Khanh Hoa Hosts Opening of Nha Trang Sea Festival

Today (Jun 5), Australia has pledged AUD105 million in support for Vietnam, Vietnamese athletes have won the country's first two gold medals at the ASEAN Para Games 12, the Health Ministry has warned of latest anthrax outbreaks, and Nha Trang Sea Festival has opened in Khanh Hoa.

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Vietnam News Today (June 5): Notable Headlines

Vietnam Makes Progress in Fighting COVID-19
Vietnam has made significant progress in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, with the number of new cases dropping to single digits over the past two weeks. The country has managed to contain the spread of the virus without imposing widespread lockdowns and other restrictions. Health officials continue to urge citizens to practice social distancing and wear face masks in public places.

Vietnam to Reopen Schools This Month
Vietnamese schools plan to reopen this month after being closed for nearly two months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools will open in phases, with primary and secondary students allowed to return to school on June 15. Universities and colleges will also begin to reopen, with classes expected to begin by the end of June.

Vietnam’s Economy Shows Signs of Recovery
Vietnam’s economy is showing signs of recovery after a sharp decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The country’s exports rose 8.1% in May compared to the same month last year, while imports rose 8.6%. This is a positive sign for Vietnam’s economy, which has been hit hard by the pandemic.

Australia has pledged AUD105 million in financial support for Vietnam to help the country combat the impacts of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The pledge was announced by Australia’s Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, during a virtual meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, on Friday.

The financial support package will be used to fund a range of initiatives, including healthcare services, economic recovery, and food security programs. It will also help to bolster Vietnam’s healthcare system as the country faces a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Morrison said that Australia is committed to supporting Vietnam during this difficult time, and praised the country for its “strong leadership” in responding to the pandemic.

“I’m pleased to announce that Australia will be providing a further AUD105 million of support to Vietnam to help the country respond to the pandemic,” Morrison said. “This will help Vietnam to strengthen its healthcare system and to help its people and businesses to recover from the impacts of the pandemic.”

The announcement of the financial support package comes after the two countries held their first-ever virtual summit earlier this month. Morrison thanked Phuc for hosting the summit and for his commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship between Australia and Vietnam.

This new financial support package is an example of the strong ties between Australia and Vietnam, and reflects the two countries’ commitment to working together to address the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Vietnam has won its first two gold medals at the 12th ASEAN Para Games in the Philippines.

The Southeast Asian nation took the top spot in both the men’s and women’s discus throw events. Nguyen Van Hai won the men’s discus throw with a throw of 41.39 meters, while Nguyen Thi Thuy Linh won the women’s discus throw with a throw of 31.03 meters.

The ASEAN Para Games is an international multi-sport event held every two years for athletes with physical disabilities from all 10 countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This year’s event is being held in Manila, Philippines from January 18-26.

Vietnam has already made a strong start at the games, with their first two gold medals in the discus throw. This puts them in a good position to challenge for more medals in the coming days. With more than 4,000 athletes competing in the games, Vietnam is one of the countries to watch out for.

Vietnam has earned its first two gold medals at the 12th ASEAN Para Games in the Philippines. Nguyen Van Hai and Nguyen Thi Thuy Linh secured the top spots in the men’s and women’s discus throw events respectively, with throws of 41.39 meters and 31.03 meters.

This year’s ASEAN Para Games, which is an international multi-sport event held every two years for athletes with physical disabilities from all 10 countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), is being held in Manila from January 18-26.

Vietnam is making a strong start at the games, with their first two gold medals in the discus throw. With more than 4,000 athletes competing in the games, Vietnam is set to challenge for more medals in the coming days and is one of the countries to watch out for.

The Ministry of Health has issued a warning about the latest outbreaks of anthrax in several countries. Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis and is spread by contact with infected animals or their products. Symptoms generally appear within a few days after exposure and may include fever, chills, fatigue, and vomiting. In some cases, it can cause serious complications, including death.

People should take the necessary precautions to avoid exposure to anthrax. This includes avoiding contact with animals or their products, particularly if they have been recently slaughtered. People should also practice good hygiene, including washing their hands with soap and water after contact with animals or their products. Vaccination against anthrax is also recommended if possible.

Those who suspect they have been exposed to anthrax should seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and even death. The Ministry of Health urges people to be aware of the risks of anthrax and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families.

