Dien Bien Phu heroes commemorated
DIEN BIEN (VNS)- A solemn requiem was held in the northwestern province of Dien Bien yesterday to commemorate the heroic soldiers who laid down their lives in the 1954 battle of Dien Bien Phu. Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan, along with representatives from ministries, departments and the Viet Nam Buddhist Sangha, were present at the event to offer incense to the deceased. The requiem was one of several activities marking the 60th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu victory of May 7, 1954, which helped end French colonial rule in The same day, a ceremony was held in The street, previously called May 7 Road, now bears the name of the Vietnamese general who masterminded the famous victory under the instruction of the Party and late President Ho Chi Minh. The road stretches 7km through the wards of Him Lam, Tan Thanh, Muong Thanh and Nam Thanh, which house many historical sites from wartime. The General's son, Vo Hong As one of modern |
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General Vo Nguyen Giap through artworks(VOV) - An exhibition themed "General Vo Nguyen Giap through artworks" opened in Hanoi on April 27, partially reproducing the portrait of General Vo Nguyen Giap - the elder brother of the Vietnamese People's Army. The event is part of diverse activities marking the 60th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu victory. The exhibition introduces the public to the first artworks featuring the image of the legendary general Vo Nguyen Giap, such as photos of the General taken by journalists Tran Hong and Nguyen Dinh Toan, large portrait oil paintings by artist Dang Xuan Hung, lacquer paintings by artist Nguyen Van Tuan, posters by artist Ha Huy Le, sculptures by sculptor Tran Van Thuc and the portrait of General Giap made from 60,000 matchsticks by housewife Ngo Thi Thuc.
The highlight of the exhibition is a set of six objects representing the 60 years since the Dien Bien Phu victory including a gold-gilded bronze portrait statue, golden medals of the General and Dien Bien Phu, 105mm artillery shell demonstrating "Proud Vietnam" artwork, oil painting portraits, lighters engraved with the logo of Dien Bien Phu and special publications on General Vo Nguyen Giap. All works are showcased in a sophisticated and sharp way featuring the portrait, life and career of "the elder brother of the Vietnamese People's Army". Tran Thanh Tung, a member of the Heritage Cub House said, every piece displayed at the exhibition gives the public an insight into the talent and personality of General Vo Nguyen Giap and the national pride of the Dien Bien Phu victory. Lieutenant General Le Phuc Nguyen, Editor-in-Chief of the Quan Doi Nhan Dan (People's Army) newspaper described the exhibition as an excellent opportunity to educate the people and younger generations about the ethical and talented General and his tremendous contributions to nation liberation. The exhibition runs until May 10. Several works displayed at the exhibition:
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A proposal made by the Chinese contractor in the Cat Linh-Ha Dong railway project has been denounced by experts as “illegal” and “unacceptable”.  Deputy Minister Hoang Trung Hai has requested the Ministry of Transport (MOT) to check the project’s estimates and release a final decision on the Chinese proposal. The contractor is asking for a $339 million funding increase which, if approved, would bring the cost of the project to $852 million. The document released from the Deputy Minister’s office requests that MOT join forces with the Ministry of Planning and Investment and other agencies to work with the appropriate Chinese agencies on the Chinese ODA (official development assistance) capital complement to the project. The railway project, kicked off in October 2011, had an initial price tag of $552 million, of which $419 million had been pledged from the Chinese through their ODA. Under the terms of the project, a Chinese corporation acts as the EPC (engineering, procurement, construction) contractor. The railway is expected to be put into operation by June 2015. However, problems in the site clearance and the contractors’ capability have led to the delays. Meanwhile, MOT, following a request by the Chinese contractor, has proposed the government approve a $339 million increase in the budget. MOT explained that the project would need an additional $221 million for construction costs, $20 million for equipment and $25 million for site clearance. The news comes as no surprise to many Vietnamese, but has certainly angered them. It has proven to be a familiar tactic of Chinese contractors who have been awarded projects in The modus operandi has become all too recognizable. A Chinese contractor wins a project by offering a bid 20-30 percent lower than his rivals. Subsequently, the contractor begins work by implementing the easiest elements of the project at the early stages. Then, “snags” emerge. A deadline extension is urgently requested, followed by demands for an increase in funding for the “unforeseen” difficulties. The Nhieu Loc-Thi Nghe canal environment sanitation project is a case in point. The project was initially slated for completion by 2008. However, it was only in 2011 that the project became fully operational, three years late and $120million over budget. The investor ultimately had to shell out $320 million on a project with an initial estimate that the contractor had won with a bid of of $200 million. Nguyen Tien Lap, an ODA expert, has many times warned that Dr Nguyen Dinh Tham from the Hanoi Civil Engineering University affirmed that “there is no legal foundation for such a sharp increase of the investment capital” (by nearly 100 percent). An expert has suggested that the government of Dat Viet |
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Huge FDI capital flows into IZs, EZsWith their streamlined regulations and many advantages
As of March 2014, more than 50% of all foreign investment in In the first quarter of this year alone, there were 70 FDI projects invested in IZs and EZs nationwide with combined registered capital of more than US$800 million. A typical project is Triple Eye Infrastructure from The Ministry of Planning and Investment reported that these FDI projects are primarily specializing in telecommunications and support industries. World-wide names making an appearance included Samsung, LG and Nokia. These projects have attracted a large number of satellite investors that are now jostling to get in on the action, raising expectations of leading economists and market analysts optimistically to predict that investment and production in IZs and EZs will continue to grow. However, the government has been urged to loosen credit to create the best possible conditions for businesses to develop infrastructure at IZs and EZs, cautions Tran Duy Dong, Deputy Director of the Economic Zone Management Department. VOV |
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Art & Entertainment News Headlines 28/4 Workshop promotes preservation of southern singing style A workshop discussing how to preserve and develop the musical genre “Don ca tai tu” took place in the southern As part of the ongoing national “Don ca tai tu” festival in the locality, the event focused on analysing the art and reviewing the process of developing it. Known as a musical art that has both scholarly and folk roots,” Don ca tai tu” developed in southern UNESCO recognised it as intangible cultural heritage last December during a session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in The art is performed at numerous events, such as festivals, ‘death anniversary' rituals and celebratory occasions. The audience can join in by offering feedback to the singers and suggesting new lyrics for songs. It has been transmitted from generation to generation through official and unofficial forms of education in all the 21 southern provinces, where it is most popular. . The music is played on a variety of different instruments, including the kim (moon-shaped lute), co (two-stringed fiddle), tranh (16-string zither), ty ba (pear-shaped lute), song lang (percussion), bau (monochord) and sao (bamboo flute). Musicians are classified as ‘master instrumentalists’, ‘master lyricists’, ‘master singers’, ‘instrumentalists’ and ‘singers’. Influenced by other forms of cultural heritage from the central and southern regions of At the workshop, attendees said the festival aids The first event of its kind, the festival has attracted the attention of the domestic and international community and spurred a joint effort to conserve the form. A week-long exhibition opened in The event is part of the 2014 Vietnam Year in Speaking at the opening ceremony, Vietnam’s Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Bac Son said the exhibition is aimed at consolidating the two peoples’ mutual understanding and boosting the Vietnam-France strategic partnership, which was established in September 2013. At the same time, a Benoit Paumier, General Commissioner of the 2014 Vietnam Year in Tran Huu Trang Awards winners announced The winners of the twelfth Tran Huu Trang Awards, an annual “cai luong” (reformed opera) competition, were announced at a ceremony in the southern First prizes went to Nguyen Ngoc Doi, Dang Thi My Van and Le Thi Ngoc Quyen. Chairwoman of the organising board Bach Tuyet highlighted the event as an offshoot of the first national festival celebrating “Don ca tai tu” - the musical art that has been recognised as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. The competition aims to identify young talent and celebrate those who have promoted the traditional southern Vietnamese form of theatre, which originated in the Mekong River Delta. Tran Huu Trang (1906-1966) was a great playwright in the “cai luong” style. He was bestowed with the Ho Chi Minh Prize for art and literature in 1996. Chinese crowned as best presenter on Ha Long Bay A contestant from the People’s Broadcasting Station of Chinese Guangxi province won the first prize at the best presenter on Ha Long contest, which concluded on April 27 in the Tang Zijuan outperformed seven Vietnamese contestants and another Chinese to win the annual event which had the theme of “Ha Long Emissary” this year. Trinh Lam Ngoc from the northern port city of This is the fifth year the best presenter on Ha Long contest has been held by the Quang Ninh Radio and Television Station and the Ha Long Bay Management Board with the aim of promoting Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO-recognised World Natural Heritage site and a new world wonder. The competition comprises four rounds dealing with presentation, aptitude, costume on the theme of Ha Long, and reporting skill. Vietnamese food featured on boat trip on Seine River Vietnamese food was the main theme on a boat trip on Three Vietnamese renowned cooks from Hanoi, the central province of Thua Thien-Hue and Ho Chi Minh City, made about 30 dishes popular in the three main regions of Vietnam, including nem (spring rolls), banh beo (Vietnamese savory steamed rice cake), bun cha (noodles with grilled meat) and banh phu the (Vietnamese conjugal cake). Talking to about 200 guests in the April 25 event, President of the France-Vietnam Friendship Association (Le Liseron) Bernard Biron said that cuisine is an effective way to introduce The Vietnam-France friendship and solidarity have been a foundation for his association’s activities over the past 15 years, he added. Vietnamese Ambassador to France Duong Chi Dung praised the association’s initiative and expressed his thanks for its assistance for Vietnamese culture in spotlight in Czech capital A Vietnam Culture Day was held on April 26 in The event was organised by the Vietnamese Embassy and Vietnamese Association in the country in coordination with the Czech National Gallery. As part of the ongoing Vietnamese art exhibition in the city, the event embraced a series of activities, such as traditional art performances, Vietnamese handicraft display and an Ao dai (long dress) show. Addressing the opening ceremony, Ambassador Truong Manh Son spoke highly of the Gallery’s idea to hold the event, saying that it contributes to further fostering mutual understanding and the all-round cooperation between the two countries and their people. The Vietnamese art exhibition, which kicked off on February 6 at the Czech National Gallery, shows off a number of Buddha statues dating back to the 18th century and a collection of Dong Ho traditional paintings and some ancient pottery. It is scheduled to run until May 12. According to Ambassador, the embassy plans to team up with Veteran journalists share memories about Veteran journalists who fought side by side with soldiers on the battlefield at Dien Bien Phu 50 years ago shared their memories about the historic battle at an exchange held in A former reporter of the Quan doi Nhan dan (People’s Army) daily, 91-year-old Nguyen Khac Tiep talked about how 33 issues of the newspaper were published right at the battlefield with the contribution of only five reporters including himself. 