Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has recently discovered a 9th-century era monolithic sandstone Shiv Ling during their on-going conservation project in the Cham Temple Complex, Vietnam.&nbsp;

The Shiva Ling was excavated at Mỹ Sơn in Quang Nam province of Vietnam. After the Shiva Linga was unearthed, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called it &nbsp;“a great cultural example of India’s development partnership”. He even lauded India and Vietnam's "civilisational connect".&nbsp;

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Reaffirming a civilisational connect. 
 
Monolithic sandstone Shiv Linga of 9th c CE is latest find in ongoing conservation project. Applaud <a href="https://twitter.com/ASIGoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ASIGoI</a> team for their work at Cham Temple Complex, My Son, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vietnam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vietnam</a>. Warmly recall my visit there in 2011. <a href="https://t.co/7FHDB6NAxz">pic.twitter.com/7FHDB6NAxz</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1265520811546488833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Vietnam's Cham Temple is part of the UNESCO world heritage site. According to reports, the temple was built during the reign of King Indravarman II, a ruler of the Khmer Empire.

According to HT's report, a four-member team from the ASI has restored temples in two separate groups at the complex and is now working on the third group of temples. and an official told the HT that six other Shiv Ling's were also found in the Mỹ Sơn temple complex.&nbsp;

Earlier, Carvings on sandstone and a Shivling have been found during the land levelling work at Ram Janmabhoomi here, said Champat Rai, General Secretary of the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra Trust.

"Debris is being removed and land being levelled at Ram Janmabhoomi since past 10 days. We have discovered pillars in the debris of the structure and carvings on sandstone. Found a Shivling there and a similar one at Kuber Teela," Champat Rai said.

Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has recently discovered a 9th-century era monolithic sandstone Shiv Ling during their on-going conservation project in the Cham Temple Complex, Vietnam.

Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has recently discovered a 9th-century era monolithic sandstone Shiv Ling during their on-going conservation project in the Cham Temple Complex, Vietnam. The Shiva Ling was excavated at Mỹ Sơn in Quang Nam province of Vietnam. After the Shiva Linga was unearthed, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called it “a great cultural example of India’s development partnership”. He even lauded India and Vietnam's "civilisational connect". Reaffirming a civilisational connect. Monolithic sandstone Shiv Linga of 9th c CE is latest find in ongoing conservation project. Applaud @ASIGoI team for their work at Cham Temple Complex, My Son, #Vietnam. Warmly recall my visit there in 2011. pic.twitter.com/7FHDB6NAxz — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 27, 2020 × Vietnam's Cham Temple is part of the UNESCO world heritage site. According to reports, the temple was built during the reign of King Indravarman II, a ruler of the Khmer Empire. According to HT's report, a four-member team from the ASI has restored temples in two separate groups at the complex and is now working on the third group of temples. and an official told the HT that six other Shiv Ling's were also found in the Mỹ Sơn temple complex. Earlier, Carvings on sandstone and a Shivling have been found during the land levelling work at Ram Janmabhoomi here, said Champat Rai, General Secretary of the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra Trust. "Debris is being removed and land being levelled at Ram Janmabhoomi since past 10 days. We have discovered pillars in the debris of the structure and carvings on sandstone. Found a Shivling there and a similar one at Kuber Teela," Champat Rai said.

Archeological Survey of India unearths 1100-year-old Shiv linga in Vietnam; Jaishankar calls it 'civilisational connect'

Police in France and Belgium have arrested more than two dozen suspects over the deaths last year of 39 Vietnamese migrants in the UK.

Police arrest 26 over UK Vietnamese migrant truck deaths

Vietnam's military court has sentenced four years imprisonment to a former deputy defence minister who was accused of allowing three plots of land to be illegally transferred to private investors from the navy in the city of Ho Chi Minh.&nbsp;

According to the state media, Navy's admiral Nguyen Van Hien was found guilty of "lack of responsibility", transferred nearly 7,300 sq meters plots for 45-49 years. The plots were transferred to construct office buildings.&nbsp;

Vietnam's Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong urged a probe against corruption that has led several high-ranking ministers and politicians to jails. One among the jailed is a member of the one-party state's ruling Politburo.

"Hien's activity meant the Navy lost the use of the plots for 49 years, causing losses of nearly 940 billion dong ($40 million) to the state," the Ministry of Public Security said.

The court has also sentenced four other military officers for the scandal. Their punishment varies from four to nine years based on their involvement in the case.&nbsp;

In April, Hied was stripped of his party credentials despite being a deputy defence minister from 2009 to 2016.

Vietnam's military court has sentenced four years imprisonment to a former deputy defence minister who was accused of allowing three plots of land to be illegally transferred to private investors from the navy in the city of Ho Chi Minh.

Vietnam's military court has sentenced four years imprisonment to a former deputy defence minister who was accused of allowing three plots of land to be illegally transferred to private investors from the navy in the city of Ho Chi Minh. According to the state media, Navy's admiral Nguyen Van Hien was found guilty of "lack of responsibility", transferred nearly 7,300 sq meters plots for 45-49 years. The plots were transferred to construct office buildings. Vietnam's Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong urged a probe against corruption that has led several high-ranking ministers and politicians to jails. One among the jailed is a member of the one-party state's ruling Politburo. "Hien's activity meant the Navy lost the use of the plots for 49 years, causing losses of nearly 940 billion dong ($40 million) to the state," the Ministry of Public Security said. The court has also sentenced four other military officers for the scandal. Their punishment varies from four to nine years based on their involvement in the case. In April, Hied was stripped of his party credentials despite being a deputy defence minister from 2009 to 2016.

Vietnam: Military court announces imprisonment to ex-deputy defence minister over land scandal

Smaller countries are challenging the might of China. Vietnam may sue China on the South China Sea. Indonesia summoned China's ambassador after the deaths of four Indonesian crew from two Chinese-flagged vessels. Taiwan - which China claims as its own - is challenging the dragon too. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how smaller players are taking on China.

Gravitas: Vietnam stands up to China

Vietnam appreciates the "enormity and scale of action taken in India to enforce social distancing through the lockdown to contain the spread of novel coronavirus," says Indian envoy to Vietnam Pranay Verma. In an exclusive conversation from Hanoi with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said both India and Vietnam have shared best practices on dealing with the crisis.

