| Vietnam News Today (Jan. 24) notable headlines Vietnam ready to play active role in global affairs, says Party chief To Lam Int’l friends show confidence in Vietnam’s steady development in new era Vietnamese in Malaysia pin high hopes on nation’s new development phase Vietnam outlines ASEAN cooperation priorities at WEF Davos Vietnam Airlines to operate more than 1,300 night flights during Tet holiday Vietnam showcases education cooperation at Hong Kong expo Vietnam, Malta step up cooperation across multiple fields ASEAN Para Games 13: Vietnam shines in swimming, chess Overwhelming Tet atmosphere at flower, ornamental plant villages in Hung Yen |
 |
| Party General Secretary To Lam chairs an international press conference on the outcomes of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam. |
Vietnam ready to play active role in global affairs, says Party chief To Lam
Vietnam has the standing, credibility and responsibility to contribute more actively to regional and global affairs, said Party General Secretary To Lam at an international press conference in Hanoi on January 23 following the conclusion of the 14th National Party Congress.
The Party chief thanked domestic and international media organisations for their extensive coverage of the Congress, saying their reporting helped people at home, overseas Vietnamese communities and international partners closely follow the event’s proceedings and outcomes.
He said the Congress concluded with great success, calling it a milestone in the Party’s nearly century-long history and in Vietnam’s broader national journey. He described the Congress as one marked by unity, discipline, democracy and a strong commitment to breakthrough thinking and development, underscoring the Party’s resolve to act responsibly, scientifically and decisively in the interests of the people, while strengthening strategic autonomy, self-reliance and national confidence.
According to the top leader, the Congress demonstrated a high level of consensus on key policy documents and action programmes, as well as a focused and careful approach to leadership selection. The Congress elected a new Party Central Committee and, shortly thereafter, the Politburo, Secretariat and other key Party leadership bodies, forming what he described as a clean, strong and cohesive collective with unity of purpose and action.
He said the new leadership is committed to setting an example through discipline, integrity and action, with a willingness to shoulder responsibility and devote itself fully to the Party’s mission and the well-being of the people.
The Party chief said the Congress also adopted major strategic decisions aimed at realising Vietnam’s long-term development goals, expressing confidence that, with public support at home and cooperation from international partners, the country will successfully implement the Congress’s Resolution and advance toward a peaceful, prosperous and happy socialist nation, cited VOV.
Addressing questions on Vietnam’s international responsibilities, the General Secretary said the Congress elevated foreign affairs to a new strategic level, placing diplomacy alongside national defence and security as a core, ongoing priority.
He noted that Vietnam views itself as an integral part of the global community and believes all countries, regardless of size or strength, share responsibility for addressing global challenges such as climate change, non-traditional security threats and humanitarian crises, which no single nation can resolve alone.
After four decades of reform and development, the leader affirmed Vietnam’s national capacity has changed fundamentally, enabling the country to contribute more actively and substantively to regional and international cooperation mechanisms. He highlighted Vietnam’s participation in peacekeeping operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster response and post-conflict reconstruction, adding that the country is also willing to serve as a bridge for dialogue and peace-building when appropriate.
Responding to a question on international integration, the leader stated that openness and integration are essential to peace and development, noting that Vietnam’s economy is highly open and closely linked to regional and global security dynamics. He said the Congress reaffirmed international integration as a central pillar of Vietnam’s new growth model, alongside political, defence and security cooperation.
He added that scientific and technological cooperation, innovation and digital transformation have been identified as top priorities in Vietnam’s international engagement, while integration efforts must ultimately serve people-centered development and address structural bottlenecks.
Also at the press conference, the Party leader reiterated that Vietnam stands ready to contribute more actively to global peace efforts, stressing that in an increasingly uncertain world, greater international solidarity is essential. He said Vietnam will continue to engage constructively in regional and global institutions, including ASEAN and the United Nations, in line with international law and the UN Charter, and in accordance with its national conditions and capabilities.
Int’l friends show confidence in Vietnam’s steady development in new era
The success of the 14th National Party Congress and the consolidation of high-level leadership not only represent a milestone for Vietnam but also reinforce global confidence in a peaceful, dynamic and forward-looking nation which is steadfast on its chosen path of development, international observers.
