He pledged close coordination to further develop the two countries’ Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including strengthening party-to-party relations between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party of Japan and the ruling Communist Party of Vietnam.

Ishiba also underscored the need to deepen bilateral economic cooperation, as well as cooperation in ODA, investment, security-defense, cybersecurity, peacekeeping, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, while advancing collaboration in emerging fields such as digital transformation, innovation, quantum technology, and semiconductors.

He agreed to support high-quality human resources training in Japan and at the Vietnam-Japan University, a symbol of bilateral cooperation. He also reaffirmed continued support and facilitation for the more than 600,000 Vietnamese living, studying, and working in Japan.

Japan will send a delegation to participate in the World Police Band Concert to be organised by the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security, he said.

At the meeting, both sides exchanged views and agreed to coordinate closely at regional and international forums such as the United Nations and ASEAN, amid rapid and complex global developments, to contribute practically to maintaining peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the rest of the world.

On this occasion, To Lam extended a cordial invitation to the Emperor and Empress of Japan to visit Vietnam. Ishiba, in return, warmly invited the Party leader and his spouse to visit Japan in the near future.

Vietnam–Japan friendship concert celebrates peace and solidarity

A Vietnam–Japan Friendship Symphony Concert was recently held at the Fukuoka Civic Hall to commemorate Vietnam's 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975-2025).

The concert attracted an audience of nearly 500 people, including a large number of Vietnamese people living, studying, and working in Fukuoka and the Kyushu prefecture.

In her welcome remarks, Consul General in Fukuoka Vu Chi Mai shared that the concert also served as an occasion for the people of both countries to celebrate the enduring values of peace, solidarity, and, above all, the strong friendship between Vietnam and Japan.

Mai said the concert was made even more special and meaningful by the presence of outstanding artists from the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra and the Kyushu Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Honna Tetsuji, a passionate conductor who has made significant contributions to the development of Vietnamese music since 2001 and served as a vital bridge linking the music of Vietnam and Japan, according to VNA.

Consul General in Fukuoka Vu Chi Mai presents flowers to congratulate the successful performance. (Photo: VNA)

As part of the program, the Vietnamese Consulate General in Fukuoka, in coordination with the Fukuoka Cultural Promotion Committee, held a Welcome Concert featuring performances by the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra at the Fukuoka Prefectural Government Office.

On April 24–25, Vietnamese food booths were set up around the Fukuoka Civic Hall, offering traditional dishes such as beef pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls, introducing the culinary heritage of Vietnam to the people of Fukuoka and the Kyushu region.

Through the event, Japanese audiences gained a deeper understanding of the richness of Vietnam’s cultural traditions. The concert thus contributed significantly to strengthening people-to-people exchanges and further promoting the deep, enduring friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Japan.

Hanoi marks 50-year national reunification with spectacular fireworks display

Thousands of Hanoi residents gathered at Thong Nhat Park in the city centre on April 27 evening to enjoy a magnificent fireworks show in celebration of the 50th anniversary of National Reunification (April 30, 1975 - 2025).

The event aimed to foster a joyful atmosphere, enhance national pride, and promote unity among the people of the capital.

At around 10:00P.M., a stunning display of 600 high-altitude fireworks and 90 low-altitude firework launchers lit up the sky above Thong Nhat Park. The fireworks lasted for 15 minutes, dazzling the crowd and filling the air with excitement and cheers.

This spectacular show was part of nationwide celebrations marking the significant milestone in Vietnam’s history - the reunification of the country, symbolizing the resilience and spirit of the Vietnamese people, reported VOV.

Hanoi's skyline is illuminated with a breathtaking fireworks display on April 27 evening, marking 50 years of national reunification. (Photo: TPO)

Also on April 27 evening, a live TV broadcast titled Vang mai khuc khai hoan (Resounding Victory Song) took place across three key locations - Hanoi, Quang Tri, and Ho Chi Minh City - to commemorate the 50th anniversary of National Reunification of Vietnam.

The program, which highlights the historic achievement of national reunification, captivated viewers with moving performances, vivid retrospectives, and stories of resilience and unity, showcasing the journey from war to peace and the unwavering spirit of the Vietnamese people.

The broadcast served as a reminder of national strength and the sacrifices made over the past five decades, leaving audiences filled with pride and a sense of collective achievement as Vietnam celebrates this milestone.

Great solidarity voyage brings OVs to Truong Sa, DK1 platforms

More than 60 overseas Vietnamese (OV) from 24 countries and territories concluded their nine-day journey to visit soldiers and people in Truong Sa island district in the south-central province of Khanh Hoa and the DK1 platforms on Vietnam's southern continental shelf on April 26.

The trip, known as the "Great Solidarity Voyage," was an annual program organised by the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with the Navy Command since 2012.

This year, the event took place in the vibrant nationwide atmosphere commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification, the 80th anniversary of National Day, the 95th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, and 70 years since the founding of the Vietnam People's Navy.

The program contributed to enhancing overseas Vietnamese's understanding of the Party and State’s policies, as well as the practical efforts to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty over seas and islands. It also provided opportunities to experience first-hand the life and dedication of soldiers and people in the island district, while strengthening ties through exchanges, conversations, and meaningful actions.

Above all, it is a chance for OVs to express their love and responsibility for the homeland’s seas and islands through practical and meaningful contributions.

A journey of trust, bonds, and affection

Themed “Great Solidarity Voyage," this year’s journey carried a message of a prosperous, sustainable, and united Vietnam, where OVs and their fellows at home are bonded in common purpose for the country’s future. During the voyage, the delegation visited Da Thi, Sinh Ton, Co Lin, Len Dao, Da Tay A, Truong Sa Lon, and the DK1/8 Que Duong platform.