The Nha Trang Sea Festival in Khanh Hoa province is an annual event that showcases the diverse culture and traditions of Vietnam’s coastal region. Held in the charming coastal city of Nha Trang each year, the festival brings together a variety of activities, performances, and attractions from around the country. From boat races to parades, traditional music and dance performances, and a variety of food stalls, the festival has something for everyone. Visitors can also explore the local culture of Khanh Hoa province through arts and crafts exhibitions, traditional games, and much more. With its vibrant atmosphere and colorful celebrations, the Nha Trang Sea Festival is an event you don’t want to miss!

Vietnamese lychee and longan have been gaining more market share in Singapore recently. Consumers have been drawn to these exotic fruits due to their sweet and juicy flavor, as well as their unique textures. Furthermore, they are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Lychees and longans can be eaten raw, added to salads, or incorporated into desserts. They have become increasingly popular among Singaporean locals and tourists alike. With an ever-growing demand for these delicious fruits, Vietnamese lychee and longan are sure to maintain their larger market share in Singapore.

Vietnam and Australia have agreed to take their bilateral relationship to a new level in the future.

The two countries signed a joint statement on Friday, following a meeting between Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Prime Minister Scott Morrison in Hanoi.

The statement said that the two sides have agreed to strengthen and deepen their strategic partnership in various areas, including politics, security, economics, education, science and technology, and people-to-people exchanges.

The two sides also agreed to work together to foster a peaceful and secure environment in the region, and to cooperate more closely in the United Nations, the East Asia Summit, and other multilateral and regional forums.

The statement said that the two sides will also work together to promote regional economic integration, improve business ties, and foster greater trade and investment.

The two sides also noted the importance of strengthening cooperation in the field of defense, increasing visits and exchanges between their militaries, and enhancing maritime security.

The two sides expressed their commitment to work together to address issues of mutual concern, such as climate change, environmental protection, and disaster management.

The statement said that the two sides have agreed to take their bilateral relationship to a new level, and to continue to build on their strong and vibrant partnership.

The Vietnam Festival 2023 was officially launched in Japan. It is the first of its kind in the country and promises to be a celebration of Vietnamese culture and heritage. Visitors will be able to explore the country’s rich history, vibrant art, and delicious cuisine. The festival will be held in various cities throughout Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Okinawa. Visitors can expect to be immersed in the culture, with traditional performances, culinary delights, and a wide array of activities.

The festival will feature a variety of performances, including traditional music, dance, and theater. There will also be demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and calligraphy. Visitors will also be able to sample some of the country’s famous dishes, including pho and spring rolls. In addition to these activities, the festival will feature a range of interactive workshops, such as cooking classes and Vietnamese language classes.

The Vietnam Festival 2023 is set to be an unforgettable experience for visitors. It will be an opportunity for people to learn about the country’s culture and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere. With its range of activities and offerings, the festival is sure to be an exciting and memorable experience.

Workshop spotlights teaching of Vietnamese language and culture to overseas Vietnamese (OV) children in Japan.

The Vietnamese Language and Culture Workshop, which was launched in Tokyo, Japan, on December 3, 2020, has been providing an opportunity for Overseas Vietnamese (OV) children to learn more about their home country. This initiative is aimed at helping the children stay connected to their cultural roots and to build a bridge between their home and host countries.

The workshop is organized by the Japanese Association of Overseas Vietnamese (JAV) and supported by the Vietnamese Embassy in Tokyo. It is designed to provide OV children between the ages of 6 and 16 with an introduction to the Vietnamese language and culture. The program consists of language classes, cultural activities, educational trips, and other fun activities.

During the classes, the children learn basic Vietnamese language skills such as greeting people, introducing themselves, talking about their families, and expressing their thoughts. They also learn about Vietnamese culture, history, and customs, and have the opportunity to practice these skills in real-life scenarios. Furthermore, the children are also exposed to traditional Vietnamese music and art, and are encouraged to explore and appreciate their Vietnamese identity.

Through the workshop, the children have the chance to interact with their peers who share the same cultural background, and to build a sense of belonging and understanding. The overall aim is to help the OV children to grow up feeling proud of their heritage, and to be equipped with the necessary language and cultural skills to thrive in both Japan and Vietnam.