Following the conclusion of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) with the 14th Party Central Committee unanimously re-electing To Lam as General Secretary, international friends have extended warm congratulations to the country, praising its spirit of unity, collective wisdom and strong confidence in its chosen leadership.
Impressions at a historic congress
The 14th National Party Congress has not only drawn close attention from the Vietnamese people at home but has also garnered strong interest from international observers and friends. Sharing his observations, Phinmeuang Tulayphet, a journalist from Pasaxon, the official newspaper of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, said he was particularly impressed by Vietnam’s internal strength as reflected in the meticulous organisation of the Congress and the modern media infrastructure at the National Convention Center.
Meanwhile, Isac Patrício Nhabinde, head of the news editorial department in charge of digital communications of the ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO), described the Congress as a much-anticipated event for fraternal parties and international partners alike.
There is strong confidence that the decisions adopted at this event will respond to the aspirations of the people, he said, adding that a stronger Vietnam after the Congress will continue to be a key and reliable partner for other countries, according to VNA.
 |
| Domestic and foreign journalists cover the 14th National Party Congress (Photo: VNA) |
For Kango Bhalchandra, Editor-in-Chief of New Age, the newspaper of the Communist Party of India, Vietnam has long been a source of inspiration. Recalling his student days chanting the slogan ‘Amar Naam, Tomar Naam, Vietnam’ (My Name, Your Name, Vietnam), he said today’s transformation of Hanoi reaffirmed Vietnam’s role not only as a symbol of historic struggle but also as a model of development in the new era under the leadership of the CPV.
When the Congress announced the unanimous election of General Secretary To Lam for the new term, international journalists present at the Press Center shared heartfelt congratulations, affirming that the outcome demonstrated political stability and strong continuity in Vietnam’s development path.
Wennys De Las Mercedes Diaz Ballag, a correspondent of Granma, the official newspaper of the Communist Party of Cuba, expressed her confident that the elected members of the Party Central Committee, the Politburo and the Secretariat will achieve great success in the new term, and work with the highest sense of responsibility to improve the quality of life of the Vietnamese people.
She added that, for Cuba, Vietnam remains a shining example of a prosperous and sustainable socialist model, offering valuable lessons for national development.
Confidence in Vietnam’s future
International observers widely agreed that the unanimous election of the Party’s top leader reflects Vietnam’s political stability, internal cohesion and strong confidence in the future. According to Nhabinde of FRELIMO, the efforts and achievements of the Communist Party of Vietnam have opened a broader and more dynamic diplomatic horizon, creating positive momentum for both economic development and the country’s growing international stature.
The success of the 14th National Party Congress and the consolidation of high-level leadership not only represent a milestone for Vietnam but also reinforce global confidence in a peaceful, dynamic and forward-looking nation which is steadfast on its chosen path of development, they noted.
Vietnamese in Malaysia pin high hopes on nation’s new development phase
The success of the National Party Congress has further strengthened public trust, including that of overseas Vietnamese, in the Party's and the State’s firm leadership, clear strategic orientation, and the country’s long-term development prospects.
Following the success of the 14th National Party Congress which wrapped up on Friday afternoon, Vietnamese expatriates and students in Malaysia have expressed optimism and strong confidence that the country will continue to move steadily forward on its development path in a new era, while reaffirming their desire to contribute to this important journey.
Trần Thị Chang, President of the Malaysia–Vietnam Friendship Association (MVFA), said that the Vietnamese community in Malaysia closely followed the Congress and felt reassured by a well-organized, serious, and highly responsible event. The success of the Congress, she noted, has further strengthened public trust, including that of overseas Vietnamese, in the Party's and the State’s firm leadership, clear strategic orientation, and the country’s long-term development prospects.
She emphasized that the key decisions adopted at the Congress are significant not only for Vietnam’s domestic development but also for advancing international integration and cooperation, VNS reported.
 |
| Tran Thi Chang, President of the Malaysia–Vietnam Friendship Association. Photo: VNS |
The MVFA will continue to serve as an effective bridge between the two countries' people, promoting exchanges, mutual understanding, and practical cooperation across various fields.
