| Vietnam News Today (Jun. 14) notable headlines Prime Minister’s upcoming trip to give fresh impetus to Vietnam - Russia ties: Ambassador Vietnam seeks expanded US partnership in searching remains of martyrs Vietnam targets 30% GDP from FDI by 2045 Vietnam remains attractive to Swedish investors Seven medals for Vietnam at IPCA World Chess Championship PM Le Minh Hung to attend ASEAN-Russia Summit commemorating 35 years of ties Vietnam joins UN group on combating technology-facilitated human trafficking Deputy FM urges Idemitsu Kosan to expand green energy investment in Vietnam Da Nang ready to welcome summer holidaymakers |
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| Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Dang Minh Khoi (Photo: VNA) |
Prime Minister’s upcoming trip to give fresh impetus to Vietnam - Russia ties: Ambassador
Prime Minister Le Minh Hung’s upcoming trip to Russia to attend the ASEAN - Russia Commemorative Summit is expected to inject fresh momentum into Vietnam - Russia relations and further advance the comprehensive strategic partnership, Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Dang Minh Khoi has said.
In an interview with Vietnam News Agency correspondents in Moscow ahead of the Prime Minister’s June 16 – 18 trip to Kazan, Ambassador Khoi said it takes place at a particularly important juncture for both ASEAN - Russia relations and Vietnam - Russia ties.
He said the trip will represent another step in implementing Vietnam’s consistent policy of strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia, while creating new opportunities to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest and reinforce the positive momentum in bilateral relations.
This will be PM Hung’s first participation in an ASEAN – Russia summit since taking office. The commemorative summit marks a vital milestone in the development of ASEAN – Russia relations, which have expanded over the past 35 years, especially since the establishment of their strategic partnership in 2018.
Vietnam supports the strengthening of the ASEAN – Russia Strategic Partnership and the promotion of effective dialogue and cooperation in areas of shared interest, such as trade and investment, energy, science - technology, education - training, and efforts to address non-traditional security challenges, the ambassador said. It also supports expanding cooperation between ASEAN and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and BRICS, while enhancing coordination within the ASEAN – Russia framework, he added.
Khoi stressed that effective ASEAN – Russia cooperation will provide a solid foundation for advancing cooperation between Vietnam and Russia.
According to the diplomat, PM Hung’s trip follows a series of high-level diplomatic engagements between the two countries after the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), demonstrating Vietnam’s determination to deepen its traditional friendship and further deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia, thus maintaining positive momentum and creating fresh momentum for bilateral cooperation.
In addition to attending the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit, PM Hung is expected to hold bilateral meetings with the Russian side, including at the highest level, to establish working relations in his new capacity, strengthen political trust, review the
implementation of previous agreements, and promote multifaceted cooperation, focusing on key energy projects, particularly the implementation of the Ninh Thuan 1 nuclear power plant under an intergovernmental agreement, and long-term oil and gas collaboration.
Assessing the current state of bilateral relations, Ambassador Khoi described 2026 as an especially dynamic year for Vietnam – Russia cooperation.
Shortly after the conclusion of Vietnam’s 14th National Party Congress, Russian President Vladimir Putin became the first foreign leader to congratulate Party General Secretary To Lam by telephone. Vietnam also sent Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Hoai Trung as a special envoy to Russia to brief Russian leaders on the congress outcomes and convey the country’s message that practical and mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia remains an important objective in implementing Vietnam’s strategic development goals.
Ambassador Khoi said in March, the Vietnamese Prime Minister paid a visit to Russia, holding talks with his Russian counterpart and meeting President Putin. Several deputy prime ministers and ministers have also travelled to Russia in recent months.
The diplomat highlighted the intensive pace of high-level visits, meetings and phone calls over the past two years, noting that exchanges between leaders have been frank, friendly and highly substantive, cited VNA.
Cooperation in defence and security has expanded positively, particularly into maritime areas. Bilateral trade has also regained growth momentum, with two-way trade reaching 4.77 billion USD in 2025; and hitting 1.72 billion in the first four months of 2026, up 9.22% year-on-year.
Oil and gas, and energy cooperation, one of the pillars of the bilateral relationship, continues to be pushed.
Ambassador Khoi said the signing of the intergovernmental agreement on the construction of the Ninh Thuan 1 nuclear power plant has opened a new chapter in energy, science and technology cooperation between the two countries, while supporting Vietnam’s future economic development and nuclear industry. He described the project as a strategic symbol of Vietnam – Russia cooperation in a new era.
