Vietnam News Today (Oct. 25): Vietnam, China Strengthen Defense Cooperation

	Vietnam News Today (Oct. 23): Vietnam Attaches Importance to Developing Partnership With China
	Vietnam News Today (Oct. 24): Vietnam Always Considers Russia One of Top Priority Partners

Vietnamese Minister of National Defense General Phan Van Giang (left) and Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of China Senior Lieutenant General Zhang Youxia review the guard of honor of the Vietnam People's Army in Hanoi on October 24. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnam, China strengthen defense cooperation

Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang highlighted defense cooperation as an important pillar of the Vietnam-China relations and suggested enhancing the collaboration, at his talks with visiting Senior Lieutenant General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of China, on October 24.

At the Hanoi talks, which took place following a welcome ceremony for the Chinese officer, Giang regarded Zhang’s visit as a vivid demonstration of the close ties and political trust between the two Parties, States, and armies.

The minister expressed his belief that the visit will be a success, contributing to implementing common perceptions and strategic guidelines of the two countries' high-ranking leaders, and creating new momentum for cooperation between the two armies.

Vietnam considers the development of the friendship and cooperation with China an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority in its foreign policy, Giang said, adding Vietnam always bears in mind the wholehearted support of the Chinese Party, Government, army, and people during its past struggle for national independence, as well as the present cause of socialism building and national development, cited VNA.

Both sides have stood side by side to persistently pursue the path towards socialism in line with their respective conditions, with a view toward building a Vietnam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he continued.

Giang said the defense cooperation has been growing intensively and substantively, contributing to materializing common perceptions reached by the two countries’ high-ranking leaders. He elaborated on regular all-level delegation exchanges, along with progress in land border cooperation – a highlight of the defense ties, collaboration between naval and coast guard forces, and cooperation in education-training, strategic research, UN peacekeeping operations, and military medicine.

At the same time, the two sides have maintained close coordination and mutual consultation and support at regional and international forums and mechanisms, Giang said.

He said the two armies should uphold their key role in the Vietnam-China relations, and suggested maintaining regular high-level engagements and cooperation mechanisms, while forging cooperation in the Party and political work, defense industry, and military trade, and exchanges between young officers.

The minister touched upon the expansion of cooperation in personnel training, scholar exchange, logistics, military medicine, UN peacekeeping operations, and response to non-traditional security challenges.

Regarding maritime issues, Giang stressed Vietnam’s consistent viewpoint on resolving all disputes and disagreements through peaceful means in line with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and fully implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), as well as the country’s wish for the early conclusion of negotiations and signing of a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in accordance with international law and for the sake of all relevant parties.

He noted that leaders of the Vietnamese Defence Ministry are pleased to welcome their Chinese counterparts to attend the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army and the second Vietnam International Defence Expo in December.

For his part, Zhang also highlighted the special relationship between Vietnam and China, saying the friendship, fostered by generations of the two countries’ leaders, has become a valuable shared asset.

He shared Giang’s view that bilateral defense cooperation has been growing more intensively, fruitfully, practically, and solidly.

At the end of the talks, the two ministries inked a letter of intent on enhancing defense cooperation, and an agreement on border defense cooperation.

Vietnam proposes five areas of connectivity at BRICS Summit in Russia

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has proposed five areas of connectivity at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in order to shape a better world and foster cooperation for peace and prosperity.

Speaking at the plenary session of the summit on October 24, Chinh offered profound insights on what he described as a new era - an era of deep connectivity and integration, smart technology, and innovation.

He emphasized the importance of a global, people-centered, and comprehensive approach, upholding multilateralism and international solidarity, and building a rules-based world order with shared responsibility to address unprecedented global challenges.

Resource connectivity is one of the five areas of connectivity he suggested to help build a better world for peace and prosperity.

BRICS should take the lead in mobilizing, allocating, and using resources effectively to address climate change, promote the green, digital, and circular economies, and ensure food, energy, and information security, he said.

Other strategic areas of connectivity are infrastructure connectivity that includes both hard and soft infrastructure to enhance resilience and foster development; global supply chain connectivity through leveraging modern science, technology, and innovation to create new drivers of economic growth and expand development opportunities for all countries; and people-to-people connectivity through strengthening cultural, educational, tourism, and interpersonal exchanges between BRICS and other nations to foster a cultural space characterized by “unity in diversity.”

