Vietnam News Today (Apr. 27): Vietnam’s 1975 Victory Hailed as Global Milestone in 20th Century

	Vietnam News Today (Apr. 25): EU Considers Vietnam Trusted, Prioritized Partner in Asia-Pacific
	Vietnam News Today (Apr. 26): Vietnam-Laos Relations Vital to Revolutionary Cause in Each Country

Then Chilean Ambassador to Vietnam Claudio De Negri (L) receives the insignia "For Peace and Friendship among Nations" from the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnam’s 1975 victory hailed as global milestone in 20th century

Vietnam’s April 30, 1975 victory in its struggle for independence and the Soviet Union’s May 9, 1945 triumph in the Great Patriotic War stand as two of the most glorious milestones in the 20th century, said Secretary of the Communist Party of Chile Central Committee and head of its Commission for External Relations Claudio De Negri.

De Negri, who is a former Chilean Ambassador to Vietnam, described these victories as sacred commemorations not only for the Vietnamese and Russian people but also for humanity at large. They served as a powerful reminder of the justice of those struggles and the shared responsibility to protect peace and thwart the resurgence of hegemony and aggression.

Reflecting on Vietnam’s remarkable post-war journey, De Negri painted a vivid picture of a nation rising from devastation. In the mid-1980s, Vietnam was among the world’s poorest countries, scarred by decades of colonial rule and relentless wars. With infrastructure in ruins, widespread poverty, and a per capita GDP of just 100–200 USD, over 70% of its population lived below the poverty line. Yet, from these dire circumstances, Vietnam forged an extraordinary path forward.

The launch of the Doi Moi (renewal) policy in 1986 marked a turning point. From ranking 70th in global rice production, Vietnam soared to become one of the world’s leading rice exporters. By 2020, its per capita GDP climbed to 2,800 USD, with extreme poverty reduced to below 2%. Vietnam’s economic growth has consistently surpassed global averages, fueled by robust investments in education and infrastructure. Today, the nation is a powerhouse in electronics and apparel exports, attracting industry giants like Samsung, Intel, and LG to establish strategic production hubs, cited VNA.

Transitioning to a socialist-oriented market economy, Vietnam has not only reformed its management model but also affirmed its vision of building a prosperous, peaceful, and independent nation, he said.

Looking back on the enduring bonds between Chile and Vietnam, De Negri underscored Vietnam’s unique strength, which lies not only in its internal resilience but also in the unwavering support of the international community, including the people of Chile. Following Cuba, Chile became the second Latin American nation to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam, a bond born not merely from state-to-state diplomacy but from a deeply human story forged by pioneering individuals.

In 1969, Salvador Allende, then President of the Chilean Senate, met with President Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi. In their meeting of the final state visit before President Ho Chi Minh’s passing, Allende pledged to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam if he was elected Chilean President. True to his word, Allende was elected President in 1970, and just a year later, amid the ravages of war, Chile opened its embassy in Hanoi. It was an act of remarkable courage, symbolising true solidarity demonstrated through concrete actions in the most challenging times when faith must triumph over fear, he added.

Vietnam, China eye deepening trade promotion cooperation

Vietnamese Ambassador to China Pham Thanh Binh has called on the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) to support and coordinate with Vietnamese ministries, localities, associations, and businesses in organizing trade promotion and networking activities across China.

At a working session with CCPIT Chairman Ren Hongbin in Beijing on April 25, the diplomat highlighted that 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and China, and was also designated as the "Year of Vietnam – China Humanistic Exchange".

Building on the common perception reached by leaders of both Parties and countries, particularly following Party General Secretary and President of China Xi Jinping’s recent state visit to Vietnam, the two sides should further promote practical and effective collaboration in various areas, including trade and investment promotion.

The ambassador also welcomed Ren to visit Vietnam more frequently, affirming the Vietnamese Embassy's readiness to act as a bridge in facilitating cooperation between the CCPIT and Vietnamese partners, as well as in connecting enterprises from both countries, according to VOV.

Vietnamese Ambassador to China Pham Thanh Binh (left) and Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Ren Hongbin.

