Thời sự toàn cảnh 1/12: Lào trao tặng Tổng Bí thư Tô Lâm Huân chương Vàng Quốc gia | VTV24

Key Concepts:

• State Visit to Laos: The core event of the transcript, focusing on the visit of General Secretary Tô Lâm and the Vietnamese delegation to Laos.
• Vietnam-Laos Special Solidarity and Comprehensive Cooperation: The overarching theme of the bilateral relationship, emphasizing deep trust and strategic partnership.
• 50th Anniversary of Laos' National Day: A significant occasion marking a milestone for Laos and a backdrop for the state visit.
• Economic Cooperation: Discussions on increasing bilateral trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
• Defense and Security Cooperation: Emphasis on maintaining stability and addressing security challenges.
• People-to-People Exchange: The importance of fostering connections between citizens and local communities.
• Digital Transformation and Modernization: Initiatives in aviation, banking, and public administration.
• Climate Change and Natural Disasters: Mentions of flood impacts and preparedness.
• Regional and International Cooperation: Vietnam and Laos' commitment to ASEAN and multilateral forums.

Summary of Vietnam-Laos State Visit and Bilateral Relations

1. State Visit and Diplomatic Significance

General Secretary Tô Lâm of the Communist Party of Vietnam, accompanied by his wife and a high-level delegation, commenced a state visit to Laos and attended the 50th National Day celebrations of Laos. This visit, at the invitation of General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith, marks Tô Lâm's first state visit to Laos in his capacity as General Secretary. The visit underscores the profound solidarity, friendship, and trust of the Vietnamese people towards Laos, reaffirming Vietnam's comprehensive support for Laos' renovation, defense, and development efforts. General Secretary Tô Lâm expressed his pleasure in revisiting Laos during these significant commemorative events: the 50th anniversary of Laos' National Day and the 105th birth anniversary of President Kaysone Phomvihane. These occasions serve as opportunities for both nations to reflect on Laos' arduous yet glorious journey and the deep-rooted relationship between the two countries and peoples, while affirming the Lao people's independence, steadfastness, and unwavering solidarity.

A formal reception for General Secretary Tô Lâm, his wife, and the Vietnamese delegation was held at the Presidential Palace with the highest protocol for heads of state. President Thongloun Sisoulith highlighted the honor of the Vietnamese delegation's presence during Laos' momentous celebrations, adding significant depth to the occasion. This state visit reiterates Vietnam's consistent foreign policy of prioritizing its special solidarity with Laos. It also serves as a platform for both nations to affirm their commitment to building a new vision, elevating Vietnam-Laos relations to new heights of development with deepening trust, and unlocking significant breakthroughs in cooperation across all sectors.

2. Mutual Appreciation and Support

President Thongloun Sisoulith expressed gratitude for Vietnam's continuous and substantial support and assistance to Laos. He commended the achievements of the Vietnamese people in their renovation process, deeming it a testament to the correct development path of the Vietnamese Party and State, and a significant source of encouragement for Laos. He also highly valued Vietnam's progress in implementing the resolutions of the 13th Party Congress and its thorough preparations for the 14th Party Congress. On behalf of the Lao Party, State, and people, he conveyed condolences for Vietnam's losses during recent floods and expressed readiness to assist Vietnam in overcoming these difficulties.

General Secretary Tô Lâm warmly congratulated the Lao people on their historic achievements after 50 years of nation-building and 40 years of renovation, which clearly demonstrate the leadership role of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party in all fields and have significantly improved the people's lives. He expressed deep gratitude for the sincere support and assistance from the Lao Party, State, and people throughout Vietnam's revolutionary stages. He expressed confidence that under the wise leadership of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, headed by Comrade Thongloun Sisoulith, Laos will successfully achieve the goals set by the 11th Party Congress, organize its 12th Party Congress, and confidently enter a new era.

