Vietnam News Today (Jan. 7): Vietnam, UN Boost Cooperation in Digital Transformation, Innovation
	Vietnam News Today (Jan. 8): Vietnam, US Advance Educational And Cultural Co-operation

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh leaves for a working trip to Laos (Photo: VNA)

Prime Minister leaves for working visit to Laos

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation left Hanoi on January 9 morning to visit Laos and co-chair the 47th meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Inter-Governmental Committee.

The two-day trip is made at the invitation of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.

Chinh is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son; Minister of Planning and Investment, Chairman of the Vietnam - Laos Cooperation Committee Nguyen Chi Dung; Minister, Head of the Government Office Tran Van Son; Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien; Minister of Education and Training Nguyen Kim Son; and Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan, among others.

This is the first overseas trip by a key Vietnamese leader in 2025 and the first such visit that Laos will host this year, underscoring the special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

The visit reaffirms the top priority Vietnam gives to the enhancement of relations with Laos in the new context, deepening the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Minh Tam stated.

Economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Vietnam and Laos has shown positive developments. Bilateral trade was estimated to reach 2 billion USD in 2024, up approximately 28% compared to 2023. Vietnam currently has 241 active investment projects in Laos, with a total registered capital of around 5.5 billion USD, maintaining its position as the third-largest investor in Laos after China and Thailand, cited VNA.

The two sides have closely coordinated in the implementation of Vietnam's ODA projects for Laos. Collaboration in culture, education, and training continues to be promoted. Both countries are strengthening mutual support at regional and international forums, especially within ASEAN, the United Nations, and cooperation in Mekong sub-regional mechanisms.

PM Chinh’s visit is expected to reaffirm Vietnam's consistent policy of prioritising its great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation with Laos, aiming to further strengthen the trust and bond between the two countries' high-ranking leaders; enhance the fine cooperation between the two governments; and implement the foreign relations tasks outlined at the 13th National Party Congress.

Vietnam attracts global travelers for Lunar New Year celebrations

With inbound accommodation searches up 139% compared to last year, the nation has become a favourite destination among international revelers who are keen to welcome in the Lunar New Year, according to online travel services platform Agoda.

The data revealed that mainland China topped the list of visitors hoping to visit the country during the Lunar New Year holiday lasting from January 25 to February 2, with their searches increasing by 296%.

This was followed by Taiwan (China) and the Republic of Korea with searches rising by 123% and 96%, respectively.

Phu Quoc island was the most popular destination as international tourists are particularly keen to visit during the Tet holiday with accommodation searches up 266%, according to VOV.

Phu Quoc island is the most popular destination among international tourists.

Furthermore, Da Lat, Nha Trang, and Phan Thiet represented the most popular destinations among foreign tourists, with search volumes marking year-on-year increases of 167%, 88%, and 89%, respectively, Agoda reported.

Elsewhere, Bangkok, Tokyo, and Singapore were all among the most sought-after destinations among Vietnamese travelers during the Lunar New Year holiday.

Agoda analysed searches made from November 27 to December 21, 2024, with check-in dates of January 25 to February 2, 2025.

The digital travel platform provides a global network of 4.5 million hotels and holiday properties worldwide, plus flights, activities, and more. Agoda.com and the Agoda mobile app are available in 39 languages, allowing tourists to travel easier than ever.

Deputy FMs of Vietnam, Uzbekistan talk cooperation expansion

Vietnam always attaches importance to and wishes to promote friendship and win-win multifaceted cooperation with nations that are its traditional friends, including Uzbekistan, Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang told her Uzbek counterpart Ilkhom Khaydarov during their phone talks on January 7.

The Vietnamese official highlighted the fruitful development of political and diplomatic relations between the two countries in the recent past, with many all-level exchange activities, especially the meeting between Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the occasion of the expanded BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024.

Economic and trade cooperation has also recorded impressive strides, with average annual growth of 30%. Bilateral trade exceeded 160 million USD in 2023, and continued to maintain its upward trend in 2024, according to VNA.

Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang (Photo: VNA)

Khaydarov, for his part, expressed joy at the development of bilateral ties, saying that his country stands ready to work with Vietnam to explore ways and measures to further deepen the traditional friendship and all-around cooperation.

He hoped that Vietnam would share its experiences with Uzbekistan in economic development and successes in specific fields.

The two officials agreed on the need to maintain meetings and delegation exchanges at all levels, especially high level, to strengthen political trust further, laying the foundation to promote cooperation in areas matching their countries' strengths and potential, particularly trade, investment, tourism, transport, education - training, and science - technology.

Vietnam is willing to serve as a bridge to enhance relations between Uzbekistan and ASEAN, while Uzbekistan will work to help strengthen links between Vietnam and Central Asian countries.

The two sides will continue to closely coordinate and support each other at multilateral forums and international organisations, thereby contributing to peace, stability, security, and development in the region and the world, according to the Deputy FMs.

Regarding cooperation between the foreign ministries, Hang suggested they uphold their role in connecting, promoting, and supporting ministries, sectors, localities, and businesses of the two countries to increase exchanges, explore each other's markets, and establish direct partnerships, towards bolstering bilateral relations in a substantive and effective manner.

She recommended both sides quickly reach an agreement on visa exemption for each other's citizens to foster tourism and people-to-people exchanges, thereby helping enhance the long-standing friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Uzbekistan.

Agreeing with Hang’s proposals, Khaydarov expressed his hope that the two sides will consider opening State and business offices and representative agencies in each other's territories to directly support and promote economic development in each country.

He took the occasion to invite the Vietnamese official to visit Uzbekistan at a suitable point of time to conduct a political consultation In response, Hang appreciated the invitation and voiced her hope to pay a visit in the near future to directly discuss the reinforcement of bilateral ties with leaders of the Uzbek Foreign Ministry.

Vietnam’s strong recovery bolsters European firms’ confidence

The European Chamber of Commerce Vietnam (EuroCham) released its Business Confidence Index (BCI) report for the fourth quarter of 2024 on January 9, highlighting a significant improvement in business sentiment, which reflects the resilience of businesses amid a challenging global environment shaped by economic, environmental, and geopolitical uncertainties.

The BCI score surged from 46.3 in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 61.8 in the fourth quarter of 2024, marking a pivotal shift from a neutral to a positive sentiment in both current and future outlooks.

The report indicated that 42% of respondents reported feeling positive about the current business situation, with 47% anticipating similarly optimistic conditions for the upcoming quarter.

More prominently, 56% of respondents foresee improvements in Vietnam’s macroeconomic outlook in the first quarter of 2025, VOV reported.

Photo: VOV

“This is a clear sign that European businesses are increasingly confident about Vietnam’s economic future,” said Bruno Jaspaert, Chairman of EuroCham Vietnam.

“This clear rise in sentiment reflects a broader recognition of the country’s ongoing political and economic transformation it has seen over the past year(s). The country’s GDP growth confirms its position as a central player in Southeast Asian regional trade and investment”, he noted.

The uptick in business confidence can be attributed to several factors, most notably Vietnam’s ongoing economic reforms and its centrality in the global shift toward sustainability.

Notably, many respondents referenced the “double transformation” of digital and green transitions as key drivers of optimism. Businesses that have embraced these trends reported significant growth, with some even citing a 40% increase in revenue compared to the previous year.

The trend toward sustainability, spurred by both government policy and global pressures, is becoming a significant factor in shaping business strategies across multiple sectors.

The report outlined that Vietnam has been rising as a key investment destination. Accordingly, 75% of survey respondents indicated they would recommend Vietnam as an investment destination.

This data underscores the growing recognition of Vietnam’s strategic importance as an investment hub within Southeast Asia. With its strong growth rates and expanding infrastructure, Vietnam has positioned itself as an attractive destination for European businesses looking to expand in the region.

“The growing confidence in Vietnam as an investment destination is a testament to the country’s solid foundations in both trade and economic policy,” said EuroCham’s Chairman.