For his part, Ren praised the productive relationship between the CCPIT and the Vietnamese Embassy in recent years. He emphasised the council’s hope to fruitfully carry out the memorandum of understanding on cooperation signed with the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) during President Xi's visit.

He also expressed CCPIT’s willingness to coordinate with the embassy and relevant Vietnamese ministries to organise meaningful business forums and enterprise exchanges during high-level visits between the two countries.

Highlighting the CCPIT’s expansive network which covers all localities across China and 34 overseas offices, Ren affirmed that the council is ready to assist Vietnamese delegations in organizing events in Chinese provinces and cities. He also encouraged greater participation by Vietnamese companies in trade and investment promotion activities hosted by the CCPIT.

Activities planned to mark 50th anniversary of national reunification

Vietnamese localities are gearing up for the April 30 – May 1 holiday with a wide range of cultural and sporting activities, attracting large numbers of residents and visitors.

The People’s Committee of Ba Ria-Vung Tau province on April 26 held an inauguration ceremony for a memorial house and park honoring martyr Vo Thi Sau (1933-1952), a national heroine who fought French invaders and was executed on Con Dao island. It is part of activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the province’s liberation (April 27, 1975 – 2025).

The project, which covers more than 18,000 sq.m, features a memorial house, monument, internal roads, a park, green spaces, and other facilities, with a total investment of over 440 billion VND (16.9 million USD).

The project has important significance in moral education, fostering patriotism among local residents while contributing to the province’s socio-economic development. It is also expected to become a meaningful destination for residents and tourists to honor the legacy of the national heroine.

In Quang Binh province, a variety of vibrant cultural and sports activities are planned to celebrate the holiday. Dong Hoi city will host the “Dong Hoi Cultural and Tourism Week 2025,” featuring a photo exhibition, a culinary festival from April 29 to May 3, the inauguration of a memorial stele at Nhat Le fishing port, and a lantern release on the Nhat Le River on the evening of April 30.

A special low-altitude fireworks display will be held at 9pm on April 30 at Ho Chi Minh Square to mark the 50th anniversary of national reunification. Other major events include the traditional boat racing festival on the Nhat Le River at 7:30am on May 1, and an art performance to celebrate the cultural and tourism week that evening at Bao Ninh Beach Square, reported VNA.

A corner of a memorial house and park honoring martyr Vo Thi Sau in Ba Ria-Vung Tau province. (Photo: VNA)

In the Phong Nha–Ke Bang World Heritage Site (Bo Trach district), numerous cultural, sporting, and tourism events will be organised, including a folk dance festival on the morning of April 28 at the Youth Volunteer Monument in Phong Nha town, featuring lively and colorful performances by dance clubs from nine communes and towns in the district.

The Bo Trach District Traditional Boat Racing Festival will be held on the morning of April 29 on the Son River, with participation from teams representing ten local communes and towns. Simultaneously, Phong Nha town will host a carp competition, featuring large fish and culinary contests.

These cultural, sports, and tourism activities not only create a joyful holiday atmosphere but also reflect the deep-rooted traditions and developmental aspirations of Quang Binh, aiming to promote the province as a dynamic and hospitable destination for both domestic and international visitors.

In Soc Trang province, the Provincial Farmers’ Union is organising a "Safe and Quality Agricultural Fair" at April 30 Park. The three-day event features more than 30 booths showcasing over 300 high-quality agricultural products, many of which meet VietGAP standards or have OCOP certifications.

Truong Vu Phuong, Chairman of the Soc Trang Farmers' Union, said the event aims to raise public awareness about the importance of safe food while encouraging sustainable farming practices.

It not only marks the 50th anniversary of national reunification but also fosters innovation, competitiveness, and creativity among farmers and workers, contributing to the development of a greener, more sustainable agricultural sector, he added.

Japanese expert stresses importance of Vietnam – Japan cooperation

The coming April 27-29 visit to Vietnam by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is a crucial opportunity for both countries to strengthen cooperation amid global uncertainties, according to Professor Hirohide Kurihara of Tokyo University of Foreign Studies.