3. Bilateral Discussions and Agreements

During their talks, the leaders of both countries engaged in in-depth discussions on the situations in their respective countries. General Secretary Tô Lâm briefed his Lao counterpart on Vietnam's multifaceted development, including the comprehensive, thorough, and synchronized restructuring and streamlining of its political system. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the practical and effective special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, which significantly contribute to maintaining political stability, national defense, security, and socio-economic development in each country. This relationship is considered a law of development and a crucial factor ensuring success in building and defending the homeland.

Cooperation and mutual assistance between departments of the two Parties, ministries, government agencies, parliamentary bodies, Fatherland Fronts, and mass organizations continue to be strengthened. Cooperation between localities, especially border provinces, is expanding, ensuring border security and order. The political relationship, characterized by close trust, is continuously consolidated through regular high-level contacts and exchanges, alongside the effective functioning of various cooperation mechanisms.

Both sides agreed to effectively implement high-level agreements and plans, particularly the outcomes of the high-level meeting between the two Parties in 2025 and the third meeting of the top leaders of the three Indochinese Parties (Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia). They also agreed to leverage existing cooperation mechanisms and high-level exchanges to deepen Party-to-Party and State-to-State relations. This includes exchanging information on ideological foundations, strategic policies, and theoretical issues, especially emerging ones. They pledged to coordinate closely and support each other in organizing important events, starting with their respective Party Congresses.

Both sides agreed to intensify and innovate the content and forms of propaganda and education on historical traditions, fostering pride, responsibility, and a commitment to preserving and promoting the pure and steadfast relationship and strategic connectivity between the two Parties and peoples. Building upon the tradition of special solidarity, they agreed to deepen bilateral relations by adding new dimensions: "Great Friendship, Special Solidarity, Comprehensive Cooperation, Strategic Connectivity." This signifies a shared vision, intertwined strategic interests, and a long-term commitment to sustainable development, self-reliance, and common prosperity for both nations.

4. Key Areas of Cooperation

• Defense and Security: This is identified as a crucial pillar, with expectations for new developments and deeper engagement. The focus is on building a stable and sustainable border and coordinating efforts to address increasingly diverse and complex security challenges.
• Economic Connectivity: Efforts will be made to strengthen economic ties, including infrastructure, banking, finance, and tourism. The goal is to increase bilateral trade turnover to $5 billion in the near future and aim for $10 billion subsequently. This includes enhancing connectivity in transportation, energy, and logistics, as well as exchanging experiences in macroeconomic management and anti-corruption efforts.
• Economic Development and Investment: Both sides will promote the implementation of agreements to support the development of independent and self-reliant economies. They will enhance the exchange of macroeconomic management experiences, institutional reforms, and closely coordinate to address bottlenecks, facilitating Vietnamese enterprises' effective implementation and expansion of investment projects in Laos. Regular coordination will ensure the timely and effective implementation of projects funded by aid.
• Cultural, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation: Both leaders agreed to strongly promote breakthroughs in economic, cultural, and scientific-technical cooperation. This includes enhancing connectivity in transportation, electricity, telecommunications, and tourism. They will continue to improve the quality of education, training, and high-quality human resource development. People-to-people exchanges and inter-provincial exchanges are considered strategic pillars to strengthen bonds and consolidate the long-term solidarity between the two peoples.
• International Cooperation: Both sides agreed to maintain effective information exchange on international affairs and support each other in regional and multilateral forums like ASEAN, defending their legitimate interests in accordance with international law, including the South China Sea issue, which impacts regional and global peace, stability, and cooperation.

5. Signing of Cooperation Documents

Following the talks, the leaders witnessed the signing of 12 important cooperation documents between ministries, sectors, and localities. These included:

• Cooperation Plan for 2026 between the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam and the Ministry of Public Security of Laos.
• Agreement between the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam and the Ministry of Public Security of Laos on the construction project of the Command Center of the Ministry of Public Security of Laos.
• Cooperation Plan for 2026 between the Ministry of National Defense of Vietnam and the Ministry of National Defense of Laos.
• Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of National Defense of Laos and the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam on the construction project of the Laos-Vietnam Friendship Road.
• Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Laos for the period 2026-2030.
• Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of Justice of Vietnam and the Ministry of Justice of Laos for the period 2026-2030.
• Memorandum of Understanding on key banking cooperation activities for the period 2026-2030.
• Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Laos on industrial linkage development.
• Cooperation Agreement between Vietnam Television and the Central Propaganda and Training Board of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party.
• Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam and the Central Foreign Relations Board of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party for the period 2026-2030.
• Cooperation Agreement for the period 2026-2030 between Thanh Hoa province and Houaphanh province.
• Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen socio-economic development cooperation and ensure border defense and security between the People's Committee of Da Nang city and the Provincial Government Committee of Xayaboury province.

