Vietnam News Today (May 14): US Businesses Affirm Long-Term Commitment to Vietnam

	Vietnam News Today (May 12): Party General Secretary Meets With Russian Experts, Intellectuals
	Vietnam News Today (May 13): Vietnam Maintains High Human Development Index Despite Global Slowdown

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at the dialogue with the US business community in Hanoi on May 13. (Photo: VNA)

US businesses affirm long-term commitment to Vietnam

US enterprises operating in Vietnam have affirmed their commitment to sustainable, long-term investment in the country amid current challenges at a dialogue with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi on May 13.

The Government leader’s 2nd meeting with the community in just two months gathered representatives from the US Embassy, the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham), and over 50 leading US corporations, including Boeing, Molex, Excelerate Energy, Abbott, Coca-Cola, and GE Vernova.

As of the end of 2024, US foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam hit about 11.94 billion USD, across more than 1,400 projects. Most major US multinationals have so far established a presence and are operating effectively in the Southeast Asian nation.

During the meeting, US delegates expressed appreciation for the Vietnamese Government’s goodwill and for its efforts to maintain a favorable investment climate. They proposed Vietnam continue enhancing its business environment by addressing bottlenecks in administrative procedures, non-tariff barriers, taxation, and fees, while ensuring infrastructure conditions, transparency, and rules of origin.

In response, PM Chinh affirmed Vietnam’s readiness to engage in open and constructive dialogue with partners and businesses, including those from the US, to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes.

He called on US companies to convey Vietnam’s efforts and goodwill toward a mutually beneficial tariff agreement to the administration of President Donald Trump, cited VNA.

The PM stressed that Vietnam endorses cooperative relations among countries based on the law, international commitments, and the United Nations Charter, without undermining the interests of other nations. He also expressed his hope for positive progress in US–China trade talks, which he said would benefit not only both countries but also the global economy.

Appreciating the US’s support for a strong, independent, self-reliant, and prosperous Vietnam, he stated that the country is committed to moving beyond the past, maximising common ground, narrowing differences, working towards the future, and developing a substantive and effective comprehensive strategic partnership with the US.

Vietnam views difficulties relating to global trade tensions as an opportunity to restructure its economy and trade along more equitable and sustainable lines, while promoting market, product, and supply chain diversification, he noted.

The PM also highlighted ongoing efforts to address US concerns, crack down on trade fraud, and improve the domestic business climate through stepping up administrative reform, removing unnecessary business conditions, cutting procedural timelines, and lowering costs for citizens and businesses.

The Vietnamese Government, he remarked, will continue to create favorable conditions and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of all investors, including US companies, to support their effective and sustainable operations in Vietnam.

Additionally, PM Chinh shared that Vietnam has reformed and continues to reform its visa policy for foreign nationals, including those from the US, and expressed his hope that the US side would consider more favorable visa policies for Vietnamese citizens.

Vietnam, Thailand to elevate ties with focus on substantive results

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will lead a high-level delegation of the Royal Thai Government on an official visit to Vietnam and co-chair the 4th Vietnam–Thailand Joint Cabinet Meeting from May 15 to 16 at the invitation of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

In a recent media interview, Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Pham Viet Hung underlined the significance of the visit, the strengths of bilateral relations, and ways to further enhance cooperation between the two countries.

According to Ambassador Hung, this is the first official visit to Vietnam by a Thai Prime Minister in 11 years, since Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s trip in 2014. The visit takes place as the two countries move toward the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations (1976–2026), a key milestone in the history of bilateral ties.

As the strengthened strategic partnership between Vietnam and Thailand continues to thrive in a comprehensive and in-depth manner across a variety of fields, this visit is expected to be an important opportunity for both sides to advance their relationship to a new level that is more practical and effective.

Regarding the major focus of the visit, the Vietnamese diplomat said the two sides will hold the 4th Joint Cabinet Meeting, a mechanism with a uniquely meaningful name that shows both sides’ strong interest and shared determination to step up bilateral cooperation, according to VOV.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Thailand (Photo: Reuters)

Under the direct leadership and co-chairmanship of the two Prime Ministers, the meeting will review existing issues and chart future directions for cooperation in all areas. In terms of political and diplomatic ties, the two sides will discuss measures to further strengthen political trust, intensify exchanges and cooperation between the Parties, Governments, legislative bodies, and localities, and bolster coordination at regional and international forums, particularly within ASEAN and Mekong sub-regional mechanisms.

On economic, trade and investment cooperation, both sides will review the progress of joint plans and initiatives, including the “Three Connections” initiative, while exploring new measures to expand co-operation, with the goal of raising bilateral trade to US$25 billion in a balanced and sustainable manner. Vietnam will also seek to attract more Thai investment in its priority areas.

