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Gen. Nguyen Tan Cuong, Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defence (left) and Maj. Gen. Pavel Muraveiko review the Guard of Honour of the Vietnam People's Army. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnam, Belarus strengthen defense ties

In recent years, defense cooperation between Vietnam and Belarus has been implemented effectively, in line with their overall relationship, achieving positive results across various areas, Gen. Nguyen Tan Cuong, Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defense, said on October 20.

At his talks in Hanoi with visiting Maj. Gen. Pavel Muraveiko, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces and First Deputy Minister of Defense of Belarus, Cuong underscored that the traditional friendship between Vietnam and Belarus has been continuously consolidated and expanded. The two countries upgraded their ties to a Strategic Partnership during Party General Secretary To Lam’s state visit to Belarus in May, with defense cooperation identified as a crucial pillar.

The Vietnamese officer highlighted defense cooperation outcomes in delegation exchanges at all levels as well as collaboration among services and military branches, training cooperation, and military science research.

The two sides exchanged views on regional and global developments and issues of shared concern. Cuong emphasised that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) plays a central role in shaping the regional architecture through ASEAN-led mechanisms. Vietnam, he said, supports efforts to strengthen ASEAN’s unity and centrality, narrow internal differences, and promote substantive cooperation with partners, cited VNA.

On the East Sea issue, he reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent policy of resolving all disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Vietnam, he said, continues to fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and expedite the conclusion of negotiations for an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

Vietnam pursues a foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development, being a reliable partner and responsible member of the international community, Cuong stated. The country remains steadfast in its “four no’s” defense policy: not joining military alliances; not siding with one country against another; not allowing foreign military bases or the use of Vietnamese territory to oppose other countries; and not using or threatening to use force in international relations — for the common interest, sustainable development, and prosperity of the region and the world.

Looking ahead, Cuong proposed that both sides continue to closely coordinate to effectively advance cooperation in key areas, including maintaining delegation exchanges, implementing signed agreements, expanding collaboration in training and military competitions, and supporting each other’s international defense exhibitions. He also suggested exploring new areas such as military science and military medicine.

The Vietnamese officer expressed his belief that Muraveiko’s visit would further strengthen bilateral defense cooperation and contribute to deepening the Vietnam–Belarus Strategic Partnership for shared peace, stability, and development.

Muraveiko, who is paying an official visit to Vietnam from October 19–22, said Belarus and Vietnam share many similarities, saying both experienced struggles for national independence. He commended the progress made in bilateral defense cooperation, agreeing that there remains significant potential to expand ties. He affirmed that Belarus is ready to cooperate with countries with friendship policies to promote peace, stability, and development.

He thanked the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defense for receiving Belarusian officers for Vietnamese language training, helping them better understand Vietnam’s culture and people, thereby fostering closer ties. He proposed that the two sides continue to enhance cooperation in training and military competitions in the time ahead.

Vietnam, Austria boost security, digital technology cooperation

Deputy Minister of Public Security Sen. Lieut. Gen Le Quoc Hung led a Vietnamese delegation to Austria from October 16 to 19, aiming to foster bilateral cooperation in security, policing, crime prevention, digital technology, and residency management.

In Vienna, Hung held a working session with officials from the Austrian Federal Ministry of the Interior, including Director General for Migration and International Affairs Peter Webinger, to review past cooperation and chart future priorities.

They agreed that cooperation between the two ministries has become deeper and more pragmatic since their countries established diplomatic ties in 1972. This working trip, the first at the ministry level, marked a milestone and opened the door to broader collaboration in strategic areas.

The host ministry shared its experience in migration management, particularly in harnessing digital technology for resident management and public service supply. Since 1997, Austria has implemented e-government with three pillars: a centralised resident registration system, a national digital ID and e-signature system, and an integrated data-sharing platform connecting state agencies. Austria now operates a highly secure nationwide digital ID system, which improves administrative efficiency and citizen services.