WION exclusive conversation with Indian Envoy to Vietnam

Vietnam appreciates "enormity and scale of action taken in India to enforce social distancing through the lockdown to contain the spread of novel coronavirus," says Indian envoy to Vietnam Pranay Verma.

In an exclusive conversation from Hanoi with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said both India and Vietnam have shared best practices on dealing with the crisis.

Verma further said that no Indian COVID-19 case in Vietnam even as the mission reaches out to stranded Indians.&nbsp;

Most of the stranded Indians in the country are tourist, business travellers, short term visitors, he said.

India engagement on pharmaceuticals with Vietnam continued during the COVID-19 pandemic, he said and added, both India and Vietnam have witnessed among the lowest per capita incidents of infections.

Vietnam appreciates "enormity and scale of action taken in India to enforce social distancing through the lockdown to contain the spread of novel coronavirus," says Indian envoy to Vietnam Pranay Verma.

Vietnam appreciates "enormity and scale of action taken in India to enforce social distancing through the lockdown to contain the spread of novel coronavirus," says Indian envoy to Vietnam Pranay Verma. In an exclusive conversation from Hanoi with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said both India and Vietnam have shared best practices on dealing with the crisis. Verma further said that no Indian COVID-19 case in Vietnam even as the mission reaches out to stranded Indians. Most of the stranded Indians in the country are tourist, business travellers, short term visitors, he said. India engagement on pharmaceuticals with Vietnam continued during the COVID-19 pandemic, he said and added, both India and Vietnam have witnessed among the lowest per capita incidents of infections.

India, Vietnam witnessed among lowest per capita incidents of infections: Indian envoy to Vietnam 

April 21 in history: First movie projector demonstrated, swine flu vaccine trial begins and more

Perfectly-glazed buns melt-in-your-mouth cakes. The oozing chocolate and an Instagram-able dinner table. Is this the story of your lockdown? Or does it look more like this?

Perfectly-glazed buns melt-in-your-mouth cakes. The oozing chocolate and an Instagram-able dinner table. Is this the story of your lockdown? Or does it look more like this? Sponge cakes too hard for human-teeth? Eggs that look more like a pufferfish? And royal plating disasters! If the lockdown is all about finding your inner chef-- then why fake it till you make it? Those jaw-dropping lemon cakes and the gorgeous cookies don't happen overnight. While the picture-perfect food makes it to Instagram. The numerous trials and errors end up in the dustbin or worse, in the stomachs of blackmailed family members. But not anymore! Thousands in Vietnam are ready to reverse this trend. They are coming out with the grain of truth and posting their culinary disasters online! From alien-looking cakes to charred food. It's all out there for the world to see. It all started in the second week of April. A 37-year-old, Dinh Duc Thanh is a Vietnamese videographer created a Facebook page for culinary catastrophes. Dinh Duc Thanh, administrator of the Facebook group 'Hating kitchen, not addicting to houses'. "I think when there are groups on attractive, delicious dishes and a nice house, we should also have someplace where people can share their failure, so that people may feel more comfortable, being able to share themselves." Within days, thousands were sharing their stories. One netizen laughed at his disastrous ripe cakes. Another woman complained about how her husband thought her banana cream was cat vomit! One mother shared a video of her daughter refusing to eat her sad-looking cake! Another shared photos of burnt potatoes and charred pans. The ash is finally out of the bag. Apart from the smoked flavour, this has given rise to good laughter online and no one is complaining! As everyone knows, cooking and baking isn't everyone's cup of tea.

Discovering real inner chef: Vietnamese post culinary disasters online

16 March in history: First liquid-fuelled rocket, Treaty of Versailles and more!

Vietnam will deny entry and stop issuing tourist visas to citizens from Europe's Schengen visa-free area and Britain starting from Sunday, amid concerns over the spreading coronavirus, its foreign ministry said.

The restriction will start from midday March 15 following a proposal from the country's prime minister, the ministry said in a statement on its website.

Visas on arrival for all foreign nationals are also temporarily halted, it added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airline-crisis-worsens-as-us-puts-europeans-in-coronavirus-quarantine-285968">Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine</a>

The British embassy in Hanoi updated its travel advice on a UK government website.

"From noon Vietnam time, March 15, all foreign nationals will be refused entry to Vietnam if in the previous 14 days they have been to the UK, or any Schengen country, even in transit," said the statement.

"This restriction will be in place for 30 days."

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-embassy-in-us-seeks-to-address-travel-advisory-concerns-issue-multiple-helplines-285993">Indian Embassy in US seeks to address travel advisory concerns, issue multiple helplines</a>

The Schengen Area is a border control-free travel zone comprising 26 European countries.

Vietnam earlier halted visa-free travel for citizens of eight European countries.

Following the government's restriction, the national carrier Vietnam Airlines said it would stop carrying passengers from Paris, London and Frankfurt to Vietnam from March 15, while flights from Vietnam to those destinations would still be operated as normal.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-chaos-spreads-globally-trump-declares-us-emergency-286308">Coronavirus chaos spreads globally, Trump declares US emergency</a>

Three weeks after Vietnam declared that all 16 of its coronavirus cases had recovered, the number of infected patients is on the rise after the authorities said a spate of new infections was traced to a flight from Britain.

Vietnam has confirmed 49 cases of the coronavirus. There have been no deaths in the country.

Vietnam will deny entry and stop issuing tourist visas to citizens from Europe's Schengen visa-free area and Britain starting from Sunday, amid concerns over the spreading coronavirus, its foreign ministry said.

Vietnam will deny entry and stop issuing tourist visas to citizens from Europe's Schengen visa-free area and Britain starting from Sunday, amid concerns over the spreading coronavirus, its foreign ministry said. The restriction will start from midday March 15 following a proposal from the country's prime minister, the ministry said in a statement on its website. Visas on arrival for all foreign nationals are also temporarily halted, it added. Also read: Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine The British embassy in Hanoi updated its travel advice on a UK government website. "From noon Vietnam time, March 15, all foreign nationals will be refused entry to Vietnam if in the previous 14 days they have been to the UK, or any Schengen country, even in transit," said the statement. "This restriction will be in place for 30 days." Also see: Indian Embassy in US seeks to address travel advisory concerns, issue multiple helplines The Schengen Area is a border control-free travel zone comprising 26 European countries. Vietnam earlier halted visa-free travel for citizens of eight European countries. Following the government's restriction, the national carrier Vietnam Airlines said it would stop carrying passengers from Paris, London and Frankfurt to Vietnam from March 15, while flights from Vietnam to those destinations would still be operated as normal. Also read: Coronavirus chaos spreads globally, Trump declares US emergency Three weeks after Vietnam declared that all 16 of its coronavirus cases had recovered, the number of infected patients is on the rise after the authorities said a spate of new infections was traced to a flight from Britain. Vietnam has confirmed 49 cases of the coronavirus. There have been no deaths in the country.