On cultural, educational and people-to-people exchange, both countries will discuss ways to strengthen local-level linkages and expand cultural and tourism activities, thereby building a strong social foundation for long-term friendship.

Alongside the positive outcomes achieved in traditional areas of cooperation, there remains huge potential for the two sides to broaden ties in emerging fields in line with current development trends and each country’s strategic goals, such as digital transformation and the digital economy, renewable energy, and green growth, the Ambassador added.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s upcoming official visit to Vietnam will mark an important milestone as a contribution to lifting the bilateral relationship to new heights, reinforcing political trust and mutual understanding between the two countries’ top leaders. It will also provide an opportunity for both sides to comprehensively review ongoing cooperation, resolve outstanding issues, and agree on major directions and specific measures to further invigorate the partnership in the coming period.

The cooperation documents expected to be signed during the visit will lay a new foundation for cooperation among localities, businesses and social organizations, while enhancing people-to-people connectivity and further deepening all-around cooperation.

Ha Giang, Hoi An among world’s most beautiful places: Time Out

The northern mountainous province of Ha Giang and Hoi An city in the central province of Quang Nam have been ranked among the Top 44 most beautiful places in the world by renowned UK-based travel magazine Time Out.

The magazine ranked Ha Giang in tenth place, saying the winding mountain passes, terraced rice paddies and 43 different ethnic groups that call this place home, all combine to give Ha Giang its otherworldly air.

According to Time Out, Tham Ma Pass is an obvious pull, winding its way through six successive hairpin bends, while the Ma Pi Leng Pass carves a mountain edge, overlooking the Nho Que River 3000 feet below.

"However, my personal favorite vista in Ha Giang affords a different kind of beauty, the kind to confront you with your own teeny-tiny mortality. In La Si and its surrounding region you'll glimpse mountain after mountain, as far as the eye can see, of terraced rice paddies. It's taken thousands (yes thousands) of years of hard toil to tame these mountains into the rice producing expanse that it is today", wrote the magazine.

Meanwhile, Time Out describes that life in Hoi An moves like molasses – slow and sweet.

Tourists view the sunset over Ha Giang city from the Mo Neo Mountain. (Photo: VNA)

"When I lived in this dreamy little community, I spent mornings sipping coconut coffee in cafes and afternoons biking through swaying rice paddies past grazing buffalo. Now, I spend a few months a year here, watching lantern-lit boats glide along the Thu Bon River, cycling through Old Town before the evening crowds gather, and lounging on one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches", a writer for the magazine noted.

Over 50 years since its foundation in London, Time Out has become a global media and hospitality brand influencing how tens of millions of people go out around the world, with content covering 333 cities in 59 countries.

Time Out's high-quality content, curated by expert journalists, now spans a global network of websites, social media channels, videos, live events and Time Out Markets.

Nearly 7.7 million foreign arrivals travelled to Vietnam in the first four months of this year, a year-on-year increase of 23%, the National Statistics Office reported.

The surge in international arrivals affirms the effectiveness of Vietnam's tourism stimulus initiatives, laying a strong foundation for the country to meet its 2025 targets of welcoming between 22 to 23 million foreign visitors.

Great potential for boosting Vietnam–France tourism cooperation

A Vietnamese tourism promotion program was held on May 12 at the Vietnam Cultural Centre in Paris, France, featuring products focused on eco-sustainable tourism, historical and cultural experiences, coastal tourism, and innovative high-end offerings customized for the European market.

The event is part of a tourism promotion campaign organized from May 4 to 13 in Milan (Italy), Geneva (Switzerland), and Paris (France), led by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism in collaboration with the Hue People’s Committee, the Tourism Development Support Fund, Vietnam Airlines, and other partners.

In his address, Nguyen Trung Khanh, Director General of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, emphasized that the program indicates the strong ties and half-century friendship between Vietnam and France, particularly following the upgrade of their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024.

He noted that tourism cooperation between the two countries spans over two decades, marked by important agreements such as the 1996 Tourism Cooperation Agreement, the 2005 Implementation Protocol, and the 2018 Letter of Intent on Tourism Cooperation. Vietnam has also facilitated travel for French visitors by unilaterally extending visa exemption from 15 to 45 days, effective from August 15, 2023.

The air connectivity between the two countries has grown steadily with regular direct flights operated by Vietnam Airlines, helping France remain a key source market for Vietnamese tourism, cited VOV.

Performance of Hue court music at the event. (Photo: VNA)

In 2024 alone, Vietnam welcomed nearly 279,000 French visitors, a 97% recovery compared to the pre-pandemic period. In the first quarter of 2025, over 102,000 French tourists visited Vietnam, up more than 28% year-on-year, a promising sign for further tourism growth.

