Vietnam, Thailand push for more substantive Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The upcoming official visit to Thailand by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam is expected to provide fresh impetus for Vietnam-Thailand relations to develop further and reach new heights in the coming period.
Nguyen Manh Cuong, Party Central Committee member and Deputy Foreign Minister made the statement in a recent media interview ahead of the visit.
According to the Deputy FM, Vietnam and Thailand are close neighbours with many shared interests in maintaining peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region. After nearly 50 years of diplomatic relations, ties between the two countries have continued to be strengthened and expanded comprehensively, becoming one of the most dynamic and effective relationships within ASEAN.
A particularly important milestone in bilateral ties was the elevation of relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2025. The move shows the very high level of political trust between the two countries and demonstrates the common determination of leaders on both sides to deepen bilateral ties in a more substantive and effective manner in the new period, Cuong emphasized.
A notable feature of Vietnam-Thailand relations is the increasingly strong political trust between the two nations. The two sides have maintained regular high-level visits, contacts, cooperation mechanisms and strategic exchanges across a multitude of fields.
Among them, the Joint Cabinet Meeting mechanism at the prime ministerial level is a distinctive feature of bilateral ties, reflecting the close coordination and strong bonds between the two countries in promoting comprehensive cooperation.
Economic cooperation continues to be a bright spot in bilateral relations. Thailand is currently Vietnam’s largest trading partner in ASEAN, with two-way trade exceeding US$22 billion in 2025.
The two economies are becoming increasingly interconnected within regional supply chains. Thailand is also among the largest ASEAN investors in Vietnam, with many large-scale projects in energy, processing industries, retail, logistics and infrastructure.
Both countries also boast huge potential for cooperation in supply chain development, transport connectivity, logistics and Mekong subregional cooperation. Given the important geostrategic position of each country, the two sides are well placed to become connectivity hubs in mainland Southeast Asia, according to VOV.
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| Nguyen Manh Cuong, Party Central Committee member and Deputy Foreign Minister (Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs) |
Alongside economic ties, defense and security cooperation between the two countries has become increasingly substantive and in-depth.
The two sides have coordinated closely in combating transnational crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, cyber security threats and other non-traditional security challenges. This has contributed significantly to strengthening mutual trust and maintaining a peaceful and stable environment in the region.
Cooperation in culture, education, tourism and people-to-people exchanges has also continued to expand strongly. The two countries currently have around 20 pairs of twinned provinces and cities. The Vietnamese community in Thailand serves as an important bridge of friendship between the two peoples. In particular, President Ho Chi Minh relic sites in Thailand carry deep historical and emotional significance, contributing to forging the traditional friendship between the two countries’ people.
On that foundation, Vietnam and Thailand are well positioned to further deepen and make their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership more substantive.
Regarding the upcoming official visit to Thailand by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam, Cuong said this will be the first visit by the Vietnamese leader to an ASEAN member state in his new capacity, and comes as bilateral ties have just been elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
According to him, the visit demonstrates Vietnam’s high regard for relations with Thailand as well as for Southeast Asia. It will also provide an opportunity for senior leaders of the two countries to hold in-depth discussions on major orientations for effectively carrying out the new cooperation framework, thereby creating additional impetus for bilateral relations in the coming period.
One important expectation for the visit is to further consolidate and deepen political trust between the two countries at a time when the global and regional situation is undergoing rapid and complex changes. Strengthening strategic exchanges, coordinating stances and maintaining high-level contacts are of great significance, laying the foundation for the two countries to continue expanding cooperation across all areas.
Economically, the visit will open up new advances in trade, investment, logistics and supply chain connectivity. The two sides also have substantial potential for cooperation in new areas such as digital transformation, the green economy, the circular economy, renewable energy, innovation and industrial transformation. These are all areas aligned with the development strategies of both countries in the new period.
The visit is also expected to further promote regional connectivity, particularly within Mekong and ASEAN cooperation. Vietnam and Thailand both play important roles in promoting ASEAN economic integration and strengthening infrastructure connectivity, trade and people-to-people exchanges across the region.
In addition, cooperation in culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges will continue to expand. Enhanced air connectivity, tourism cooperation, and exchanges among youth, students and localities will help strengthen the sustainable social foundation of bilateral ties. The two sides are also expected to maintain close coordination at regional and international forums, especially within ASEAN, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region.
Cuong affirmed that, based on the strong foundation of friendship, high political trust and broad cooperation potential, the visit will create fresh impetus for Vietnam-Thailand relations to develop more strongly and reach new heights in the time to come.
Vietnam seeks to promote cooperation with UK in capital market, financial center development
Vietnam always wishes to continue strengthening cooperation with UK partners in capital market development, green transition, green finance, and the establishment of Vietnam international financial center (VIFC), said Minister of Finance Ngo Van Tuan.