Vietnam to refuse visitors from UK, Schengen countries

Two petite women in protective gear walk slowly down an empty field in north-central Vietnam, carrying a large metal detector that clicks and whirrs, searching for unexploded ordnance (UXO) buried beneath the sand and grass.

Today Tonight: 'Landmine Girls' of Vietnam!

Shipments of around 250,000 bales of Indian cotton to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">China </a>have been delayed by nearly two weeks as a virus outbreak and factory closures dampen demand from the world's biggest consumer of the fibre, industry officials told said.

The delay in shipments could pressure local prices and force the state-run <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/indias-cotton-exports-could-hit-four-year-high-on-price-rally-weak-rupee-139689?amp">Cotton Corporation of India</a> (CCI) to increase purchases from farmers to ensure domestic prices stay above government-mandated levels.

"As the holiday is extended in China, shipments are getting delayed," said Chirag Patel, chief executive at Jaydeep Cotton Fibers Pvt Ltd, an exporter.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-january-manufacturing-activity-hits-nearly-8-year-high-278375">India's January manufacturing activity hits nearly 8-year high&nbsp;</a>

Most Chinese firms scale back operations or close for long periods around the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-cancels-lunar-new-year-parade-due-to-chinas-viral-outbreak-276669">Lunar New Year</a> holidays, which began on January&nbsp;24 this year.

But China's government has extended the holidays, announced widespread transport restrictions and told many businesses to stay closed longer to limit the spread of the virus. It is not clear when millions of migrant workers will be able to return to factories or when ports will resume normal operations.

The epidemic has killed nearly 500 people in China and infected more than 24,000 so far.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">India, China to account for nearly 35% of global GDP in 2060: Study</a>

Indian sellers had contracted around 650,000 bales to China for prompt shipment.

Around 400,000 bales have already been shipped, but the remaining 250,000 bales have been delayed, three exporters and two dealers with global trading houses told Reuters.

"Exporters are a bit worried. So far buyers haven't cancelled contracts, but some might be if this virus outbreak remains there for few more weeks," said Vinay Kotak, a director at Kotak Commodities, a Mumbai-based brokerage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">China</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">Bangladesh</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/as-trump-visits-vietnam-melania-walks-alone-at-great-wall-543">Vietnam </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-indonesias-mt-sinabung-erupts-696">Indonesia </a>are among key buyers of India cotton.

Exporters have an option of diverting cotton meant for China to other destinations such as Bangladesh and Vietnam if shipments are delayed further, Kotak said.

India has shipped 2 million cotton bales since the 2019-20 marketing year started on October&nbsp;1 and another 1 million bales have been contracted for shipment in February and March, said Atul Ganatra, president of the Cotton Association of India.

"We are hopeful that very soon Chinese buying will return to normal," said Ganatra.

Local cotton prices are already under pressure due to surplus production, said a Mumbai-based dealer with a global trading firm.

"Chinese buying was supporting local prices. In the absence of China, Cotton Corporation of India will have to raise purchases," the dealer said.

Shipments of around 250,000 bales of Indian cotton to China have been delayed by nearly two weeks as a virus outbreak and factory closures dampen demand from the world's biggest consumer of the fibre, industry officials told said.

Shipments of around 250,000 bales of Indian cotton to China have been delayed by nearly two weeks as a virus outbreak and factory closures dampen demand from the world's biggest consumer of the fibre, industry officials told said. The delay in shipments could pressure local prices and force the state-run Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) to increase purchases from farmers to ensure domestic prices stay above government-mandated levels. "As the holiday is extended in China, shipments are getting delayed," said Chirag Patel, chief executive at Jaydeep Cotton Fibers Pvt Ltd, an exporter. Also read: India's January manufacturing activity hits nearly 8-year high Most Chinese firms scale back operations or close for long periods around the Lunar New Year holidays, which began on January 24 this year. But China's government has extended the holidays, announced widespread transport restrictions and told many businesses to stay closed longer to limit the spread of the virus. It is not clear when millions of migrant workers will be able to return to factories or when ports will resume normal operations. The epidemic has killed nearly 500 people in China and infected more than 24,000 so far. Also read: India, China to account for nearly 35% of global GDP in 2060: Study Indian sellers had contracted around 650,000 bales to China for prompt shipment. Around 400,000 bales have already been shipped, but the remaining 250,000 bales have been delayed, three exporters and two dealers with global trading houses told Reuters. "Exporters are a bit worried. So far buyers haven't cancelled contracts, but some might be if this virus outbreak remains there for few more weeks," said Vinay Kotak, a director at Kotak Commodities, a Mumbai-based brokerage. China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Indonesia are among key buyers of India cotton. Exporters have an option of diverting cotton meant for China to other destinations such as Bangladesh and Vietnam if shipments are delayed further, Kotak said. India has shipped 2 million cotton bales since the 2019-20 marketing year started on October 1 and another 1 million bales have been contracted for shipment in February and March, said Atul Ganatra, president of the Cotton Association of India. "We are hopeful that very soon Chinese buying will return to normal," said Ganatra. Local cotton prices are already under pressure due to surplus production, said a Mumbai-based dealer with a global trading firm. "Chinese buying was supporting local prices. In the absence of China, Cotton Corporation of India will have to raise purchases," the dealer said.

Virus outbreak delays India's cotton exports to China

January 18 in history: WW-1 peace conference, recognition of Vietnam, and a lot more!

In Vietnam's "incense village", workers are busy preparing the fragrant sticks ahead of the early arrival of the busy lunar new year holiday. #WION #Vietnam #Lunaryear

Vietnam's 'incense village' prepares for lunar new year

A court in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delegation-of-foreign-envoys-arrive-in-srinagar-briefed-by-army-on-security-situation-273155">Vietnam</a> handed lengthy jail terms on Monday to two former chairmen of Danang city, accused of economic mismanagement, state media reported on Monday.

