Many local firms unaware of AEC

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><center><br /><p>Tu Hoang</p><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 477px' id='attachment_1629119'><a href='http://bit.ly/1wJfTYp'><img alt="Shoppers buy garments at a stall in An Dong market in HCMC’s District 5. A lot of domestic companies remain unaware of the ASEAN Economic Community - PHOTO: UYEN VIEN" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="700" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1wJfTYp" width="467"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Shoppers buy garments at a stall in An Dong market in HCMC’s District 5. A lot of domestic companies remain unaware of the ASEAN Economic Community - PHOTO: UYEN VIEN</p><br /></div><br /><p>The fact is proven by a recent survey conducted by the University of Economics and Business under the Vietnam National University in Hanoi with nearly 700 small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Hanoi, Haiphong, HCMC, Danang and Can Tho cities taking part.</p><br /><p>The majority of respondents do not know when AEC comes into existence and its key pillars, as well as the AEC scorecard, which is a monitoring mechanism for the integration process of each member of the bloc.</p><br /><p>The survey also found that companies in industrial, construction, trade and services sectors have better knowledge of AEC than those in the agricultural sector. In general, large enterprises know AEC better than SMEs do.</p><br /><p>Nguyen Hong Son, head of the University of Economics and Business, said most of the respondents recognized the opportunities of the single market of the 10 ASEAN nations but they also worry about fiercer competition triggered by goods producers and services providers from other countries of the bloc.</p><br /><p>Enterprises are not fully aware of opportunities and challenges from the AEC establishment as they do not pay much attention to this. Only 40% of respondents said they will not adjust their business plans ahead of Vietnam’s further integration into the region.</p><br /><p>The survey found local businesses attend more to the World Trade Organization, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the Vietnam-European Union free trade agreement (FTA) than the forthcoming birth of AEC.</p><br /><p>According to the Ministry of Finance, with the establishment of AEC later this year, Vietnam will integrate further into the region this year than before and exempt tariffs on more groups of items imported from ASEAN and other markets as committed to FTAs.</p><br /><p>The ministry said 72% of the groups of items imported from ASEAN were entitled to tariff exemptions last year and the percentage rises to around 90% in 2015. This year, Vietnam has committed to exempt 37% of the groups of commodities from import tariffs under seven FTAs the country has signed.</p><br /><p>However, many domestic enterprises do not know about the commitments, according to Nguyen Thi Thu Trang, director of the WTO Center under the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI).</p><br /><p>The center wrote to the Ministry of Industry and Trade asking for the disclosure of Vietnam’s commitments to FTAs but the ministry said it would need more time to adjust tax codes.</p><br /><p>Vo Tri Thanh, vice president of the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM), said disseminating information about Vietnam’s commitments to FTAs is slow. He added that not only businesses but also Government officials know little about AEC.</p><br /><p>When AEC is in place, Vietnam will open its doors to investors as widely as other ASEAN countries but will exclude labor and service markets.</p><br /><p>Thanh highly appreciates the Vietnam-EU FTA and TPP, both under negotiations. TPP requires 90% of the tariff lines to drop to 0% immediately after it takes effect while it will take seven years to bring 90% of tariff lines to zero in the FTA with the EU.</p><br /></center><br /><br/><br />Many local firms unaware of AEC Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1wJfTYp" width="200"/><br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1wJfTYp" width="200"/><br/></div>

Many local firms unaware of AEC

Tu Hoang Shoppers buy garments at a stall in An Dong market in HCMC’s District 5. A lot of domestic companies remain unaware of the ASEAN E...

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EU may recognize VN as market economy

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><center><br /><p>Tu Hoang</p><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1629121'><a href='http://bit.ly/1yUWhGu'><img alt="Franz Jessen (C), Ambassador and Head of the EU Delegation to Vietnam, at a press conference in Hanoi on January 29 - PHOTO: TU HOANG" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="280" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuVO0" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Franz Jessen (C), Ambassador and Head of the EU Delegation to Vietnam, at a press conference in Hanoi on January 29 - PHOTO: TU HOANG</p><br /></div><br /><p>Speaking to the Daily at a press conference on the 25th anniversary of the EU-Vietnam diplomatic relations held in Hanoi on January 29, Franz Jessen said he hoped that the FTA would lead to changes in Vietnam’s economic structure.</p><br /><p>Jessen said Vietnam would be able to meet criteria for a market economy after FTA negotiations are wrapped up.</p><br /><p>Vietnam has repeatedly requested the EU to recognize it as a market economy in the past years but has yet to succeed despite a number of nations worldwide have announced their recognition.</p><br /><p>Jessen said the EU did not hesitate to give a market economy status to Vietnam and will announce this once Vietnam satisfies its technical criteria for a market economy.</p><br /><p>According to Jessen, the Vietnamese economy has improved in recent times and the Government has strived to make changes. However, meeting the criteria for a market economy cannot be done overnight as this will take time to adapt and make changes.</p><br /><p>The latest round of negotiations for the FTA took place in Belgium over one week ago and both sides will need one more round before they consider signing the trade agreement.</p><br /><p>Jessen described the results of negotiations as positive, saying the two sides would end FTA talks soon.</p><br /><p>Jessen expected the FTA will foster bilateral relations and help Vietnam boost internal reforms which the country’s leaders are determined to do. Both sides need to closely cooperate in government procurement and use of State funding transparently and effectively for the sake of Vietnamese people.</p><br /><p>The EU has recently announced more non-refundable aid for Vietnam, increasing from 300 million euros to 400 million euros in the 2014-2020 period regardless of the tight fiscal policy in Europe.</p><br /><p>The EU together with its member states has become the biggest provider of grants for Vietnam.</p><br /><p>To mark the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic ties, a series of activities will be organized throughout the year. They include events for youths, public forums with the participation of scholars from Europe, film and music festivals, seminars, a writing contest about the EU for young people in Vietnam to write about their feelings, understanding and thinking about the EU and EU-Vietnam relations.</p><br /><p>The activities will be held by the EU Delegation in Vietnam in coordination with Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European cultural centers and EU-funded project operators.</p><br /></center><br /><br/><br />EU may recognize VN as market economy Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuVO0" width="200"/><br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuVO0" width="200"/><br/></div>

EU may recognize VN as market economy

Tu Hoang Franz Jessen (C), Ambassador and Head of the EU Delegation to Vietnam, at a press conference in Hanoi on January 29 - PHOTO: TU HO...