6. Awards and Recognition

General Secretary Tô Lâm extended a formal invitation to General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith and his wife to visit Vietnam at an appropriate time. President Thongloun Sisoulith expressed his sincere thanks and gladly accepted the invitation.

On the same morning, the National Golden Order, the highest national honor of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, was awarded to General Secretary Tô Lâm. On behalf of the Lao Party and State, General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith presented the National Golden Order to General Secretary Tô Lâm. This award recognizes his significant contributions to fostering the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, States, and peoples of Laos and Vietnam. General Secretary Tô Lâm stated that this is a great honor for him personally and a vivid testament to the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, which has become an exemplary and timeless symbol of camaraderie and brotherhood. He expressed profound gratitude to the Lao Party, State, and people for this noble honor. He also conveyed his gratitude and remembrance to President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane, and President Souphanouvong, who laid the foundation for the special friendship between the two nations with their sincerity, wisdom, and aspiration for prosperity and happiness for their people, enabling current generations to be proud of the eternal and steadfast solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and Laos.

General Secretary Tô Lâm affirmed that the solidarity between the two nations has become a great strength leading to glorious victories, achieving peace and independence for both countries, and will continue to guide Vietnam and Laos to remain steadfast in their shared direction and destiny, embodying the Lao proverb: "Unity is strength." He pledged to continue working with the collective leadership of the Vietnamese Party and State to further develop the steadfast and profound Vietnam-Laos relationship, honoring the sacrifices and contributions of past generations and meeting the aspirations of the people of both countries.

7. Visit to the National Academy of Politics and Public Administration of Laos

In the afternoon, General Secretary Tô Lâm and the Vietnamese high-level delegation visited the National Academy of Politics and Public Administration of Laos, coinciding with the Academy's 30th anniversary. General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith also attended. General Secretary Tô Lâm delivered a speech on the theme of inheriting the great friendship, nurturing special solidarity, consolidating comprehensive cooperation, and strengthening strategic connectivity between Vietnam and Laos in the new era.

He emphasized that geographical and historical factors have brought the two neighboring nations together with shared aspirations, dreams, and a common space for development. The special solidarity between Vietnam and Laos is presented as the only correct choice and a strategic, life-or-death necessity for both peoples, who must stand together to survive and develop. He asserted that the great friendship, pure and steadfast special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic connectivity are forged from a history of arduous revolutionary struggle, sacrifice, shared experiences, and overcoming dangers and challenges. This greatness stems from the most significant trials of war, loss of life and blood. "Special" signifies the pure and steadfast solidarity of those with shared will, trenches, and interests, guided by the principle of helping friends is helping oneself, and a friend's victory is one's own victory. "Pure" is because the two Parties and States always prioritize the interests of the revolution, national liberation, and national construction above all else, making it a prerequisite for resolving bilateral issues.

He stressed that "Keo Son" (sticky) solidarity is the source of Vietnam-Laos relations. Without this binding source, they would merely be neighboring countries. With the adhesive of solidarity, they become two nations standing together, side-by-side through their development journeys. In this spirit, General Secretary Tô Lâm argued that in a rapidly changing world with global issues, cooperation alone is insufficient; it needs to be elevated to "connectivity" because connectivity is strategic, involves overall design, role allocation, and mutual complementarity.

