Swedish PM seeks stronger trade, innovation and green ties with Vietnam

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed his desire to strengthen cooperation with Vietnam in trade, investment, innovation and green transition during a meeting with Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan in Stockholm on November 11. Xuan thanked Sweden for its support, noting that it was the first Western European country to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam in 1969. The two sides agreed to increase exchanges, cooperate in international forums, and expand cooperation in science, technology, culture, and tourism to strengthen mutual understanding and friendship.

Digital Week in Ha Long promotes technology development and partnerships

Vietnam's 3rd International Digital Week will be held from November 19 to 22 in Ha Long City, the northern province of Quang Ninh. The event will facilitate discussions on IT development, digital transformation, and infrastructure. Highlights include the 4th ASEAN 5G Conference, Vietnam-ITU AI governance talks, and an ASEAN hackathon aimed at promoting investment and partnerships.

Aerial view of Ha Long Bay. Photo: Quang Ninh Newspaper

Vietnam's coffee exports near record US$5.5 billion

Vietnam's coffee exports reached US$4.6 billion in the first 10 months of 2024, surpassing the full-year 2023 figure of US$4.18 billion. Despite a 10.8% decline in export volume, high prices boosted revenues by 40.1% year-on-year. Average export prices rose 57% to $3,981 per ton. Annual exports are forecast to reach a record $5.5 billion.

Vietnam Foodexpo 2024 to take place

Vietnam Foodexpo 2024, to be held in Ho Chi Minh City from November 13 to 16, will feature 500 booths from nearly 400 domestic companies and 20 international participants from 20 countries. The exhibition will showcase a wide range of products, including fresh produce, seafood, beverages, processed foods, and cutting-edge food processing technologies.

Vietnam's biggest Khmer five-tone music event celebrates cultural heritage

The Khmer ethnic five-tone music performance took place on November 11 at Bach Dang Square in the southern province of Soc Trang. The event, the largest of its kind in Vietnam, brought together 200 craftsmen from 20 five-tone orchestras to perform traditional Khmer pieces such as Sorya, A-le and Hon-zot. Part of the Oc Om Boc Festival and Soc Trang's Culture, Sports and Tourism Week, the event aims to honor and promote the cultural heritage of the Khmer ethnic community.

Vung Tau Marathon welcomes celebrities and outstanding athletes

An international marathon in Vung Tau City, the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau, is attracting the participation of many celebrities, including Miss World Krystyna Pyszková, Miss Luong Thuy Linh, Mr. World Jack Heslewood, and nearly 70 male international title holders. The marathon, which will be held from November 16 to 17, will also bring together Vietnamese outstanding athletes such as Hoang Nguyen Thanh and Nguyen Nam Phat in races of 5km, 10km, 21km and 42.195km.

Victory Cup awards US$30,600 to top athletes

The Victory Cup, dubbed the 'Oscars' of Vietnamese sports, announced its 8th edition on November 11, offering VND750 million (US$30,600) in prizes in 11 categories, including male and female athletes and team of the year. The awards highlight the year's achievements and encourage up-and-coming athletes. The gala is scheduled for mid-January 2025.