Tourism cooperation has seen remarkable growth, driven by a sharp increase in the frequency of direct flights between the two countries. Russia is currently Vietnam’s largest source of visitors from Europe and the third-largest tourism market worldwide, after China and the Republic of Korea.
Notably, the third Conference of Rectors of Universities of Vietnam and Russia, held in Vietnam on May 22 – 23, provided an important platform for networking and led to the signing of numerous cooperation agreements between higher education institutions of the two countries.
In addition, cultural connection, people-to-people ties, and cooperation between localities of the two countries have been intensified in recent times. A notable example is the first-ever Vietnam Cultural Festival held at Red Square in Moscow in July 2025, which attracted nearly one million visitors in just 10 days.
He said that overall, bilateral relations possess all the necessary foundations to advance further and reach new heights in line with the aspirations of both countries. These include strong political will, shared perceptions and long-term visions of the two countries’ leaders regarding the future of Vietnam – Russia ties, a steadfast tradition of friendship, and the substantial achievements of cooperation built over more than seven decades.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Khoi said Vietnam and Russia possess all the necessary conditions to elevate their relationship further,
including strong political will, converging strategic visions among their leaders, a solid foundation of traditional friendship, cooperation achievements over the last seven decades.
He also stressed Vietnam’s active role in fostering ASEAN – Russia relations, helping develop what he described as a model relationship between a major power and a regional organisation, contributing to maintaining peace and stability in the region and the world.
The ambassador also showed his belief that PM Hung’s upcoming trip, especially his expected meeting with President Putin, will produce substantial outcomes and create fresh momentum for bilateral cooperation.
Vietnam seeks expanded US partnership in searching remains of martyrs
Deputy Prime Minister Pham Thi Thanh Tra has called for closer and more effective cooperation between the Vietnam Center and Sam Johnson Vietnam Archive (VNCA) at Texas Tech University of the US and the Vietnamese Wartime Accounting Initiative (VWAI) in helping Vietnam search for and repatriate the remains of fallen soldiers so they can rest in their homeland.
The Deputy PM made the remarks while receiving in Hanoi on June 13 a delegation from Texas Tech University led by VNCA Director Dr. Stephen Maxner, who are on a working visit to Vietnam.
Deputy PM Tra said the search for and repatriation of remains of martyrs a long-standing aspiration of their families and the Vietnamese people. The support and goodwill demonstrated by the VNCA and VWAI represent a meaningful humanitarian effort that helps heal the wounds of war, close a painful chapter of the past, contributing to strengthening the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the US.
She highly valued Texas Tech University’s contributions to Vietnam, particularly its support for training high-quality human resources, and the VNCA’s role in the initiative to account for Vietnamese missing in wartime.
With a collection of more than 30 million pages of original documents and over 40,000 books and research works on the war in Vietnam, including declassified records and valuable personal artifacts of Vietnamese soldiers, the center has become a trusted partner of Vietnam. It has helped gather, decode and cross-reference archival materials with domestic records, contributing to efforts to locate remains of fallen soldiers and return wartime memorabilia to their families. Among the notable items preserved and returned was the original diary of martyr Dang Thuy Tram.
In 2025 alone, the center returned nearly 30 wartime documents to Vietnamese families and war veterans and transferred more than 200 battlefield records to Vietnam’s National Archives Center III for research and preservation, providing significant comfort and solace to relatives of fallen soldiers.
The Deputy PM noted that Vietnam is implementing a nationwide “500-day campaign” to search for, recover and identify nidentified martyrs’ remains, with the goal of locate about 7,000 sets of remains and complete DNA sampling from approximately 230,000 unidentified graves and relatives of missing martyrs to support identification efforts.
The campaign reflects Vietnam’s deep gratitude to those who sacrificed for the nation and embodies the country’s longstanding tradition of honouring those who served, she said, noting that in this process, document analysis and information support from the VNCA play a particularly important role, according to VNA.
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| Deputy Prime Minister Pham Thi Thanh Tra (right) receives VNCA Director Dr. Stephen Maxner in Hanoi on June 13 (Photo: VNA) |
Tra also referred to a recent workshop that verified information related to a mass grave site at the former Do Thanh Cemetery area in Sai Gon, now Le Thi Rieng Park in Ho Chi Minh City. Drawing on declassified US documents, eyewitness accounts and field data, participants concluded that there is strong historical, scientific and practical evidence supporting the existence of the mass grave. Excavation is expected to begin in early July.