• Bilateral Connectivity: Strategic connectivity in development vision, development space and infrastructure, economic corridors, logistics, green energy transition, and digital transformation.
• Sub-regional Connectivity: Closer Vietnam-Laos relations strengthen the solidarity of the three Indochinese countries.
• Regional and International Connectivity: Vietnam and Laos should leverage their complementary strengths to enhance ASEAN's strength and promote stability and development in Southeast Asia.

He outlined strategic foundations to be inherited and developed:

1. Upholding the goal of national independence linked with socialism: In a world with diverse trends and models, Vietnam and Laos need to share, exchange, and complement each other to clarify their chosen path based on their respective practical experiences.
2. Building a border of peace, friendship, and cooperation for mutual development: This border should serve as a bridge between communities, economic corridors, and green, sustainable, and harmonious development spaces. Special solidarity acts as a soft yet extremely sustainable shield. Strong strategic trust thwarts divisive, manipulative, and exploitative schemes. When border populations consider each other comrades, brothers, friends, and trusted partners, the border becomes a zone of cooperation, development, and a tightening bond of solidarity.
3. Mutual support in human resources, resources, and development space: Laos has advantages in its central landlocked location, natural resources, and green development space. Vietnam has a long coastline, access to the sea for the wider Mekong sub-region, a large labor force, a diversified economy, and deep integration with the region and the world. Individual development limits potential, but resource complementarity and linkage create shared advantages, optimizing resources for rapid and sustainable development. Lao goods and passengers can reach the sea faster through Vietnamese ports. Lao renewable energy can connect to the regional grid via Vietnam. East-West and North-South economic corridors can become strategic links, expanding development space for both countries. This requires jointly designing a strategic connectivity map for development space and closely integrating strategic planning and socio-economic development plans.

Regarding cooperation between the National Academy of Politics and Public Administration of Laos and Vietnamese training institutions, General Secretary Tô Lâm emphasized developing training courses for strategic leaders and managers, joint master's and doctoral programs, and joint research groups on administrative reform, digital transformation in public governance, and sustainable development management. He also stressed the importance of connecting cadre training and nurturing the younger generation, ensuring that the special solidarity is passed on to them, as they will be the future policymakers and implementers.

Placing the bilateral relationship within regional and international mechanisms, General Secretary Tô Lâm highlighted that Vietnam-Laos special solidarity is not just a bilateral matter but a positive factor in regional security, peace, and development. He emphasized several guiding principles for the new era of strategic solidarity:

1. Maintain strategic trust and prioritize special solidarity: This trust must be built through concrete actions and sincere, respectful handling of interests.
2. Consider special solidarity as the binding agent and strategic connectivity as the development driver: Solidarity ensures survival and growth, while connectivity provides resilience in increasingly fierce development competition.
3. Maximize mutual support in geoeconomics, geopolitics, and geoculture: Borders are spaces for development opportunities and integration.
4. Place people at the center of all connectivity programs, projects, and policies: Infrastructure and development corridors are meaningful only if they improve the lives of border populations, create more opportunities for youth, and enhance their perception of the benefits of the Vietnam-Laos brotherhood.
5. Write new chapters in the Vietnam-Laos story using the language of the digital age: Building on the solidarity forged in blood, sweat, and tears, the current generation must use knowledge, love, creativity, and technology through practical, effective, and humane projects, driven by the passionate hearts of the youth.

He emphasized that the great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic connectivity between Vietnam and Laos are invaluable assets left by ancestors and past revolutionary leaders. Preserving, nurturing, and promoting these assets is a political responsibility, a moral obligation, an honor, a way of life, and the conscience of both nations.

8. Meeting with Lao Prime Minister

In the afternoon, General Secretary Tô Lâm held a meeting with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. The Prime Minister congratulated General Secretary Tô Lâm on his first visit to Laos in his new capacity, acknowledging the visit's significance and congratulating him on receiving the National Golden Order. He affirmed that the Vietnamese delegation's presence contributed significantly to the success of Laos' 50th National Day celebrations. He thanked Vietnam for its close coordination in implementing high-level agreements and supporting businesses of both countries, expressing confidence that Vietnam would soon overcome flood damage.