82-year-old Colonel Nguyen Xuan Mai, former Editor-in-Chief of the Vietnam War Veteran Newspaper recalled the time when he served as a liaison soldier at Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Journalists Association Ha Minh Hue stressed that the news stories, photos and video clips produced during the battle are precious historical documents. The war journalists became soldiers, using their special weapon - their pen, to fight for the final victory. Besides the Quan doi Nhan dan, the first and only newspaper published at the battlefield, other media agencies including Radio the Voice of Vietnam, the Vietnam News Agency and Nhan Dan (People) daily also performed well their political missions to serve the The “Dien Bien Memory” exchange was jointly held by the Vietnam Journalists Association, Vietnam Television and the Vietnam National Communications Group Joint Stock Company. Also on the anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory, the Vietnam Journalists Association organized a trip back to the former battlefield to pay tribute to fallen war journalists and soldiers. Wartime memorabilia shed lights on Several exhibitions opened on April 26 showcasing photographs, documents and artifacts relating to the Dien Bien Phu victory of May 7, 1954, which helped end the French colonial rule in In the The event, which will remain open until May 26, also introduces visitors to more than 100 weapons and resources used during the nation’s resistance war against French forces, including guns, mines, bicycles and bullet-proof jackets. Another exhibition is being held in the Central Highland With 200 photos and 20 documents, the event provides visitors with an insight into the wartime fighting in the Central Highlands, which led to the liberation of Kon Tum province on February 7, 1954 and inspired the The two shows are expected to help educate young generations about the heroism of Vietnamese people during the resistance war, and encourage them to contribute more to the country’s construction and defence. Lam Dong to host mega gong fest More than 300 gong artisans from ethnic minority groups across the Central Highlands Nguyen Vu Hoang, director of the provincial Culture Centre, said the event will have a wide range of interesting and attractive activities including contests to identify the sounds of various gongs and quizzes about the local gong culture. It will also honour gong artisans who have contributed actively to preserving and developing the special art form, Hoang added. A horse race and several folk games will also be organised during the event that is expected to be the ever largest gong festival held to date in the Festival hits Ha Long as national holiday begins The opening ceremony of Carnaval Ha Long 2014 will kick off at 8pm, on April 30, in Ha Long city, the Bearing the theme of Quang Ninh Convergence and Pervasion, the festival will feature a wide range of cultural and sports activities, including art performances, parade, and pyrotechnic display. The opening ceremony will combine on-stage performances and street parade with the participation of more than 4,000 actors and actresses. Thai, Lao and Chinese troupes will also take part in the festivities and will focus on showcasing tourist attractions and diversified cultures of the region. Source: VNN/VNA/VNS/SGGP/VOV |
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Six amazing fields in Northern Vietnam VietNamNet Bridge introduces the six fields that have become tourist attractions in the northern region of Vietnam. 1. Mu Cang Chai terraced field  Mu Cang Chai has long been a familiar destination of tourists and photographers during the rice season. Located in Yen Bai province, the best rice fields in Mu Cang Chai District are primarily in the three communes of La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha and De Xu Phinh. The terraces in Mu Cang Chai are attractive both when the rice is just green sprouts until September and then in October when the rice fields turn yellow. Standing on the Khau Pha Pass, visitors can admire the magnificent scenery of the northwest mountains with immense rice fields and stilt-houses. 2. Moc Chau white mustard flower fields  About 200km from Hanoi, Moc Chau is a favorite destination of many travelers, particularly in the early winter. At that time the plateau is covered with the pure white color of mustard flowers. Moc Chau Valley is its most beautiful in the early morning, when the night mist lingers on the branches, leaves and mustard flowers. 3. Moc Chau tea hills  Different from white mustard flower fields in the winter, hills of green tea creates the allure of Moc Chau any time during the year. As a major economic crop here, tourists can see tea hills everywhere in the town. Especially in December, visitors can see white tea flowers mixed in green leaves, attracting bees and butterflies. 4. Ha Giang buckwheat flower fields  Buckwheat fields along the road from Xi Man to Hoang Su Phi in Ha Giang Province are a destination that cannot be missed by travelers in September - October. At this time, buckwheat flower fields in Ha Giang become a hot topic throughout the travel forums in Vietnam. 5. Bac Son Valley, Lang Son province  Bac Son is a district of Lang Son province, about 160km from Hanoi. It is not only known as a long-standing historical site, but also a valley with beautiful rice fields. To enjoy the panorama of the valley, you have to climb to the top of Bac Son Mountain. Beside the curving river are brilliant shades of colors of rice, mixed with houses on stilts. All combine together to enhance the charming beauty of the valley. 6. Rice fields in Ninh Binh  Located about 110km from Hanoi, along National Highway 1A, Tam Coc-Bich Dong is a well-known tourist destination in Ninh Binh. To tour the inside of the caves, tourists must travel by boat along the Ngo Dong River. Along the road, they will see a countryside painted with beautiful rice fields. The fields are the most beautiful in late May and early June, when a large area is covered by green and yellow paddy fields. Pha Le, Vietnamnet |
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BUSINESS IN BRIEF 29/4 Huge FDI capital flows into IZs, EZs With their streamlined regulations and many advantages As of March 2014, more than 50% of all foreign investment in In the first quarter of this year alone, there were 70 FDI projects invested in IZs and EZs nationwide with combined registered capital of more than US$800 million. A typical project is Triple Eye Infrastructure from The Ministry of Planning and Investment reported that these FDI projects are primarily specializing in telecommunications and support industries. World-wide names making an appearance included Samsung, LG and Nokia. These projects have attracted a large number of satellite investors that are now jostling to get in on the action, raising expectations of leading economists and market analysts optimistically to predict that investment and production in IZs and EZs will continue to grow. However, the government has been urged to loosen credit to create the best possible conditions for businesses to develop infrastructure at IZs and EZs, cautions Tran Duy Dong, Deputy Director of the Economic Zone Management Department. Lotte eyes US$2 bln high-end trading centre in HCMC The Covering 10 hectares, the complex will consist of world class commercial plazas, hotels, serviced apartments, and office suites. A spokesperson for Lotte said the company hopes the complex will become the centerpiece international financial centre in A detailed zoning plan of the project, co-financed by Japanese investors, is scheduled for completion in 2014. Spring forum proposes solutions to economic woes Although the socio-economic situation doesn’t appear to have changed drastically, or much at all, a number of economic sectors have seen significant positive growth in the first quarter of the year. Nguyen Van Giau, head of the National Assembly’s Economic Committee (NAEC) made the remarks at this year’s Spring Economic Forum held by the (NAEC) in Ha Long City on April 28. In the first quarter of the year, most economic sectors gathered steam, signaling that the horizon for the economy is brighter, Giau said. However, he warned many difficulties still remain such as low growth of aggregate demand, low credit growth, slow disbursement of construction capital, and a high number of dissolved and bankrupt businesses. At the forum Giau solicited proposals from participants, asking for viable solutions to bolster socio-economic development in 2014 and beyond. “Your input is important, contributing to the Government and National Assembly’s ability to devise proper policies,” he concluded. Tran Dinh Thien, Director of the Vietnam Economic Research Institute, in turn cautioned that the economy has paid the penalty for obtaining such growth on the back of weak purchasing power and fragile business health. The most important issues facing the macroeconomy are non performing loans (NLPs) and public debt, as they closely effect capital circulation, and the economy will remain weak until these issues are adequately resolved, he added. Nguyen Hong Son, Vice Rector of the If the micro-management changes, it will generate a driving force behind national development, he said. The Spring Economic Forum is a venue for experts to review economic development and macro-policies in 2013 and devise proposals for 2014. The forum’s evaluations provide important inputs for the NAEC to support the implementation of the NA’s resolution on socio-economic development plan in 2013 and in 2014. US business entrepreneurs are quite keen on doing business with their counterparts in At an April 27 dialogue sponsored by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in At the event, Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Bui Quang Vinh told the gathering that the government is seeking to attract projects which use environmentally friendly technology and churn out higher added value products, especially in infrastructure development, as well as in information technology and biotechnology to buttress agricultural production. Vinh also suggested AmCham in For her part, Executive Director of AmCham Judith Fergin stated that US businesses eye Potential partners are closely monitoring the Vietnamese market because its Government is undertaking important reforms in administration procedures, business restructuring and legislation, to create a healthier competitive environment, she added. She strongly recommended that the Vietnamese Government speed up negotiations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement as the trade pact will help promote foreign investment necessary to build the economic infrastructure for improved supply chains, generating better jobs for citizens. Donaco delight at new Lao Cai casino Australia’s casino operator Donaco International has just received an amended investment certificate for expanding its hotel and casino business to newly built five-star hotel in the northern border gate province of Lao Cai, where it is expected to enjoy robust growth. “This will allow the company to open its expanded five-star hotel and casino complex on schedule,” a company statement announced, adding that the soft opening of the new property was set for May 19 this year. The five-star hotel and casino Lao Cai International Hotel will comprise 428 rooms and be located near existing identically named three-star hotel which was built in 2003. Donaco holds a 95% stake in the hotel, with the token remainder held by the Vietnamese state-owned Sapa Petroleum Tourism Joint Stock Company. According to Donaco, the Vietnamese government has given permission for a maximum of 50 gaming tables at the new Lao Cai International Hotel. The Lao Cai International Hotel has joined seven hotel and casino complex licensed in Donaco managing director and CEO Joey Lim on the release of the company’s annual financial report in March claimed the level of demand for gambling at the Lao Cai International Hotel had given the firm “great confidence in the success of our new 428 room, five star property.” According to the financial report, the company’s operating revenue for the six months ending December 31, 2013 increased 100% compared to the period. This was driven by a 44% increase in VIP turnover at the company’s already –operational three-star Lao Cai International Hotel which comprises 34 rooms, 8 gambling tables and 36 slot machines. However, visits to the casino declined by a marginal 3.2% primarily as a result of bad weather which reduced the number of walk-in customers. In September 2013, heavy rains caused a temporary closure of border crossing from Donaco explained their growth was driven by an influx of higher spending VIP customers, reflecting the success of the company’s ongoing junket marketing programme. Due to the decline in walk-in customers, mass market turnover declined by 15%, but this was more than outweighed by the growth in VIP turnover, with the total table game turnover increasing by 33%. Slot machine turnover boasted very strong growth of 122%, primarily due to the introduction of 12 new machines in February 2013. These have proven to be far more popular with customers