Tran Van Minh and Van Huu Chien were sentenced to 17 and 12 years in prison, respectively, by Hanoi People's Court, reported Tuoi Tre newspaper. Minh was the chairman of Danang, Vietnam's top tourism destination, from 2006 to 2011, while Chien was chairman from 2011 to 2014.

The pair were accused of violating regulations on state asset and land management to illegally sell several state-owned land slots to businessman Phan Van Anh Vu, causing losses of up to 22 trillion dong ($949.38 million) to the state budget, the report said.

Vu, who fled to Singapore seeking passage to Germany but was arrested in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/americans-back-in-vietnam-this-time-armed-with-pension-funds-272568">Vietnam</a> two years ago, was sentenced to 25 years in prison on Monday for violating state regulations on land management, according to the report.

Vu, also known as "Aluminium Vu", had earlier been sentenced to decades in prison at other trials for deliberate disclosure of state secrets and abusing power to appropriate property.

The court also sentenced 18 other people on Monday to between 1.5 and 6 years for their involvement in the case, the report said.

A court in Vietnam handed lengthy jail terms on Monday to two former chairmen of Danang city, accused of economic mismanagement, state media reported on Monday. Tran Van Minh and Van Huu Chien were sentenced to 17 and 12 years in prison, respectively, by Hanoi People's Court, reported Tuoi Tre newspaper.

A court in Vietnam handed lengthy jail terms on Monday to two former chairmen of Danang city, accused of economic mismanagement, state media reported on Monday. Tran Van Minh and Van Huu Chien were sentenced to 17 and 12 years in prison, respectively, by Hanoi People's Court, reported Tuoi Tre newspaper. Minh was the chairman of Danang, Vietnam's top tourism destination, from 2006 to 2011, while Chien was chairman from 2011 to 2014. The pair were accused of violating regulations on state asset and land management to illegally sell several state-owned land slots to businessman Phan Van Anh Vu, causing losses of up to 22 trillion dong ($949.38 million) to the state budget, the report said. Vu, who fled to Singapore seeking passage to Germany but was arrested in Vietnam two years ago, was sentenced to 25 years in prison on Monday for violating state regulations on land management, according to the report. Vu, also known as "Aluminium Vu", had earlier been sentenced to decades in prison at other trials for deliberate disclosure of state secrets and abusing power to appropriate property. The court also sentenced 18 other people on Monday to between 1.5 and 6 years for their involvement in the case, the report said.

Vietnam: Hanoi People's Court jails Danang ex-chairmen over economic mismanagement

It has been around four decades since 'the war in the jungle' ended in the favour of the Vietnamese, with American troops on the retreat. So many years on, it seems that the Americans are back in the jungle.

But this time, it's not fresh troops right out of boot camp, but the same soldiers who fought so many years ago. They're back as senior citizens armed, not with M16s, but with their pension funds.

<img alt="Vietnam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78ced9a9-1fd2-4b77-98e8-bcaa1fcfe3de" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_39.jpg" />

A man installs a Christmas decoration featuring Santa Claus in a pond outside the Phu My church in Hanoi on December 24, 2019. (AFP Photo)

Washington DC had decided to fight their ideological enemy which was embodied in the communist dictator - Ho Chi Minh, ruling in Hanoi. The socialist system in Vietnam back then encompassed everything that the capitalist system in America despised.

However, data shows that more and more American war veterans and pensioners are deciding to settle offshores, with the main reason being the cost of living. The socialist system in such countries ensures healthcare at minimal or reasonable costs, and their increasing standard of living suits the comfort that the pensioners would seek in America.

<img alt="Vietnam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4c97c5a4-d853-4962-8a37-2c899aa9291b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_13.jpg" /> 
 
A resident poses with a flower installation ahead of the 2020 new year, in Hanoi on December 30, 2019. &nbsp;(AFP Photo)

With "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences", Vietnam was rated among the top-10 nations to retire abroad by an international magazine in its annual global retirement index.

The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country. 
 
<img alt="Vietnam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f985014c-7df1-4095-b093-951ae93a44b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_26.jpg" />

A woman takes a selfie outside the late 19th-century St. Joseph's cathedral in the old quarters of Hanoi during Christmas eve on December 24, 2019. (AFP Photo)

There are 'humane' reasons as well which explain why so many pensioners are deciding to shift their lives abroad. While some come for the adventure and the fun element of living in another part of the world, others come for the emotional attachment they may have developed.

Many US war veterans felt a certain degree of emotional attachment to the land and the jungles in which they fought, which had a huge impact on their lives. This feeling was motivated by the benefits they would gain by simply settling down.

The many war veterans who have returned to Vietnam have settled down to live happy lives here. Some say that the people of Vietnam have accepted them, and pay more respect to the veterans than their American citizens ever did.

"Here I found, more or less, peace with myself. Sometimes I go to a place where we used to fight. What was chaos and destruction at the time, is now a hopeful place full of life" said on veteran, who now lives in Vietnam.

It has been around four decades since 'the war in the jungle' ended in the favour of the Vietnamese, with American troops on the retreat. So many years on, it seems that the Americans are back in the jungle.

It has been around four decades since 'the war in the jungle' ended in the favour of the Vietnamese, with American troops on the retreat. So many years on, it seems that the Americans are back in the jungle. But this time, it's not fresh troops right out of boot camp, but the same soldiers who fought so many years ago. They're back as senior citizens armed, not with M16s, but with their pension funds. A man installs a Christmas decoration featuring Santa Claus in a pond outside the Phu My church in Hanoi on December 24, 2019. (AFP Photo) Washington DC had decided to fight their ideological enemy which was embodied in the communist dictator - Ho Chi Minh, ruling in Hanoi. The socialist system in Vietnam back then encompassed everything that the capitalist system in America despised. However, data shows that more and more American war veterans and pensioners are deciding to settle offshores, with the main reason being the cost of living. The socialist system in such countries ensures healthcare at minimal or reasonable costs, and their increasing standard of living suits the comfort that the pensioners would seek in America. A resident poses with a flower installation ahead of the 2020 new year, in Hanoi on December 30, 2019. (AFP Photo) With "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences", Vietnam was rated among the top-10 nations to retire abroad by an international magazine in its annual global retirement index. The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country. A woman takes a selfie outside the late 19th-century St. Joseph's cathedral in the old quarters of Hanoi during Christmas eve on December 24, 2019. (AFP Photo) There are 'humane' reasons as well which explain why so many pensioners are deciding to shift their lives abroad. While some come for the adventure and the fun element of living in another part of the world, others come for the emotional attachment they may have developed. Many US war veterans felt a certain degree of emotional attachment to the land and the jungles in which they fought, which had a huge impact on their lives. This feeling was motivated by the benefits they would gain by simply settling down. The many war veterans who have returned to Vietnam have settled down to live happy lives here. Some say that the people of Vietnam have accepted them, and pay more respect to the veterans than their American citizens ever did. "Here I found, more or less, peace with myself. Sometimes I go to a place where we used to fight. What was chaos and destruction at the time, is now a hopeful place full of life" said on veteran, who now lives in Vietnam.