Nguyen Trung Khanh affirmed that tourism is a key pillar in the Government’s Resolution 25 on national economic development in 2025. The sector aims to attract 22–23 million international visitors and 120–130 million domestic tourists, generating total revenue of approximately VND 1 quadrillion.

Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang stressed that Paris being selected as a key destination for the campaign reflects Vietnam’s strong commitment to the French market. The event plays a vital role in promoting Vietnam's image, boosting cultural exchange as well as international friendship.

Hoang Kim Anh, Director of the Tourism Development Support Fund, highlighted the event as a result of close coordination between government agencies, localities, and businesses. It also reflects the state’s focused investment in tourism as a spearhead economic sector.

Nguyen Tien Hoang, Chief Representative of Vietnam Airlines in France and Europe, said that the airline is expanding its network to new destinations such as Denmark in 2026, reaffirming its commitment to connecting Vietnam with Europe.

At the event, a representative from Hue introduced the city's heritage tourism, traditional craft villages, and signature cuisine to attract tourism partnerships as part of the 2025 National Tourism Year – Hue. Various live performances, including traditional court music, as well as hands-on experiences like royal cuisine and craft demonstrations, drew great interest from French businesses and travelers.

Le Y Linh, Director of Vietravel’s European Office and President of the Vietnam Cultural and Tourism Promotion Association in Europe, stressed that the program plays a vital role in enhancing Vietnam’s competitiveness and expanding its customer base. Echoing this view, Yulia Santalova, Sales and Production Director for France and Switzerland at Discovery Trains, said the event offered a valuable platform for partners to explore potential collaborations.

The promotion program in France is set to run through May 13, featuring activities such as B2B meetings, destination showcases, fashion shows, and culinary presentations. Attendees also had the chance to enjoy Vietnamese specialties, Vietnamese coffee and tea, as well as participate in prize draws for round-trip tickets between Europe and Vietnam, premium tours, and hotel vouchers.

Vietnam to mobilize 38 military units for 80th National Day parade

On the afternoon of May 12, the General Staff met with various agencies and units to discuss the planning and preparation of armed forces and civil defense personnel for the commemorative event.

Following the structure of the parade held for the 50th anniversary of national reunification, the General Staff has directed the Military Training and Education Department to draft a directive outlining the organization and training plan. The upcoming A80 parade will feature 38 marching formations, including 11 stationary and 27 mobile blocks.

The Military Training and Education Department has also worked with related units to survey and select accommodation sites, ensuring they are convenient for concentrated and joint training exercises.

Units assigned to supplement personnel for the A80 parade have proactively developed detailed plans and begun selecting officers and soldiers who meet the required standards. These personnel are now engaged in training to join the marching formations as needed.

At the planning conference, delegates discussed and reached consensus on various elements, including the formation structure, uniforms, equipment, marching routes, training locations, and logistical arrangements, reported VNN.

Parade formation of ground force soldiers during the 50th Reunification Anniversary parade.

The General Department of Logistics and Technology has been tasked with thoroughly inspecting all living conditions during training and promptly reporting any issues to the Ministry of Defense for resolution.

Meanwhile, the General Department of Defense Industry is responsible for proposing and producing necessary materials, technical equipment, and vehicles to ensure smooth execution of the parade. Hanoi’s Capital Command is conducting surveys of marching routes and rally points to ensure logistical efficiency post-parade.

As the training period will take place during Vietnam’s hottest months (June to September), all relevant agencies are required to develop flexible and scientific training schedules that safeguard the health of participating troops.

Earlier in May, the No. 1 Training and Professional Education Center under the Mobile Police Command (Ministry of Public Security) began receiving students from public security academies to participate in the A80 parade preparations.

The Mobile Police Command has taken on 23 marching units, involving approximately 6,000 students from police academies and institutions.

According to the resolution from the government’s regular April meeting, the Ministry of National Defense and Ministry of Public Security have been instructed to closely coordinate with other agencies to fully prepare for the parade in celebration of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2.

Vietnam's National Day marks the declaration of independence on September 2, 1945, by President Ho Chi Minh, following the success of the August Revolution. This revolution led to the end of colonial rule and the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, signifying a pivotal moment in the nation's history.

In April 2025, Vietnam celebrated the 50th anniversary of national reunification with a massive parade in Ho Chi Minh City. The event featured 13,000 participants, including troops from China, Laos, and Cambodia, and highlighted themes of peace and unity.

The forthcoming A80 parade in Hanoi is expected to continue this tradition, emphasizing Vietnam's historical milestones and its vision for the future.

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