She expressed her hope that the VNCA and VWAI will continue working closely with the working group of the National Steering Committee for Search, Collection and Identification of Martyrs' Remains by providing documents, strengthening records and applying technology to decode wartime archives, thereby supporting the goals of the 500-day campaign.
The Deputy PM also called on the VNCA to expand research and information-sharing efforts to facilitate the identification and return of additional wartime keepsakes to the relatives of fallen soldiers at national tribute conference for people with meritorious service to the revolution scheduled for July.
For his part, Maxner reaffirmed the VNCA’s readiness to support Vietnam’s efforts. He said the center has built a network of Vietnam's experienced experts to help analyse records and clarify information related to missing soldiers.
The center is currently working with the US National Archives to digitize additional declassified materials relevant to the search effort, and is cooperating with Vietnamese partners on joint research projects to compile more comprehensive datasets, helping improve the effectiveness of search and identifictation of martyrs, he said.
Vietnam targets 30% GDP from FDI by 2045
Vietnam has unveiled a new strategy for developing its foreign-invested sector, setting a target for foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) to contribute around 30% of the country’s GDP by 2045 as part of its long-term development vision.
The policy direction is outlined in the Politburo’s Resolution No. 10 recently signed by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam.
From capital attraction to strategic investment development
According to the resolution, foreign direct investment (FDI) has become a key driver of Vietnam’s economy over nearly four decades of economic reform and international integration.
The sector has contributed to industrial development, economic restructuring and Vietnam’s deeper participation in global production networks.
However, the resolution points out that investment outcomes have not fully matched the country’s potential. The localization rate is relatively low, linkages between foreign and domestic enterprises are still limited, and technology transfer has fallen short of expectations.
To address these challenges, Vietnam plans to shift from a traditional capital-attraction approach toward the development of a strategic national investment ecosystem, reported VOV.
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| Vietnam has unveiled a new foreign investment strategy targeting up to US$300 billion in FDI by 2030, with a focus on semiconductors, AI, digital technologies and innovation-driven growth. (Illustrative image) |
Rather than competing primarily through incentives or administrative boundaries, the country will prioritise investment linked to industrial clusters, global value chains and innovation ecosystems.
Investment quality, efficiency and technology transfer capacity will become key criteria in project selection, while incentives will increasingly be tied to investors’ performance and fulfillment of commitments.
Commitment to a transparent and stable investment environment
The Politburo reaffirms that the foreign-invested sector is an important component of the national economy and will continue to receive long-term support and equal treatment.
Vietnam pledges to strengthen protections for intellectual property rights, property rights and the legitimate interests of investors while maintaining a transparent, stable and predictable investment environment aligned with international standards.
By 2030, it aims to rank among ASEAN’s leading countries in terms of business environment, competitiveness, innovation and its ability to attract high-quality foreign investment projects.
Up to US$300 billion in FDI expected by 2030
For the 2026–2030 period, Vietnam targets between US$200 billion and US$300 billion in newly registered FDI, with implemented capital reaching between US$150 billion and US$200 billion, with approximately 75% of incoming investment expected to originate from developed economies.
The resolution also sets a goal of attracting at least three of the world's leading technology corporations to establish headquarters or research and development (R&D) centers in Vietnam.
Another notable target is raising the average localization rate to between 45% and 50%, while enabling around 10,000 Vietnamese enterprises to participate in the value chains of foreign-invested companies.
Focus on semiconductors, AI and strategic technologies
To achieve these objectives, Vietnam will prioritise investment in high-tech and strategic industries capable of generating breakthrough growth.
Key sectors include electronics manufacturing, semiconductors, digital equipment, artificial intelligence (AI), big data, cloud computing and other advanced technologies.
The Politburo also stresses that localities must avoid competing for investment at any cost and should not sacrifice environmental protection, natural resources, social welfare or economic security for short-term growth.
Additional measures include institutional reforms, development of high-quality human resources, upgrades to strategic infrastructure, more competitive investment incentives and stronger oversight to prevent transfer pricing and trade fraud while ensuring investors fulfill their commitments.
Vietnam remains attractive to Swedish investors
Swedish companies continue to report stable performance and strong long-term interest in Vietnam, despite a more uncertain global environment, according to the Business Climate Survey 2026.
The survey highlighted that Vietnam's economy performance continues to support investor confidence. In 2025, GDP growth reached 8.02 percent, outperforming earlier projections and reinforcing the country's position among the world's fastest-growing economies.
