Vietnam News Today (Jul. 5): Vietnam, Thailand Pledge to Deepen Military Ties

Vietnam News Today (Jul. 5): Vietnam, Thailand pledge to deepen military ties; Southern megacity posts 7.5% economic growth in first half; Vietnam leads UNHRC discussion on food systems, climate adaptation; Da Nang emerges as key link in Vietnam-Japan tourism push.
July 05, 2025 | 09:49
Vietnam News Today (Jul. 3): Vietnamese Party leader, US President Talk Bilateral Ties, Trade Issues
Vietnam News Today (Jul. 4): Vietnamese PM to Attend BRICS Summit in Brazil

Vietnam News Today (Jul. 5) notable headlines

Vietnam, Thailand pledge to deepen military ties

Southern megacity posts 7.5% economic growth in first half

Vietnam leads UNHRC discussion on food systems, climate adaptation

Da Nang emerges as key link in Vietnam-Japan tourism push

Tropical depression may become storm, shifts direction in East Sea

Vietnam promotes culture and handicraft products in Brunei

Ho Chi Minh City draws over 22 million visitors in first half of 2025

BRICS opens new doors for Vietnam-South America cooperation

Brazilian Ambassador: Vietnam to make valuable contributions to BRICS+ Summit

Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defence Gen. Nguyen Tan Cuong (left) and Chief of Defence Forces of Thailand Gen. Songwit Noonpackdee review the guard of honour at the welcome ceremony in Hanoi on July 4. (Photo: VNA)
Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defence Gen. Nguyen Tan Cuong (left) and Chief of Defence Forces of Thailand Gen. Songwit Noonpackdee review the guard of honour at the welcome ceremony in Hanoi on July 4. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnam, Thailand pledge to deepen military ties

Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defense Gen. Nguyen Tan Cuong and Chief of Defense Forces of Thailand Gen. Songwit Noonpackdee agreed to deepen their defense cooperation during talks in Hanoi on July 4.

The talks took place right after the welcome ceremony for the Thai guest, who is on Vietnam visit from July 4-5.

Cuong, who is also a standing member of the Central Military Commission, described defense cooperation as a key pillar of the Vietnam-Thailand comprehensive strategic partnership and underscored ASEAN's critical role in shaping and maintaining regional security architecture, while also promoting substantive cooperation among member states, and between ASEAN and partners.

Vietnam values cooperative ties with ASEAN member states, including Thailand, for the sake of peace, stability, and development in the region and the world, he said.

He expressed satisfaction with the deep, practical and effective development of bilateral defense ties, notably the exchange of all-level delegations. He also noted the effective operation of cooperation mechanisms, including the defense policy dialogue, personnel training, officer exchanges, collaboration between military branches, as well as mutual support and consultation at multilateral forums and regional frameworks.

Looking forward, he proposed increasing delegation exchanges, leveraging existing cooperation mechanisms, and fostering more practical and effective collaboration, particularly in maritime law enforcement. He also called for enhanced defense training and exploration of other potential areas, alongside closer consultation and mutual support at multilateral forums and international events hosted by each side.

On global and regional issues of mutual concern, he affirmed Vietnam’s consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development, along with diversification and multilateralization of external relations. He also reaffirmed its adherence to the “Four No’s” defense policy (no military alliances, no siding with one country against another, no foreign military bases, and no using Vietnam's territory to counter other countries), cited VNA.

Regarding the East Sea issue, Cuong repeated Vietnam’s position that all disputes must be settled through peaceful means in line with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), along with regional agreements such as the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC). He also expressed the country’s support for early conclusion of a practical and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

Noonpackdee, for his part, spoke highly of Vietnam’s “Four No’s” defense policy and reaffirmed Thailand’s support for resolving disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law.

He expressed his hope that bilateral defense ties would continue to deepen in a practical and effective manner in the coming time.

Southern megacity posts 7.5% economic growth in first half

Ho Chi Minh City’s gross regional domestic product (GRDP) rose by 6.56% in the first half of 2025, or 7.49% when crude oil is included, according to a meeting held by the municipal People’s Committee on July 4 to review economic performance in June and outline tasks for the rest of the year.

Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc noted that this was the first meeting since the merger of three localities and the implementation of the new two-tier government model. The event was also the first to be connected online with all 168 communes, wards, and special zones across the city.

The city reported several key economic indicators. Budget revenue exceeded VND372 trillion, equivalent to nearly 53% of the yearly estimate. Foreign direct investment (FDI) reached US$4.72 billion, up more than 32% year-on-year, with nearly 1,000 new projects licensed. Public investment disbursement topped VND46.6 trillion, or close to 40% of the government-assigned plan.