Americans back in Vietnam — this time armed with pension funds

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/malaysia-offers-to-buy-more-imports-from-india-after-threat-of-palm-oil-curbs-256078">Malaysia</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-says-deeply-concerned-about-developments-in-south-china-sea-244942">Vietnam</a> in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad.

The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine". The survey also pointed out that "Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe" making it an ideal country to finally retire.

The magazine ranked Malaysia in number seven due to its "idyllic beaches" with the language being an easy mechanism of communication since English was the "unofficial" first language. Cheap food and low living costs counted in Malaysia's favour with affordable medical care being another factor that helped the country to rank among the best retirement destinations in the world.

Vietnam was last in the list of top-10 with "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences". The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country.

Not surprisingly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/venezuela-france-wests-duplicity-196078">France</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-ambassador-to-spain-hurt-in-barcelona-mugging-244352">Spain</a> were picked at ninth and eighth places respectively with Ecuador being a surprise sixth choice in the list due to its weather and fertile valleys. Interestingly, Columbia in Latin America finished among the top-5 with access to an easy retirement visa.

Mexico was ranked number four with Costa Rica with its low cost of living and "top-notch medical care" in no-3 slot.

The survey put Panama which is close to the US with "sunny weather" and exciting food options with benefits and discounts for retirees as the no-2 country to retire.

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated Malaysia and Vietnam in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad. The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine".

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated Malaysia and Vietnam in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad. The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine". The survey also pointed out that "Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe" making it an ideal country to finally retire. The magazine ranked Malaysia in number seven due to its "idyllic beaches" with the language being an easy mechanism of communication since English was the "unofficial" first language. Cheap food and low living costs counted in Malaysia's favour with affordable medical care being another factor that helped the country to rank among the best retirement destinations in the world. Vietnam was last in the list of top-10 with "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences". The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country. Not surprisingly France and Spain were picked at ninth and eighth places respectively with Ecuador being a surprise sixth choice in the list due to its weather and fertile valleys. Interestingly, Columbia in Latin America finished among the top-5 with access to an easy retirement visa. Mexico was ranked number four with Costa Rica with its low cost of living and "top-notch medical care" in no-3 slot. The survey put Panama which is close to the US with "sunny weather" and exciting food options with benefits and discounts for retirees as the no-2 country to retire.

Portugal best country to retire; Malaysia, Vietnam top in Asia: Study

Vietnam said it hoped China would show restraint in the South China Sea next year after a Chinese <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-says-deeply-concerned-about-developments-in-south-china-sea-244942">oil survey vessel</a> and its escorts spent months within Vietnam's exclusive economic zone in what Hanoi called a blatant violation of its sovereignty.

Vietnam, the region's most forceful challenger of China's extensive maritime claims to the busy waterway, will take on the rotating chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2020.

"I hope that during our chairmanship China will show restraint and refrain from these activities," Vietnam's deputy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-denies-reports-of-sale-of-brahmos-missile-to-vietnam-19191">foreign minister</a>, Nguyen Quoc Dung, said at a lecture at The Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore.

"What China did is very alarming and also kind of threatening not only Vietnam but also other countries that see the potential of being <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-provide-ship-to-vietnam-to-boost-south-china-sea-patrols-263403">threatened </a>in the future," he said.

China's claims within its so-called "Nine-Dash Line" in the South China Sea are a source of friction with ASEAN members Malaysia, the Philippines and Brunei as well as with the United States.

But China's closest allies within the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/southeast-asian-leaders-meet-expected-to-discuss-rohingyas-south-china-sea-229680">Southeast Asian bloc</a> have historically opposed taking tougher words or action against China, which is nonetheless negotiating a code of conduct with regional states.

The Vietnamese minister said it wasn't that other ASEAN countries supported China's actions, but that they did not protest in the same way.

More than $3 trillion a year in trade pass through the waterway, which also has oil and gas reserves and historic fishing grounds for the surrounding countries.

The Chinese oil survey vessel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-ship-at-vanguard-bank-a-threat-need-to-address-it-collectively-vietnam-ambassador-at-wion-world-order-238428">Haiyang Dizhi 8</a> left Vietnam's extended economic zone in late October after more than three months there. Beijing said it had been carrying out a scientific survey in Chinese-controlled waters.

Vietnam said it hoped China would show restraint in the South China Sea next year after a Chinese oil survey vessel and its escorts spent months within Vietnam's exclusive economic zone in what Hanoi called a blatant violation of its sovereignty.

Vietnam said it hoped China would show restraint in the South China Sea next year after a Chinese oil survey vessel and its escorts spent months within Vietnam's exclusive economic zone in what Hanoi called a blatant violation of its sovereignty. Vietnam, the region's most forceful challenger of China's extensive maritime claims to the busy waterway, will take on the rotating chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2020. "I hope that during our chairmanship China will show restraint and refrain from these activities," Vietnam's deputy foreign minister, Nguyen Quoc Dung, said at a lecture at The Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore. "What China did is very alarming and also kind of threatening not only Vietnam but also other countries that see the potential of being threatened in the future," he said. China's claims within its so-called "Nine-Dash Line" in the South China Sea are a source of friction with ASEAN members Malaysia, the Philippines and Brunei as well as with the United States. But China's closest allies within the Southeast Asian bloc have historically opposed taking tougher words or action against China, which is nonetheless negotiating a code of conduct with regional states. The Vietnamese minister said it wasn't that other ASEAN countries supported China's actions, but that they did not protest in the same way. More than $3 trillion a year in trade pass through the waterway, which also has oil and gas reserves and historic fishing grounds for the surrounding countries. The Chinese oil survey vessel Haiyang Dizhi 8 left Vietnam's extended economic zone in late October after more than three months there. Beijing said it had been carrying out a scientific survey in Chinese-controlled waters.