Swedish companies share this positive trajectory. In 2026, 61 percent expect industry turnover to increase. Together with 81 percent recorded in 2025 the last two years reflect a stable and forward-looking business sentiment.
Sweden - long-term partner in Vietnam's growth journey
Sweden aims to play a constructive role as a long-term partner in Vietnam's development, contributing through trade, investment and knowledge exchange. The survey also highlights the strength of Sweden's reputation in Vietnam, with 81 percent of Swedish companies confirming that "Brand Sweden" supports their business, reflecting positive associations with high quality, sustainability, and innovation.
This is reinforced by strong local partnerships and long-standing presence in key sectors aligned with Vietnam's development priorities, such as health, infrastructure and trusted connectivity contributing to the green and digital transformation.
Vietnam's deep integration in global value chains continue to attract both new investors and old projects expanding their operations. Nearly half of Swedish firms in the 2026 survey established their presence after 2020, underlining the market's increasing attractiveness, VGP reported.
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| Sweden's Peak Education Limited Company plans to invest in a five-star resort in Kon Plong, the central province of Quang Ngai - Photo: The Swedish Embassy in Vietnam |
In 2026, 50 percent of Swedish companies plan to increase their investments. Although slightly down from 59 percent in 2025, this figure indicates sustained confidence in Vietnam's long-term growth potential and a resilient investment outlook.
Improving business climate with remaining challenges
The survey shows a notable improvement in the overall business environment. In 2026, 67 percent of the companies describe the business climate as good or very good, compared to 46 percent in 2025.
Swedish companies report high satisfaction with Vietnam's strong supplier base, reliable distribution networks, and overall sense of safety as key advantages. These factors continue to make the country an increasingly attractive place to operate.
Vietnam's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is increasingly reflected in business activity.
Swedish companies are actively supporting Vietnam's green transition, particularly in renewable energy and sustainable industrial solutions. At the same time, they emphasize the importance of clearer regulatory frameworks and improved infrastructure to accelerate progress.
Outlook: strong fundamentals with scope for reform
The findings confirm Vietnam's position as a dynamic and attractive market for Swedish companies. Continued progress on regulatory transparency, administrative efficiency, and infrastructure will be important to sustain momentum and unlock further investment.
Overall, Swedish companies view Vietnam as a long-term partner and growth market. With sustained investment interest, strengthening business sentiment, and expanding opportunities across sectors, Swedish companies remain committed to supporting Vietnam's economic development, innovation capacity, and sustainable transformation.
The Business Climate Survey 2026 is conducted annually by Business Sweden in collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden in Vietnam. The 2026 edition is based on responses from 33 Swedish companies across a range of industries, providing a snapshot of business sentiment and insights into opportunities and obstacles in the Vietnamese market.
Seven medals for Vietnam at IPCA World Chess Championship
Vietnamese players have pocketed seven medals, including four golds, at the 25th International Physically Disabled Chess Association (IPCA) World Individual Chess Championship 2026 that closed in Guardamar, Spain, on June 13.
The result exceeded the team’s pre-tournament expectations and further highlighted the growing presence of Vietnamese para chess on the international stage.
The tournament brought together more than 70 outstanding chess players from 18 countries. Vietnam sent two key female players from Hanoi, Tran Thi Bich Thuy and Doan Thu Huyen, both of whom had achieved high rankings in the previous season.
One of Vietnam’s most notable achievements came in the rapid chess competition. Doan Thu Huyen delivered an impressive performance to win the gold medal in the women’s open category with 7.5 points from nine rounds.
Her teammate Tran Thi Bich Thuy got 6 points after 9 rounds, taking a gold medal in the women's wheelchair rapid discipline and a bronze medal in the women's open category.
In the standard chess, Bich Thuy continued her strong form by claiming gold in the women’s wheelchair category and silver in the women’s open competition, cited VOV.
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| Vietnam wins seven medals at IPCA World Chess Championship 2026 in Spain. (Photo: hanoimoi.vn) |
She added another gold medal in the women’s wheelchair category and a silver medal in the women’s open division in blitz chess, making her Vietnam’s most decorated athlete at the tournament.
According to coach Bui Quang Vu, the Vietnamese players competed with confidence and determination while overcoming difficult moments against strong international opponents.
Beyond the medal tally, the team’s achievement reflected the consistent performances of Vietnamese para chess players across multiple editions of the championship.
Maintaining competitiveness in standard, rapid and blitz chess demonstrates the continued improvement of Vietnam’s athletes at international competitions. The results in Spain are viewed as an encouraging sign for Vietnamese disability sports.
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