At a recent working session with UK Ambassador to Vietnam Ian Frew, Tuan appreciated the positive developments in Vietnam–UK cooperation in recent years, particularly in the areas of finance, trade, investment, education and training, climate change response, and the sharing of experience in VIFC development, according to the Ministry of Finance.
The minister also welcomed the upgrade of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee To Lam’s official visit to the UK in October 2025, and expressed gratitude to the UK Government for supporting Vietnam in combating COVID-19, responding to natural disasters and climate change, as well as implementing development assistance programmes in remote and ethnic minority areas.
For his part, Ian Frew praised Vietnam’s growth targets and sustainable development orientation for the coming period.
According to the ambassador, the Ministry of Finance plays an important role in realising the country’s development goals. He also emphasised that the UK wishes to continue serving as a close partner of Vietnam in the development of capital markets, green finance, and sustainable growth.
One of the key topics discussed by both sides was the development of the VIFC in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. Ambassador Ian Frew stated that the VIFC establishment would not only enhance Vietnam’s position but also strengthen the capacity of the domestic financial system and expand financial products and services for businesses.
According to him, the UK has coordinated with Vietnam in building the legal framework for the VIFC through technical assistance activities, sharing experience from TheCityUK, and delegations of British financial experts.
The UK side affirms its readiness to continue supporting Vietnam in improving the legal framework and connecting experts and market participants to develop a financial center model suited to Vietnam’s practical conditions, he said.
Tuan noted that the UK has actively supported Vietnam in developing the legal framework for the VIFC in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. According to the minister, for the center to become operational soon, Vietnam must continue improving its legal institutions and preparing high-quality human resources.
The Ministry of Finance proposed that the UK continue sharing experience from the development model of the London financial center, while also cooperating in conducting deeper analyses of Vietnam’s competitive advantages, unique characteristics, and challenges compared with other financial centers in the region. This would help Vietnam select appropriate operational models and financial products and services to enhance competitiveness, reported VNA.
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| Minister of Finance Ngo Van Tuan (right) and UK's Ambassador to Vietnam Iain Frew at their meeting (Photo: mof.gov.vn) |
Tuan also proposed that the two sides establish a joint working group in preparation for in-depth technical exchanges ahead of the expected visit to Vietnam by the Lord Mayor of the City of London in September.
Regarding green finance development, he stated that to achieve growth of over 10% in the next 5–10 years, Vietnam’s demand for investment capital will be enormous. In this context, Vietnam is studying ways to diversify international capital mobilisation channels, with green finance identified as a highly promising field that could become a strategic product of the future international financial center.
However, according to him, effectively accessing and utilising green finance remains challenging, particularly in identifying projects and enterprises that meet green standards and are capable of efficient implementation and disbursement. The minister proposed that the UK support connections with businesses and organisations experienced in green finance to help Vietnam improve its capacity to mobilise and effectively use these resources.
Ambassador Ian Frew noted that the UK has signed a memorandum of understanding with Vietnam on green finance cooperation and is currently coordinating the implementation of various initiatives related to the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), mobilising capital for renewable energy projects and sustainable infrastructure.
At present, Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance plays an important role in coordinating ODA capital and promoting financial mechanisms for the green transition, he said.
The UK side hopes to continue closely coordinating with the Ministry of Finance in implementing future cooperation programmes, while also supporting capital market development, promoting the upgrading of Vietnam’s stock market status, and strengthening connections between Vietnamese enterprises and international financial institutions and investors, the ambassador added.
Vietnam in international MVs: From visual appeal to tourism potential
Vietnam is increasingly emerging as a preferred destination for international music production teams, with the country’s landscapes appearing more frequently in global music videos. Beyond their visual appeal, these productions are opening up new opportunities to promote Vietnam’s image and tourism potential to international audiences.
Earlier this year, the music video (MV) Song From A Secret Garden – Secret Garden in Vietnam by the Norwegian-Irish group Secret Garden was released, featuring the scenic landscapes of Ninh Binh Province. The production takes viewers through Trang An Landscape Complex, Cuc Phuong National Park and Bich Dong Pagoda. The project forms part of the “Good Morning Vietnam” initiative launched by Nhan Dan Newspaper and IB Group Vietnam to promote Vietnam’s history, culture and tourism through artistic collaborations.
Most recently, the Republic of Korea’s duo AKMU filmed scenes for their music video Paradise of Rumours at Bau Trang, a renowned destination in former Binh Thuan province, now Lam Dong province. Images of the white dunes quickly spread across social media platforms, underscoring the strong visual attraction of Vietnam’s natural landscapes, cited VNA.
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| Bich Dong Pagoda, one of the filming locations featured in the music video of Secret Garden (Photo: VNA) |
Vietnam has previously appeared in a number of international music productions. Korean group ONF filmed We Must Love in Hue, featuring the iconic dragon structure at Ho Thuy Tien water park. Another Korean group, Block B, captured street scenes in Ho Chi Minh City for Nillili Mambo, while Thai singer Boy Peacemaker chose Hoi An as the backdrop for Yung Mai Pon Keet Undtarai. International artists, including Kenny G and Bond, have also filmed projects in Hanoi and Ha Long Bay.