Vietnam hopes for Chinese restraint in South China Sea in 2020

The&nbsp;first&nbsp;remains&nbsp;of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/driver-charged-as-more-vietnamese-feared-dead-among-39-uk-truck-victims-261361">39 people found dead</a> in a&nbsp;truck&nbsp;in Britain last month arrived in&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;early Wednesday, an airport security source said.

The bodies arrived on a commercial&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;Airlines flight from London to Hanoi, where ambulances and security personnel waited at the airport.

"The plane landed with 16 bodies on board... we are waiting to transfer the bodies to local authorities," the source told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

An official letter seen by AFP confirmed that 16 bodies would&nbsp;arrive&nbsp;in&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;Wednesday. The 16&nbsp;victims&nbsp;came from three provinces in central&nbsp;Vietnam.

The other&nbsp;remains&nbsp;are expected to&nbsp;arrive&nbsp;in the coming days, though officials have not confirmed the date publicly.

Families have been frozen in grief for weeks waiting for their relatives' return, and many have taken out hefty loans from the government to cover the cost of repatriation.

The&nbsp;remains&nbsp;were expected to be delivered later Wednesday to relatives in three central provinces,&nbsp;Nghe An, Ha Tinh and Quang Binh,&nbsp;so families could hold funerals and burial ceremonies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-strongly-condemns-human-trafficking-after-uk-truck-tragedy-259460">The bodies of 31 men and eight women</a> were discovered in a refrigerated lorry in an industrial state in Essex east of London on October 23.

Police initially identified the&nbsp;victims&nbsp;as Chinese but families in&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;later came forward with fears their relatives were on the&nbsp;truck.

The United Kingdom is a top destination for Vietnamese illegal migrants.

Many arrange trips through brokers who promise them well-paid jobs and end up working in nail bars or on cannabis farms, deep in debt for their dangerous trips over.

'VIP route'&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-arrests-eight-in-connection-with-uk-truck-deaths-259812">Several families of the 39&nbsp;victims</a>&nbsp;told AFP they borrowed thousands of dollars to pay for their relatives' trips to Europe.

They are now further in debt having taken loans from the government to bring their relatives back.

Families were given two options for repatriation: $1,774 to bring back ashes, or $2,858 for the cost of a coffin carrying the body.

Though relatives were encouraged by authorities to opt for ashes "to ensure speed, low cost and sanitation safety", many paid more for the bodies to carry out traditional burials.

Cremation is rare in the&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;countryside, where many of the&nbsp;victims&nbsp;were from.

Most hailed from just a handful of central&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;provinces, which are among the poorest in the country and where well-entrenched networks of illegal brokers can easily facilitate risky trips abroad.

Ten of the&nbsp;victims&nbsp;were teenagers, including two 15-year-old boys, and 30 of the group came from Nghe An and Ha Tinh provinces.

They paid thousands of dollars to brokers who promised the&nbsp;truck&nbsp;was the safer option,&nbsp;billed as the 'VIP route',&nbsp;their families told AFP.

On Monday, the Northern Irish driver of the&nbsp;truck, 25-year-old Maurice Robinson, pleaded guilty to conspiring to assist illegal immigration.

He also admitted to acquiring the cash that came from criminal conduct but did not plead guilty to 41 other charges levelled against him.

Several other people have been arrested in the&nbsp;UK&nbsp;over the incident while&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;has held at least 10 people, though none have been formally charged.

The first remains of the 39 people found dead in a truck in Britain last month arrived in Vietnam early Wednesday, an airport security source said. The bodies arrived on a commercial Vietnam Airlines flight from London to Hanoi, where ambulances and security personnel waited at the airport.

The first remains of the 39 people found dead in a truck in Britain last month arrived in Vietnam early Wednesday, an airport security source said. The bodies arrived on a commercial Vietnam Airlines flight from London to Hanoi, where ambulances and security personnel waited at the airport. "The plane landed with 16 bodies on board... we are waiting to transfer the bodies to local authorities," the source told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity. An official letter seen by AFP confirmed that 16 bodies would arrive in Vietnam Wednesday. The 16 victims came from three provinces in central Vietnam. The other remains are expected to arrive in the coming days, though officials have not confirmed the date publicly. Families have been frozen in grief for weeks waiting for their relatives' return, and many have taken out hefty loans from the government to cover the cost of repatriation. The remains were expected to be delivered later Wednesday to relatives in three central provinces, Nghe An, Ha Tinh and Quang Binh, so families could hold funerals and burial ceremonies. The bodies of 31 men and eight women were discovered in a refrigerated lorry in an industrial state in Essex east of London on October 23. Police initially identified the victims as Chinese but families in Vietnam later came forward with fears their relatives were on the truck. The United Kingdom is a top destination for Vietnamese illegal migrants. Many arrange trips through brokers who promise them well-paid jobs and end up working in nail bars or on cannabis farms, deep in debt for their dangerous trips over. 'VIP route' Several families of the 39 victims told AFP they borrowed thousands of dollars to pay for their relatives' trips to Europe. They are now further in debt having taken loans from the government to bring their relatives back. Families were given two options for repatriation: $1,774 to bring back ashes, or $2,858 for the cost of a coffin carrying the body. Though relatives were encouraged by authorities to opt for ashes "to ensure speed, low cost and sanitation safety", many paid more for the bodies to carry out traditional burials. Cremation is rare in the Vietnam countryside, where many of the victims were from. Most hailed from just a handful of central Vietnam provinces, which are among the poorest in the country and where well-entrenched networks of illegal brokers can easily facilitate risky trips abroad. Ten of the victims were teenagers, including two 15-year-old boys, and 30 of the group came from Nghe An and Ha Tinh provinces. They paid thousands of dollars to brokers who promised the truck was the safer option, billed as the 'VIP route', their families told AFP. On Monday, the Northern Irish driver of the truck, 25-year-old Maurice Robinson, pleaded guilty to conspiring to assist illegal immigration. He also admitted to acquiring the cash that came from criminal conduct but did not plead guilty to 41 other charges levelled against him. Several other people have been arrested in the UK over the incident while Vietnam has held at least 10 people, though none have been formally charged.