Last but not least, he suggested connectivity in reforming global governance mechanisms in a collaborative, balanced, fair, efficient, and inclusive manner so as to promote sustainable and rapid development. He stressed the need for BRICS to oppose protectionism and the politicization of economic, trade, technological, and innovation relations.

Sharing Vietnam's development lessons on “connectivity, integration, and building a better world together,” Chinh emphasized major principles, namely putting people at the center, pursuing an independent, peaceful, and cooperative foreign policy, and adhering to the Four Nos defense policy, according to VOV.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh joins other leaders at the plenary session of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, on October 24.

He expressed confidence that BRICS will unite further, drawing on its internal strength to build a peaceful, stable, cooperative, and prosperous world.

Reiterating late Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh’s words “Unity, Unity, Great Unity. Success, Success, Great Success,” the Prime Minister reaffirmed Vietnam’s readiness to cooperate with BRICS and the international community to realize the vision of “building a better world for all.”

In his opening remarks, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that BRICS will continue to play a key role in promoting global cooperation, ensuring equal opportunities for all countries, and building a more balanced and just global governance system. He stressed the importance of enhancing the role of developing countries to create a better world, where the legitimate interests and development rights of all nations are respected.

During the summit, leaders focused on major strategies to address urgent global challenges such as conflicts, terrorism, poverty reduction, climate change, and food security. They highlighted the need for BRICS to serve as a platform for countries to collaborate toward shared prosperity and to strengthen cooperation across the Global South.

The participants also called for enhanced efforts from developing nations to tackle challenges and improve global governance in a fairer and more inclusive direction.

Several countries underscored the importance of maintaining a peaceful and stable environment for cooperation and development. They also emphasized the need to promote new growth drivers such as the digital economy, green economy, circular economy, and advances in science, technology, and innovation.

Vietnam treasures traditional friendship with Venezuela: PM

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh affirmed that Vietnam always treasures the traditional friendship and comprehensive partnership with Venezuela, at his meeting with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on the sidelines of the expanded BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, on October 24 (local time).

The PM expressed his hope that the bilateral economic, trade, and investment ties will grow more intensively, for the sake of both countries' people.

He commended Venezuela’s recent socio-economic achievements and expressed his confidence that the Venezuelan Government and people will overcome current challenges, achieving further successes, for peace, stability, and development of the country, and the happiness of its citizens.

For his part, President Maduro congratulated Vietnam on its remarkable socio-economic achievements over the past decade and suggested the country share its development experience, VNA reported.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (right, center) meets with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. (Photo: VNA)

He said Venezuela attaches importance to the solidarity and long-standing friendship with Vietnam, and wishes to enhance collaboration in all areas for mutual growth. The President also suggested further cooperation between the United Socialist Party of Venezuela and the Communist Party of Vietnam.

The two leaders noted with pleasure the positive development in their bilateral relationship and affirmed their determination to further enhance cooperation, making it more intensive, effective, and comprehensive.

They agreed to convene the next session of the Intergovernmental Committee to promote economic, trade, and investment cooperation. Additionally, they committed to the effective implementation of existing agreements, particularly in agriculture, oil and gas, and telecommunications, while exploring opportunities for collaboration in new and promising spheres.

The leaders also concurred to strengthen cultural exchange and youth engagement between the two countries and organize meaningful activities to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the diplomatic relations (1989–2024).

For regional and international matters, including ensuring security, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight, and the East Sea issue, they agreed to enhance coordination and mutual support at international organizations and multilateral forums.

On this occasion, President Maduro asked PM Chinh to convey his invitation to President Luong Cuong and other high-ranking Vietnamese leaders to soon visit Venezuela. PM Chinh also conveyed the invitation from President Cuong to President Maduro to visit Vietnam in the near future.

Five reasons why Vietnam is a favourite destination among Asian tourists

Vietnam’s spectacular nature, distinctive culture, safety, affordability, and relaxing atmosphere are the five key factors why the Southeast Asian country is such an attractive destination for Asian travelers, consulting firm Outbox Company revealed in a recent survey.

According to Outbox, 52.1% of Asian travelers value Vietnam for its array of natural beauty, making it one of the primary motivations for visiting.

The tourists are impressed by the country’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, which attracted around one million international visitors in the first half of the year, to the terraced rice fields of Sa Pa and the pristine beaches of Da Nang and Nha Trang.

“These scenic wonders provide not only breathtaking views but also a variety of activities such as trekking, boating, and beachside relaxation,” it reveals.

Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage is another key factor, attracting 45.2% of Asian tourists who come to experience its culture.

