Vietnam Showcases Proactive Role Through Humanitarian Efforts and International Cooperation

Vietnam will continue working closely with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states to sign their free trade agreement (FTA) at an early date and effectively implement its commitments. The successful conclusion of the negotiations was not merely the end of a process that lasted more than 10 years, but also demonstrated the strong commitment of both Vietnam and EFTA countries to an open, transparent and rules-based international trading system. The agreement sends a clear message that dialogue, cooperation and economic connectivity remain the most effective means of promoting growth, creating jobs and generating prosperity. The conclusion of the negotiations will mark the beginning of a new phase of cooperation, laying a solid foundation for the promotion of trade and investment between the two sides, while also expanding collaboration in areas of mutual interest. Vietnam’s clear and consistent stance is that maritime disputes must be resolved through peaceful means, with respect for diplomatic and legal processes, without the use or threat of force, and in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 UNCLOS Toi called on the Belgian Senate to continue supporting stronger Vietnam-EU relations, including the effective implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), and promoting the European Commission's early removal of its "yellow card" warning against Vietnamese seafood exports, in recognition of Vietnam's efforts to improve its legal framework and promote sustainable fisheries management. Nghia described the ongoing 500-day campaign as a sacred mission that embodies the Vietnamese tradition of remembering those who served and sacrificed for the nation. The current generation, he said, must spare no effort in carrying out the Party’s policy and fulfilling the aspirations of the people, particularly the families of the fallen. Supporting Venezuela in responding to the earthquake was not only an international responsibility but also an expression of solidarity and goodwill of the Vietnamese State and people. During its mission from June 29 to July 7, the team worked around the clock under extremely hazardous conditions amid heavily damaged and contaminated disaster zones. Despite the challenges, rescue personnel recovered 57 victims' bodies and handed them over to local authorities and families. They also identified and reported several suspected locations where additional victims might be trapped. The People's Security Force needs to unify its perception, promote its crucial, core, and frontline role in advising and organising the implementation of the National Security Strategy in the new situation, urgently innovate working methods, actively apply scientific and technological advances, and adjust plans and strategies to ensure proactive security in all situations. The groundbreaking ceremony marked a significant milestone in implementing the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime (also known as Hanoi Convention) and underscored Vietnam's commitment to strengthening international cooperation in building a safe, secure, trusted, and sustainable cyberspace. Aichi has maintained economic cooperation and exchanges with Vietnam for more than a decade, including the establishment of the Aichi Desk to support businesses, as well as a 10-year friendship cooperation agreement with Ho Chi Minh City. In Vietnamese cultural life, gratitude toward preceding generations has long been preserved as an integral part of the nation's identity. This tradition is reflected in ancestor worship practiced in families, the Worship of the Hung Kings, village deities, national heroes and eminent cultural figures, as well as tributes to generations who sacrificed their lives for the nation's independence and freedom. The two ministers highlighted the Border Defence Friendship Exchange as a meaningful cooperation mechanism that has received strong support from senior leaders, ministries, local authorities and people in both countries. Over the past decade, the twinning relationship between Thuy Phong village in Nghe An’s Kim Bang commune, and Xop Tuong village in Nam On commune, Xaychamphone district, Bolikhamxay province of Laos, has become a model for fostering a shared border of peace, friendship and cooperation. Cuba and Vietnam on July 10 commemorated six Cuban military experts who lost their lives 60 years ago while supporting the Vietnamese people's resistance war, reaffirming the enduring solidarity and defence ties forged through the two countries' shared history. Two-way trade reached 7.8 billion USD in 2025, with the Philippines remaining one of Vietnam's largest importers of rice. Cooperation in education, cultural exchanges and other areas has also continued to expand. Venezuelan officials expressed profound gratitude for Vietnam's timely assistance and selfless solidarity, affirming that the support will always be remembered by the Venezuelan people. The following is a list of selected news summaries reported last night by the Vietnam News Agency. General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and State President To Lam hosted separate farewell receptions in Hanoi on July 9 for the outgoing ambassadors of Belgium, Norway, the Netherlands and Brazil. The ambassador said the establishment of Vietnam's first honorary consulate in Phuket reflects both countries' commitment to enhancing cooperation with the Andaman sea economic gateway while meeting growing demand for consular services and better support for Vietnamese citizens and the Vietnamese community in southern Thailand. Ludwig said he was impressed by Vietnam's socio-economic achievements as well as its rich culture and cuisine. He highly appreciated the unity, dynamism and valuable contributions of the Vietnamese community to the development of Vienna and Austria. The station, funded and built by the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence as a gift to Laos, is intended to strengthen coordination between border guard forces, reaffirming solidarity between the two countries. Vietnam has signed more than 1,400 international commitments and agreements since the start of the 13th National Party Congress’s term. Over 350 new pacts have been inked since early 2026 alone, driven by high-level diplomatic activities. Copyright, VietnamPlus, Vietnam News Agency (VNA) Editor-in-chief, Mr. Tran Tien Duan.