Remains of United Kingdom lorry victims arrive in Vietnam

A Northern Irish&nbsp;man, who is charged with the&nbsp;manslaughter of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/39-bodies-found-in-lorry-in-essex-were-vietnam-nationals-uk-police-260616">39 Vietnamese nationals found dead</a> in a&nbsp;truck&nbsp;near London last month, pleaded&nbsp;guilty&nbsp;on Monday to assisting unlawful&nbsp;immigration&nbsp;and to acquiring criminal&nbsp;property.

Appearing by video link from Belmarsh Prison in east London, Maurice Robinson, 25, was not asked to enter a plea to 41 other charges, including 39 counts of&nbsp;manslaughter.

No trial date was set and Robinson is next due in court on December&nbsp;13.

The victims, 31 men and boys and eight women, were found on an industrial estate in Grays, Essex, not far from docks on the River Thames, on Oct. 23. The oldest of the victims was 44 while three were aged under 18.

Another 23-year-old&nbsp;man&nbsp;from Northern Ireland was separately charged on Sunday with charges of conspiracy to arrange or facilitate the travel of people with a view to exploitation and conspiracy to facilitate the commission of a breach of&nbsp;UK&nbsp;immigration&nbsp;law.

He is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court in England on Monday.

A Northern Irish man, who is charged with the manslaughter of 39 Vietnamese nationals found dead in a truck near London last month, pleaded guilty on Monday to assisting unlawful immigration and to acquiring criminal property.

A Northern Irish man, who is charged with the manslaughter of 39 Vietnamese nationals found dead in a truck near London last month, pleaded guilty on Monday to assisting unlawful immigration and to acquiring criminal property. Appearing by video link from Belmarsh Prison in east London, Maurice Robinson, 25, was not asked to enter a plea to 41 other charges, including 39 counts of manslaughter. No trial date was set and Robinson is next due in court on December 13. The victims, 31 men and boys and eight women, were found on an industrial estate in Grays, Essex, not far from docks on the River Thames, on Oct. 23. The oldest of the victims was 44 while three were aged under 18. Another 23-year-old man from Northern Ireland was separately charged on Sunday with charges of conspiracy to arrange or facilitate the travel of people with a view to exploitation and conspiracy to facilitate the commission of a breach of UK immigration law. He is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court in England on Monday.

UK man pleads guilty to immigration, property offences in truck deaths case

&nbsp;The United States announced on Wednesday it will provide Vietnam with another coast guard cutter for its growing fleet of ships, boosting Hanoi's ability to patrol the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../china-calls-on-us-to-stop-flexing-muscles-in- south-china-sea-262942">South China Sea</a> amid tensions with China.

US&nbsp;Defense Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../us-cuts-short-meeting-with-south-korea-on- military-costs-263118">Mark Esper</a> disclosed the decision during an address in Vietnam, which has emerged as the most vocal opponent in Asia of China's territorial claims in the South China Sea.

In his speech, Esper took aim at China, which he accused of "bullying" neighbours, like Vietnam.

"China's unilateral efforts to assert illegitimate maritime claims threaten other nations' access to vital natural resources, undermine the stability of regional energy markets, and increase the risk of conflict," Esper told students at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam.

The vessel will be Vietnam's second cutter from the US&nbsp;Coast Guard, which just two years ago transferred a Hamilton-class cutter to Vietnam. By providing the ships, the US&nbsp;hopes to enable Vietnam to assert its sovereignty and deter China.

More than four decades after the Vietnam War ended, ties between the United States and Vietnam are increasingly focused on shared concerns over Chinese expansion.

China claims 90 per cent&nbsp;of the potentially energy-rich South China Sea, but Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also lay claim to parts of it, through which about $3 trillion of trade passes each year.

Beijing in July sent a ship for a months-long seismic survey to an area internationally designated as Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) but also claimed by China.

Vietnam said earlier this month it could explore legal action in the dispute, a move previously taken by the Philippines - where Esper visited earlier this week.

In 2016, the Philippines won a ruling from the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague that invalidated China's claim over most of the South China Sea.

Speaking earlier at Vietnam's defence ministry, Esper said the international rules-based order “has come under duress."

"Collectively, we must stand up against coercion and intimidation, protect the rights of all nations, big and small," Esper said.

The United States accuses China of militarising the South China Sea and trying to intimidate Asian neighbours who might want to exploit its extensive oil and gas reserves.

In April, the United States delivered six patrol boats worth $12 million to Vietnam's Coast Guard. Those vessels were in addition to another twelve "Metal Shark" patrol boats it provided to Vietnam in the last two years.

The United States announced on Wednesday it will provide Vietnam with another coast guard cutter for its growing fleet of ships, boosting Hanoi's ability to patrol the South China Sea amid tensions with China.

The United States announced on Wednesday it will provide Vietnam with another coast guard cutter for its growing fleet of ships, boosting Hanoi's ability to patrol the South China Sea amid tensions with China. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper disclosed the decision during an address in Vietnam, which has emerged as the most vocal opponent in Asia of China's territorial claims in the South China Sea. In his speech, Esper took aim at China, which he accused of "bullying" neighbours, like Vietnam. "China's unilateral efforts to assert illegitimate maritime claims threaten other nations' access to vital natural resources, undermine the stability of regional energy markets, and increase the risk of conflict," Esper told students at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam. The vessel will be Vietnam's second cutter from the US Coast Guard, which just two years ago transferred a Hamilton-class cutter to Vietnam. By providing the ships, the US hopes to enable Vietnam to assert its sovereignty and deter China. More than four decades after the Vietnam War ended, ties between the United States and Vietnam are increasingly focused on shared concerns over Chinese expansion. China claims 90 per cent of the potentially energy-rich South China Sea, but Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also lay claim to parts of it, through which about $3 trillion of trade passes each year. Beijing in July sent a ship for a months-long seismic survey to an area internationally designated as Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) but also claimed by China. Vietnam said earlier this month it could explore legal action in the dispute, a move previously taken by the Philippines - where Esper visited earlier this week. In 2016, the Philippines won a ruling from the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague that invalidated China's claim over most of the South China Sea. Speaking earlier at Vietnam's defence ministry, Esper said the international rules-based order “has come under duress." "Collectively, we must stand up against coercion and intimidation, protect the rights of all nations, big and small," Esper said. The United States accuses China of militarising the South China Sea and trying to intimidate Asian neighbours who might want to exploit its extensive oil and gas reserves. In April, the United States delivered six patrol boats worth $12 million to Vietnam's Coast Guard. Those vessels were in addition to another twelve "Metal Shark" patrol boats it provided to Vietnam in the last two years.