Among the three former localities, Binh Duong posted the highest growth rate at 8.3%, while Ba Ria–Vung Tau grew 2.61% excluding crude oil. Ho Chi Minh City (former unit) achieved a 7.82% growth rate, the highest since 2020, driven mainly by services (up 8.58%) and industry–construction (up 6.7%), according to VOV.

Photo: VOV
Photo: VOV

Chairman Duoc emphasized that the newly merged Ho Chi Minh City is entering a new phase with broader development potential and a renewed strategic vision.

The city is poised to become one of the world’s most livable cities by 2030. It will continue regional zoning, develop policies suited to local characteristics, and make full use of the advantages of the three former provinces. At the same time, it seeks to streamline overlapping jurisdictions that previously hindered coordination.

Regarding administrative arrangements, Director of the City’s Department of Home Affairs Nguyen Thi Thanh Hien said that all 168 commune-level units had convened their first People’s Council sessions and completed the necessary appointments. The city-level People’s Council has also met to approve the establishment of specialized agencies, while ensuring smooth and effective government operations.

Vietnam leads UNHRC discussion on food systems, climate adaptation

As a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2023–2025 term and a country heavily affected by climate change, Vietnam is committed to working closely with other nations, international organizations, and global stakeholders to build sustainable and people-centered solutions for a future free from hunger and in harmony with nature.

Le Minh Tuan, a representative from the Department of International Cooperation under the Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, made the remark at an event on transforming food systems to adapt to climate change and ensure the right to food on July 3.

Co-hosted by the Permanent Mission of Vietnam in Geneva, in collaboration with the missions of Bangladesh, Mexico, and the Netherlands, the event took place on the sidelines of the 59th session of the UNHRC and attracted the participation of over 50 international delegates from diplomatic corps, international organizations, and academia.

The topic of food system transformation in response to climate change and the protection of the right to food holds increasing significance in light of today’s multidimensional global crises, including climate change, environmental degradation, conflicts, and growing food insecurity, VNA reported.

Ambassador Mai Phan Dung, Head of the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to Geneva (C), speaks at the discussion session. (Photo: VNA)
Ambassador Mai Phan Dung, Head of the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to Geneva (C), speaks at the discussion session. (Photo: VNA)

Sharing Vietnam's experiences in promoting a sustainable food system, Tuan highlighted the Mekong Delta's low-emission and high-quality rice development program, which aims to cultivate one million hectares of such grain by 2030.

The program not only seeks to improve farmers' incomes and reduce emissions but also contributes to ensuring the right to food, especially for vulnerable groups such as women and the poor. Models such as “1P5G”, straw management, farming mechanisation, and the increase of women's engagement have been effectively implemented in Vietnam, he noted.

Benjamin Schachter, Coordinator of the Environment and Climate Change Team at the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), encouraged countries to adopt a human rights-based approach in transforming food systems, stressing the need for genuine community participation, transparency, accountability, and non-discrimination.

He also acknowledged efforts by countries such as Vietnam in mainstreaming human rights in climate and agricultural agendas, affirming OHCHR’s readiness to provide support and technical cooperation throughout this process.

Ambassadors and heads of delegations from the co-hosting countries also shared diverse national experiences and perspectives, contributing to a fruitful discussion.

The event underscored Vietnam’s proactive role in advancing human rights in the context of climate change, helped strengthen its network of partners, and shared practical lessons with the international community.

Da Nang emerges as key link in Vietnam-Japan tourism push

Vietnam and Japan target two million two-way tourist visits each year, with central Da Nang city emerging as a key hub for bilateral tourism.

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) in Vietnam hosted the 2025 Japan Tourism Promotion and Business Matching Seminar in central Da Nang city on July 4.

The event gathered representatives from the Consulate General of Japan in Da Nang, the Da Nang Tourism Association, the Central Region branch of Vietnam Airlines, and around 50 travel agencies and tourism partners from both Vietnam and Japan.

In her opening remarks, Matsumoto Fumi, Chief Representative of JNTO in Vietnam, said that Vietnamese arrivals to Japan in 2024 reached 621,100, up 8.2% year-on-year, surpassing the record set in 2023. In the first five months of 2025 alone, the figure was 311,700, marking a 9.6% increase from the same period last year.

She said the recovery of international flight routes, especially those connecting Da Nang to Narita and Kansai is helping boost tourism flows and making it easier for travelers from central Vietnam to visit Japan.