General Secretary Tô Lâm congratulated Laos on its comprehensive achievements and expressed confidence in its continued strong development and successful organization of the 12th Congress of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party. He reiterated Vietnam's top priority for its great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation with Laos. He proposed strengthening political trust, coordinating to resolve outstanding projects, ensuring the progress of transportation and energy connectivity projects, and working towards a bilateral trade turnover of $10 billion. Both sides highly appreciated the inauguration of the Vietnam-Laos Friendship Park in Vientiane and the Friendship Hospital in Houaphanh. General Secretary Tô Lâm proposed enhancing defense and security cooperation, prioritizing training for Lao cadres, expanding inter-provincial cooperation, and strengthening coordination of positions in international and regional forums to consolidate solidarity and ASEAN's centrality.

9. Meeting with Lao National Assembly Chairman

In the afternoon, General Secretary Tô Lâm met with Lao National Assembly Chairman Saysomphone Phomvihane. The Chairman expressed his pleasure in welcoming General Secretary Tô Lâm on his first visit to Laos as General Secretary, congratulating him on receiving the National Golden Order and acknowledging his significant contributions to developing Laos-Vietnam relations. He highly valued the outcomes of the talks between General Secretary Tô Lâm and General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith, considering them an important basis for further deepening relations between the two Parties and States. Both sides agreed to elevate Vietnam-Laos relations to the level of "Great Friendship, Special Solidarity, Comprehensive Cooperation, Strategic Connectivity," reflecting a shared vision, intertwined strategic interests, and a long-term commitment to the sustainable development, self-reliance, and prosperity of both nations.

General Secretary Tô Lâm warmly congratulated Laos on its comprehensive achievements over 50 years of nation-building and expressed confidence that Laos would successfully implement the resolutions of the 11th Congress, organize its 12th Congress, and continue to affirm its role regionally and internationally. The two leaders assessed the close and effective cooperation between the National Assemblies of both countries and agreed to enhance legislative and supreme oversight experience sharing, coordinate oversight of high-level agreements and key cooperation projects, and support each other in regional and international parliamentary forums. General Secretary Tô Lâm requested the Lao National Assembly to continue facilitating the Vietnamese community and businesses in Laos.

Immediately after the meeting, General Secretary Tô Lâm and Chairman Saysomphone Phomvihane jointly launched an e-book titled "50 Years of Vietnam-Laos National Assembly Cooperation and Development."

10. Commemoration and Community Engagement

Earlier that morning, General Secretary Tô Lâm and the Vietnamese delegation laid a wreath at the Lao Unknown Soldier Monument in Vientiane to commemorate and honor the indomitable spirit of the fallen heroes of Laos who sacrificed their lives for the liberation, defense, and construction of their country.

In the afternoon, General Secretary Tô Lâm and the Vietnamese delegation visited the staff of the Vietnamese Embassy and met with the Vietnamese community and businesses residing and working in Laos. General Secretary Tô Lâm inquired about their well-being, informed them about the domestic situation, and affirmed the Party and State's constant attention to overseas Vietnamese, who are an inseparable part of the national unity bloc, including the Vietnamese community in Laos. He urged them to remain united, support each other, abide by local laws, and serve as a bridge to nurture the special Vietnam-Laos relationship. He welcomed and highly appreciated the patriotism and significant contributions of overseas Vietnamese and Vietnamese businesses in Laos to national construction and defense, as well as to bilateral relations. He mentioned that during visits and meetings with foreign leaders, the Vietnamese leadership consistently requests support for overseas Vietnamese regarding nationality, civil status, legal status, security, safety, and assistance in their livelihoods, education, and living, thereby enhancing their prestige and position in host societies. General Secretary Tô Lâm also urged Vietnamese representative agencies in Laos to continue their good work for overseas Vietnamese, particularly in supporting their integration, organizing community solidarity activities, and strengthening connections with their homeland.