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Photos: Hanoi’s flower village before Tet holiday

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><center><br /><p><em>VietNamNet Bridge – Several weeks before the Lunar New Year (Tet), Nhat Tan, one of several remaining flower villages in Hanoi, has become a tourist attraction.</em> </p><br /><p>Nhat Tan is 7 km from the center of Hanoi. Located near the West Lake, the flower village has long been as a traditional peach village.</p><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1628942'><a href='http://bit.ly/1yUWklp'><img alt="Every year, about one month before the Tet holiday, flower lovers and tourists flock to the village to buy flowers and take photos." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="331" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuTWq" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Every year, about one month before the Tet holiday, flower lovers and tourists flock to the village to buy flowers and take photos.</p><br /></div><br /><p>In the past, peach trees were planted inside the village but now the gardens have been moved to the bank of the Red River because land was given for new residential areas and public works.</p><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1628943'><a href='http://bit.ly/1yUWklr'><img alt="Nhat Tan villagers have top-level peach planting techniques." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="332" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuVxq" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Nhat Tan villagers have top-level peach planting techniques.</p><br /></div><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1628944'><a href='http://bit.ly/1yUWhGe'><img alt="Many varieties of peach trees are planted in Nhat Tan." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="332" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuVxr" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Many varieties of peach trees are planted in Nhat Tan.</p><br /></div><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1628945'><a href='http://bit.ly/1yUWklx'><img alt="Nhat Tan peaches are very famous in Vietnam." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="332" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuVxs" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Nhat Tan peaches are very famous in Vietnam.</p><br /></div><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1628946'><a href='http://bit.ly/1yUWklC'><img alt="Many couples come here at this time of year to take wedding photos." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="332" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuVxt" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Many couples come here at this time of year to take wedding photos.</p><br /></div><br /><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1yMuVxw'><img alt="1628941-9-1422320355-660x0" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="332" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuUcI" width="500"/> </a> </p><br /><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1yUWhGh'><img alt="1628941-8-1422320352-660x0" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="331" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuUcL" width="500"/> </a> </p><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1628947'><a href='http://bit.ly/1yMuUcM'><img alt="To take photos, the entrance fee is VND30,000/adult." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="326" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yUWhGk" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>To take photos, the entrance fee is VND30,000/adult.</p><br /></div><br /><p><em>VNE</em> </p><br /></center><br /><br/><br />Photos: Hanoi’s flower village before Tet holiday Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuTWq" width="200"/><br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuTWq" width="200"/><br/></div>

Photos: Hanoi’s flower village before Tet holiday

VietNamNet Bridge – Several weeks before the Lunar New Year (Tet), Nhat Tan, one of several remaining flower villages in Hanoi, has become a...

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Photo show fetes Vietnam-Hungary relations

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><center><br /><p>Hanoi, January 30 (VNA) – A photo exhibition showcasing scenes from Vietnam and Hungary opened in Hanoi on January 29.</p><br /><p>Entitled Friendship Erases Distance, the exhibition displayed 24 colour and black-and-white photos by Le Luong and Janos Devcsics. It aimed to introduce viewers to the culture, people and landscapes of Vietnam and Hungary to strengthen the two countries’ relationship.</p><br /><p>While Luong focuses on daily life, cultural diversity and minority communities, Devcsics’s photos depict beautiful scenery in the Hungarian capital, Budapest, and the famous Hungarian wine-making industry.</p><br /><p>Devcsics takes pictures of both modern and traditional wine-making methods. One photo is of wine tanks, the modern section of the winery where reductive wines are stored in stainless steel tanks. Thanks to this technology, rose and white wines can become fruitier and lighter.</p><br /><p>“I know that Hungary occupies a special place in Vietnamese hearts, and Vietnam also shows much affection toward us as its countrymen,” Devcsics said.</p><br /><p>“I wish to illustrate a beautiful capital and modern technology used to manufacture palinka, wine and mineral water in Hungary today. Even though Hungary is a small country, it produces top-quality beverages with cutting-edge technology,” Devcsics added.</p><br /><p>Nguyen Dang Vang, Chairman of the Vietnam–Hungary Friendship Association, said mutual understanding and cultural activities help enterprises in the two countries cooperate effectively.</p><br /><p>“The exhibition has deep significance for Vietnamese people who used to study and work in Hungary, those who love Hungary and the Hungarian community in Vietnam,” he said, adding that he expected Hungarian friends will understand more about the diverse culture of Vietnam.</p><br /><p>Luong, a freelance photographer, said he has been travelling all around Vietnam, meeting and talking with lovely people. In that way, he was able to see the life, cultural diversity and different characteristics of each community in various areas.</p><br /><p>“Smiles and special feelings on those trips have been captured in my photos,” he said. “Through them, I, on the Vietnamese people’s behalf, want to express a warm welcome to international friends.”</p><br /><p>The exhibition will run until February 13 at Hanoi’s Hungarian National Trading House in Vietnam.</p><br /><p><em>VNA/VNP</em> </p><br /></center><br /><br/><br />Photo show fetes Vietnam-Hungary relations Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://ift.tt/1eWmqbm" width="200"/><br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://ift.tt/1eWmqbm" width="200"/><br/></div>

Photo show fetes Vietnam-Hungary relations

Hanoi, January 30 (VNA) – A photo exhibition showcasing scenes from Vietnam and Hungary opened in Hanoi on January 29. Entitled Friendship E...

