Vietnam News Today (Jun. 18): Vietnam Remains Southeast Asia’s Bright Star
	Vietnam News Today (Jun. 19): President Putin’s Vietnam Visit to Further Deepen Bilateral Relations

Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin at the Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. Photo: VNA

Russian President Vladimir Putin starts state visit to Vietnam

Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin and his entourage arrived in Hanoi on June 19 night, starting a state visit to Vietnam from June 19-20 at the invitation of General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong.

The Russian leader is accompanied by Foreign Minister Sergei Viktorovich Lavrov, Deputy Prime Minister and head of the Russian sub-committee of the Vietnam-Russia intergovernmental committee on economic-trade and science-technology cooperation Dmitry Nikolaevich Chernyshenko, and Russian Ambassador to Vietnam Gennady Stepanovich Bezdetko, among others, cited VNA.

Prominent among those present at the airport to welcome the Russian guests were Secretary of the Party Central Committee and head of its External Relations Commission Le Hoai Trung, member of the Committee and Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha who is also head of the Vietnamese sub-committee of the Vietnam-Russia intergovernmental committee on economic-trade and science-technology cooperation, and Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Dang Minh Khoi.

President Putin has visited Vietnam four times. The visit this time holds an extremely important significance, further deepening the Vietnam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership in all fields, especially in the context that the two countries are striving to realize the joint statement on the comprehensive strategic partnership vision to 2030.

India, Can Tho step up cooperation in tourism, education, and culture

The Indian Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City desires to set up additional programs aimed at promoting tourist destinations in the Mekong Delta such as Can Tho city to the Indian people, said Madan Mohan Sethi, consul general of India in Ho Chi Minh City, on June 19.

He made the statement at a meeting held with Nguyen Thuc Hien, vice chairman of the Can Tho City People's Committee, and representatives of relevant agencies.

Along with popular destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, Indian people are also keen to gain greater insights into other places around the country, he said, adding that the city is required to focus on promoting local tourism to Indian people living in the southeast region. In fact, these Indian people are interested in the weather and landscape of the western region of the Mekong Delta, according to VOV.

Vice Chairman of Can Tho City People's Committee Nguyen Thuc Hiem presents a souvenir to Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City Madan Mohan Sethi. (Photo: VNA)

The Indian diplomat noted that it is also convenient for Indian tourists to travel to Can Tho as the locality is situated close to Ho Chi Minh City.

He went on to reveal that the Indian Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City plans to work alongside the city to develop schemes specifically aimed at introducing Can Tho's tourism and culture to Indian people. Furthermore, a Vietnamese airline will set up a representative office in India moving forward to facilitate the travel of Indian people.

Moreover, there is an international airport in Can Tho city that has direct flights connecting to several populous cities in India.

In terms of issues such as education and training, the Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City proposed co-operating with a number of universities in Can Tho to provide short-term training courses for Indian students and vice versa.

For his part, Hien agreed with the proposal put forward by the Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City on establishing "Indian Corners" at a number of universities in the city.

Accordingly, "India Corner" will act as a bridge helping students and the people of Can Tho city to learn more about Indian people and its land.

The vice chairman also proposed that future collaboration efforts focus on high-tech agriculture and technology, the processing industry, investment co-operation, tourism, healthcare, education and training, and information technology.

Vietnamese tourists opt for outbound tours, alternative transport

With summer nearing its peak and domestic airfare skyrocketing, Vietnamese travelers are increasingly looking abroad or opting for alternative transportation for their vacations, according to travel agents.

The rising cost of domestic flights has fueled a surge in outbound tours, with travel companies reporting a significant increase in bookings, particularly among family groups and individual travelers. Tour packages priced between 8-15 million VND (roughly US$333-625) per person seem to be a sweet spot for many vacationers seeking value for money, said CEO of Vietluxtour Tran The Dung.

Sharing this sentiment, General Director of the Vietnam Media Travel Pham Phuong Anh noted a high interest in trips to Japan, the Republic of Korea, China, Europe, Australia, and the US, adding that while cost-consciousness is on the rise, tourists are still willing to splurge on high-quality experiences they perceive as worthwhile.

To stay competitive, travel companies and hotels are offering discounts of 15-20% for groups of five or more. Additionally, many travelers are turning to alternative transportation options like high-speed and regular trains, buses, or even road trips with their families to save money, cited VNA.