“Despite the global challenges, Vietnam’s positive investment climate is creating new opportunities for European companies, especially in key sectors like technology, manufacturing, tourism and renewable energy”, he emphasized.

Experts pointed out that operational challenges continue to be a significant concern for European businesses in Vietnam but restructuring efforts bring hope. The top three operational obstacles identified were administrative burdens, unclear regulations, and difficulties in obtaining licenses and permits.

“Vietnam is at a critical juncture. These ongoing administrative hurdles challenge business operations, but we are optimistic about the government’s determination to create a more conducive environment. Initiatives such as the steering committee for government restructuring show promise” Chairman Jaspaert noted.

Another area where businesses are expecting significant improvements is in infrastructure. The ongoing development of the North-South high-speed railway, for instance, has garnered considerable attention, with 58% of respondents predicting substantial benefits for employee mobility and logistics. The railway, expected to significantly improve connectivity between the north and south of Vietnam, will reduce transportation costs, improve supply chain efficiency, and enhance the overall business environment.

Insiders analyzed that these infrastructure developments in rail, air, and maritime transport will bolster Vietnam’s position as a more competitive player in regional and global trade, while fostering a more efficient and interconnected business landscape.

Winter chill deepens: Hanoi and northern Vietnam prepare for freezing temperatures

A powerful cold front is set to reach Vietnam in two days, bringing freezing temperatures to northern regions, with Hanoi forecasted to drop as low as 10°C.

In the northern regions, some mountainous areas may see temperatures drop below 5°C, while Hanoi’s coldest nights are forecasted to reach 10°C.

Weather patterns and impacts

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, a cold air mass from the north is moving southward.

It is expected to reach the northeastern regions on January 9, affecting northern and central provinces, including the northern midlands and mountains.

From the night of January 10, the cold front will strengthen further, spreading to northwestern provinces, parts of central provinces, and even some areas in southern central Vietnam.

Strong northeastern winds will accompany the cold front, reaching levels 2–3 on land, and 3–4 in coastal areas.

The lowest temperatures in northern provinces and northern central regions will range from 10–13°C, with mountainous areas experiencing 6–9°C.

A cold wave is expected to sweep through northern Vietnam, drastically lowering temperatures. (Photo: P. Hai)

High-altitude locations could drop below 5°C.

In central provinces from Quang Binh to Thua Thien Hue, temperatures are expected to range between 15–18°C.

Hanoi’s weather during this period will be cold, with minimum temperatures between 10–13°C.

Rain and storms expected

From the night of January 9, regions from Ha Tinh to Binh Dinh will experience rain and thunderstorms, with isolated heavy rainfall.

Thunderstorms may bring whirlwinds, lightning, and strong gusts, posing risks to crops, infrastructure, and public safety.

Over the northern section of the East Sea, winds are forecasted to intensify to levels 6–7, with gusts reaching 8–9 by the afternoon of January 9.

Rough seas are expected, with waves reaching heights of 4–6 meters.

In the Gulf of Tonkin, central East Sea areas, and coastal waters from Quang Tri to Khanh Hoa, winds may reach level 7 with gusts of 8–9, creating 3–6 meter high waves and rough seas.

Caution for agriculture and transportation

The meteorological agency has warned that the cold air and associated thunderstorms may lead to:

Damage to agricultural activities due to heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms.

Potential flash floods in small rivers and streams, as well as landslides in steep terrain.

Localized flooding in low-lying areas.

Disruption to maritime activities caused by strong winds and high waves.

Vietnam News Today (Jan. 5): Vietnamese Economy: International Perspectives Highlight Its Global Standing Vietnam News Today (Jan. 5): Vietnam likely to become production and export hub of Canada; Vietnamese economy: International perspectives highlight its global standing; Vietnam offers ...

Vietnam News Today (Jan. 6): Vietnam to Establish Two Financial Centers in 2025 Vietnam News Today (Jan. 6): Vietnamese culinary dishes make impact around the world; Vietnam triumphs over Thailand to claim 2024 ASEAN Cup title; Vietnam to ...