than the 24 older machines, which remained in operation. Nation lags behind peers in entrepreneurial zeal Awareness of business opportunities among citizens in However, those attending the launch ceremony of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Vietnam Report 2013, held in This report, the first of its kind in Luong Minh Huan from the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI)'s Business Development Institute said in terms of business conditions in Nine remaining indices, such as business support services, accounting, auditing and legal consultancy, are also not developed to their potential, said the report. The Government's support programmes, financing for businesses and business education at high schools are listed at the bottom of the list. "This shows that the country has had a lack of consultancy and business support services," Huan said. Further, VCCI chairman Vu Tien Loc said the report provided an overall picture on business landscape in It also helped Loc also recommended that The report is expected to serve in creating polices and decisions for business development in the future. The GEM report collected data from more than 200 respondents in 70 countries accounting for 75% of the world's population and 90% of global GDP. Banks expect higher profits from recovery Many banks have planned higher profits this year as they expect better recovery in the economy. This year, the total expected pre-tax profits of 26 banks, which have announced their business plans this year, are estimated at VND36.7 trillion (US$1.748 billion), rising 5.18% as compared to last year. The Vietnam Joint Stock Bank for Industry and Trade (VietinBank) led in terms of pre-tax profit plan in 2014 with VND7.28 trillion (US$346.66 million), followed by Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV) with VND6 trillion (US$285.7 million). At the shareholders meeting held last week, the Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Viecombank) chairman Nguyen Hoa Binh noted that his bank expected to gain a pre-tax profit of VND5.5 trillion (US$261.9 million), besides setting aside VND5 trillion (US$238 million) for risk provision. Vietcombank also targeted its total assets to rise by 11% against last year to VND520.6 trillion (US$24.79 billion). The bank's lending and capital mobilisation are estimated to increase by 13% to reach VND309.97 trillion (US$14.76 billion) and VND384.49 trillion (US$18.3 billion), respectively. Military Bank (MB) and Sai Gon Thuong Tin Bank (Sacombank) also aimed to gain pre-tax profit of VND3.1 trillion (US$147.619 million) and VND3 trillion (US$142.8 million), respectively in 2014. Another notable name this year is the Vietnam Prosperity Commercial JS Bank (VPBank) with a profit target of VND1.89 trillion against last year's VND1.35 trillion (US$64.5 million), surpassing many other listed banks, including SHB and ACB. VPBank's total assets are also targeted to reach VND155 trillion (US$7.38 billion) against VND121.26 trillion (US$5.8 billion) of last year. Binh said although the domestic economy is forecast to improve, many difficulties and challenges still lay ahead. Therefore, his bank will still adopt a cautious approach with regard to its performance plans this year. He further pointed out that it has planned to set aside VND5 trillion (US$238.1 million) for risk provision against VND3.5 trillion (US$166.66 million) of last year. However, he remarked that Vietcombank's move towards the market will be also flexible. Meanwhile, VPBank General Director Nguyen Duc Vinh explained that the banking system this year will undergo continuous restructuring. Therefore, he stated that profits and size cannot be the top priority, but greater emphasis should be laid on risk management and business model streamlining to prepare for a leap in the post-restructuring period. By the end of the first quarter of this year, several indications have hinted at dismal improvements in the profits made by the banks. The unsatisfactory improvement has been attributed to the difficulties faced by the banks' biggest income source from credit activities amidst low credit growth. Furthermore, due to the impact of the macroeconomic context, especially the real estate, this year, bad debts will continue to affect the profits of the banking sector, industry insiders have forecast. Vital indications of banking improve The health of the banking system has improved, with good reports coming in about asset quality, capital adequacy ratio and liquidity, according to the National Financial Supervisory Commission (NFSC). In a recent overview report of the financial markets in 2013 and the forecast for 2014, the NFSC said that the total bank assets in 2013 increased by 15%. More importantly, it said, the asset structure had improved, with the share of interbank assets falling from 23% in 2011 to 17% in 2013. The liquidity of the system also increased with a 23.6% growth of capital mobilisation against the 12.5% increase of credit. Therefore, the loan to deposit ratio (LDR) fell sharply from 98% in 2011 to 85.4% in 2013. Another important criterion which shows the banking system's good health is that the capital adequacy ratio is always higher than the minimum prescribed level of 9%. In 2013, the capital adequacy ratio reached 12.8%. NFSC Deputy Chairman Truong Van Phuoc said that while the credit growth in 2013 was higher than in 2012, the interest rates were lower. Credit in 2013 rose to 12.5% against 9.8% in 2012. The average lending rates, as calculated by the NFSC, tumbled from 20% in 2011 to around 12% last year. Besides, the credit structure in terms of currencies was more balanced. The credit in Vietnamese dong rose to 85% in 2013 from 81% in 2012, while foreign currency credit fell to 15% from 19%. In the 2011-13 period, short-term credit accounted for about 58 to 59%, while medium- and long-term credit accounted for about 41 to 42%, showing that there was little change compared with the previous years. Although credit rose fast, its quality also improved, Phuoc said, adding that the figures calculated by NFSC as per the international rules showed that the NPL ratio of approximately 9% has sound basis. The NPL ratio of the whole banking system, as reported by the commercial banks, fell sharply from 4.73% at the end of October 2013 to 3.63% at the end of 2013. However, according to the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), with prudent calculation, including all subprime loans restructured under Decision 780, the NPL was about 9%. According to NFSC's report, the credit institutions handled VND106 trillion, or US$5.047 billion, of NPLs, including about VND66 trillion, or US$3.14 billion, by risk provisions and about VND44 trillion, or US$2.09 billion, by selling to the Vietnam Asset Management Company (VAMC). Phuoc believed that VAMC and the risk provision made by banks will partly contribute to controlling NPLs. He said this year's challenge was the slow recovery of the economy that would restrict the credit absorbability. However, he expected the existing economic policies, which are designed to boost aggregate demand, to create favourable conditions for credit growth. PM holds dialogue with businesses Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung is to meet with the business community on April 28 to address their concerns, making it easier for them to operate and benefit from economic recovery. Four Deputy Prime Ministers and nine ministers will also attend the dialogue. In a report prepared by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce Industry (VCCI), businesses have made more than 300 recommendations concerning the business environment, enterprise restructuring, capital accessibility, land, administrative procedures, and labour relations. As many as 224,200 businesses were licensed to begin operations between 2011 and 2013, making up nearly 41% of the total number of newly-established businesses from 1991 to 2010. In the first quarter of 2014, more than 18,000 businesses were established with a combined registered capitalisation of VND98 trillion, up 17% in number and 23% in capital compared with the same period of the previous year. However, nearly 17,000 businesses were dissolved or suspended operations in the reviewed period, a year-on-year increase of 9.6%. In its report, VCCI has examined difficulties facing the business community and proposed viable solutions. VCCI president Vu Tien Loc revealed that a number of proposals are directly associated with adjustments to laws on business and investment which are being tabled for discussion. Loc said developing the private business sector is considered the driving force in fuelling economic growth. However, businesses, especially small and medium-sized, are encountering difficulty in accessing development resources, including capital, market, and lack of incentives from the government. Before 2006 the dialogue between the Prime Minister and businesses had been held annually and become an important forum on the business and investment environment. Realising the importance of the business community in national economy, the Party’s Political Bureau issued a resolution in late 2011 on building and bringing into full play the role of Vietnamese entrepreneurs in the process of national industrialisation and modernisation, as well as international integration. Seminar helps boost Vietnam-Belarus ties A seminar focusing on how to promote trade, investment, tourism and labour cooperation between Vietnamese Ambassador to Belarus Do Van Mai said that the two countries are making efforts to raise their two-way trade and investment, as well as expand connections in industry, credit and export assistance. In addition to tourism and trade ties, labour export has emerged as a new potential field that attracts attention of both sides’ businesses. Hoang Kim Ngoc, deputy head of the Overseas Labour Management Department under the Ministry of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs, suggested Vietnamese companies recruit and train workers carefully in order to gain a firm foothold in the Belarusian labour market. Meanwhile, Belarusian Ambassador to Vietnam Valery Sadokho noted that the two sides are enjoying stable development in terms of economic relations, with current two-way trade reaching nearly US$200 million. He said The seminar also offered a chance for the two countries’ businesses to meet and seek partners towards raising their trade turnover to US$500 million by 2015. Difficulties facing 2014’s economic growth target The National Assembly (NA) Committee for Economic Affairs has predicted that According to the Committee, this year’s GDP will gradually recover by up to 5.98 % in 2015, based on comparable prices of 2010. Meanwhile, since the end of last year, the Vietnamese Government announced a 5.8% GDP growth target in 2014. Although the impact of short-term economic growth is still bound, there have been some positive changes, not only in improved credit growth for the economy but also high credit quality and investment efficiency. Looking at this year’s economic outlook, the committee said the economy in general and trade in particular will have more opportunities as opposed to difficulties and challenges. Remarkably, after a long period of fluctuations between macroeconomic instability and economic downturn, the economy has become more stable due to the Government’s great efforts and international facilitation. However, export products, especially those from intensive labour or investment from foreign-invested sectors in the region based on static comparative advantage, have not yet contributed to creating dynamic comparative advantage (the elements of quality, generating higher added value from technology and a higher quality workforce). More importantly, continual increased pressure of the international integration process on In addition, the Government should promote technological transfer from FDI enterprises to domestic firms and improve employee skills. "The lesson after 7 years of Rise in The property market has begun to show positive signs, with a recent increase in capital inflows. Construction Minister Trinh Dinh Dung reported that by mid-April, the number of transactions in the real estate market in Meanwhile, the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) said that by the end of March, investment credit and real estate business increased by 3.95%, much higher than last years’ figure of 1.09%, for the first quarter. Foreign capital inflows into According to the Foreign Investment Agency, up until April 20, 2014, the property market ranked second in attracting FDI with additionally increased and newly-registered capital hitting US$392.3 million, accounting for 8.1% of total investment. In particular, an apartment project in Earlier, in the first quarter of the year, the real estate market also ranked second in attracting FDI with additionally increased and newly-registered capital reaching US$288.3 million, making up 8.6% of total investment. Vice Secretary of the municipal Party Committee and Chairwoman of the City People’s Council Nguyen Thi Quyet Tam made the remarks at the April 26 reception for Vice Secretary of