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Photo exhibition features founding and development history of CPV

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><center><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1628733'><a href='http://bit.ly/1yMuV0p'><img alt="Visitors to the exhibition (Photo source: CPV)." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="373" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuV0q" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Visitors to the exhibition (Photo source: CPV).</p><br /></div><br /><p>(Cinet)- More than 200 photos along with a series of valuable documents and objects featuring the founding and development history of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) are being displayed at an exhibition that opened at the Ho Chi Minh Museum in Hanoi on January 28.</p><br /><p>The event is part of the activities to mark the CPV’s 85th founding anniversary and in honour of the upcoming all-level Party congresses.</p><br /><p>The exhibition highlights the Party’s glorious achievements over the past 85 years, especially the fruitful outcomes of the reform process launched in 1986.</p><br /><p>It also features the country’s important milestones under the leadership of the CPV such as the successful August Revolution in 1945, the struggles for national independence and reunification from 1945-1975, and the national construction, defence and renewal from 1975 to now.</p><br /><p>The event contributes to raising public awareness of the Party’s history and educating young generations about patriotism and national pride.</p><br /><p>The event will run until May 19.</p><br /></center><br /><br/><br />Photo exhibition features founding and development history of CPV Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuV0q" width="200"/><br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1yMuV0q" width="200"/><br/></div>

Photo exhibition features founding and development history of CPV

Visitors to the exhibition (Photo source: CPV). (Cinet)- More than 200 photos along with a series of valuable documents and objects featuri...

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Frenchman shuttles between homeland and Vietnam for decades out of photography passion

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><center><br /><p><strong>A French photojournalist/photographer has lived in both his home country and Vietnam for nearly three decades, taken hundreds of photos, and helped develop the Southeast Asian country’s photography.</strong> </p><br /><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1zf74f8'><img alt="1628676-6nhqd6xl" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="295" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1zf74f8" width="500"/> </a> </p><br /><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1yfg1R7'><img alt="1628676-i2fzz98j" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="295" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yfg1R7" width="500"/> </a> </p><br /><p>Nicolas Cornet has worked for several European newspapers, including “Le Monde,” and shuttled between France and Vietnam for the past 28 years.</p><br /><p>During this time he has taken hundreds of photos of the latter country’s landscapes and people.</p><br /><p>Cornet has published many of the photos in his three picture books depicting the country and organized photo exhibitions and competitions in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.</p><br /><p>Married to a Vietnamese woman, the Frenchman’s business card shows residence addresses in both Hanoi and Paris.</p><br /><p><strong>Love-struck</strong> </p><br /><p>Cornet first arrived in Vietnam in 1987 to help with a friend’s photo project.</p><br /><p>“Back then, the streets in Hanoi were almost empty of cars, and only the sounds of bicycles and youngsters’ chatter were heard as one sat by Guom (Sword) Lake. Despite the astonishing changes, Hanoi’s landscapes are well preserved and I find it one of Asia’s most unique cities,” he told <em>The Thao va Van Hoa</em> (Sports and Culture) newspaper.</p><br /><p>He is particularly intrigued by the unique blend of Asian and European architecture in several of the capital’s quarters, its Old Quarter and alleys.</p><br /><p>Cornet, who speaks fluent Vietnamese, revealed his favorite pastime is taking leisurely strolls around Guom Lake, which also provides him with boundless inspiration for his artwork.</p><br /><p>“My wife is Vietnamese and so are half of my friends. I’m also keen to learn Vietnamese language and culture,” he said.</p><br /><p>The veteran photographer has traveled to different places across Vietnam over the past 28 years and cannot remember exactly how many collections of photos he has taken.</p><br /><p>His two prime interests are heritage and environmental issues. He has taken a slew of photos on temples, shrines, landscapes, and wildlife.</p><br /><p>Cornet has organized several exhibitions in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, including the “Vietnam, Cuoc Song Troi Day” (roughly translated as “Vietnam, Bursting with Life”) exhibit in the southern city in 2008.</p><br /><p>He has also authored three photo books, including “Vietnam: A Sense of Place,” which has sold over 30,000 copies to date.</p><br /><p>The photographer wishes to pass on his passion and skills to young Vietnamese.</p><br /><p>“There are few photo projects in Vietnam which local youth can join and express themselves,” he explained.</p><br /><p>In December 2013, Cornet and his partners jointly held an exhibition which featured artworks submitted to his “I Love My City” photo competition.</p><br /><p>The competition was organized by Galaxy Publication in collaboration with the French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, the French Embassy in Hanoi, and the French Institute in the capital within the framework of the Year of France in Vietnam that year.</p><br /><p>It provided contestants with opportunities to exchange photography experiences and skills, share their photos, and win prizes.</p><br /><p>The contest also acquainted contestants with and encouraged them to create a Photo Essay, or a series of photos recounting a meaningful story, which was still not popular in Vietnam then, according to the organizers.</p><br /><p>Cornet took his exhibition to Hanoi in November last year after successfully holding it in Toulouse, France in September.</p><br /><p>The seasoned photographer is active in photography and journalistic photography courses which he or his Vietnamese colleagues run.</p><br /><p>“A new batch of young Vietnamese photographers is being incubated. The government should create the best conditions and offer maximal assistance to them, instead of focusing only on their established predecessors,” he told <em>VnExpress</em>, a local newswire.</p><br /><p>He sat on the jury of a photo competition for fledgling photographers held by the newswire last year.</p><br /><p><strong><strong><em><a href='#http://bit.ly/1zf77aw'>Like us on Facebook</a> or <a href='#http://bit.ly/1yffZst'>follow us on Twitter</a> to get the latest news about Vietnam!</em> </strong> </strong> </p><br /></center><br /><br/><br />Frenchman shuttles between homeland and Vietnam for decades out of photography passion Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1zf74f8" width="200"/><br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1zf74f8" width="200"/><br/></div>

Frenchman shuttles between homeland and Vietnam for decades out of photography passion

A French photojournalist/photographer has lived in both his home country and Vietnam for nearly three decades, taken hundreds of photos, and...