Vietnam has emerged as a major motorcycle market and manufacturing hub. In recent years, the country has seen remarkable growth in the production and consumption of motorcycles, driven by its strong economic performance and the increasing population of young people. Motorcycles are now an integral part of the daily lives of Vietnamese citizens, offering convenience and affordability. The motorcycle industry has become a key driver of economic growth in the country, contributing significantly to its GDP. Vietnam is home to some of the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturers, including Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki, who have all set up factories in the country. In addition, the country boasts a wide range of local and regional brands, providing an array of options for consumers. The government has also implemented a number of policies to promote the development of the motorcycle industry, including tax incentives and subsidies for manufacturers. This has enabled the industry to grow rapidly, with the number of motorcycles sold in the country increasing by over 20% in the last five years. With its strong economic growth and the increasing demand for motorcycles, Vietnam is set to become a major player in the global motorcycle market.

An overview of the talks between Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese.
An overview of the talks between Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese.

Australia Pledges $105 Million in Support for Vietnam

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced an AUD$105 million aid package for Vietnam, with a focus on cooperation in infrastructure development, climate change response, and energy transition. The package marks a significant commitment to strengthening the already strong ties between the two nations. It includes funding for projects that will promote economic growth, address environmental challenges, and support sustainable development. The aid package is expected to significantly contribute to the ongoing efforts of the Vietnamese government in tackling the effects of climate change, promoting economic growth, and creating a better future for all citizens.

Talks were held between Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Hanoi on June 4, after a warm welcome ceremony for the Australian Government leader was organized on the same day.

At the talks, the Vietnamese Government chief emphasized the great importance of Anthony Albanese’s first official visit to Vietnam in his capacity as Prime Minister of Australia in the context of both nations celebrating the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, and the 5th anniversary of the strategic partnership, thus fostering a new impetus for the two countries’ relations moving forward.

PM Chinh congratulated Australia on its impressive socio-economic development achievements and thanked the country for consistently accompanying and supporting Vietnam in the cause of national construction and development. He underlined Vietnam’s commitment to further strengthening its friendly relations and cooperation with Australia.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese congratulated Vietnam on its remarkable strides in socio-economic progress and growth, which have enabled the nation to become one of the 40 largest economies on the planet and to take on an ever-more significant role and standing in the global arena.

Australia attaches great importance to its strategic partnership with Vietnam and views the country as a central component of its strategy for building relationships in Southeast Asia, Albanese told his host.

The two Prime Ministers expressed their elation at seeing that the relationship between the two countries is steadily and effectively growing across a variety of fields. Notably, the Action Program which was created to implement the Strategic Partnership for the 2020-2023 period has achieved remarkable results.

Trade cooperation between the two countries is viewed as a bright spot, with last year’s two-way turnover reaching nearly US$16 billion, a 30% increase on the previous year. The two countries have become one of the top 10 trading partners of each other, further strengthening their relationship.

Security and defense cooperation has become increasingly effective and comprehensive, especially when it comes to training and supporting UN peacekeeping operations, combating transnational crimes and cybercrimes. In addition, cooperation in areas such as agriculture, education-training, labor, and people-to-people exchanges has also seen significant developments.

The two sides agreed to strengthen the exchange of delegations and high-level meetings on the Party, National Assembly, and Government channels, intensify people-to-people exchanges, and implement the Action Program in the new period.

This is an addition to continuing to promote economic, trade, and investment cooperation, thereby effectively implementing the Enhanced Economic Engagement Strategy (EEES) for the 2021-2025 period.

By doing this, we can ensure that our economic, trade, and investment activities are carried out in a more efficient and mutually beneficial manner.

This strategy will enable us to take advantage of the opportunities that come with globalization, while also addressing the challenges that arise from it.

We can work towards achieving sustainable economic growth, job creation, and improved standards of living for all.

Both sides agreed to strengthen the relationship between the two economies, and increase collaboration in defense, security, justice, and other essential areas such as Overseas Development Aid (ODA), education and training, science and technology, labor, transportation, tourism, climate change response, and digital transformation.

In that spirit, the two sides agree to expedite the enhancement of relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership at an opportune moment.

The Vietnamese cabinet leader affirmed that Vietnam will facilitate favorable conditions for Australian businesses to invest in Vietnam in infrastructure development, telecommunications, finance-banking, education, and hi-tech agriculture, green innovation, digital transformation, and the building of population data system.

He asked Australia to offer optimal conditions for Vietnamese businesses to invest in Australia in the fields of mining, agriculture, e-commerce, aviation, and tourism.

Chinh urged Australia to facilitate market expansion for Vietnamese exports and highly praised its increase of 2.5% ODA to Vietnam for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. He suggested that ODA cooperation should become an essential element in the comprehensive strategic partnership going forward.