the Party Committee of China’s Yunnan province Qiu He, who is on a working visit to Vietnam. The visit, which aims to strengthen cooperation with Vietnamese localities, falls on the local celebrations of the 39th anniversary of The host highlighted the long-standing relations and mutual understanding between the two Parties and people, which have been furthered through regular high-level exchanges. She said the city is always keen on developing wide-ranging cooperation with other countries, including Both the City and He suggested more bilateral exchanges in the fields of mutual interests in the time ahead. He also invited the municipal leaders to attend the 22nd Kunming Trade Fair which is slated for June in the province. Can Tho hosts Roughly 400 Vietnamese businesses are showcasing their Made in The week-long event is part of the festivities celebrating the 39th anniversary of southern liberation and national reunification (April 30) May Day (May 1). This year’s event themed “Mekong Delta exports”, aims to provide domestic businesses with a good avenue to display a host of products, such as furniture, handicrafts, garment and textiles, leather and footwear, as well as local specialties. Nguyen Thi Kim Len, Head of a business delegation from Central Highland Dak Lak province, said this is the first time she is participating in the event as part of a bid to advertise her products and expand consumer market. “Mekong Expo 2014 is a great venue for both domestic and foreign businesses. The newly-established Dak Nong province is seeking consumers for its local products and services,” she added. Farm exports hit nearly US$9.7 billion Farm exports jumped 13.8% from a year earlier to US$9.69 billion in the first four months of 2014, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD). The Ministry’s latest report showed that in April alone, export value from farm produce was estimated at US$2.63 billion. Key agricultural export items reaped approximately US$4.74 billion, up 5.8%, including US$2.22 billion from aquatic products (up 31.2%), and US$2 billion from the forestry sector (up 20.4%). Among high hard-currency earners were rice, coffee, rubber, tea, cashew nuts, and cassava. The Japan keen on urban projects in Binh Duong Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Kotaro Nogami, and other Japanese officials worked with leaders of southern Binh Duong province on April 26, focusing on urban development projects. Mai Hung Dung, Director of the Binh Duong Department for Planning and Investment, highlighted the province’s impressive GDP growth and spoke about the numerous investment opportunities in the region. Since the beginning of this year, Binh Duong has attracted additional US$823 million in foreign direct investment (FDI). As a result, about US$19.6 billion have been injected in 2,200 FDI projects, with about 219 Japanese-funded projects totaling US$4.68 billion, he said. Dung cited Tokyu - Becamex group (US$1.2 billion) as one of big Japanese investors in the locality. Binh Duong has become an attractive investment destination thanks to its incentive policies and simplified administrative procedures. It is calling for investors in such fields as high technology, services, health care, education, and infrastructure development, he added. Binh Duong provincial People’s Committee Chairman Le Thanh Cung affirmed that his province always considers Cung asked Vice Minister Kotaro Nogami to grant further official development assistance (ODA) to Binh Duong-HCM City- Dong Nai subway construction project. Nogami also called for Binh Duong to create the best possible conditions for Japanese investors, adding that Japanese businesses are expected to engage in a waste water treatment project in Binh Duong. Tea sector coordinating committee taking shape The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) should establish a coordinating committee to provide effective oversight of sustainable development for the tea sector. Representatives from Unilever Group of the Addressing the event, Flovio Corsin, a representative from the Sustainable Trade Initiative (IDH) said that the Vietnamese tea sector has not been restructured satisfactorily and it is ripe with defects. The quality of tea products remains substandard and factories are experiencing an inordinately high level of production inefficiencies, Corsin said. Additionally, tea growers have not fully coordinating their production activities and many are fully unaware of the benefits of producing tea sustainably and, most significantly, the need to use agricultural chemicals sparingly and responsibly, he continued. Sharing the viewpoint, the MARD Cultivation Department Head Pham Dong Quang in turn said that the tea sector has revealed far too many shortcomings in scale, breeds, output and quality, leading to export products with low value. At present, the price of Vietnamese export tea are at the lowest levels among the world’s ten leading tea exporters, Quang said. For his part, MARD Minister Cao Duc Phat urged businesses to expand cooperation among relevant units in the sector by setting up a coordinating committee in the immediate future, tightening control over processing establishments and issuing regulations to punish violators. Minister Phat emphasized that the overall objective of the committee is to reach a consensus on the strategy for development of the tea sector, focusing on providing farmers with technical guidelines to develop the tea sector sustainably and meet the standards of the international marketplace. Construction on Int’l Danang A groundbreaking ceremony, officially signaling the start of construction on the first phase of the Danang Marina Complex, was held on April 26. The international complex, which includes plans for a wharf, underwater sports club along with a visitors dock and anchorage, has a total investment of over VND203 billion for the first phase. The complex is being erected on an area of the city covering more than 56.766 sq.m, situated along the eastern side of the The project, the most modern complex of its kind in Danang municipal People’s Committee Vice Chairman Nguyen Ngoc Tuan, said that the city plans to make the complex the centerpiece of its bid to develop a service-oriented economy with a focus on the tourism industry. We have high expectations that the Da Nang Marina will greatly facilitate transport activities and attract more tourists to the city, Tuan said. Thailand opens first department store in Hanoi The store occupies 10,000 sq.m of space on B1 floor of It is divided into nine areas displaying apparel for children, men and women, sportswear, cosmetics, footwear, a variety of backpacks and handbags, and household appliances. Alan Thomsom, President of the Robinson Department Store Public company, who is overseeing its operations, said it is the first time the store has moved outside its home country. Throughout this April, shoppers will have chances to enjoy discounts of up to 50 percent and receive promotional gifts. They can also apply for membership cards. Ministry proposes ways to improve export competitiveness According to the Agency of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnamese exports still show some limitations which must be surmounted for them to become more competitive. A report by the ministry's Vietnam Economic News. In 2013, H owever, Vietnamese exports remain low-grade in terms of technological content and added value. Most agricultural products and minerals are exported in their raw or preliminarily processed forms, so their export value remains low. Many key exports are produced on the basis of orders from foreign companies, making domestic businesses dependent on imported materials. Although the export of processing industry-related products has strongly increased, these mostly include labour-intensive ones while the percentage of products made with support of high technology remains limited. V ietnamese exports have rapidly grown but are vulnerable to external changes, especially price changes and new trade barriers from importing countries. This can be attributed to limited ability among domestic businesses to forecast changes in the world market as well as their weak adaptability and capability to cope with trade barriers. V ietnam remains slow in developing support industries and so the production of exports still depends on material imports. Price rises in the world market will increase domestic production costs, thus reducing the competitiveness of Vietnamese exports. Due to these limitations, Vietnamese exports have to fiercely compete with foreign products, especially those from other emerging economies which are striving to improve their positions in export value chains while According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, it is necessary to improve the competitiveness of Vietnamese exports. To do this, new, appropriate production, trade (market), investment and financial policies must be put in place. At the same time, it is necessary to set advanced technological standards and tighten supervision to ensure that Vietnamese exports meet these standards - this will improve the competitiveness of Vietnamese exports in terms of quality and their added value in either short or long term. Regarding production development, it is necessary to promote technological innovation in making products of high export value such as engineered products, wood products, textiles and garments, leather and footwear in order to increase productivity and improve quality; and develop products which are of great export potential and high added value such as construction materials, petrochemical products, rubber and hi-tech products. It also a need to encourage investment in support industries to meet domestic demand and get Vietnamese businesses involved in global supply chains in fields such as mechanical manufacturing, electronics, information technology, auto components, textiles and garments, leather and footwear, and hi-tech products; while setting standards for export agricultural, forest and aquatic products. On trade policies, it is necessary to intensify commodity marketing and distribution activities; negotiate and sign agreements on mutual recognition of product quality, facilitating the circulation of export goods; forecast changes in the commodity markets, laws, policies and trading customs of importing countries to assist domestic businesses in export activities. In addition, it is necessary to concentrate on trade promotion activities targeted at new export products with competitive advantages; build and protect brands for potential export products in major markets; encourage overseas Vietnamese to distribute Vietnamese goods in importing countries; accelerate the construction of trade-related infrastructure in border-crossing areas to boost cross-border trade; and seek updated information about the markets, policies and cross-border trade policies of neighboring countries. On financial, credit and investment policies, it is necessary to intensify the attraction of investment into export activities; encourage multinational groups and large international businesses to invest in Vietnamese support industries through technology transfers and assistance in the development of highly qualified human resources; and provide loans on a timely basis for businesses which make products for export, giving a priority to small- and medium-sized businesses. It is a call to implement flexible monetary and foreign exchange rate management policies to encourage export; develop storage and transportation-related infrastructure and diversify sources of investment in logistics services; and intensify human resources training and development. Two decades of North-South power line reviewed The Electricity of Vietnam’s National Power Transmission Corporation (EVNNPT) on April 25 held a conference in the central city of Chairman of the Vietnam Power Association Tran Viet Ngai said the line’s Circuit 1, stretching nearly 1,500 km from the That was the first time Prof. Tran Dinh Long said the project marks a milestone in In the past two decades, both circuits of the line have transmitted more than 12 billion kWh per year. At the event, EVNNPT Deputy General Director Tran Quoc Lam said the firm is working hard to put into use the Pleiku-My Phuoc-Cau Bong 500kV line, which is deemed as the third circuit of the North-South 500kV line. State-owned groups discuss road to reform Increasing the efficiency of State-owned corporations has long been recognised as vital to For five years, State groups have been implementing a resolution reached during the Party Central Committee’s sixth plenum, which targets the perfection of a socialist-oriented market economy mechanism. During the meeting, participants discussed the role of the public sector in building the economy, and debated how they can best achieve success in line with socialist principles. They exchanged feedback about the difficulties they have faced in their attempts to improve management, including the difficulties in accessing State funding and implementing equitisation. State-owned groups and corporations in Source: VEF/VNA/VNS/VOV/SGT/SGGP/Dantri/VIR |