Chang also expressed her confidence that the Communist Party of Vietnam, under the leadership of General Secretary Tô Lâm, whom she described as resolute, decisive, and highly responsible, will continue to guide the country towards strong and sustainable development, realise the vision toward 2045, and further enhance the nation’s position on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Ta Thi Hong Ngan, a master’s student at Spectrum International University College in Selangor, praised the information and communication work surrounding the Congress, saying it effectively addressed the strong interest of both domestic and international audiences. She noted that the inclusion of feedback from overseas Vietnamese during the Congress’s preparation process represents progress in transparency and accountability towards the community.
According to her, the clear vision and development strategy set out by the Congress have reinforced public trust, particularly among the younger generation, while demonstrating continuity, stability, and innovation in personnel work in line with the requirements of a new development phase.
Ngan showed her belief that the leadership selected by the Congress will continue to steer the country in the right direction amidst Vietnam’s increasingly deep international integration, and voiced hope that greater attention will be given to education, human resources development, and creating opportunities for young people to contribute to national development.
Sharing a similar view, Pham Tran Tieu My, a master’s student at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), Kuala Lumpur campus, said the thorough and comprehensive preparation of the Congress played a crucial role in its success. She noted that the Congress clearly identified key priorities for the nation’s new development era, and, at the same time, add new and important content on foreign affairs, international integration, economic development associated with environment protection, science and technology, innovation, digital transformation, and the role of the private sector.
She emphasized that the Congress’s focus on human resources development, educational reform and international integration has opened up greater opportunities for young people, including Vietnamese students abroad, to contribute their knowledge and experience to the country’s development. The attention and high expectations of people at home and overseas toward the Congress, she added, continue to reinforce confidence in Vietnam’s political stability and sustainable development in the years ahead.
Vietnam outlines ASEAN cooperation priorities at WEF Davos
Vietnam on January 22 proposed a set of priority cooperation areas for ASEAN at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026, in Davos, Switzerland, highlighting digital transformation, sustainable finance and regional energy connectivity as key drivers of future growth.
Addressing delegates, Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son affirmed that ASEAN is one of the world’s most dynamic and resilient economic regions, and aims to become the fourth-largest economy globally by 2030.
He stressed that ASEAN’s next phase of growth should be anchored in industrial transformation, digital innovation and green development, with the digital economy, artificial intelligence and energy transition playing a central role in boosting productivity and competitiveness.
Against this backdrop, the Deputy PM proposed several priority areas for enhanced ASEAN cooperation.
He called for the development of trusted regional frameworks for digital identity, data governance and cybersecurity to reduce fragmentation, facilitate cross-border digital trade and foster innovation across the region. He urged ASEAN to strengthen linked industrial clusters, promote technology transfer and skills development, and enhance the bloc’s position in regional and global value chains.
The Vietnamese diplomat emphasised the importance of sustainable and transition finance, encouraging ASEAN to mobilise private-sector capital more effectively to support green growth and climate-resilient development. In addition, he highlighted the need to accelerate the development of the ASEAN Power Grid and expand cross-border clean electricity trade to enhance energy security and promote inclusive growth.
The Deputy PM also reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to fast, inclusive and sustainable growth, underpinned by institutional reform, digital transformation and a shift toward a low-carbon economy. He reiterated the country’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, while expressing d readiness to work closely with ASEAN members and international partners for shared prosperity.
The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 was held in Davos, Switzerland, from January 19–23 under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue.” The event brought together nearly 3,000 leaders from more than 130 countries, including around 60 heads of state and government, senior officials of international organisations, ministers, central bank governors, and executives from leading global corporations.
Over four days, the forum hosted more than 400 sessions focusing on cooperation in a fragmented world, unlocking new sources of growth, responsible innovation, sustainable development and investment in people.