On a tour of the Mekong Delta (Photo: VNA)

The recent launch of the Thang Long high-speed vessel, offering a four-hour journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao island in the southern province of Vung Tau for a price between VND615,000 – 1.1 million, exemplifies this trend. Similarly, train tours departing from Ho Chi Minh City to various provinces are gaining traction, providing a comfortable and scenic way to explore different regions.

Looking ahead, travel experts emphasized the need for Vietnamese localities and hospitality providers to collaborate on sustainable development strategies and maintain stable service prices to effectively attract domestic tourists in the long term.

Vietnam-Russia ties reviewed 30 years after signing of friendship treaty

A conference held recently in Moscow to discuss the Vietnam-Russia relations 30 years after the signing of the bilateral Treaty on Principles of Friendly Relations, with the participation of Vietnamese and Russian experts.

In his address, Vice Director of the RAS Institute of Oriental Studies (IOS) Dr. Valentin Golovachev said that over the period, the treaty has demonstrated its value through time.

So far, it has been automatically extended four times and the 30th anniversary of the treaty gives a chance to review its implementation and define the vision for the future of the bilateral relations.

Participants touched upon the current situation of the Vietnam-Russia relations across a variety of fields such as economy, politics, diplomacy, and culture, reported VOV.

The treaty has been carried out effectively. Right after its signing, Vietnam and Russia established their comprehensive strategic partnership, and Vietnam is the only country outside the region to sign a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in which Russia plays a key role, They said

Photo: VOV

However, economic cooperation between Vietnam and Russia is still far from matching the sound relations between the two sides, they said and pointed out a number of reasons behind the situation, including a lack of a direct air route.

Speaking to the media in Moscow following the conference, Director of the IOS’s Centre for Southeast Asia, Australia and Oceania Dmitry Mosyakov said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Vietnam is to take place as both nations are experiencing a new development period of their relations.

The two sides have been clearly aware of difficulties facing their economic partnership, he said, expressing his confidence that the visit will help remove barriers in the field and result in a rapid economic cooperation recovery, he went on.

Participants at the conference also highlighted typical characteristics of Vietnam’s external policy and achievements it has gained at international forums and the world arena.

Maria Zelenkova from the Russian Institute for Strategic Studies (RISI) stated that Vietnam is becoming increasingly attractive to Russian youngsters thanks to the nation’s unique identity, while Vietnam's exceptionally fast development rate is also appealing to foreign researchers.

Times of India recommends top tourist destinations in Vietnam

The capital Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and other locations promise unforgettable experiences for tourists in Vietnam, according to recommendations by the Times of India.

Topping the list suggested by the Indian newspaper is Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam. Hanoi boasts a glorious history, rich culture, and exceptional street food.

The Times of India suggests that tourists explore street food tours, French-style villas, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Hanoi, with its deep historical roots and vibrant cultural scene, offers visitors a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. From the bustling Old Quarter to serene lakes and grand colonial buildings, Hanoi is a city that captivates all who visit.

Many destinations in Vietnam are praised by the Times of India. Photo: Tripadvisor

Next on the list is Ha Giang, a northern mountainous province known for its stunning natural scenery.

Tourists can explore villages inhabited by the Red Dao, H'Mong, and other ethnic minorities, experiencing markets and eco-resorts that offer insights into indigenous life and traditional crafts. The picturesque rice fields of Mu Cang Chai are a must-visit along the way.

The Times of India also highlights several other famous destinations, each offering unique attractions:

- Pu Luong Nature Reserve: Known for its lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere.

- Ha Long Bay: Famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands.

- Hue City: Renowned for its imperial history and cultural heritage.

- Da Nang: Offers beautiful beaches and modern city vibes.

- Hoi An: A charming ancient town with well-preserved architecture.

- Ninh Van Bay: A serene and luxurious coastal retreat.

- Da Lat: Known for its cool climate and stunning flower gardens.

- Mekong Delta: A region of rivers, swamps, and floating markets.

- Con Dao: A group of islands with pristine beaches and historical significance.

Ho Chi Minh City, known for its dynamic street food scene, is also a must-visit according to the Times of India. The bustling metropolis combines modern skyscrapers with historical French colonial buildings and offers a variety of culinary delights.

With a population of 99 million and a coastline stretching from North to South, Vietnam offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. From bustling cities to tranquil countryside, Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a compelling destination for tourists from around the world.

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