Impressed by Austria’s digital prowess, Hung pushed for faster negotiations on a bilateral crime prevention agreement, alongside drafting of extradition and prisoner transfer treaties. He also suggested expanding cooperation in training and capacity building for Vietnamese police officers in cybersecurity, hi-tech crime prevention, counterterrorism, anti-money laundering, and migration management, according to VNA.

The meeting between the delegation of the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security and officials of Austria's Ministry of the Interior in Vienna (Photo: VNA)

On the occasion, he conveyed an invitation from the Vietnamese Minister of Public Security to the Austrian Minister of the Interior to attend the signing ceremony of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, known as the Hanoi Convention, set for October 25–27.

During the trip, the delegation also visited the Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT), the country’s leading sci-tech research hub, to explore technological solutions for security, residency management and law enforcement support. They came to a laboratory on quantum encryption, the most cutting-edge secure communications technology developed by the AIT for government and law enforcement needs.

The AIT expressed the readiness for technology transfer, joint research, and training cooperation with the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security (MoPS).

At the Austrian State Printing House (OSD), the sole producer of Austria’s secure government documents, the delegation gained insights into secure document printing, identity document management, and digital application development.

Employing around 220 staff members, OSD produces passports, ID cards, visas, driver’s licenses, and security documents compliant with ISO, ICAO, and EU standards. Notable innovations include Austria’s multi-layered security passport and the “My Identity App”, a multifunctional digital ID platform.

OSD, which provides solutions for over 60 countries, including Cambodia, voiced interest in partnering with the MoPS in digital transformation and secure printing solutions. It presented two sample passports to Vietnam for consideration.

During their stay, Hung and his entourage visited the Vietnamese Embassy and met with representatives of the 9,000-strong Vietnamese community in Austria.

He asked the embassy to continue supporting the community and bolstering coordination in Austria’s areas of strength, including science-technology, innovation, and core and source technologies to support Vietnam’s industrialisation and modernization efforts.

Vietnam and Finland eye strategic partnership amid growing trade and investment

Party General Secretary To Lam’s official visit to Finland from October 20-22 is seen as a significant milestone, opening a new chapter of cooperation between Vietnam and Finland in key areas such as trade, investment, innovation, and sustainable development, said the Ambassador in an interview with Vietnamese media.

This is an important milestone that will further deepen the friendship and the strong cooperative partnership that has lasted for more than half a century, noted the diplomat.

Once focused primarily on development cooperation, bilateral relations have evolved significantly as Vietnam’s economy has expanded rapidly. Vietnam has become Finland’s largest trading partner in Southeast Asia in recent years, and Finnish public investment funds have reached nearly EUR100 million in Vietnam. Finnish private firms are increasingly exploring opportunities in the country.

He revealed that the visit by General Secretary To Lam features a comprehensive agenda, including high-level meetings with key Finnish officials and institutions, visits to leading Finnish enterprises, a business forum, cultural exchange activities such as a concert, and a meeting with the Vietnamese community in Finland. These activities are expected to foster practical cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, and innovation, cited VOV.

Finnish Ambassador to Vietnam Pekka Voutilainen. (Photo: Tung Dinh)

Regarding future cooperation potential, Ambassador Voutilainen highlighted that trade and investment will be the main focus. Finnish companies can significantly contribute to Vietnam’s economic growth and social welfare, especially in sectors like information technology, 5G and 6G, cybersecurity, clean energy, circular economy, water management, and medical technology. These are areas where Finland can contribute significantly to Vietnam’s goals in infrastructure development and public welfare.

Finnish companies like Nokia and Wärtsilä are already active in Vietnam, bringing cutting-edge technology in telecommunications and flexible power generation. Finland is also working with the European Union and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) to promote the circular economy in industrial zones across Vietnam, creating numerous opportunities for sustainable solutions in energy and circular economy sectors.

The Ambassador expressed confidence that this visit would generate not only new government-level agreements but also numerous business-to-business partnerships. He also expected that Finland-Vietnam relations would be elevated to a strategic partnership, especially as Vietnam’s rising position in both the political and economic spheres makes this a natural step forward.