On the sidelines of the meeting, the Vietnamese delegation led by Deputy PM Bui Thanh Son held a series of bilateral engagements with leaders of the WEF, senior Swiss officials, representatives from Cambodia, and executives of major international corporations, including Allianz SE and JTI. Partners welcomed Vietnam’s development achievements and pledged to expand long-term cooperation and investment, according to VOV.
 |
| Deputy Foreign Minister Le Anh Tuan and other officials of the Vietnamese delegation at WEF Davos 2026. (Photo: VNA) |
A series of events were jointly organized by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, the Da Nang City People’s Committee and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to showcase Vietnam’s international financial centre to global partners and investors.
The events highlighted Vietnam’s special policy mechanisms, competitive advantages and emerging investment opportunities, with a focus on mobilising high-quality resources, green and digital finance, and innovation-driven capital. These efforts aim to enhance the country’s national competitiveness, support sustainable development, and strengthen integration with global capital flows, knowledge networks and international standards, in line with the country’s long-term goals of becoming a high-income developing economy by 2030 and a developed economy by 2045.
Vietnam Airlines to operate more than 1,300 night flights during Tet holiday
The national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines plans to operate more than 1,300 night flights from February 1 to March 3, offering nearly 300,000 seats to meet surging travel demand during the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday.
The move comes as Vietnam’s aviation sector steps up efforts to optimise operations for the peak Tet period. Compared with the previous holiday season, the number of night flights scheduled for Tet 2026 is up 3%, accounting for about 16.6% of the carrier’s total flights.
Night services, departing after 21:00 and before 5:00, will focus on key domestic routes, including Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City–Da Nang; Ho Chi Minh City–Hai Phong/Vinh/Tho Xuan; Ho Chi Minh City–Hue/Cam Ranh; and Ho Chi Minh City–Buon Ma Thuot. Most of these services will be operated using Airbus A321 and A320neo aircraft.
During the peak period, flight frequencies on each route are expected to rise by an average of one to two additional daily return services compared with normal operations, offering passengers more travel options and easing pressure during daytime slots.
Nguyen Quang Trung, Deputy General Director of Vietnam Airlines, said boosting night-time operations is one of the key measures to meet peak-season demand while helping to relieve pressure on the aviation system, given infrastructure and slot constraints at several major airports.
“As the national flag carrier, Vietnam Airlines has proactively increased night flights on key routes to ensure safe, convenient travel and to meet the sharply rising demand during the 2026 Lunar New Year,” he said.
Earlier, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam requested relevant agencies to coordinate the operation of night flights at six airports from February 1 to March 1. These include Tho Xuan, Dong Hoi, Chu Lai, Phu Cat, Pleiku and Tuy Hoa, where operating hours have been extended to enhance night-time capacity while ensuring safe and efficient operations during the peak period.
To meet the Tet travel demand, Vietnam Airlines has kicked off early ticket sales, offering over 3.5 million seats across its domestic and international routes from February 2 to March 3. This represents a nearly 20% increase compared to last year, cited VNA.
 |
| Vietnam Airlines plans to operate more night flights to meet travel during the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday. (Photo: VietnamPlus) |
The carrier is offering an additional 60,000 seats through nearly 300 flights, concentrated between February 9 and March 3. The extra services mainly depart from Ho Chi Minh City to provinces and cities, including Hanoi, Vinh, Hai Phong, Thanh Hoa, Da Nang, Hue, Chu Lai, Buon Ma Thuot, Pleiku, Tuy Hoa, Quy Nhon and Phu Quoc.
In addition, Vietnam Airlines is also offering four additional routes departing from Hai Phong to Nha Trang, Can Tho, Buon Ma Thuot, and Phu Quoc, helping to meet diverse travel needs while easing pressure on major routes during the Lunar New Year peak period.
| Vietnam News Today (Jan. 19): Vietnam Achieves Outstanding Results Under Party’s Leadership Vietnam News Today (Jan. 19): International media spotlight Vietnam’s 14th National Party Congress; Vietnam achieves outstanding results under Party’s leadership: Russian Party official; Vietnam navigates ... |
| Vietnam News Today (Jan. 21): Vietnam Emerges as Asia’s Growth Star, Eyes 10% GDP in 2026 Vietnam News Today (Jan. 21): Vietnam - An exemplary model of development for Cuba: Cuban journalist; Vietnam-Singapore trade posts continued growth in 2025; Vietnam emerges ... |