However, about 80% of Vietnamese have never been to Japan, thus indicating untapped market potential. Currently, Japanese tourism remains heavily reliant on traditional routes along the "Golden Route" and peak seasons such as cherry blossom and autumn foliage, which put pressure on infrastructure in major cities.

In 2025, JNTO views Expo 2025 Osaka–Kansai (opening in April) as a key opportunity to promote new destinations and encourage more balanced tourism flows in both space and time.

The seminar featured 22 Japanese tourism service providers and 26 tour operators from central Vietnam. It aimed to deepen mutual understanding, share experience, and strengthen connections between tourism stakeholders in the two countries.

Mori Takero, Consul General of Japan in Da Nang, said the recent merger of Da Nang and Quang Nam would create a new, large-scale tourism hub, while integrating resources such as the UNESCO sites of Hoi An and My Son, eco-tourism areas, and local communities.

He also highlighted the resumed Osaka–Da Nang route operated by Vietnam Airlines and the planned upgrade of the Narita-Da Nang route with larger aircraft, both favorable conditions for boosting bilateral tourism, particularly with the upcoming Expo 2025 in Osaka.

In the first half of 2025, Da Nang recorded 11% economic growth. The city is working to establish a free trade zone and an international financial center to help increase business-related travel, cited VOV.

Photo: VOV
Photo: VOV

During the Japanese Prime Minister’s visit to Vietnam in April, the two countries set a goal to reach two million annual tourist visits in both directions.

At the event, Nguyen Thi Hoai An, Deputy Director of Da Nang’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said that the newly expanded city now spans over 11,800 square kilometers and has a population of more than three million. She said the seminar highlights Da Nang’s vast potential in land, infrastructure, and development resources.

By 2030, Da Nang aims to become a regional hub for high-quality tourism and services, and a creative destination in Southeast Asia. It also envisions being one of Asia’s leading tourism centers by 2045.

Japan remains a key international tourism market for Da Nang. In 2024, the city welcomed more than 179,000 Japanese visitors. In the first half of 2025 alone, arrivals surpassed 108,000, nearly double the same period in 2024. There are currently 11 direct flights per week between Da Nang and Japan (seven from Narita and four from Osaka).

Nguyen Thi Hoai An expressed hope that this seminar would serve as an effective platform for businesses from both countries to bolster cooperation, boost market expansion, and carry out practical, sustainable tourism initiatives.

Tropical depression may become storm, shifts direction in East Sea

A tropical depression currently active over the northeastern part of the northern East Sea is projected to slowly shift direction and intensify into a tropical storm within the next 24 hours.

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 10:00 AM today (July 4), the depression's center was located at approximately 19.8°N latitude and 118.8°E longitude. The strongest winds near the center reached level 7 (50-61 km/h), with gusts up to level 9. The system is moving slowly westward at a speed of 5-10 km/h.

Forecasts for the next 24 hours indicate that the depression will change direction, moving northwest at 5-10 km/h and potentially strengthening into a tropical storm. By 10:00 AM on July 5, the system - possibly upgraded to a storm - is expected to remain over the northeastern waters of the East Sea with wind levels of 8-9 and gusts reaching level 11.

Under the Beaufort scale, wind levels of 8-9 (61-68 km/h) with wave heights ranging from 4 to 7 meters signify storm conditions. If this intensity is confirmed, the system could be classified as the second tropical storm over the East Sea for the 2025 storm season, according to VNN.

 Projected path of the tropical depression as of 11:00 AM on July 4. Source: NCHMF
Projected path of the tropical depression as of 11:00 AM on July 4. Source: NCHMF

In the subsequent 24 hours, the storm is expected to shift course again, moving northeastward at 5-10 km/h and potentially strengthening further. By 10:00 AM on July 6, the storm’s center is projected to remain in the northeastern East Sea with wind intensities at levels 9-10, gusting up to level 12.

From 48 to 72 hours onward, the system is likely to strengthen further while continuing its movement toward the north-northeast at approximately 20 km/h.

Despite the shifting course and potential for strengthening, experts believe the system is unlikely to make landfall in Vietnam. However, the storm or depression will still generate hazardous conditions at sea. The northeastern part of the northern East Sea is expected to experience thunderstorms, winds at levels 6-7, increasing to levels 8-9, with gusts up to level 11 and wave heights of 3-5 meters - creating very rough sea conditions.

Additionally, coastal waters from Khanh Hoa to Ca Mau will experience strong southwesterly winds at level 5, occasionally reaching level 6, with gusts up to level 7 and waves ranging from 2-3 meters, resulting in rough seas.

All vessels operating in these hazardous maritime zones are at risk of thunderstorms, squalls, strong winds, and high waves.

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