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Article 12
Social News Headlines 29/4 Bridge wiped away, hamlet isolated The Chu Va 6 Bridge was wiped away on Sunday by floodwaters, turning Chu Va 6 hamlet into an island. The hamlet is located in Son Binh Commune, Tam Duong District, Bui Quang Vinh, deputy chairman of Tam Duong District People's Committee, said a delegation was sent to the site and officials were building a temporary bridge. The bridge, which cost more than VND100 million (US$ 4,500), was built to connect Chu Va 6 and Chu Va 8 hamlets following the collapse of the original Chu Va 6 Bridge, which killed eight people in February. Nobel laureate Louis Ignarro comes to Vietnam  American pharmacologist Louis J.Ignarro, who was co-recipient of the 1998 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, attended a seminar on Nitric Oxide’s role in cardiovascular treatment, held in He delivered a keynote speech at the event that attracted more than 300 medical experts, doctors and leading pharmacists in cardiovascular disease. Louis J.Ignarro is professor of pharmacology at the UCLA School of Medicine's department of molecular and medical pharmacology in Over the past 50 years Ignarro has made a substantial contribution to healthcare development, especially in treating cardiovascular illnesses such as idiopathic hypertension, stroke, coronary artery disease, and vascular complications of diabetes. He was the first Nobel laureate in medicine travelling to Three students drown in dam reservoir Three students drowned on Saturday in a dam in Loc Thanh Commune, Loc Ninh District, According to police reports, the seventh-graders were playing in two canoes, which were suddenly submerged. Rescuers could not come in time. One dead as scaffold falls in Quang Ninh One worker died and another was injured when a scaffold collapsed during preparations for the Ha Long Carnival. Around 10,000 people are expected to attend the eighth annual carnival, which is usually held during the Reunification Day and Labour Day holiday (April 30-May 1). 33 provinces report no new measles cases The Ministry of Health on April 27 reported that no new measles cases have arisen in 33 provinces for the past few days, while new cases are on the decline nationwide. The However, children, who are under nine months old are easily susceptible to contracting the virus, especially if they have not been inoculated with the measles vaccine. According to the Ministry of Health, 32 new measles cases were detected on April 27, bringing the total recorded infected cases to 3,716 since the beginning of the year. The expanded vaccination against measles campaign has been undertaken across the country, helping raise the immunization rate among children to 78% (April 27 statistics). The ministry also said measles vaccination will be compulsory for children under 10 years old in 11 provinces and cities that have a high incidence of infections, including Children aged 2-10 that have not received two shots as required will be subject to free vaccination from May to July 2014. The ministry has warned measles is likely to break out again during the upcoming five-day holiday, beginning on April 30, if preventive measures are not fully observed. People showing pneumonia or measles symptoms such as high temperatures, coughing, and breathing difficulty are advised not to go on a holiday or go to entertainment centres. Unvaccinated children are required to maintain personel hygiene and not to travel to recreational centres. Southern region faces power shortage The southern region is facing the threat of a power shortage during the dry season as construction of power plants is behind schedule. The demand by the region between March and June will increase by 15% against recent figures, according to the Electricity of Vietnam (EVN). The south has to rely on supply from the central and northern regions. The power transmission lines in provinces like Binh Duong, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Dong Nai and Long An are overloaded. Meanwhile, construction has been slow on many 220 kV power lines and transmission stations such as Nhon Trach, Phu My 2, Vung Tau, My Xuan, Tay Ninh, Ham Tan and Duc Hoa. In recent years, the demand for electricity for the aquaculture and fruit cultivation sectors has increased significantly. The consumption of power in the delta's coastal provinces of Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, Soc Trang, Bac Lieu and Ca Mau in 2012, for example, rose by 50% against 2011. In 2013, it increased by 49.6% against 2012. The investment in new power projects cannot keep up with demand, according to the EVN. To ensure supply, the group has told the Southern Power Corporation to work with provinces to find capital to invest in power line projects that serve businesses' production. Companies and local residents have also been asked to use power efficiently. Last month, the corporation put into operation Turbine 1 of Vinh Tan 2 Thermopower Plant and Turbine 2 of Haiphong 2 Thermopower Plant. It also put into use 48 projects with 500kV, 220kV and 110kV transmission lines that have a total length of 705 km. The EVN has also asked the National Power Transmission Corporation to ensure the operation of a high-voltage transmission line system and complete construction on key power projects by the end of this month. The EVN also said that it had been operating gas-fuelled turbines at full capacity. Several hydropower plants, including Dong Nai and Australian-funded project benefits orphans in Orphan and HIV/AIDS children under care at With a total capital of VND389 million (US$18,200) funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and donations from Hanoi-based organizations, the project equips the pagoda with a well-water filter system, furniture, computers and learning tools for its library. The project will help the children have good health and the best learning conditions, facilitating their integration into the community. Bo De pagoda is taking care of 260 orphans, including more than 10 HIV-infected children. Vietnam-Laos border marker planting under review The 14th meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Working Group on Border Marker Planting is taking place in Both sides reviewed the remaining work of the project to expand and upgrade the border marker system along the shared boundary and devised concrete solutions to complete the work within this year. They continued to examine topographic maps at a scale of 1/10.000 for 16 border gates for completed take over in the time ahead. The two sides also discussed a new draft agreement on regulations on management of Vietnam-Laos border as well as activities to inaugurate and upgrade La Lay into an international border gate in the future. Danang enhances int’l technological application More than 100 professors and researchers from The event was co-organised by Phung Tan Viet, Vice Chairman of Danang municipal People’s Committee highlighted the event’s importance in expanding cooperation, exchanging information among cities and universities around the world, helping fulfill the city’s goals of training and developing high quality human resources. During the event, delegates shared information on the latest researches such as wireless telecommunications, video images transmission, robots, telecomunications networks and wireless sensors. Reports from the The event also offered an opportunity for those with concerns to approach strategic researches in the field of computing, management and telecoms and other related issues. Sugar company fined for polluting environment Authorities of the central The Viet Nam-Taiwan Sugar Company in Thach Thanh District was discharging untreated wastewater into a canal and contaminated smoke into the air. Test results from the provincial Department of Natural Resources and Environment showed that the company released untreated wastewater into a nearby canal running through the San village. The test also revealed the company discharged contaminated smoke into the air to the extent of nearly 27,000cu.m of smoke per hour. Test revealed that the smoke contained Carbon Monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless and poisonous gas, at 3.64 times higher concentration than the allowed level. Many local people complained that wastewater discharged from the company affected their living and business conditions. However, at a working session with the local residents and authorities last Thursday, the company's Deputy Director General, Tran Khanh Duong, continued to deny that his company caused environmental pollution. Apart from the administrative fine, the provincial authorities also asked the company to put in place measures to deal with the pollution within 40 days. "If the company failed to tackle the pollution, the district authorities will propose to the provincial People's Committee to suspend the company's operation," Chairman of the district's People's Committee Le Van Trinh told Lao Dong (Labour) newspaper. Fatherland Front works with Red Cross The Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) will work with the Vietnam Red Cross on a humanitarian cooperation programme, its leader Nguyen Thien Nhan confirmed during his working session with the Red Cross in The VFF will begin working on the programme in June, confirmed Nhan, who is both President of the Front and a Politburo member. In 2014, the Red Cross will establish more chapters in remote, rural and island areas and enhance the efficiency of its humanitarian activities, Chairman of the Vietnam Red Cross Nguyen Hai Duong said. He proposed that the State designate May as a month for humanitarian activities to encourage the public to perform good deeds for underprivileged people. President Nhan commended the organisation on its proactive approach in supporting poor and disaster-hit people in 2013. The Red Cross has been playing an active part in realising social welfare policies across the country, he said. The Front will encourage its members to take part in Red Cross-initiated activities to mitigate natural disaster consequences, Nhan pledged. KOTRA presents 5,000 story books to children The Korea Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) has presented 5,000 story books for kids to Vietnam, aiming to help the children learn more about culture and history of the two countries. The books feature some legends of the The gifts, received by the Ministry of Education and Training, the People’s Committees of the General Director of the KOTRA Hanoi Korea Business Center (KBC) Lee Kyu-seon said the story book project helps enhance the cultural exchanges between the two countries as well as further tighten the bilateral ties in general. The move is part of corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities the RoK side has been carrying out in the country. In 2012, a programme highlighting contributions of the RoK companies to CSR activities in Vinh Phuc received US$125,000 donated by 11 RoK-invested businesses operating in the province and Last year, RoK companies presented several social facilities valued US$204,000 total to Hai Duong province. Vigilance for measles must be maintained Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee Pham Quang Nghi has urged the city’s doctors and nurses to maintain their constant vigilance for measles despite a decline in its new cases, describing the work a fight. Visiting the Thirty-seven cases of measles and two fatalities were recorded in 25 out of the country’s 63 provinces and cities on the day, said the Health Ministry’s Preventive Health Department. The According to the department, vaccination coverage across the country is on the rise, reaching 76.2 percent by the day. Four provinces having measles vaccination coverage below 50 percent are in the Health experts continue to fan out to examine preventive measures in In the meantime, the Health Ministry is working on a plan on giving supplementary measles shots for children aged from two to ten in localities recording a high number of infections. It is also intensifying the publicity of preventive measures in society. Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Le Thanh Hai has asked forces to intensify measures against the trafficking of drugs into the country through the city’s airports and ports. Police raid on drugs hotspots should be staged regularly, Hai said, stressing that the fight against drugs is a regular, urgent, continuous and long-term task. He made the remarks at an April 26 conference reviewing five years of implementing the Politburo’s decree on strengthening the leadership in drug prevention and control. At the event, Minister of Public Security General Tran Dai Quang, said that municipal authorities should strictly follow resolutions and policies of the Party, the National Assembly, and the Government on drug prevention and control in order to make the fight successful. The Minister, who is also standing deputy head of the steering committee for crime and social evil prevention, also asked the city to speed up the publicity of the work and increase the capacity of relevant agencies. City forces have brought to light 8,034 cases relating to the illegal use and smuggling of drugs over the past five years. These cases involved the arrest of 16,140 offenders and the seizure 123 kg of heroin. Vietnamese makes Forbes most powerful women list The 2014 Forbes Power Businesswomen list cites Rita Nguyen, a Vietnamese-Canadian, as having risen to the top of her profession and one of the top 12 most powerful women in Rita Nguyen a young 37-year-old entrepreneur is the co-founder and CEO of Squar, a Burmese-language social network. Born in Ben Tre province, Rita Nguyen moved to After graduating from the university, she worked in the field of information technology at Electronic Arts (EA) company in the She returned to Rita Nguyen said that Despite the huge popularity of Facebook, Rita Nguyen is adamant that Squar will find its own niche, tapping into the same market as Facebook. Vietnam Culture Day opened in The event aims to introduce visitors to traditional Vietnamese customs and the cultural activities of the Vietnamese community in the After the opening speech by the Director of the Collection of Asian Arts, Markéta Hanová, Vietnamese ambassador to the Czech Republic Truong Manh Son thanked the national collector of Son emphasised that the significant cultural event has contributed to developing traditional friendship and all-around cooperation between the two nations. He said that the two-week long event helped the Vietnamese community integrate further into the resident country, adding that the Vietnamese embassy plans to organise more activities, in Vietnam Culture Year in the Mangrove forest protects residents Hundreds of local households near the Ru Cha mangrove forest in central Ru Cha is a mangrove forest located along the Tam Giang lagoon in the province's Huong Phong Commune. It is also a protection forest, home to different types of aquatic species, a breeding ground for migratory birds and a potential destination for ecological tourism. The project, which is aimed at raising awareness of the local authorities and residents of mangrove forest and also conserving biodiversity in the lagoon areas, was jointly sponsored and implemented by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Microsoft. It was designed to help the area and its residents adapt to climate change by following measures such as protecting transport roads and dykes, and building environmentally-friendly aquaculture ponds, the WWF said. Dang Duy Manh, a local farmer living in the Huong Phong Commune, said that every year during rainy season, the dykes and other infrastructure systems were damaged by storms. He had to spend a lot of money to reinforce dykes to protect his aquaculture pond, he said. "Since about 1,000 mangrove trees were planted around my aquaculture ponds over the past two years under the project, I saved hundreds of millions of dong each year," he added. Pham Ngoc Dung, head of the Economics Office of the provincial People's Council, said that the mangrove area of Ru Cha was known as an important breeding ground for aquatic organism and a barrier against storms. However, this area had been seriously reduced in recent years, and was estimated to be only 4.65 ha, he said. The project, aimed at increasing the forested mangrove area up to 20 ha, had a positive effect on the surrounding environment and yielded economic benefits, he said. According to the WWF, the reduction of the Ru Cha area has led to a decline in biodiversity, degradation of aquatic resources and fewer migratory birds. The decline has also made the region more vulnerable to damaging impacts of climate change because the land here is in the low terrain and located near the Thuan An estuary and Tam Giang lagoon. Every year, during floods season, sea water intrudes into this land, causing erosion, bringing down houses and damaging crops and aquaculture ponds. Van Ngoc Thinh, WWF Viet Nam Country Director, said that the WWF and Microsoft shared a vision to reduce vulnerabilities and build resilience to counter the impacts of climate change in "We believe that this partnership is an excellent example of how business can step up and help support national efforts in addressing challenges in an area," he said. Old hydrofoils may be scrapped The Transport Ministry has asked Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung to continue the suspension of hydrofoils between The move was made after safety inspections between February 27 and March 22 revealed a total of 258 faults on eight of the 10 vessels. This included technical faults in the cockpits, cabins and engines. Minister Dinh La Thang said the faults posed a high risk of accidents, including fires, due to shortcomings in the vessels' engine and power systems. He said the problems could only be temporarily fixed as most of the vessels had been operating for more than 20 years and had been repaired many times. In January this year, a hydrofoil burst into flames while carrying 85 passengers from Thang proposed the Government issue a decree banning the use of high-speed tourist vessels after 20 years' use. In an earlier move to ensure passenger safety, the transport ministry has also suspended the operation of all hydrofoils operating on one motor. Immunisation week seeks to allay vaccination fears The Ministry of Health launched the second World Immunisation Week (April 24-30), an initiative of World Health Organisation, at a ceremony in Tran Dac Phu, director of the ministry's Preventive Medicine Department, called for stronger commitment and active involvement of the whole political system, leadership of provinces and cities as well as the larger community in ensuring success of the National Expanded Immunisation Programme (EPI). He said all localities should improve their communication towards strengthening parents' belief in immunisation and thus increase the rate of vaccinations in the country. Health experts said at the meeting that some adverse reactions relating to hepatitis B vaccine had worried parents and decreased the vaccination rate. On the other hand, the decrease in vaccination rate had been blamed for the recent occurrence of measles outbreaks in many localities, they noted. The Immunisation Week aims to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease. It also aims to raise public awareness of the importance of vaccinations for shielding children from diseases during the first stage of their lives. During this week, people will be provided with information about vaccines available to protect them against diseases, encouraged to check their own vaccination status and that of their family members and how to get vaccines they need from their local health practitioner. According to the WHO, immunisation prevents an estimated 2-3 million deaths every year, but one in five children still misses out on this safeguard. More than 100 professors and researchers from 17 countries worldwide on April 27 gathered at the second International Conference on Computing, Management and Telecommunications (ComManTel 2014) in the central city of The event, to last until April 29, is being co-organised by Da Nang-based A total of 53 reports will be presented at the conference, focusing on new and applicable research projects such as wireless telecommunications, robots, sensor networks and cloud computing applications. Many of the authors come from world-renowned universities such as Queen’s University ( Addressing the event, Vice Chairman of the The conference also significantly contributes to Source: VNN/VNA/VNS/VOV/ND |
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Article 11
How caviar is produced in Vietnam To get good quality caviar, sturgeons are raised in a warm and clean environment for about 10 years. When the fish are old enough, they are taken from the breeding areas for ultrasound scans before their eggs are taken. The entire egg collection and classification process must be performed by hand to ensure absolute accuracy and not miss any eggs. After harvesting the eggs, the fish are cleaned and frozen to sell to restaurants or to be used for processing smoked sturgeon. Prices for commercial sturgeon meat (males or females not used for eggs) range from VND200,000 to VND270,000 ($10-12) per kilo. The meat of sturgeons from which eggs were harvested is somewhat more valuable, at VND250,000 - VND300,000 ($12-15) per kilo. After the pre-processing stage, eggs are marinated in salt imported from France in order to remain fresh and have a pure taste. Boxes containing caviar are made of gold-plated tin. Some pictures on caviar processing:
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Sturgeons are raised for 10 years before they yield eggs. The average weight of these fish is up to tens of kilos. Each fish yields eggs equivalent to about 10-15 percent of its weight.
Eggs are removed from the stomach of the fish before the fish is frozen to sell to restaurants.
The egg follicles are rolled on a net sheet. The technician lightly rubs [the sheet?] and caviar falls into the pot underneath.
Eggs are then washed with water.
The salt is imported from France, with a price of VND900,000 ($45) per kilo.
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Article 10
Vinalines ex-boss trial continues on dramatic dayThe appeal hearing for Duong Chi Dung, former Chairman of the The accused were questioned in detail about violations they allegedly committed. Meanwhile, several additional witnesses, including a representative from the Vietnam Maritime Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Maritime Bank) and former Vinalines Deputy General Director Bui Van Trung, were subpoenaed to clarify some details that arose in the testimonies of the accused and in new documents presented by lawyers. The defendants have pleaded guilty of some charges in the previous days. At the trial, the jury has reread the statements outlining their version of events to shed light on a contradiction between some evidence and the testimony of former Vinalines Ship Repair Company Director Tran Hai Son regarding the acquisition of US$1.666 million. Documents have come to light verifying that Son withdrew the sum together with a written reply from Maritime Bank acknowledging his depositing and withdrawal using an ID card. The Maritime Bank representative was asked to clarify why the bank’s written reply does not align with the verification documents. Prosecutors came up with new documents supplied by the Russian side, which were announced by the jury and then sent to the lawyers at their request. The Hanoi People’s Court on December 16, 2013 sentenced Dung and former Vinalines General Director Mai Van Phuc to death for embezzlement. Their violations of State regulations on economic management were met with 18-year jail sentences. Eight other defendants from Vinalines, the Vietnam Registry and Van Phong Customs Office in the central According to the indictment issued at the court, during 2007-2008, Dung and his fellow defendants violated regulations on investment, bidding and customs procedures for import and export. The malpractice caused losses of US$17.2 million to the State budget. VNA/VOV online |
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Article 9
Japanese investors eye Vietnam stock market, SOE privatization  Japanese investors attend a conference in The Finance Ministry announced Saturday that many Japanese investors showed interest in the Vietnamese stock market and state-owned enterprises during a recent conference in “Many Japanese investors showed eagerness at the new investment opportunities in The meeting was held Friday by Nearly 100 Japanese investors from financial services company SBI (Strategic Business Innovator Group), the Sumitomo trading company, Mitsubishi, Mizuho financial group and financial services firm J.P. Morgan participated in bilateral discussions with Vietnamese agents on the stock market's foreign invesment policies and opportunities to privatize Vietnamese state firms. A Thoi bao Kinh te Saigon (Saigon Times) online report cited Pham Viet Muon, deputy spokesperson from the government office, as saying that Finance minister Dinh Tien Dung said “In restructuring the stock market, The country’s trade revenues in 2013 reached $25.3 billion, including a $2 billion trade surplus from Most Japanese financial groups have a presence in |
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Article 8