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Djokovic edges Wawrinka to book final with Murray

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><strong>Top seed Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka’s title defence on Friday with another five-set clash to book a third final showdown with Andy Murray at the Australian Open.</strong> </p><br /><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1CIaF6d'><img alt="1629038-1wdko6n3" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="295" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1CIaF6d" width="484"/> </a> </p><br /><p>Though not quite the level of their thrilling marathons at the last two tournaments, the grinding 7-6(1) 3-6 6-4 4-6 6-0 win under the lights of Rod Laver Arena was riven by tension until the final one-sided set.</p><br /><p>Both players had their chances, with Djokovic fluffing his lines when 2-0 up and closing in on victory in the fourth set.</p><br /><p>Wawrinka clawed his way back, breaking the Serb and saving three break points with some brilliant play before roaring on to force a fifth set.</p><br /><p>Fourth seed Wawrinka had a chance to break Djokovic in the opening game of the decider, but blasted a backhand long.</p><br /><p>From there he promptly crumbled.</p><br /><p>With Wawrinka double-faulting twice to gift Djokovic the break, the steely-eyed Serb marched on, setting up match point with a searing backhand down the line and closing it out when his opponent struck his 69th unforced error.</p><br /><p>Though having played far from his best tennis, Djokovic will bid to become the first man in the professional era to win five titles at Melbourne Park on Sunday when he faces Murray, who he defeated in the final in 2011 and 2013.</p><br /><br/><br />Djokovic edges Wawrinka to book final with Murray Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1CIaF6d" width="200"/><br/></div>

Djokovic edges Wawrinka to book final with Murray

Top seed Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka’s title defence on Friday with another five-set clash to book a third final showdown with Andy M...

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PM gives nod for establishment of Da Nang Tourism Department

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />PM gives nod for establishment of Da Nang Tourism Department Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1CIaCHz" width="200"/><br/><br /><table><br /><tr><br /><td><b><br/><br /><br/> </b><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1629008'><b><a href='http://bit.ly/1DnRVHx'><img alt="Foreign tourists visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture in Da Nang. (Photo: baodanang.vn)" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="283" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1CIaCHz" width="500"/> </a> </b><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'><b>Foreign tourists visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture in Da Nang. (Photo: baodanang.vn)</b> </p><br /></div><br /><p><b>Prime Minister (PM) Nguyen Tan Dung has agreed on establishing Dang Nang Department of Tourism and Department of Culture and Sports on the basis of separating the current Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.</b> </p><br /><p>The PM urged the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to follow his direction about checking and surveying the demand of forming tourism department in provinces and cities nationwide.</p><br /><p>In 2014, Da Nang received nearly 3.8 million tourists, a 21.9% rise against last year. Of this, 955,000 were foreign tourists while domestic visitors reached 2.8 million. Total tourism turnover of the city posted VND9.74 trillion, 10% higher than the city’s set plan.</p><br /><p>Da Nang continues to put many projects into operation in this year to serve tourists such as a cruise port, an aquatic sport center, the Tuyen Son indoor amusement and entertainment area and Han river night market. Specifically, in April, the city continues to organise International Firework Festival 2015.</p><br /><p>The city strives to greet 4.5 million tourists in 2015, including 1.5 million foreign tourists./.</p><br /></td><br /></tr><br /></table><br /></div>

PM gives nod for establishment of Da Nang Tourism Department

PM gives nod for establishment of Da Nang Tourism Department Related image(s) Foreign tourists visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture in D...

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Exhibition displays illustrations from Nhan Dan Monthly

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><a href='#http://bit.ly/1zf77aK'> </a> </p><br /><p><a href='#http://bit.ly/1zf77aK'> </a><a href='http://bit.ly/1yfg1Rk'><img alt="1628953-a76806ce8a7d5e23cc67d022f76be185-l-362" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="225" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1yfg1Rk" width="400"/> </a> </p><br /><p>Visitors at the exhibition (Photo: Duy Khanh)</p><br /><p>NDO – An exhibition displaying around 30 illustrations and graphic works was held at the Nhan Dan Newspaper headquarters in Hanoi on January 30.</p><br /><p>The exhibit, produced by popular contemporary painters including Pham Luan, Le Thiet Cuong, Dao Hai Phong, Thanh Chuong and Hoang Phuong Vy, featured illustrations for articles, short stories, poems and prose published in Nhan Dan Monthly over the past three years.</p><br /><p>Speaking at the opening, Nhan Dan Newspaper Editor-in-Chief Thuan Huu said that together with writings and literary works by writers, poets and journalists, the illustrations and graphic works by the artists also show the creativeness and devotion of intellectuals in providing readers with high-quality publications.</p><br /><p>He also conveyed his thank to the painters for their co-ordination and support for Nhan Dan newspaper and the Nhan Dan Monthly publication in particular.</p><br /><p>Since 1945, it is the second exhibition to display illustrations from the newspaper, after its first one hosted by Van Nghe (Literary Arts) about ten years ago, featuring painter Le Thiet Cuong, curator of the exhibition.</p><br /><p>Cuong also said that he found it difficult to select which pieces to be displayed at the exhibition since the illustrations published in Nhan Dan Monthly were not only fitting to the articles, but also truly fine art works on their own, diverse in style and materials.</p><br /><p>Painter Vi Kien Thanh, Head of the Fine Arts, Photography and Exhibition Department of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, spoke highly of the efforts made by Nhan Dan Monthly journalists and editors in increasing the quality and aesthetics of the publication, making it an appreciated publication among readers.</p><br /><p>On the occasion, Nhan Dan Monthly launched its two special publications, namely <em>‘Doi Thoai Trong Nam</em>’ (In Dialogues) and ‘<em>Doi Dep Noi Gian’</em> (Rage of a Pair of Sandal).</p><br /><p>The two books are collections of conversations and short stories by journalists, scientific researchers, social activists, and writers published in Nhan Dan Monthly throughout 2014.</p><br /><br/><br />Exhibition displays illustrations from Nhan Dan Monthly Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1yfg1Rk" width="200"/><br/></div>