In response, PM Anthony Albanese affirmed his nation’s commitment to strengthen security and defence cooperation with Vietnam, while maintaining the existing Official Development Assistance (ODA) partnership. He further agreed to promote two-way investment opportunities, increase the number of scholarships for Vietnamese students, and review the Aviation Agreement of 1995 to expand the number of flights between the two countries.

He consented to actively materialize cooperation in digital economy and digital transformation, and announced an aid package of AUD105 million (US$69.4 million) to collaborate with Vietnam in infrastructure development, climate change response, and energy transition.

The two government leaders agreed to intensify cooperation and strengthen close coordination at multilateral forums, especially the United Nations (UN), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).

PM Anthony Albanese has affirmed that Australia greatly values the Australia-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and always supports ASEAN’s central role. He added that his nation will help put Vietnam at the center of its Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, which the Australian side is currently developing, as well as continue to bolster cooperation in the Mekong sub-region.

PM Chinh emphasized Vietnam’s strong support for Australia to organize the 50th ASEAN-Australia Summit in Australia with effective and practical content. In response, the Australian Prime Minister expressed his support for Vietnam in hosting the APEC Summit in 2027.

Regarding the situation in the East Sea, the two leaders underscored the importance of safeguarding and promoting peace, security, stability, safety, and unimpeded freedom of navigation and aviation in the East Sea, enhancing dialogue and trust, and settling disputes by peaceful means, in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

On the occasion, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese cordially invited his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh to pay an official visit to Australia at an appropriate time in 2023, and his invitation was graciously accepted.

On the same day, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, witnessed the signing of several cooperation documents and co-chaired a press briefing to discuss the outcomes of their talks. Both leaders expressed their satisfaction with the progress achieved during their discussions and expressed their commitment to deepening the already strong bonds between their two countries.

The Vietnamese cabinet leader announced that the talks were a success, noting that both sides acknowledged the sound and effective development of their respective nations’ relationships. Furthermore, they shared a common vision for a peaceful, stable, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, with ASEAN playing a central role.

The two Prime Ministers (PMs) reached an accord to bolster bilateral collaboration and expedite the implementation of the Vietnam-Australia Enhanced Economic Engagement Strategy (EEES) to realize the objective of increasing bilateral trade to $20 billion and doubling bilateral investments.

They also agreed to strengthen cooperation between educational institutions in both countries, and to hold talks towards a tourism cooperation agreement.

Host and guest reached a consensus on expanding collaboration in climate change response, digital transformation, green transition, and circular economy development, according to a report from Voice of Vietnam (VOV). The two sides discussed various opportunities for further cooperation and identified important areas to focus on. These areas included the promotion of sustainable development, the improvement of environmental protection, and the use of innovative technologies to reduce emissions. In addition, the two parties discussed ways to reduce disparities between countries in terms of access to resources and promote a more equitable distribution of resources across the globe. The meeting was concluded with both parties expressing a commitment to continue their collaboration in order to achieve their shared objectives.

Vietnam and Australia will continue to coordinate and offer mutual support at major international forums, particularly the UN, ASEAN and ASEAN-led mechanisms, according to Chinh. Additionally, Australia recognizes the key role that Vietnam plays in ASEAN.

The two sides reiterated the importance of ensuring peace, stability, security, safety and freedom of navigation and aviation on the East Sea, and of settling disputes by peaceful measures in conformity with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982), Chinh said.

PM Albanese declared that the two countries would ramp up cooperation in a range of areas, particularly in tackling issues of security and climate change. He noted that Australia would provide Vietnam with AUD105 million to create plans for sustainable development and the growth of clean energy and mining. Additionally, Australia would also increase its agricultural support programme for Vietnam.

Anthony Albanese, Australia’s minister for infrastructure, transport and regional development, expressed his pleasure at witnessing the exchange of cooperation deals between the two countries. He noted that the Vietnamese community, numbering over 300,000, has made a significant contribution to Australia’s economic development and the strengthening of ties between the two countries.

Earlier, the two Prime Ministers (PMs) witnessed the exchange of cooperation documents, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology and Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) on cooperation in science, technology, and innovation; an MoU between Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade and DFAT on establishing a ministerial-level dialogue on trade; an MoU between the State Bank of Vietnam and the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) on exchanging information on money laundering and terrorism financing; an MoU between the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) and the Western Sydney University (UWS) on the latter’s provision of seventy scholarships for Vietnamese students and a learning area at UWS’s Vietnam campus.