According to media expert Tran Xuan Tien of Van Hien University, Vietnam’s appeal lies in the freshness and authenticity of its landscapes at a time when many destinations worldwide have been overly exploited. From coastlines and forests to cultural heritage sites, Vietnam offers diverse yet relatively untouched settings that align well with the minimalist aesthetics popular in contemporary music productions.
However, tourism experts caution that visual exposure alone is not enough to convert audiences into visitors. Tourism expert Pham Ngoc Dung from Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry and Trade noted that MVs primarily create awareness, while travel decisions depend on broader tourism experiences and destination branding. In many cases, international audiences may admire the scenery without recognising it as Vietnam, reflecting the absence of a strong and distinctive national visual identity.
Experts suggest that Vietnam should move beyond simply providing filming locations and instead adopt a proactive role in content creation and storytelling. This includes developing a clearer national branding strategy, strengthening coordination between the tourism, culture and media sectors, and creating tourism products linked to featured filming sites.
The growing presence of Vietnam in international music videos is therefore more than a story of beautiful imagery. It is also a test of how the country positions itself within the global cultural landscape. When viewers not only admire the visuals but also recognise and aspire to experience Vietnam firsthand, the promotional value of these productions can be transformed into tangible tourism appeal.
Hanoi temperatures may exceed 40C amid severe nationwide heatwave
Northern and central Vietnam are enduring a widespread and exceptionally intense heatwave, with actual outdoor temperatures in Hanoi expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius due to the urban heat island effect.
According to forecaster Nguyen Thi Hue from the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the weather pattern causing the heatwave across northern and central Vietnam is expected to persist over the coming days.
Specifically, on May 24, both regions experienced severe and extreme heat. Temperature readings recorded at 1 p.m. showed many locations surpassing 38 degrees Celsius, including Vinh Yen in Phu Tho Province, Bac Ninh and Lang Station in Hanoi at 38.8 degrees Celsius, Vinh in Nghe An at 38.6 degrees Celsius, Ha Tinh at 38.8 degrees Celsius, Ba Don in Quang Tri at 38.4 degrees Celsius, Quang Ngai at 38.4 degrees Celsius and Hoai Nhon in Gia Lai at 38.2 degrees Celsius. Relative humidity dropped to as low as 40-50%.
Forecaster Nguyen Thi Hue said that from now until around May 27, northern Vietnam and the eastern areas stretching from Gia Lai to Lam Dong will continue to experience widespread heat and severe heatwaves, with maximum temperatures commonly ranging from 36 to 38 degrees Celsius and some areas exceeding 39 degrees Celsius. Relative humidity is expected to remain low at around 45-50%.
“Particularly in Hanoi, the combination of concrete buildings and asphalt roads intensifies the urban heat island effect, causing temperatures to rise above the regional average. Temperatures are forecast to fluctuate between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius, with some isolated areas potentially facing exceptionally severe heat exceeding 39 degrees Celsius,” Nguyen Thi Hue emphasized.
The widespread heatwave in northern Vietnam is expected to ease from May 28, likely ending by Thursday next week.
Meanwhile, central Vietnam remains the country’s hottest region, especially the provinces from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang and eastern Quang Ngai Province. Temperatures there are forecast to range between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius, with some areas exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
Coastal provinces in south-central Vietnam are expected to be slightly cooler but will still see temperatures between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius, VNN reported.
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| Extreme heat blankets northern and central Vietnam. Photo illustration: Nam Khanh |
According to Nguyen Thi Hue, the heatwave in central Vietnam is expected to last through May 28 before gradually easing from May 29, roughly one day later than in northern Vietnam.
Meteorologists say northern and central Vietnam are now entering the most intense heatwave since the beginning of summer. Unlike the humid and stifling conditions earlier in the week, the current weather is characterized by dry, burning heat that can make skin feel scorched after just a few minutes outdoors.
Southeastern Vietnam is also experiencing hot weather, with daytime highs ranging from 35 to 36 degrees Celsius and some places surpassing 36 degrees Celsius. Relative humidity there is forecast at around 50-55%, with the hot spell likely lasting until May 27.
Warnings on electricity and heat safety
Meteorological authorities also noted that the forecast temperatures are measured under standard conditions inside weather shelters at a height of two meters above ground. Actual perceived temperatures outdoors may be 2-4 degrees Celsius higher, or even more depending on heat-retaining surfaces.
The combination of extreme heat and low humidity also raises the risk of fires and electrical incidents in densely populated residential areas due to surging electricity demand. Authorities urged residents to use electricity safely and take proactive measures to protect their health during the heatwave.
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