Exhibition displays illustrations from Nhan Dan Monthly

Visitors at the exhibition (Photo: Duy Khanh) NDO – An exhibition displaying around 30 illustrations and graphic works was held at the ...

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Over 200 photos and items about Communist Party of Vietnam displayed

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />Over 200 photos and items about Communist Party of Vietnam displayed Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRVr2" width="200"/><br/><br /><table><br /><tr><br /><td><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 510px' id='attachment_1628921'><a href='http://bit.ly/1DnRVqY'><img alt="A corner of the exhibition (Photo: nhandan.com.vn)" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="321" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRVr2" width="500"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>A corner of the exhibition (Photo: nhandan.com.vn)</p><br /></div><br /><p>More than 200 photos, documents and artifacts about the glorious history of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) are displayed at an exhibition opened by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Party Central Committee Office on January 28th at the Ho Chi Minh Museum in Hanoi, to mark the Party’s 85th anniversary (1930 – 2015).</p><br /><p>Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Tran Quoc Vuong, Head of the Party Central Committee Office, affirmed that the exhibition displayed over 200 precious photos, documents and artifacts, bringing vivid images and items of interest to visitors, especially young people.</p><br /><p>He also added that the organizing board should cooperate with units and agencies, especially the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, educational sector and armed forces to organize visits for young people and students.</p><br /><p>“The large number of visitors to the exhibition will ensure its success,” said Mr. Vuong.</p><br /><p>The event will end on May 19^th./.</p><br /></td><br /></tr><br /></table><br /></div>

Over 200 photos and items about Communist Party of Vietnam displayed

Over 200 photos and items about Communist Party of Vietnam displayed Related image(s) A corner of the exhibition (Photo: nhandan.com.vn) Mo...

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College inaugurates Truong Sa sovereignty monument

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>An obelisk representing Truong Sa island’s sovereignty marker was inaugurated on the Nha Trang Vocational Tourism College campus on January 29.</p><br /><p>The monument, standing 4.5 metres high and 2.4 metres wide and build out of concrete and steel rods, represents the spirit of solidarity and determination to protect the national marine territorial sovereignty.</p><br /><p>Its presence on the campus is designed to raise awareness and understanding of the East Sea dispute and Vietnam’s sovereignty over Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagoes.</p><br /><p>The drive was organised in honor of the 85th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) on February 3 rd 1930 by the Nha Trang Vocational Tourism College under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.-VNA</p><br /><br/><br />College inaugurates Truong Sa sovereignty monument Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://ift.tt/1eWmqbm" width="200"/><br/></div>

College inaugurates Truong Sa sovereignty monument

An obelisk representing Truong Sa island’s sovereignty marker was inaugurated on the Nha Trang Vocational Tourism College campus on January ...

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Singapore spends over USD240 million on SEA Games

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br/><br />Singapore spends over USD240 million on SEA Games Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRSLT" width="200"/><br/><br /><table><br /><tr><br /><td><b><br/><br /><br/> </b><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 310px' id='attachment_1628813'><b><a href='http://bit.ly/1DnRSLT'><img alt="Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (Photo: AFP/VNA)" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="225" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRSLT" width="300"/> </a> </b><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'><b>Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (Photo: AFP/VNA)</b> </p><br /></div><br /><p><b>Singapore</b> <b>will spend SGD324.5 million (nearly USD241 million) on the 2015 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, which will take place from June 5^th – 16^th, the country’s SEA Games Organising Committee (SINGSOC) said on January 28^th.</b> </p><br /><p>The budget excludes more than USD60 million that has already been raised from 23 sponsors and will cover all costs of the event, including accommodation for athletes and officials, the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as outreach programmes.</p><br /><p>The public can also watch some sports for free, especially for those held in or around the Singapore Sports Hub such as track and field, tennis and water sports.</p><br /><p>Organisers also said that ticketed events will be reasonably priced. Fans of martial arts can pay only SGD5 for a ticket, while team sports such as netball and rugby 7s are priced at SGD10. Tickets for popular sports like football and aquatics will cost 20 SGD.</p><br /><p>SINGSOC’s Executive Committee Chairman Lim Teck Yin said the country expects to receive 800,000 or even up to 1 million visitors during the period of the Games.</p><br /><p>Tickets can be purchased from the SEA Games website, hotline, or authorised ticket counters from February 4^th.</p><br /><p>The 28^th SEA Games is expected to attract athletes from 11 regional countries who will compete in 36 sports for 402 sets of medals./.</p><br /></td><br /></tr><br /></table><br /></div>

Singapore spends over USD240 million on SEA Games

Singapore spends over USD240 million on SEA Games Related image(s) Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (Photo: AFP/VNA) Singapore...