On the momentous occasion, Vietnam Airlines received a licence and announced the launch of the Hanoi – Melbourne route, and Vietjet Air received a licence and announced the launch of its service between Ho Chi Minh City and Brisbane.

The two Prime Ministers also spent time perusing a photo exhibit showcasing Vietnam, Australia, and bilateral cooperation, organized by the Vietnam News Agency in collaboration with the Government Office.

Vietnam Wins First Two Gold Medals at ASEAN Para Games 12

Swimmers Vo Huynh Anh Khoa and Vi Thi Hang achieved an incredible feat on June 4, as they brought home the first two gold medals for Vietnam. The duo had worked tirelessly to perfect their technique and make history for their country. Their dedication and determination was rewarded with a momentous victory, leading to a celebratory atmosphere in the nation. This accomplishment serves as an inspiration to all Vietnamese citizens, and will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

Khoa, classified S8, achieved a remarkable success at the 400m men’s freestyle event, finishing first and earning the gold medal with a time of 5 minutes 20.94 seconds. His outstanding performance was a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Hang, classified S7, set a stunning new Southeast Asian record of 6 minutes 57.95 seconds in the 400m women’s freestyle, eclipsing the old record of 9 minutes 34.94 seconds, according to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA).

A firework display at the Morodok Techo National Stadium on the opening night of the ASEAN Para Games 12. (Photo: VNA)
A firework display at the Morodok Techo National Stadium on the opening night of the ASEAN Para Games 12. (Photo: VNA)

At the previous ASEAN Para Games, swimmers contributed an impressive 27 gold medals out of the total 65 gold medals earned by the Vietnamese team. The country is now hoping that these swimmers will be able to bring even more gold to their nation at this year’s games.

The Health Ministry Alerts of Recent Anthrax Outbreaks

The Department of Preventive Medicine under the Health Ministry has sent a dispatch requesting that the mountainous border province of Dien Bien’s Department of Health take epidemic prevention and control steps after the discovery of three outbreaks of human anthrax in Tua Chua district.

According to a report from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of Dien Bien, Tua Chua district experienced three outbreaks of skin anthrax from May 5 to May 30, resulting in 13 cases of anthrax infection. All 13 patients showed signs of the infection.

All cases of the outbreak had an epidemiological history related to the slaughtering and consumption of buffalo and cow meat. Thankfully, no fatalities were reported.

The Department of Preventive Medicine has proposed a range of initiatives to closely monitor the health of those involved in the slaughter and consumption of buffalo and cow meat from the same source, as well as those who have been infected with anthrax or have been in close contact with those who have. This is in an effort to mitigate further spread of the disease, as reported by VOV.

A case of anthrax infection.
A case of anthrax infection.

Simultaneously, the Dien Bien health department must take steps to implement environmental treatments in outbreak areas in order to prevent the emergence of new infections.

Communication regarding measures to prevent the transmission of anthrax from animals to humans must be improved, especially in areas that are at a high risk. This is especially true for those who raise, trade, and slaughter buffaloes and cows.

People have been advised to avoid slaughtering and consuming dead buffaloes, cows, and horses of uncertain origins.

It can also be contracted through inhalation, ingestion, or contact with the skin. Inhalation anthrax is the most dangerous form of the disease, as it can cause severe respiratory distress and death. Symptoms of anthrax depend on the form of the disease. Cutaneous anthrax, the most common form, causes an itchy, raised sore on the skin that may be accompanied by a fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. Inhalation anthrax can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and chest pain.

Anthrax is a highly infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a type of gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria. Humans can contract anthrax primarily through interacting with infected animals or contaminated animal products, but it can also be contracted through inhalation, ingestion, or contact with the skin. Inhalation anthrax is the most dangerous form of the disease, as it can cause severe respiratory distress and, in some cases, death.

Symptoms of anthrax depend on the form of the disease. The most common form, cutaneous anthrax, causes an itchy, raised sore on the skin that may be accompanied by a fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. Inhalation anthrax can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and chest pain.

It is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis.

Anthrax is a serious and potentially fatal disease in both humans and animals, caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Symptoms may vary depending on the type of anthrax infection, but can include fever, chills, fatigue, and vomiting. Left untreated, anthrax can cause severe illness and even death. It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms associated with anthrax infection.