Prof. Kurihara told Vietnam News Agency that in the face of rising global trade tensions, particularly due to US reciprocal tariff policies, Vietnam - Japan cooperation is increasingly important due to their similarities. In his views, both countries lack abundant natural resources while they share a commitment to an independent and self-reliant foreign policy.

He said he believes that cooperation between the two countries can serve as a model for smaller economies on how to achieve independent and sustainable development without relying much on external factors.

According to the scholar, core areas for bilateral collaboration are economy, security and green transition. He stated that Vietnam possesses a highly capable workforce and expressed confidence that effectively utilizing this human resource would bring significant benefits to both countries.

Prof. Kurihara also emphasized that Vietnam plays a vital role in Japan’s foreign policy strategy in the Southeast Asian region.

During a meeting with the press in Hanoi, Japanese Ambassador Ito Naoki also affirmed that Vietnam is a top priority in Japan’s foreign policy, recognising it as a country with vast potential thanks to a market of more than 100 million and strong economic growth.

He noted that Vietnam is entering a new era of national advancement, and Japan believes this is also the right time to further expand bilateral cooperation within the framework of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World that the two countries have established.

Meanwhile, Yuko Obuchi, member of Japan’s House of Representatives, said Ishiba’s trip is seen by Japanese political circles as a symbolic message of respect and a clear expression of Japan’s desire to deepen trust and strengthen its relations with Vietnam in the current global context.

She noted that the PM’s choice of Vietnam as his first overseas destination during Japan’s Golden Week, despite the ongoing Japanese Diet session, reflects Vietnam’s growing strategic importance to Japan.

The visit is not just a diplomatic event, but a reaffirmation of Japan’s commitment to Vietnam and the broader vision for partnership in a rapidly changing world, she stated.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and his spouse will pay an official visit to Vietnam from April 27 to 29 at the invitation of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse, cited VOV.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh meets with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of ASEAN Summits 44 & 45 in Vientiane, Laos, in October 2024.

Vietnam and Japan established diplomatic relations in September 1973, and since Vietnam’s reunification in 1975, the two countries have opened embassies and launched exchanges and delegation visits.

Both countries have steadily strengthened their bilateral ties over the past decades, from establishing a reliable and long-term stable partnership in 2002 and a strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia in 2009 to upgrading it to an extensive strategic partnership in 2014 and a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World in 2023.

Currently, Japan has 5,557 valid projects totalling US$78.6 billion in Vietnam, ranking third among foreign investors in the country. Meanwhile, Vietnam has 126 valid investment projects in Japan, with a total registered investment capital of US$20.6 million.

Both countries have made progress in cooperation in new fields such as digital transformation and green transition. They have also provided close collaboration and mutual support at multilateral forums such as the United Nations, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

During his visit, Ishiba is scheduled to have talks and meetings with senior Vietnamese leaders, including Party General Secretary To Lam, President Luong Cuong, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

North central coastal provinces enhance tourism appeal

Blessed with beautiful beaches, North Central Vietnam is striving to expand connections among coastal destinations. Localities across the region are working to develop and renew tourism products with strong coastal identities, tapping into diverse tourism models to create high-quality and sustainable offerings.

Diversifying tourism experiences

With its pristine and tranquil beauty, Xuan Thanh Beach (in Nghi Xuan District, Ha Tinh Province) has become an ideal destination attracting large numbers of tourists. Tran Duc Luu, a visitor from Hanoi, shared that his family almost always chooses Xuan Thanh for their annual vacation. According to Luu, in addition to its clear blue waters, fine white sand, and a long, flat shoreline, Xuan Thanh also offers a variety of well-planned tourism and entertainment services.

According to Bui Viet Hung, Vice Chairman of the Nghi Xuan District People's Committee, along with efforts to attract investment and develop tourism infrastructure, local authorities are committed to preserving the untouched ecological beauty of Xuan Thanh Beach.