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Can Gio listed among top 100 sustainable tourism destinations

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><strong>Can Gio listed among top 100 sustainable tourism destinations</strong> </p><br /><p><strong><a href='http://bit.ly/1CIaCax'><img alt="1628773-20150130112353-1" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="332" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRVal" width="500"/> </a> </strong> </p><br /><p>HCM City Can Gio Mangrove Forest is listed among the Global Top 100 Sustainable Destinations or in other words the world’s greenest holiday destinations.</p><br /><p>It was drawn up by making open calls on social media by TravelMole.com, Vision on Sustainable Tourism, Totem Tourism and Green Destinations followed by a selection by 30 international tourism sustainability experts.</p><br /><p>“The Global Top 100 aims to recognise tourism destinations that have worked hard to make a difference and take sustainability seriously,” GreenDestinations.info director Albert Salman said.</p><br /><p>“Nevertheless, no destination is sustainable for the full 100 per cent.”</p><br /><p>For the Top 100 the only available global assessment tool for this purpose, the Global Sustainable Tourism Review, GSTR, was used.</p><br /><p>Salman said: “Carbon emission of travel has not been calculated by us. This is what we want to add next year. We recommend travellers to compensate their carbon emission”.</p><br /><p><strong>Info stands launched in town</strong> </p><br /><p>VNPT HCMC under Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), in coordination with Le Digital Co. Ltd., on January 28 inaugurated stands in the downtown area to provide telephone and information services.</p><br /><p>Each telephone-information stand comes with a 47-inch touch screen and an Android application to provide city residents and tourists with a GPS map and recommendations of nearby restaurants, hotels, coffee shops and shopping venues. Information at those stands is available in both Vietnamese and English.</p><br /><p>In addition to cultural and art activities, events, promotional programs and news, users can find information about activities and policies of the city government and market updates.</p><br /><p>Huynh Quang Liem, director of VNPT HCMC, said the telephone-information stands are a source of useful information for not only city residents but also visitors. The stands also provide free Wifi within a range of 100 meters.</p><br /><p>Users can also make 113, 114 and 115 emergency calls at the stands.</p><br /><p>Le Quoc Hung, general director of Le Digital, said Le Digital and VNPT HCMC would integrate news and update data.</p><br /><p>In the initial phase, there are four stands with one in front of the Opera House, one at the Central Post Office, one at the Youth Cultural House and one at 125 Le Loi Boulevard.</p><br /><p>The company plans to open more stands. Around 200 stands are expected to go up towards 2016.</p><br /><p>This is part of a telecom infrastructure development program until 2020 of the HCMC Department of Information and Communications.</p><br /><p><strong>Quang Nam achieves six-year tourism development target</strong> </p><br /><p>Quang Nam Province has achieved its target of 9 per cent annual growth in tourism in 2009-14.</p><br /><p>It ranks fourth in attracting international visitors behind only Ha Noi, HCM City, and Quang Ninh. Last year it received 1.7 million of them.</p><br /><p>The province’s deputy chairman, Nguyen Chin, said the focus would be on upgrading infrastructure, exploiting the tourism cluster in the south, and</p><br /><p>spending appropriately on tourism promotion.</p><br /><p><strong>Central port receives first 2,500 tourists in 2015</strong> </p><br /><p>Chan May seaport in central Thua Thien-Hue province welcomed its first liner of the year carrying more than 2,500 foreign travellers on January 29.</p><br /><p>The port is expected to receive 60,000 arrivals in 2015, facilitated by recent upgrades to the port conducted by the province.</p><br /><p>Notably, Thua Thien-Hue signed an agreement with the world’s second largest cruise operator, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Under the pact, the</p><br /><p>US-based cruise line will invest in the overhaul of the port’s harbour No. 1 to serve larger ships accommodating up to 5,500 passengers.</p><br /><p>According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the locality saw more than 178,480 arrivals so far this year, including 70,218 foreign visitors. It generated a total tourism revenue of over 216.3 billion VND (10 million USD), an 11 percent increase from the same period last year.</p><br /><p>This year, Thua Thien-Hue strives to attract 3.1-3.3 million tourists, including 1.1-1.3 million from foreign countries, with a potential revenue of 3.1-3.2 trillion VND (144-149 million USD) overall, an annual gain of 15-18 percent.</p><br /><p>Chan May Port, located between two central tourism hubs of Da Nang and Hue, is the most convenient gateway to the East Sea as well as the East-West Economic Corridor connecting Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar.</p><br /><p><strong>Savoring Ninh Hoa pork skewers</strong> </p><br /><p>One of the most mouth-watering dishes in Nha Trang City must be grilled pork skewers. The dish is a specialty of Ninh Hoa town, which is about 30 kilometers north of Nha Trang in Khanh Hoa Province.</p><br /><p>To prepare it, pork is mixed with garlic, pepper and sugar, wrapped on sticks, and grilled over burning coal. In the grilling process, the pork sticks should be gently rotated to make sure the meat is well done.</p><br /><p>Diners are advised to dip the meat into a kind of sauce made from ground pork, peanuts, salt, sugar and fish sauce. What is special about this sauce is it is cooked for three hours before it becomes a thick mixture.</p><br /><p>Grilled pork rolls are served with rice pancakes, and fresh and pickled vegetables. A combination of tender pork, dipping sauce, vegetables and crisp pancakes unleashes a tasty flavor like no other.</p><br /><p>Pork skewers can be found virtually everywhere but only Ninh Hoa residents know how to maintain the genuine flavor of the dish.</p><br /><p><em>VNS/SGT/VNA</em> </p><br /><br/><br />Can Gio listed among top 100 sustainable tourism destinations Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRVal" width="200"/><br/></div>

Can Gio listed among top 100 sustainable tourism destinations

Can Gio listed among top 100 sustainable tourism destinations HCM City Can Gio Mangrove Forest is listed among the Global Top 100 Sustai...