11. Congratulatory Message on Laos' National Day

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Laos' National Day (December 2, 1975 - December 2, 2025), the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the President, the National Assembly, the Government, and the Central Committee of the Vietnamese Fatherland Front sent a congratulatory message to the Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, the President, the National Assembly, the Government, and the Central Committee of the Lao Front for National Construction. The message affirmed that over the past 50 years, under the wise leadership of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, Laos has achieved significant historical accomplishments. They expressed confidence that under the Party's leadership, Laos will achieve even greater successes, successfully organize its 12th National Congress, and build a peaceful, independent, democratic, unified, and prosperous socialist Laos.

The message also emphasized that the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, laid and nurtured by Presidents Ho Chi Minh, Kaysone Phomvihane, and Souphanouvong, are continuously strengthened and developed in a practical and effective manner. The Vietnamese Party, State, and people strongly and comprehensively support Laos' renovation efforts, considering relations with Laos a top priority in their foreign policy. Vietnam pledges to exert its utmost efforts to preserve, protect, and continuously foster the special Vietnam-Laos solidarity, ensuring it deepens and becomes more practical and effective in all fields for peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.

12. Economic Cooperation Statistics and Projects

The total import-export turnover between Vietnam and Laos in the first 11 months reached nearly $3 billion, an increase of over 50% compared to the same period last year. Registered investment capital from Vietnam to Laos exceeded $566 million, more than seven times higher than in the same period in 2024. These figures indicate the positive and growing economic cooperation between Vietnam and Laos. Strategic sectors like infrastructure, energy, high technology, and transportation connectivity are creating new momentum, making cooperation more substantive, effective, and comprehensive. These results significantly contribute to strengthening the traditional friendship and special solidarity between the two countries.

The Truong Son wind power complex in Khamkeut district, Bolikhamxay province, is a key investment project under the cooperation plan between the Vietnamese and Lao governments. It was connected to the grid in September of the current year. This project achieved record-breaking construction speed, taking only 15 months from construction to commercial operation, and is the largest investment project by a Vietnamese enterprise in Laos. The entire road system serves both the project and the local population. The company also invested in communication systems, benefiting the local community. Within less than two years, Phase 1 of the project was completed, and Phase 2 reached 80% completion. Notably, the infrastructure serving the project, such as the power line from Khamkeut to Xaychomphone district, is largely complete, facilitating local socio-economic infrastructure development. Under the close attention and direction of the two Parties and States, and with the close coordination of ministries, sectors, and localities, economic cooperation has become a long-term foundation for bilateral relations and is increasingly flourishing. To date, Vietnamese enterprises have invested in 276 projects in Laos with a total registered capital of $6.21 billion, ranking first among 85 countries and territories where Vietnam invests abroad. Many of these projects operate effectively, contributing positively to Laos' socio-economic development, creating jobs, and improving incomes for thousands of workers, while also supplementing state revenue.

In the past five years, and especially recently, cooperation between Vietnam and Laos has yielded significant results. Political trust between the two Parties and States is continuously consolidated and nurtured, forming a crucial foundation for cooperation in all fields. It is projected that in the next five years, cooperation between Vietnam and Laos will see further innovation and breakthroughs. For instance, Vietnam's ODA to Laos is expected to increase compared to the previous period. Following the directive of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, both committees have proposed focusing aid funds on large-scale projects with positive spillover effects to promote Laos' economic growth.

The two countries are working to increase bilateral trade turnover to $5 billion in the near future and are actively implementing the East-West Economic Corridor development plan, connecting Vung Ang port in Vietnam's Ha Tinh province to central Laos and then to northeastern Thailand. This initiative not only promotes socio-economic growth in both countries but also benefits the entire region.

13. New Policies and Regulations (Effective December 2025)

Several economic and social policies will take effect from December 2025, including new regulations in aviation and road transport, and changes in administrative penalties. These changes are expected to directly impact citizens and businesses.