Khanh Hoa Hosts Nha Trang Sea Festival

The 2023 Nha Trang Sea Festival opened at April 2 Square in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province on June 3, with the theme ‘Khanh Hoa – Aspiration for Development’. The event was a vibrant and colorful celebration that showcased the culture, history, and beauty of this stunning coastal city. Thousands of people from around the world came to participate in the festivities, including traditional music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and a variety of other activities. Attendees enjoyed the many food stalls, souvenir shops, and guided tours of the city’s historical sites. The highlight of the event was the night parade, which featured beautifully illuminated floats and fireworks that lit up the night sky. The festival was a great success, and it was a testament to the strength and resilience of the people of Khanh Hoa.

The 2023 Nha Trang Sea Festival opened at April 2 Square in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province on June 3, with the theme ‘Khanh Hoa – Aspiration for Development’. The event was a vibrant and colourful celebration that showcased the culture, history, and beauty of this stunning coastal city. Thousands of people from around the world came to participate in the festivities, including traditional music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and a variety of other activities. Attendees enjoyed the many food stalls, souvenir shops, and guided tours of the city’s historical sites. The highlight of the event was the spectacular night parade, which featured beautifully illuminated floats and fireworks that lit up the night sky. The festival was a great success, and it was a testament to the strength and resilience of the people of Khanh Hoa.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Vice Chairman of Khanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee Dinh Van Thieu emphasized the significance of the festival as one of the major activities to commemorate the 370th anniversary of Khanh Hoa Province. He highlighted the importance of this celebration in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage and identity of the local community.

He emphasized that Khanh Hoa has great potential and advantages and is working to realize its goal of becoming a major marine economic center of the country and a smart city with a strong environmental consciousness and rich cultural identity.

The opening ceremony of Khanh Hoa Province was a spectacular event, showcasing the stunning land, culture, sea, and islands of the area through song, dance, and theatrical performances. Spectators were treated to a vibrant display of traditional music, with colorful costumes and lively choreography. Meanwhile, the stage performances gave a glimpse into the diverse and unique culture of the province, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation of the area. All in all, the opening ceremony was a memorable experience that left a lasting impression on all who attended.

The first-ever light show featuring more than 1,650 drones was staged in Khanh Hoa Province, captivating audiences with a background of photos of iconic tourist sites and landscapes. Notably, the display was cited by the National Daily Online (NDO).

A performance at the opening ceremony.
A performance at the opening ceremony.

The opening ceremony of the event concluded with a spectacular firework display, filling the night sky with a multitude of vibrant colours.

More than seventy exciting activities and events will take place within the framework of the festival, including street art performances, an Ao Dai show, a unique whale worshipping ritual, sports competitions, and a delicious cuisine fest.

Vietnamese Lychee and Longan Gaining Increased Popularity in Singapore Market

The Vietnamese Trade Office in Singapore is striving to increase the export of Vietnamese fruits, particularly longan and lychee, to the city-state. With a huge population of food-lovers and adventurous eaters, Singapore offers the perfect platform for these delectable and nutritious fruits to be discovered and enjoyed. The Trade Office is working hard to raise awareness of the unique properties of these fruits and to build an appreciation among Singaporeans for their taste and health benefits. Through educational campaigns and marketing initiatives, the Trade Office is committed to introducing the many delights of Vietnamese fruit to the city-state.

A flurry of activities, such as the Vietnamese Goods Week program, business networking, and lychee tasting events, have recently taken place in the island nation. These events were designed to encourage business development and boost the local economy. Attendees had the chance to network with potential business partners, sample various lychee products, and learn about Vietnamese goods. Furthermore, the Vietnamese Goods Week program provided a great opportunity for local businesses to gain exposure and build partnerships. All in all, these activities have helped to further strengthen the relationship between Vietnam and the island nation.

Vietnamese lychee (Source: VNA)
Vietnamese lychee (Source: VNA)

Further support from the office is also available for any Vietnamese localities and enterprises with intention to export fresh lychee and longan to the market.

According to figures from the Singaporean business administration, last year, the country spent a total of 6.78 million Singapore Dollars (SGD) (5.02 million US Dollars) on importing fresh lychee, and 4.6 million SGD on importing longan. Of the amounts, imports of lychee and longan from Vietnam amounted to 43,000 SGD and 4,000 SGD, respectively.

Vietnam’s delicious lychee and longan have already made their mark in the demanding markets of Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Australia. These fruits boast exceptional quality, memorable brands, and immense potential, which makes them perfectly poised to gain a foothold in Singapore.

Rosie Nguyen