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Gulf nations want Australia out of Asia: AFC chief

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><strong>SYDNEY – Asia’s football chief has admitted there is grounds well of opinion in the west of the continent that Australia’s membership of the confederation has not worked out and they should be kicked out.</strong> </p><br /><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1DnRSLG'><img alt="1628770-bwlsdhpu" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="295" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRSLG" width="500"/> </a> </p><br /><p>Australia will play South Korea for the Asian Cup on Saturday after what is widely regarded as a successful hosting of the tournament, the second time they have reached the final in three attempts since they switched from Oceania in 2006.</p><br /><p>Asian Football Confederation (AFC) president Salman Bin Ibrahim Al-Khalifa said in an interview with Dubai newspaper <em>Al-Ittihad</em> that there was a desire by Gulf Arab federations to review Australia’s membership.</p><br /><p>“Yes, it is true, there are indications that confirm that there is a desire among West Asian federations to remove Australia from the AFC,” he told the paper on Wednesday.</p><br /><p>“But I also know that the Arabs are not the only ones that are not convinced with the value of Australia staying within the Asian football family.”</p><br /><p>Critics of Australia’s move to Asia, which they undertook to seek more competitive football and an easier route to the World Cup finals, say the benefits have been all one way.</p><br /><p>The Socceroos have reached the last two World Cup finals through Asian qualifying, while the Arabian Gulf, which had one team in soccer’s showpiece event from 1990 to 2006, was not represented in South Africa or Brazil.</p><br /><p>Qatar host the World Cup in 2022 and if they cannot qualify for Russia in 2018 would become the first host nation since the earliest days of the tournament never to have competed in a finals before welcoming it to their own shores.</p><br /><p>Asia has four qualifying spots for the World Cup with a fifth country getting a shot at the finals through an intercontinental playoff.</p><br /><p>Bahraini Al-Khalifa, who took over the AFC in 2013, said no mechanism had been put in place to review Australia’s membership when it was agreed in 2005.</p><br /><p>“The decision to include Australia was taken many years ago, before I became head of the AFC and at the time,” he added.</p><br /><p>“The decision by the general assembly did not stipulate that this was an experiment that would be evaluated to see whether Australia would continue with the AFC.</p><br /><p>“There are several Asian federations that see that it is necessary for Australia to leave the AFC, and for the AFC to cut all ties with Australia, but we can’t just base any decision on opinions.</p><br /><p>“Any decision about Australia’s membership will have to come from the general assembly.”</p><br /><br/><br />Gulf nations want Australia out of Asia: AFC chief Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRSLG" width="200"/><br/></div>

Gulf nations want Australia out of Asia: AFC chief

SYDNEY – Asia’s football chief has admitted there is grounds well of opinion in the west of the continent that Australia’s membership of the...

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Transsexuals banned from Vietnam women’s football competition

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1CIaEiF'><img alt="1628756-bdn-fxth" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="351" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRUTQ" width="500"/> </a> </p><br /><p>Two players vie for the ball at the 2014 National Women’s Football Championship. Photo: Kha Hoa</p><br /><p>Transsexual players are not allowed to participate in the National Women’s Football Championship, which will kick off on March 5, according to the Vietnam Football Federation.</p><br /><p>“The national championship is exclusively for women, so transsexuals will not be allowed,” Duong Nghiep Khoi, vice secretary of the federation, said Thursday.</p><br /><p>“This regulation is to ensure fair competition and for the development of Vietnam women’s football,” Khoi said.</p><br /><p>He did not say whether there are any players affected by this ban, or how many there are.</p><br /><p>The 2015 National Women’s Football Championship – Thai Son Bac Cup will see the competition of one new team, Tao Dan from Ho Chi Minh City, besides six regular teams.</p><br /><p>They are Hanoi 1, Hanoi 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Phong Phu Ha Nam, Thai Nguyen and the defending champion Than Khoang San Vietnam.</p><br /><p>Seven teams will play each other in two legs with the first leg at HCMC’s Thong Nhat Stadium from March 5-26, and the second leg at Ha Nam’s Phu Ly Stadium from June 21-July 12.</p><br /><p>The champion will be awarded VND300 million (US$14,050), 1.5 times more than last year. The runner-up will get VND200 million and the third place will receive VND150 million.</p><br /><p>Organizers also grant other awards, including fair-play team, best goalkeeper, best player, top scorer and best referee team.</p><br /><br/><br />Transsexuals banned from Vietnam women’s football competition Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRUTQ" width="200"/><br/></div>

Transsexuals banned from Vietnam women’s football competition

Two players vie for the ball at the 2014 National Women’s Football Championship. Photo: Kha Hoa Transsexual players are not allowed to par...

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U23s to play Thailand in friendly match in Bangkok

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><strong>U23s to play Thailand in friendly match in Bangkok</strong> </p><br /><p>Viet Nam’s U23 team is set to play a friendly match, where the squad will test its skills against Thailand on March 22 in Bangkok, Thailand.</p><br /><p>The friendly match is one of the many activities it will undertake to prepare for the Asian U23 Football Championship’s qualifier.</p><br /><p>A week ago, the team had competed against Uzbekistan and is set for a clash with Indonesia on March 7 at the Thong Nhat Stadium in HCM City.</p><br /><p>The national football squad will then will fly to Kuala Lumpur for a continental event, which will be held from March 27 to 31.</p><br /><p><strong>National U19 team win Fair Play award again</strong> </p><br /><p><strong><a href='http://bit.ly/1CIaEiu'><img alt="1628709-20150130110026-5" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="258" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1CIaEiu" width="450"/> </a> </strong> </p><br /><p>The national U19 team was awarded the Football Fair Play trophy for the second time in a row on Wednesday in HCM City.</p><br /><p>The squad garnered 438 points in a contest hosted by the HCM City’s Phap Luat (Laws) newspaper. It won over spectators’ hearts with its beautiful playing style, competitive spirit and sporty attitude during local and international events.</p><br /><p>“We always raise our targets high and are able to play successful games. We are lucky and happy to be given this award for the second time. We thank the people for their support throughout the year,” said Captain Luong Xuan Truong.</p><br /><p>National Midfielder Pham Thanh Luong came in second with 393 points, followed by the Viet Nam Football Fans Association with 369 points.</p><br /><p><em>VNS</em> </p><br /><br/><br />U23s to play Thailand in friendly match in Bangkok Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1CIaEiu" width="200"/><br/></div>

U23s to play Thailand in friendly match in Bangkok

U23s to play Thailand in friendly match in Bangkok Viet Nam’s U23 team is set to play a friendly match, where the squad will test its skill...