Foreign players dominate  A Circle K convenience store is seen on It took Singaporean-owned Shop&Go convenience store chain less than a decade since its arrival in The operator of 103 corner stores across Corner shops operated by many other international retailers have mushroomed in Texas-based Circle K debuted in Family Mart from The Japanese chain officials have also revealed that they will expand into neighboring provinces like Dong Nai and Binh Duong, and even the capital city of Another player, Big C Express, operated by French mass retailer Groupe Casino, has also been expanding gradually in the southern city. Meanwhile, Saigon Co.op locally famous for its Co.op supermarket chain has opened 72 Co.op Food corner stores in HCMC since the inauguration of the first outlet in 2009. Satrafood, run by Saigon Trading Group, merely has 32 stores across HCMC, where its operator is headquartered. With new convenience outlets mushrooming, there are several streets in HCMC where three stores of different chains are located, fostering the fierce competition among the operators. Shifting behavior The corner store operators would not have been so eager to dominate the market if it had not been for a shift in the shopping behavior of Vietnamese consumers, especially women who have to cook after a busy, tiring day at work, according to industry insiders. “Everything I need is available at the corner shop,” Hai Yen, who teaches at a high school in District 1, told Tuoi Tre after her shopping at a Big C Express store in Tan Binh District. Yen said she would stop by a convenience store, instead of a supermarket, whenever she left work late as it helps save her time. “Just do a quick shopping and I’ll be at home on time,” she said. The teacher bought a wide variety of goods from the corner store, from ingredients to cook her dinner to essentials for her kid to go on a sightseeing tour the following day, without losing time parking her motorbike and queuing at the busy checkouts in supermarkets. A common strategy for the corner shop chain operators is to increase their presence and familiarize consumers with shopping at convenience stores. The companies may suffer losses during this period, but they will begin to rake in profits after five to ten years, according to Yamashita Junichi, general director of Family Mart Once the shopping behavior has changed, the operators will be able to reap profits, he said. A Vietnamese retailer expert also said the priority of the foreign corner store operators is to expand their network. “With deep pockets, the foreign companies constantly add new outlets at the prime locations throughout the southern city,” the expert told Tuoi Tre, wishing to remain anonymous. “When this target is reached, they will begin to dominate this ripe market.” Tuoitrenews |
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Article 7
Purchasing power drops back
HA NOI (VNS) - Consumer spending touched VND939.6 trillion (US$44 billion ) in the first four months of the year, posting a 10.5 per cent year-on-year increase, the General Statistics Office (GSO) announced yesterday. In April, the consumer spending rose a low 2.4 per cent over the previous month and 11.2 per cent year over year. The increase, excluding the price factor, was 5.5 per cent year over year. However, the real purchasing power in the period was similar to the corresponding period last year. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in the January-April period was 0.88 per cent. This has been also the lowest consumer spending level since the second quarter of 2011. GSO economist Vu Manh Ha said the 5.5 per cent rise was calculated by taking into account the expected high consumer spending during the upcoming holidays. The service tourism sector posted a 25.6 per cent increase, while the other sectors rose 24.4 per cent. Ha said the purchasing power has been on the decline in the four-month period. The consumer spending rate in the first months of the year was 7.2 per cent, falling to 6.2 per cent in the first two months and 6 per cent in the first three months. The total spending of the private sector, which accounted for 86 per cent of the total, rose 10 per cent in the period, while it was 14 per cent in the first quarter of the year. He added that this was because most of supermarkets and shops in the cities reported a low turnover. In addition, the inventory index in industrial production was high at 14 per cent during the four months, higher than 13.4 per cent of the previous month. - VNS |
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Article 6
Chinese ODA-funded project: MOC says it’s MOT’s fault The Ministry of Construction (MOC) has insisted that the investor, design consultant, project planner and EPC contractor must accept responsibility for the projected cost overruns of the Cat Linh-Ha Dong railway project.  The Cat Linh-Ha Dong railway project. MOC affirmed this in its document to the Government Office following Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai’s request to clarify responsibility for the sharp increase in the Chinese ODA-funded project’s estimates. The initial press release on the project said its total investment capital would be VND8.77 trillion, or $553 million, of which $419 million would be funded with Chinese preferential loans, with the remaining balance from the Vietnamese government. The Vietnam Railway Department would act as the investor of the project, and a Chinese company was chosen as the EPC (engineering, procurement, construction) contractor. However, MOT later announced that the price tag had ballooned to $891 million, or $338 million above the initial estimate. Dr Nguyen Dinh Tham from Hanoi Civil Engineering University affirmed that current laws do not allow for an adjustment of investment capital in projects. Citing the Construction Law, Tham said projects must be examined again from the very beginning if the newly proposed cost is more than 10 percent higher than the initial estimate. A lecturer of the “The adjustment can only be made for some special projects with the Prime Minister’s nod,” he said. According to Dr Pham Van Ky from the MOT, which has become the target of the public’s criticism, has gotten furious amid the comments. “When we do a good job, we never receive compliments. Meanwhile, people have kicked a fuss just because of this small problem,” said Nguyen Huu Thang, Head of the Railway Department. “MOT will decide upon disciplinary measures. At the most, officers and engineers involved in the case may have to resign from their posts,” Thang said. “However, the most important thing we have to do now is to speed up the project’s implementation”. When asked about his personal responsibility, Thang said that he would accept any disciplinary measure to be decided by the ministry, and that he has done the best he could. Prior to that, MOT’s Deputy Minister Nguyen Hong Truong said it is quite normal for the actual cost of projects to be higher than the initial estimates. “This has happened with most of the implemented projects,” Truong said. “Following Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai’s instructions, MOT will join forces with the Ministry of Finance to negotiate with the Chinese side for an additional loan,” Truong said. Dat Viet |
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Article 5
Political News Headlines 29/4 Ha Tinh urged to spotlight development Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong asked the central "The province should pay attention to providing vocational training for farmers, speeding up site clearance for economic and industrial zones and improving businesses' management capacity," he said while working with provincial authorities yesterday, April 28. The province needs to do more in the new-style rural building programme, as only seven of its communes meet the set criteria, he said. It also needs to take drastic measures to address poverty, he added. Trong urged Ha Tinh to focus on strengthening its Party line-up and political system and seriously implementing the Party Central Committee's resolutions. The province should define a concrete development orientation in order to ensure future prosperity, he said. According to Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Nguyen Thanh Binh, during the 2011-2013 period, Ha Tinh recorded average annual economic growth of 14.8 percent and a per capita income of VND24 million (US$1,140). Earlier, Trong paid tribute to the late Party General Secretaries Tran Phu and Ha Huy Tap in Tung Anh and Cam Hung communes. The same day, voters for National Assembly deputies in Loc Ha district met NA Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung to ask for more assistance in offshore fishing and rural development. They said local fishermen particularly needed support to buy fishing equipment and insurance. They also requested more incentives for local officials in charge of overseeing new-style rural development. The programme is in progress in 13 communes, with Thach Bang chosen as a model for this year. After three years, Thach Bang has met nine of the 19 national criteria for new productive rural communities. To meet all the requirements this year, it will come up with sustainable means to reduce poverty, including joint ventures with small and medium-sized enterprises. Hung hailed the district's success in building high-yield aquaculture areas and directed provincial authorities to help farmers with infrastructure, plant protection chemicals, marketing and epidemic control. He informed them that the NA's seventh session, opening in mid-May, will focus on putting the Constitution into practice. The legislature is improving its operations, in particular law-making and supervision, he said. That afternoon, Hung inspected the construction of several key buildings in Vung Ang economic zone in Ky Anh district, assuring investors that industrial and economic zones across the nation would soon be helped to clear procedural bottlenecks. Vietnam, UK work in agriculture, wildlife conservation The
He had a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai in The guest also informed that his Government provides about 70 billion VND (3.3 million USD) a year for He expected that Deputy PM Hai confirmed that the Vietnamese Government is improving the local investment environment for foreign investors, including those from the He noted that the two countries made their goal of obtaining 4 billion USD in two – way trade in 2013 and are nearing the target of increasing the He appreciated the country’s role and initiative in preserving the wildlife and fighting illegal trade of wild animals, voicing his hope for continued support and cooperation in this field. The Vietnamese Deputy PM suggested Lord De Mauley raise his voice to support VN hopes to forge stronger ties with The sentiment was voiced by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc while welcoming Mongolian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Damba Gankhuyag, in Ha Noi yesterday, who is on a working visit to Phuc called on the two countries' businesses to enhance their trade exchanges and investment in order to access new co-operation opportunities. In response, the Mongolian Deputy Foreign Minister expressed optimism that Vice President greets APF’s parliamentarians Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan on April 28 met with parliamentarians who gathered in
The Committee belongs to the Parliamentary Assembly of the International Francophone Organisation (OIF). She hailed the fruitful operation of OIF and its agencies in various fields, while thanking them for assistance to Doan noted that as a responsible member of the Francophone community, On behalf of the delegation, President of the Committee Robert Aubin spoke highly of He also shared the host’s view on the necessity of fostering the popularity of the French language through more effective measures. President visits southern military units President Truong Tan Sang visited military units in Visiting the Military Zone 7 High Command in However, he added that the unit faces challenges in preventing crimes and ensuring political stability and security in the country's economic hub. Given the current regional and international context, President Sang said the unit should anticipate factors that could cause conflict in order to plan prompt responses. He urged the zone to work with relevant localities to complete a border patrol route, thus protecting national border sovereignty. He also emphasised the need to take care of people living in border areas. Earlier, President Sang also inspected combat readiness in the city's Gia Dinh Regiment and Artillery Brigade 75 in neighbouring Dong Nai province. Sri Lanka unveils stamps honouring Ho Chi Minh A set of stamps honouring President Ho Chi Minh was unveiled at a ceremony in the capital Colombo of Sri Lanka on April 28, as part of activities to mark the 124th birthday of the late Vietnamese leader. Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador Ton Sinh Thanh said he believes the event will not only foster bilateral postal cooperation but also move forward well-rounded ties between the two peoples and business communities. Minister for Human Resources and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka Dew Gunasekara said President Ho Chi Minh is the second foreign leader, after Saint Mahatma Gandhi of Along with the construction of Ho Chi Minh monument in On the occasion, Minister of Posts J. Kumaranathunga announced that a set of 500,000 stamps portraying the Vietnamese leader will be introduced soon. Source: VNN/VOV/VNS/VNA |
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Article 4