To provide fresh and captivating experiences for visitors, Nghi Xuan District plans to introduce new services in 2025, such as lantern boat rides, flower lanterns floating on freshwater streams, night seafood markets, outdoor art performances, and new check-in and experience points at Rao My Duong. The district will also continue developing tours to cultural and historical sites, including the Nguyen Du Memorial Site, the memorial house dedicated to Nguyen Cong Tru, Cho Cui Temple, and other spiritual and cultural landmarks.

The 2025 tourism season at Thien Cam Beach (Cam Xuyen) has also kicked off with a range of unique and appealing products, such as jet skiing, night squid fishing, fish market tours, night markets, paragliding shows, and artistic wave surfing. Additional attractions include beach volleyball and pickleball tournaments, as well as restaurants integrated with bars and traditional art performances.

According to Tran Xuan Cuong, Deputy Director of Nghe An Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the province boasts 82 kilometers of white sandy beaches and golden sunlight. It is home to many beautiful coastal tourism sites that attract large numbers of visitors, such as Cua Lo, Cua Hien Coastal Tourism Area, Dien Thanh, and Quynh Beach.

In Cua Lo, beyond its long and gentle beaches with fine sand and clear water, visitors can enjoy high-end services at VinWonders Cua Hoi, which features eight functional zones. The complex includes a 3.5-kilometer sea-crossing cable car to Ngu Island, a food service area with night markets and food streets, entertainment game zones, beach sports areas, fine-dining restaurants, and a five-star hotel. Tourists can also enjoy jet skiing, explore nearby fishing villages, visit the traditional Hai Giang 1 fish sauce craft village, savor grilled mackerel at the seafood market, and play golf at the 18-hole Cua Lo Golf Resort.

Tran Thi Cam Tu, Vice Chairwoman of the Vinh City People’s Committee, stated that during the 2025 beach tourism season, Cua Lo will host a large-scale series of events. In the fields of environment and culture, the city will organize a campaign for a clean and beautiful blue sea environment, combined with a bicycle parade and an Ao Dai (Vietnamese long dress) fashion show. In terms of experiential tourism, visitors can participate in basket boat racing and attend a fair showcasing tourism products along with OCOP (One Commune One Product) specialties.

A key cultural highlight will be the national “Youth Dance Festival”, bringing vibrant artistic energy to the season. In terms of sports, Cua Lo will host major national competitions such as the Ho Chi Minh City Television Cycling Cup and a beach shuttlecock kicking championship. This comprehensive event series is expected to create a distinctive impression for Cua Lo’s coastal tourism, helping to attract both domestic and international visitors.

Strengthening tourism linkages

The North Central Coastal region not only boasts stunning natural landscapes but is also home to numerous historical sites, landmarks, and folk festivals that reflect the rich traditional culture of its coastal communities. According to Tran Quoc Lam, Chairman of the Ha Tinh Tourism Association, the region’s beaches are known for their fine sand, gently sloping shorelines, clear blue water with a mild salinity, and stable temperatures.

Nguyen Duc Hien, CEO of the Muong Thanh hotel chain in the North Central region and Chairman of the Nghe An Tourism Association, noted that the region possesses diverse and abundant natural resources. It offers a comprehensive range of tourism types, featuring valuable historical and cultural relics, famous scenic spots, beautiful natural landscapes, and warm and hospitable people, making it a safe and appealing destination for both domestic and international travelers.

According to Tran Xuan Cuong, Nghe An Province aims to welcome 6.1 million overnight visitors in 2025, including 130,000 international tourists, and generate 11.8 trillion VND in tourism revenue. To achieve this target, enhancing cooperation and linkages in tourism development both domestically and internationally is identified as a key solution to restructuring the tourism industry, improving productivity, quality, and competitiveness.

In the near future, the province will intensify cooperation and tourism linkages with other provinces, cities, major corporations, and national tourism groups. Focus will be placed on coordinating tourism development with North and North-Central provinces, the South Central Coast, the Central Highlands, as well as implementing tourism partnerships with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and the broader North Central region.

Simultaneously, Nghe An will roll out programs for international tourism cooperation and linkages through conferences with embassies, consulates general, diplomatic agencies, and international organizations in Vietnam, while also strengthening its foreign relations activities.

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