• Aviation: From December 1, only passengers with checked baggage and special categories (unaccompanied minors, elderly, those requiring assistance) will continue to check in at counters. All other passengers must purchase tickets, check in, undergo security checks, and board using biometric solutions integrated with VNEID or airport kiosks.
• Administrative Penalties:
  • Family Violence Prevention: Maximum fines are VND 30 million for individuals and VND 60 million for organizations.
  • Public Order and Safety: Maximum fines are VND 40 million for individuals and VND 80 million for organizations.
  • Social Evils Prevention: Maximum fines are VND 75 million for individuals and VND 150 million for organizations.
• Water Resources: From December 15, penalties for violations in water resource management can reach up to VND 250 million for individuals and VND 500 million for organizations.
• Road Traffic Accident Support: Decree 279 provides support not only to victims but also to individuals and organizations directly involved in assisting, rescuing, and transporting road accident victims for emergency medical care. It also supports those involved in traffic accident prevention campaigns and fundraising activities.

14. Hanoi Tourism College A80 Training Fee Controversy

A viral anonymous post expressed dissatisfaction regarding the payment of A80 training fees by Hanoi Tourism College to students. The college reportedly paid just over VND 900,000 per student, while other institutions paid VND 1.6 to 2.2 million. The payment receipts also lacked specific amounts. In response, the college held an urgent explanation session with students on December 1. The rector disclosed the expenditure details according to regulations and admitted to an oversight where staff failed to clearly explain the receipt procedure. The VND 940,000 received was the first installment; the remaining over VND 500,000 will be disbursed along with certificates at a student commendation ceremony scheduled between December 15 and 25. Regarding cash payments and unsigned receipts, the college stated this method ensures students record the correct amount received. The rector clarified that the VND 1.6 million per student covers 11 days of centralized meals at VND 440,000, with the remaining VND 1.2 million being the actual amount received by students, as the state only provides support funds, not meal costs.

15. Healthcare Policy Updates

The health insurance fund is identified as a pillar for implementing basic medical fee exemptions, as emphasized by the Ministry of Health at a workshop on the direction of implementing fee exemption policies based on Resolution 72 of the Politburo. The goal for the current year is 95% health insurance coverage, with out-of-pocket household expenditure reduced to around 35%. To prepare for basic medical fee exemptions by 2030, the Ministry of Health plans to offer free annual health check-ups or screenings starting next year, prioritizing specific groups. The scope of basic medical services to be exempted will include common diseases, medications, and medical equipment, with a phased approach starting with essential treatments and expanding based on professional capacity, budget, and socialized funding. Exemptions will apply to public and private healthcare facilities providing primary and basic care.

16. Banking Account Management Fees

Starting December 1, some banks will charge a monthly account management fee of VND 11,000 for accounts with an average balance below VND 500,000. Accounts with no transactions for one year will be closed. This replaces the previous regulation where a minimum average balance of VND 300,000 per month exempted users from fees. Customers are advised to close unused accounts. This measure aims to clean up data and eliminate virtual and dormant accounts.

17. Hanoi Metro Line 3 Tunnel Boring Completion

Tunnel Boring Machine No. 1, named "Than Toc" (Speedy), has reached its destination at S12 Hanoi Station, completing the boring of the first four underground stations of the Nhon-Hanoi Station urban railway line No. 3. This machine, specifically designed for the project, began boring from S9 Kim Ma on May 30 last year, passing through S9 Kim Ma, S10 Cat Linh, S11 Van Mieu, and S12 Hanoi Station. This milestone marks significant progress in the construction of the nearly 4 km underground section and showcases Vietnam's urban underground construction capabilities.

18. Frost and Freezing Conditions in Nghe An

Dense frost has appeared in border communes of Nghe An province due to sub-zero temperatures for several days, coating trees and grass. Frost has been observed from night to early morning in areas like Buoc Mu checkpoint. The education sector in Nghe An has instructed highland schools to enhance measures for student warmth. Temperatures are expected to remain low in the coming days, with potential for more frost and ice in mountainous areas. Border guards are assisting residents in protecting their homes and livestock from the harsh weather.