Nearly 300 estate projects canceled for of lack of capital Of over 4,000 licensed housing development projects throughout the country, 287 have been canceled because the investors could not mobilize enough capital.  According to a report of the Ministry of Construction, there are 4,015 housing development projects in According to reports of 61 provinces and cities, 3,258 projects (representing 81%) are being implemented with a total area of 81,565 hectares. There are 455 projects with about 21,000 hectares must be adjusted to suit the construction planning, including 285 projects in Hanoi and 33 projects in HCM City. According to the Ministry of Construction, 470 projects have finished and 287 projects have been cancelled because the investors could not mobilize capital for further implementation. The ministry says that the property market has seen positive movement in 2013 and the first quarter of 2014, but the real estate has not recovered as much as expected. To strengthen the management of the real estate market, the ministry has proposed not granting licenses to any new commercial housing development and urban area projects in 2014, except for housing projects for poor and low income earners and to those who renovate the old apartments. In special cases, local governments must ask for the Ministry of Construction’s consideration and evaluation before being approved by the Prime Minister. S. Tung, |
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Article 3
Art & Entertainment News Headlines 29/4 Thang Long Royal Citadel archeological site handed over to The Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences held a ceremony on April 27 to hand over management authority of Zone D at the Thang Long Royal Citadel archeological site to Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee. Earlier, the Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee received the authority for Zone A, B and C of the vestige. With the handover of Zone D, the The handover is part of the Government’s commitment to UNESCO to preserve and promote Thang Long Royal Citadel, which was recognised by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage in 2010. Apart from the site space, the Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee also received 1,177 cubic metres of bricks, tiles and stone artifacts, as well as reports on outcomes of excavations at the site. Fine arts exhibition honors General Vo Nguyen Giap A fine arts exhibition on General Vo Nguyen Giap opened at Vietnam Military History Museum.in Hanoi on April 27. The display themed “General Vo Nguyen Giap through fine art works" presents to viewers photos shot by journalists Tran Hong and Nguyen Dinh Toan, oil paintings by Dang Xuan Hung, lacquer paintings by Nguyen Van Tuan, propaganda posters by Ha Huy Le, a portrait of General Giap made from 60,000 matches by artist Ngo Thi Thuc There is also a set of six objects, including a gold-plated copper bust of the General; a badge with the General's image; badges with image of the 60th Anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory , a cannon bullet shell carved with the image of the Dien Bien Phu battle, a gold-plated copper art work of General Vo Nguyen Giap and the Dien Bien Phu Victory, and a book titled “Heroes on A1 Hill” (the most famous battle of Dien Bien Phu site). One of the highlights is a statue mold by silicone rubber of General Vo Nguyen Giap. The event will run until May 10. Live link-up television program celebrates A live link-up television program marking the Dien Bien Phu Victory in 1954 was held at the Leaders of The event themed Nhung nam thang khong the nao quen (Unforgettable days) designed three parts, consisting of Memory of Dien Bien, From Dien Bien Phu to Ho Chi Minh City and Historical Rendezvous. The program was to tribute to martyrs and wounded soldiers. This is opportunity to meet with historical witnesses during wartime, such as colonels Nguyen Can, Hoang Dang Vinh, Nguyen Kim Sang and Nguyen Boi Giong, musician Nguyen The Vinh. The TV program also aimed to celebrate the 39th anniversary of the National Liberation Day (April 30) organized by Ho Chi Minh City Television and Dien Bien Province Television. 410 years of development in Quang Binh People’s Committee organized an exhibition “Quang Binh—410 years of converging & development” in Dong Hoi Museum of Quang Tri Province on April 26. The event attracted 33 tourism & service agencies, local organizations and state-owned companies. There are also thousands of photos highlighting Quang Binh’s army during the war. The exhibition of National radio broadcasting festival gives 18 golden prizes The three-day national radio broadcasting festival in Da Lat City of the highlands There were 271 entries sent to the festival with 189 best entries of reports, interviews, radio stories, live radio and talk shows selected for the final round. The organizer, Vietnam Radio Station and In addition, the organizer in coordination with other agencies gave prizes to entries with categories of workers, laborers in all fields, soldiers, good models in society, in education and in health sector. Book exhibition marks Nearly 1,000 Vietnamese and foreign books, magazines and documents related to the victory at Dien Bien Phu went on display at an exhibition in the northwestern The four-day event, organised to mark the 60th anniversary of the victory, highlights the leading role of the Communist Party of Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Minh Hong said that the event underlines the historical significance of the victory and the great sacrifice made by the Vietnamese people during the battle. French artist’s love for French artist Betty Clavel’s 27 abstract paintings on display at the “Duras, beyond the barrage” exhibition at HCMC University of Fine Arts show her profound love for Clavel is enamored with the charm of very rustic things such as conical hats, traditional markets, slippers, bicycles, kids or lanterns she has seen during her time in The collection of paintings was also inspired by the autobiographical book about the life of French writer Marguerite Duras, the French author of the novel ‘The Lover’. The exhibition marks the 100th anniversary of Duras’s birth (1914-2014). It runs until May 2 at the university, Model Mau Thuy returns to catwalk Mau Thanh Thuy (Mau Thuy), the winner of The 22-year-old model last week showed her radiant appearance at three events, including Fashion and Passion show, Early last month two robbers snatched her bag while she was traveling on The 1.78m-tall model said she feels much better. She has been in the modeling career for four years though she studied hotel reception. Old photos of Ha Photos of Ha Long Bay from the 19th century will be displayed for the first time this afternoon in downtown Ha Long City in the The collection, mostly taken by French experts between 1885 and 1950, belongs to Ha Noi-based retired history teacher Doan Thinh and his son, architect Doan Bac. There are about 150 photos of Ha Long Bay taken from airplanes, mountain peaks and boats as well as images of people living in the bay. "Early photos by French in The exhibition also features 100 bottles of Da Lat wine bearing photos from the collection, which will be auctioned to raise funds for needy children in the province. The exhibition is a key event in the annual Carnival Ha Long, which started on April 25 and lasts until May 1. Thinh and his son have gathered old photos from various regions for the past ten years. They displayed their collection of old Ha Noi in 2010, during the celebration of the1000th anniversary of Thang Long-Ha Noi. Art exhibition celebrates Vesak Day An exhibition of paintings and sculptures by 52 well-known artists in "Proceeds from the sale of paintings will be given to the Buddhism Today Charity Fund and for assistance to cancer patients," said artist Nguyen Dam Thuy, who helped organise the exhibit. On display are 59 works in oil, lacquer and wood, reflecting a wide range of topics, covering daily life, landscapes, people, lotus flowers and still lifes. The exhibition will close on May 9 at the venue at 218A Dance to connect youth with the past The HCM Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera's Giai Dieu Tre (Young Melodies) programme will this month feature contemporary dance performance Cham Tay Vao Qua Khu (Touching the past) by two young choreographers Nguyen Phuc Hai and Nguyen Phuc Hung. The show, at the city's Opera House at 8pm today, will be about war and peace and the past and present, the HBSO said in a press release. The younger generations born after the war know about it only through films and stories, it said, adding that the show meant to reveal the views and feelings musicians, choreographers, and dancers have about the war. Young Melodies is a free monthly show by the HBSO that seeks to educate the younger generations about music and dance, including foreign genres. Worship of Mother Goddess discussed Mother Goddess worship in southern People pray to the Mother Goddess about concerns in daily life, as well as good health and good fortune. The practice is connected to the deep-rooted respect for mothers in Vietnamese culture, researchers said. At the workshop, they introduced the origin, formation, development, characteristics and significance of the Mother Goddess worship culture and pointed out the particular features of the belief in the south that differ from the belief in the north. The workshop was organised by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the HCM City University of Social Sciences and Humanities and the Viet Nam Centre for Research and Conservation of Culture and Belief. 40 years of Vietnam-France relations through the lense A photo exhibition and film week opened in The event is part of activities marking the 40th anniversary of Vietnam-France relations and promote Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Bac Son highlighted the event as an overview of political, diplomatic, economic and cultural relations between Son added that the event introduced French people to Vietnamese ambassador to France Duong Chi Dung said that the presence of Information and Communications Minister at the opening ceremony has demonstrated Sharing the viewpoint, Minister Son also stressed the importance of the event in recalling historic moments between the two nations and proved their determination to build a future based on reliable and profound relations. For his part, Benoit Paumier, General Commissioner of the France-Vietnam Year said that the event also has a “symbolic” significance, adding that France Year in When the exhibition concludes, all photos, publications and films will be handed over to the Vietnam Culture Centre in Exhibition brings sea, islands closer to inland people A photo exhibition on The display, which will run until May 4, features 120 photos on daily activities of residents and soldiers on Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos as well as other islands, thus raising the awareness of people, especially the young, of patriotism and the national sea and island sovereignty. The same day, a similar exhibition kicked off in the northern coastal city of From now to May 8, visitors will have an overview on the development of the Four Nguyen Dynasty cannons unearthed in HCM City Four damaged cannons have been discovered at Thu Thiem Ward, District 2, A joint initial survey by the HCM City Military Command and They are believed to belong to the Nguyen Dynasty under the reign of King Minh Menh (1824). The four guns have a similar size, with one, 1.78m long, remaining intact, and three others broken. The Source: VNA/VNS/VOV/SGGP/SGT |
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Article 2
Birdwatching tour in Vam Sat The period between late April and October is ideal to watch birds coming to make their nests at Vam Sat Tourist Site in HCMC’s outlying coastal district Can Gio.
Can Gio, more than 50km from central HCMC, has a natural bird sanctuary which is home to over 200,000 birds of 26 different species. In addition to birding, first-time visitors can also get hands-on knowledge of Can Gio mangrove forest and join some fun activities like crocodile fishing and boating. Joining the tour of Can Gio recognized as the World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2000, tourists will be picked up in the downtown area. Upon their arrival at Vam Sat Tourist Site, they will take a boat ride to admire the typical flora in the forest and see daily activities of local fishermen. The boats can carry four, ten or 25 guests at a time at an average speed of 20 km/h. After a 15-minute speedboat trip or a 45 minute normal-boat trip, guests will see a bat reserve where they board a smaller boat cruising on some narrow canals to take a look at bats hanging on the trees. A crab pond is also available for those interested in a crab fishing game and learning how to identify the best crab. The boat will then take tourists to the center of Vam Sat where they can climb up the 26 meter-high Then tourists will come to a crocodile farm to learn about the egg-hatching process and see baby crocodiles or they can try a thrilling game called “Crocodile fishing on a boat.” Watching Can Gio’s monkeys with long tails is also part of the program. The package tour is priced at VND815,000 per guest, inclusive of transportation, admission to the tourist site, boat ride, lunch, tourist insurance, mineral water and hat. For more information, contact Dam Sen Travel at SGT |
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