As Vietnam continues to integrate more deeply into the global economy, Finland views the country as a key gateway into Southeast Asia. Conversely, Finland can serve as Vietnam’s access point to the Nordic and wider EU markets, facilitating broader cooperation.

In addition to economic opportunities, Finland is also keen to strengthen people-to-people ties. Around 16,000 Vietnamese currently live in Finland, and the Finnish government is encouraging more skilled Vietnamese professionals and students to come, particularly in sectors where Finland is experiencing labour shortages.

Autumn Fair 2025: Launching pad for Vietnamese brands to reach global markets

With its largest-ever scale, the Autumn Fair 2025 has become the focal point for enterprises and localities across the country. Organized for the first time in the capital city under the chairmanship of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the event is not only a platform for product exhibition but also a platform for trade connection and for promoting Vietnamese brands to the world.

Promoting trade in the new context

In the vibrant atmosphere leading up to the fair, Nguyen Tuan Khanh, Sales Director of TVP Steel Joint Stock Company—a long-standing national brand award winner—shared that his company has high expectations for the event. With an extensive distribution network and exports to numerous markets, TVP Steel views the Autumn Fair 2025 as a launchpad to showcase its products, strengthen brand recognition, and engage new partners.

“Participating in the Autumn Fair 2025, we focus on displaying high-quality steel products suitable for domestic construction and industrial demand, especially for booming infrastructure projects. Beyond the domestic market, TVP Steel aims to expand exports to Europe, the United States, Southeast Asia, and other Asian markets. We are promoting direct networking activities with construction firms, mechanical companies, investors, and design–construction units to facilitate contract signings and contribute to export growth,” Khanh said.

To make the most of the opportunity, TVP Steel is implementing a comprehensive communication strategy. Its booth features modern, interactive design, displaying products by real-life application. Sales representatives provide on-site consultations to enhance customer experience.

The company is introducing two new product lines: high-strength galvanized steel for large-scale projects and TPB Max zinc-coated sheet, manufactured on advanced production lines. Combining offline and online sales, TVP Steel will also livestream, provide online consultations, and offer special promotions for new and returning customers. Media coverage before, during, and after the fair—across press and social media platforms—is being intensified to boost brand awareness, NDO reported.

The press confrence for the Autum Fair 2025.

Joining the fair for the first time, Tran Nhu Hung, Deputy Head of the Business Market Department at the Viet Nam Rubber Group, noted: “In the past, people mostly knew us for rubber cultivation and processing for export. However, we also produce sports balls, medical gloves, foam mattresses, threads, and conveyor belts. We hope to introduce our industrial products to both domestic and international customers and open new market connections for member units.”

The group supports its members in brand promotion and participation in both main and sideline activities to introduce information, images, and products. With its large scale, the event is expected to generate concrete contracts and agreements. Currently, the group’s products are exported to over 70 countries, accounting for more than 60% of its total export value, while its MDF wood segment holds over 50% of the domestic market share. Its six booths will feature medical gloves, mattresses, sports balls, conveyor belts, threads, natural rubber, as well as OCOP and essential consumer products.

Hung expressed his hope that the government continues to organize large-scale trade promotion events: “We want to meet major partners, sign key contracts, and introduce Vietnamese rubber and industrial products to international friends.”

Hanoi – A distinctive space of culture and commerce

As a co-host, Hanoi has prepared carefully for the ‘Essence of Hanoi Autumn’ pavilion, affirming its role as a central hub for trade promotion. Nguyen Anh Duong, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade, shared: “Following the success of previous events, we have completed preparations despite the tight schedule. This is an opportunity to promote local craft villages, tourism, and investment, while offering the public a space to experience and shop.”

The main space is adorned with autumn’s golden hues, evoking images of canary trees, chrysanthemums, and sun-dappled streets, creatively infused with the vibrant spirit of the capital. Products are carefully selected from reputable enterprises with verified certifications, while continuous supervision ensures origin traceability, fair pricing, food safety, and the prevention of counterfeit goods.