19. Typhoon No. 15 and Weather Forecast

Typhoon No. 15 has weakened into a tropical depression over the western part of the central East Sea. It is forecast to further weaken into a low-pressure area and dissipate over Gia Lai and Dak Lak. Its remnants will interact with the northeast monsoon, causing rain in central Vietnam from the night of December 2 to December 4. Heavy rain is expected in Hue, Da Nang, and eastern provinces from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak and Khanh Hoa on the night of December 2 and December 3. From December 3 to December 4, heavy rain will shift to Quang Tri and Quang Ngai, with localized rainfall exceeding 150 mm, and potentially over 250 mm in Hue, Da Nang, and Quang Ngai. The saturated ground poses a high risk of landslides, urging caution for travelers on mountain roads.

Thunderstorms are forecast for southern Vietnam tonight and tomorrow afternoon, with potential for heavy rain, lightning, and strong gusts in Dong Nai and Ca Mau. The north will experience warmer weather with increased humidity and cloud cover, with some light rain possible tonight and tomorrow morning. Daytime temperatures in Hanoi are expected to range from 25 to 27°C.

20. Vietnam Airlines' New Check-in Procedures

Vietnam Airlines is implementing a streamlined check-in process for domestic flights using VNEID and self-service kiosks to enhance efficiency and customer experience. Passengers without checked baggage can complete the entire process, from booking to boarding, via VNA ID or airport kiosks. Passengers with checked baggage, unaccompanied minors, the elderly, or those requiring special assistance will still be served at counters. Despite the availability of numerous kiosks at Tan Son Nhat Airport, many passengers are still accustomed to traditional check-in counters, requiring staff to guide them through the new procedures. Passengers can log into VNEID, select the airline service, check in online, and share data, which is then transferred to the airline's application. At the airport, passengers can use facial recognition at security and boarding gates. All check-in counters are equipped with kiosk systems allowing airlines and ground service companies to assist passengers at any location within the terminal. This initiative, part of Directive 24, aims to improve passenger experience, reduce airport congestion, and promote digital transformation in the aviation sector.

21. SEA Games 33 Preparations

With SEA Games 33 set to begin in Thailand in eight days, the Vietnamese U22 team has arrived in Bangkok for their opening match against Laos in two days. The team arrived early to prepare for the tournament. The men's football event, initially scheduled for Songkhla province, was relocated to Bangkok due to natural disasters. The team has two days to prepare for their opening match on December 2 at 4:00 PM.

22. Vietnamese Athlete Wins Silver at World Dance Championship

Vietnamese athlete Ly Van Dung has won a silver medal at the World Dance Championship held in Bosnia and Herzegovina on November 29. The competition featured athletes from various countries, including many international masters. Van Dung secured second place with an impressive performance showcasing complex techniques and strong competitive spirit. His coaches, Hong Viet and Thu Trang, have previously trained successful international dance competitors.

23. Christmas Festivities Worldwide

As Christmas approaches, cities worldwide are embracing the festive season with elaborate preparations and dazzling light displays. Europe and South America are particularly immersed in the Christmas spirit.

• Prague, Czech Republic: The annual Christmas market opened in the city center, featuring a 15-meter Christmas tree. The market showcases traditional crafts and local products, attracting both locals and international tourists. Dozens of stalls offer Christmas decorations, mulled wine, sausages, and sweets, creating a warm festive atmosphere. Prague's Christmas market is a top European holiday destination.
• Austria: A family has transformed their home and surrounding grounds into a magical wonderland with nearly one million Christmas lights and 250 inflatable figures. Located about 90 minutes south of Vienna, this is considered the largest Christmas house in Europe. Visitors are encouraged to donate to charity instead of paying an entrance fee. Decorating the house takes four months, and dismantling it takes another four months.
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: The city officially entered the Christmas season with the inauguration of a giant 80-meter Christmas tree on Botafogo beach. The tree, equivalent to a 30-story building, illuminated the night sky, drawing applause from thousands of residents and tourists. It features over 2.3 million LED lights in vibrant colors and patterns, including representations of Rio's iconic sun and sea. Every 30 minutes, a water ballet performance combines light, special effects, and synchronized movements with the waves.