Outbox shares that the country boasts a history spanning thousands of years, reflected in its ancient temples, historic cities, traditional festivals, and local cuisine.

The firm’s data highlights that 24.8% of Asian tourists prefer to take leisure trips for cultural and culinary experiences. This indicates that Vietnam’s appeal is not limited only to its cultural values, cited VOV.

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam.

“Asian travelers are particularly interested in experiencing cultural activities with the locals and tasting traditional dishes as a highlight,” it adds.

Safety is another significant factor, with 40.7% of surveyed Asian tourists considering Vietnam to be a safe destination for their upcoming trips.

The survey shows that the country is also renowned for its welcoming and hospitable locals, which significantly enhances the travel experience on offer.

The majority of visitors have felt safe during their stay, noting that the crime rate is lower than that of many other Southeast Asian countries.

In the 2023 Global Peace Index, Vietnam climbed to 41st out of 163 countries and territories in terms of peacefulness level, marking a noteworthy improvement from the previous year.

“The country’s government has also implemented stringent measures to ensure tourist safety, particularly in light of global health concerns. This commitment to safety, combined with the warm and friendly nature of the Vietnamese people, makes tourists feel at ease and welcomed,” Outbox stresses.

Another reason that made the country an attractive destination was affordability, with 40.3% considering its low costs to be an important aspect when planning their trip.

“From affordable accommodation to reasonably priced food and transportation, Vietnam provides a cost-effective travel experience without compromising on quality,” says the survey.

Outbox data indicates that 35.8% of Asian travelers are drawn to Vietnam for its relaxing atmosphere, which is often cited as a significant reason for choosing the country as a holiday destination.

“The country’s slower pace of life, especially in rural areas and smaller towns, offers a stark contrast to the fast-paced urban environments from which many tourists come,” it concludes.

In the first nine months of this year, the country received nearly 12.7 million foreign visitors, with most of them coming from Asian countries and territories led by the Republic of Korea, China, Taiwan (China), and Japan.

Vietnam’s trade exceeds US$200 billion in a quarter for the first time

Total trade value reached US$578.5 billion by September, marking a significant achievement for the economy.

Vietnam’s import-export sector marked a significant milestone in Q3 2024, surpassing US$200 billion for the first time, reaching over US$207.6 billion. By the end of September 2024, the total trade value was nearly US$578.5 billion, a 16.3% increase compared to the previous year.

The General Department of Customs reported record-breaking figures across several sectors. With 31 export groups each surpassing US$1 billion, and seven exceeding US$10 billion, the quarter's performance underscored the strength and resilience of the nation's trade. The growth also reflected an increase of US$29.4 billion, or 16.5%, compared to Q3 2023.

The latest data reveals that trade in the first nine months of 2024 reached new highs, growing by US$335 billion over the past decade. Exports grew by US$180 billion, while imports rose by US$155 billion. Compared to five years ago, the trade value increased by 49%, or US$190 billion, with exports and imports rising by US$97 billion and US$93 billion respectively.

Vietnam's trade value for both exports and imports hit record figures compared to previous years, growing by US$19.42 billion and US$81.11 billion over the same period in 2022 and 2023. This robust performance was primarily driven by sectors such as electronics, textiles, and agriculture.

In Q3 2024, Vietnam’s total trade value for the first time crossed US$200 billion per quarter, reaching US$207.6 billion. The quarterly increase amounted to US$29.49 billion over Q1 and US$14.87 billion compared to Q2, VNN reported.

Trade has become a key economic highlight. Photo: Hoang Ha

Compared to Q3 2023, the sector saw a 16.5% increase, equivalent to US$29.4 billion. By the end of September 2024, 31 export groups had recorded over US$1 billion in trade, with seven exceeding US$10 billion. Ten groups posted gains of over US$1 billion compared to the previous year, signaling widespread growth.

Notably, 34 export markets reported over US$1 billion in trade, with 22 markets growing by double digits and 26 exceeding their records from 2022.

Meanwhile, imports also showed strength, with 41 product groups exceeding US$1 billion in trade value. Three groups, particularly computers, electronics, and components, led with US$79.11 billion in trade.

Imports from China reached a new high, with a record US$104.81 billion, a 32% increase, or US$25.63 billion more than the same period last year. This represented 62% of the total increase in imports over the past nine months, reflecting Vietnam's ongoing trade relationship with its northern neighbor. However, the trade deficit with China also increased by 66% compared to the previous year.

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