Themed “Great Solidarity Voyage," this year’s journey carried a message of a prosperous, sustainable, and united Vietnam (Photo published by VNA)

Participants engaged in meaningful activities such as visiting and presenting gifts to soldiers and civilians, cultural exchanges, tours of schools, homes, temples, and clinics on the islands. They attended the inauguration ceremony of Rainbow Park on Da Tay A Island, took part in a memorial service for fallen soldiers at Gac Ma Reef, offered incense at the Ho Chi Minh Memorial House and the Heroes and Martyrs Memorial, joined the flag-raising ceremony and parade, and participated in the “Walk for Beloved Truong Sa” on Truong Sa Lon island.

Visiting Truong Sa for the first time, Nguyen Trung Kien, Chairman of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Affairs and head of the delegation, said that only by setting foot on Truong Sa and witnessing the tireless sacrifices of soldiers and people can one truly understand the sacred meaning of the Motherland. This voyage affirms the participants’ patriotism and reinforces the bond between the global Vietnamese community and Vietnam, he stated.

The journey stands as a vivid testament to the Party and State’s consistent policy of considering overseas Vietnamese as an inseparable part of the nation, and their deep care for the overseas community, Kien said, adding that it also offered the delegates the chance to express their affection for their homeland and join efforts to safeguard national sovereignty over seas and islands.

Hoang Xuan Binh, an OV in Poland, said that he feels deeply moved and proud to be part of this program. This journey has helped him understand the hardships and steadfast spirit of the soldiers defending the seas and islands. “It reminds me that Truong Sa is not far away - Truong Sa lives in the heart of every Vietnamese,” he stated.

Returning to Sinh Ton island after a decade, Truong Thi Hong, an OV in Israel, expressed her impression at the improvement in living conditions for the soldiers. Infrastructure is more solid, greenery is flourishing, reflecting Vietnam’s growing prosperity and the Party and State’s commitment to caring for navy personnel, she said.

Meanwhile, Cao Ha Linh, an OV in Singapore, spoke of her pride in visiting the islands, emphasizing that she is proud to see so many dedicated individuals working tirelessly to defend the nation’s sovereignty. Linh pledged that she will share the spirit of Truong Sa and this unforgettable journey widely in the Vietnamese community in Singapore, especially among the younger generation.

For Nguyen Ngoc Hung, an OV in Cambodia, this voyage showed him the solidarity and unity of overseas Vietnamese across the world who are united by a shared love for the homeland and the country’s seas and islands.

Concrete actions, deep-rooted affection

Beyond heartfelt emotions, OVs expressed their patriotism through concrete actions.

During this voyage, the participants contributed over 2 billion VND (77,000 USD) in cash, gifts, and goods to initiatives such as the greening of Truong Sa, building multifunctional cultural houses, purchasing essential supplies, medical equipment, and educational materials for soldiers and people on the islands and the DK1 platforms.

Since 2012, OV communities have contributed nearly 30 billion VND to Truong Sa and the DK1 platforms, supporting sovereignty patrol boats, civil infrastructure projects, and essential supplies for the islands.

In addition, they have consistently demonstrated their affection through poetry, literature and short stories about the homeland’s seas and islands. They have founded Hoang Sa - Truong Sa clubs in France, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Poland and elsewhere, while pioneering new inventions to improve island life, and organizing conferences and exhibitions to raise awareness about Vietnam’s sovereignty both among Vietnamese communities abroad and the international public.

The success of the Great Solidarity Voyage once again reaffirmed the Party and State’s policy of considering OVs an inseparable part of the nation, in line with Conclusion 12-KL/TW. It also highlights the Party and State’s dedication to caring for the Vietnamese people abroad.

Ultimately, this journey showcased the love, responsibility, and contributions of OVs towards national development, as well as the mission of safeguarding Vietnam’s sacred sovereignty over seas and islands.

Vietnam’s che lam ranks among world’s best peanut dishes

Che lam has been recognized as one of Vietnam’s representatives on the list of the world’s best peanut-based dishes by Taste Atlas.

Taste Atlas describes che lam as a rustic treat especially popular in northern Vietnam. "Che lam is not just a delicious snack but also a symbol of hometown affection, simplicity, and the delicate art of traditional Vietnamese cuisine," the site notes.

Che lam is crafted from familiar and humble ingredients such as roasted glutinous rice flour, malt syrup (or molasses), fresh ginger, roasted peanuts, and sesame seeds. These ingredients are carefully cooked into a sticky mixture, then rolled flat and cut into small bars.

The chewy texture of roasted glutinous rice, the warm spiciness of ginger, the rich flavor of peanuts, and the mellow sweetness of molasses blend harmoniously to create a unique taste - sweet but not overwhelming, lightly spicy yet heartwarming.

Another Vietnamese specialty honored on this Taste Atlas list is goi ca mai, a famous dish from coastal regions like Vung Tau and Nha Trang.

Che lam. Photo: Traveloka.

Goi ca mai features a perfect combination of fresh ca mai fish, tamarind, starfruit, crushed roasted peanuts, and various spices, creating a fresh, bold flavor. According to Taste Atlas, the dish becomes even more delicious when paired with rice paper and sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.

Pho chua, a distinctive dish from the northern mountainous provinces like Lang Son and Cao Bang, also made an impression. It combines ingredients such as duck meat, pork liver, roasted peanuts, and pickled taro root to deliver a unique and memorable flavor.

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Zagreb, Croatia, Taste Atlas is known as a global map of traditional foods, collecting authentic dishes from around the world.

According to Matija Babic, founder of Taste Atlas, the rankings are based on the opinions and evaluations of culinary experts and critics to ensure the credibility of the awards.

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