Covering 17,000 square meters across the Main Hall and Zone 8, the highlight of the fair is “Hanoi Autumn Avenue” – a pathway connecting the main stage with displays of green rice flakes, lotus, and tea, alongside live demonstrations of traditional crafts.

“This event plays a vital role in attracting investment and expanding trade. Hanoi presents its cultural and economic essence to visitors, contributing to the capital’s economic growth,” Duong said.

Under the theme “Tay Ninh – Integration and Sustainable Development,” the Tay Ninh Department of Industry and Trade expressed its goal of promoting the province’s dynamic image, green economy, and digital transformation. The event serves as an opportunity to comprehensively showcase Tay Ninh’s economic, commercial, and cultural potential.

The exhibition space features three main zones: a 200-square-meter display area inspired by the Vam Co River, presenting local agricultural products such as dragon fruit, seedless lime, and soursop, as well as logistics services; an area for 20 OCOP enterprises featuring food, cosmetics, and consumer goods; and a culinary zone titled “Autumn Delicacies,” offering specialties such as Trang Bang noodle soup, rice paper, shrimp salt, and spring rolls.

The exhibition incorporates modern LED technology for dynamic visual presentation. Notable participants include Sun Group (Ba Den Mountain tourism), Thanh Thanh Cong (sugar), I-on Life, Thai Tuan (textiles), and Long An–Dong Tam Port (logistics), alongside 4-star and 5-star OCOP products and carefully selected local specialties. Enterprises will network, seek investment partners, and explore new export pathways for Tay Ninh goods.

The Autumn Fair 2025 is not merely an exhibition—it represents a national strategy for export promotion and domestic market protection. From enterprises eager to sign new contracts to localities showcasing cultural vitality, the event underscores the resilience and global ambition of Vietnamese brands.

Typhoon Fengshen changes course, threatens central Vietnam with flooding

Typhoon Fengshen, currently swirling over the East Sea, is forecast to change direction on October 21 and make landfall between Da Nang and Quang Ngai provinces two days later, raising concerns about heavy flooding in Central Vietnam.

According to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 10:00 AM on October 20, Fengshen was located about 460 km east-northeast of the Hoang Sa (Paracel) Archipelago, packing winds of between 75–88 km/h near its centre. It was moving northwest at a speed of 20–25 km/h.

By 10:00 AM on October 21, the typhoon could intensify and then shift westward, slowing down to 15 km/h, with wind speeds reaching 103-149km/h.

Fengshen is projected to weaken 24 hours later before making landfall between Da Nang and Quang Ngai at 10–15 km/h.

In the following 72 to 96 hours, the tropical depression is expected to continue moving southwestward at around 10 km/h, eventually weakening into a low-pressure system.

Meanwhile, a weak cold air mass is currently affecting the northeastern part of Northern Vietnam. Another stronger cold air mass is set to affect other parts of the Northeast and North Central regions between October 20-22, with winds ranging between 6 – 19km/h inland and between 12-29km/h in coastal areas, cited VOV.

Central Vietnam is bracing for Typhoon Fengshen as it is moving toward the mainland. (Photo: vndmc)

Starting the night of October 20, northern and north-central localities will experience cooler nighttime and early morning temperatures, with mountainous areas turning cold. The lowest temperatures during this cold spell are forecast to be around 19–21°C in the Northern Delta and Thanh Hoa province.

From October 22 to 27, due to the combined effects of the storm’s circulation, cold air, easterly wind disturbances, and orographic enhancement, widespread and prolonged heavy rainfall is expected from Ha Tinh to Quang Ngai provinces.

Meteorologists waned there is a high risk of flashfloods and landslides in mountainous areas, as well as flooding in low-lying and urban zones.

Local authorities are advised to ensure the safe operation of hydropower and irrigation reservoirs before, during, and after the storm. Contingency plans should be in place to respond to possible flooding scenarios, with water levels on rivers from Quang Tri to Quang Ngai possibly reaching or exceeding Alert Level III, the highest level.

The disaster risk level due to flooding and inundation has been rated at Level III on a 5-level scale.

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