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VN Women’s Football Championship begins in March

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><em>The National Women’s Football Championship will be kicked off on March 5 with seven participating teams, one more than the previous years.</em> </p><br /><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1DnRUDp'><img alt="1628707-20150130105836-1" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="289" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRUDp" width="450"/> </a> </p><br /><p><em>Viet Nam Football Federation General Secretary Le Hoai Anh (right) exchanges the sponsorship contract with Thai Son Bac Company Director Bui Dinh Te, during a press conference in Ha Noi on January 29. Thai Son Bac will sponsor the National Women’s Football Championship, which will start in March, for three years.</em> </p><br /><p>Tao Dan FC from HCM City are the newest squad, who are likely to be a breath of fresh air in the championship that is also known as the Thai Son Bac Cup.</p><br /><p>The tournament will be held in two phases in HCM City and Ha Nam Province.</p><br /><p>The first leg will be held from March 5 to 23, and the second leg from June 21 to July 12.</p><br /><p>The winners will walk away with VND300 million (US$14,300), a 50 per cent increase compared to last year’s prize.</p><br /><p>Host HCM City will play Viet Nam Coal-Minerals in the opening match.</p><br /><p>Last year, Ha Noi 1 successfully defended their tournament title in August.</p><br /><p><em>VNS</em> </p><br /><br/><br />VN Women’s Football Championship begins in March Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRUDp" width="200"/><br/></div>

VN Women’s Football Championship begins in March

The National Women’s Football Championship will be kicked off on March 5 with seven participating teams, one more than the previous years. ...

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Phuong shines at ITF Asia tennis championship

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><em>Vietnamese Pham Van Phuong won two titles during the second leg of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) ‘s Asia 14 and Under Championships, Division II, which concluded in HCM City yesterday.</em> </p><br /><div class='wp-caption aligncenter' style='width: 460px' id='attachment_1628706'><a href='http://bit.ly/1DnRSeP'><img alt="Pham Van Phuong won four titles at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) 's Asia 14 and Under Championships, Division II, which concluded in HCM City yesterday." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="273" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRSeP" width="450"/> </a><br /><p class='wp-caption-text'>Pham Van Phuong won four titles at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) 's Asia 14 and Under Championships, Division II, which concluded in HCM City yesterday.</p><br /></div><br /><p>Phuong of Binh Duong defeated Vo Hoang Hung of HCM City 2-0 (7-6, 6-4) in the boys’ singles category to win the title.</p><br /><p>During the boys’ doubles final, Phuong and Pham Duc Phu defeated their teammates Vo Hoang Hung and Thai Nguyen to emerge as the winners.</p><br /><p>In the event’s first leg, Phuong also seized the boys’ singles and doubles titles.</p><br /><p>Meanwhile, Pakistani player Mahin Aftab Qureshi overpowered Anika Seneviratne of Sri Lanka in straight sets of 6-4, 6-4 during the summit clash to win the girl’s singles title.</p><br /><p>Mahin is the first female player in the under-14 girls’ category to compete from Pakistan tennis and to have won the ITF Asian championship title. She was also a runner-up in the first leg of the championship.</p><br /><p>In the girls’ doubles, Rawat Ira Mehernissa and Mathema Anne of Nepal bested Seneviratne Anika and Perera Prabbudhi of Sri Lanka to take the lead.</p><br /><p>With two boys’ singles titles, two boys’ doubles titles and two second-placed finishes, Viet Nam accumulated 1,410 points in total and have been promoted to play in Division I of the same event next year.</p><br /><p>Phuong and Hung were issued wild cards to play in the ITF’s Asian U14 Division I championships in Bangkok, Thailand earlier this year.</p><br /><p>The tournament attracted a total of 65 players, including 28 girls, from 12 countries, such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, as well as Nepal, Cambodia and Bhutan.</p><br /><p><em>VNS</em> </p><br /><br/><br />Phuong shines at ITF Asia tennis championship Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1DnRSeP" width="200"/><br/></div>

Phuong shines at ITF Asia tennis championship

Vietnamese Pham Van Phuong won two titles during the second leg of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) ‘s Asia 14 and Under Championsh...

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Festival of “Spring color from all over the country”

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><a href='http://bit.ly/1CIaE1Y'><img alt="1628718-30-10-54-26-112" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="323" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1CIaBDj" width="500"/> </a> </p><br /><p>(Cinet)- Festival of “Spring color from all over the country” will take place on February 07-11 at Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism.</p><br /><p>The event consists of a program to meeting and wishing New Year and their springtime traditional customs and games such as fire hopping and Central Highlands gong performances will also be re-created during the fest.</p><br /><p>Also, the program will introduce some traditional performances, cuisine in some craft villages and handicraft. The event is annually put on by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to preserve and promote the Vietnamese ethnic communities’ cultural identity.</p><br /><p>Vietnam is home to 54 ethnic communities, with Kinh people making up the majority of the total population.</p><br /><br/><br />Festival of “Spring color from all over the country” Related image(s)<br/><br /><img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1CIaBDj" width="200"/><br/></div>

Festival of “Spring color from all over the country”

(Cinet)- Festival of “Spring color from all over the country” will take place on February 07-11 at Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Cul...

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