US to provide ship to Vietnam to boost South China Sea patrols

Vietnam sentenced a music teacher to 11 years in prison on Friday for Facebook posts that allegedly undermined the one-party state, which has been accused of tightening the noose on online dissent.

Communist Vietnam has long jailed its critics but has come under fire recently for targeting users on Facebook, a popular forum for activists in the country where all independent media is banned.

Nguyen Nang Tinh is the latest activist jailed for his Facebook comments, including posts about police brutality, land rights, and a Taiwanese steel firm that dumped toxic sludge into the ocean, killing masses of fish off the coast of Vietnam.

Authorities accused the college music teacher of posting "hostile thoughts" and "profound anti-government material" on social media.

The 42-year-old was sentenced to 11 years for "producing, disseminating or spreading information and documents aimed at undermining" Vietnam, his lawyer Nguyen Van Mieng told AFP from central Nghe An province.

He got another five years probation.

The jail term was "too harsh", Mieng told AFP, arguing that prosecutors did not have sufficient evidence.

Tinh's father Nguyen Ngoc Dinh insisted his son was innocent, saying he "only raised his voice against injustice in society".

Missing activist

Tinh's conviction Friday came as another activist was held for eight hours at Hanoi's airport as she arrived from Thailand.&nbsp;

Dinh Thao is a pro-democracy campaigner and vocal critic of Vietnam's communist regime who lived abroad and worked for a Vietnamese civil society organisation.

Her husband Phillip said she came back to help fellow activists in the country, but he lost touch soon after her arrival on Friday.

Security officials asked Thao about her work and confiscated her passport before releasing her in Vietnam, he told AFP, providing his name only as Phillip.

Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International earlier decried her detention, while immigration police refused to comment to AFP. &nbsp;

The news came just days after a dissident with Australian citizenship was jailed for 12 years in Vietnam on terrorism charges, along with two other Vietnamese nationals who got 10 and 11 years.

Vietnam is accused of cracking down on activists since a conservative leadership came to power in 2016.

A cybersecurity bill passed last year -- and not yet implemented -- requires sites like Facebook and YouTube to remove content if asked by the government to do so. The controversial law would also require companies to hand over user data and host servers in the country.

Amnesty International says there are at least 128 political prisoners behind bars in Vietnam, 10 percent it estimates were jailed for Facebook posts.

Other rights groups put the number of jailed dissidents as far higher, but no official data is available.

Vietnam sentenced a music teacher to 11 years in prison on Friday for Facebook posts that allegedly undermined the one-party state, which has been accused of tightening the noose on online dissent.

Vietnam sentenced a music teacher to 11 years in prison on Friday for Facebook posts that allegedly undermined the one-party state, which has been accused of tightening the noose on online dissent. Communist Vietnam has long jailed its critics but has come under fire recently for targeting users on Facebook, a popular forum for activists in the country where all independent media is banned. Nguyen Nang Tinh is the latest activist jailed for his Facebook comments, including posts about police brutality, land rights, and a Taiwanese steel firm that dumped toxic sludge into the ocean, killing masses of fish off the coast of Vietnam. Authorities accused the college music teacher of posting "hostile thoughts" and "profound anti-government material" on social media. The 42-year-old was sentenced to 11 years for "producing, disseminating or spreading information and documents aimed at undermining" Vietnam, his lawyer Nguyen Van Mieng told AFP from central Nghe An province. He got another five years probation. The jail term was "too harsh", Mieng told AFP, arguing that prosecutors did not have sufficient evidence. Tinh's father Nguyen Ngoc Dinh insisted his son was innocent, saying he "only raised his voice against injustice in society". Missing activist Tinh's conviction Friday came as another activist was held for eight hours at Hanoi's airport as she arrived from Thailand. Dinh Thao is a pro-democracy campaigner and vocal critic of Vietnam's communist regime who lived abroad and worked for a Vietnamese civil society organisation. Her husband Phillip said she came back to help fellow activists in the country, but he lost touch soon after her arrival on Friday. Security officials asked Thao about her work and confiscated her passport before releasing her in Vietnam, he told AFP, providing his name only as Phillip. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International earlier decried her detention, while immigration police refused to comment to AFP. The news came just days after a dissident with Australian citizenship was jailed for 12 years in Vietnam on terrorism charges, along with two other Vietnamese nationals who got 10 and 11 years. Vietnam is accused of cracking down on activists since a conservative leadership came to power in 2016. A cybersecurity bill passed last year -- and not yet implemented -- requires sites like Facebook and YouTube to remove content if asked by the government to do so. The controversial law would also require companies to hand over user data and host servers in the country. Amnesty International says there are at least 128 political prisoners behind bars in Vietnam, 10 percent it estimates were jailed for Facebook posts. Other rights groups put the number of jailed dissidents as far higher, but no official data is available.

Vietnam jails music teacher for 'undermining' state

Vietnam sentenced a music teacher to 11 years in prison on Friday for Facebook posts that allegedly undermined the one-party state, which has been accused of tightening the noose on online dissent.

Communist Vietnam has long jailed its critics but has come under fire recently for targeting users on Facebook, a popular forum for activists in the country where all independent media is banned.

Nguyen Nang Tinh is the latest activist jailed for his Facebook comments, including posts about a Taiwanese steel firm that dumped toxic sludge into the ocean, killing masses of fish in central Vietnam.

He also wrote about police brutality and land rights,&nbsp;both flashpoint issues in Vietnam.

Authorities accused the college music teacher of posting "hostile thoughts" and "profound anti-government material" on social media.

The 42-year-old was sentenced to 11 years for "producing, disseminating or spreading information and documents aimed at undermining" Vietnam, his lawyer Nguyen Van Mieng told AFP from central Nghe An province.

He got another five years probation.

The jail term was "too harsh", Mieng told AFP, arguing that prosecutors did not have sufficient evidence to link the offending Facebook account to his client.

Tinh's father Nguyen Ngoc Dinh insisted his son was innocent, saying he "only raised his voice against injustice in society".

"My son was very strong in court. He didn't admit the charges," he added, calling the trial "ridiculous".

Tinh was bundled into a car by police in May after taking his two young sons for breakfast.

His conviction comes just days after a dissident with Australian citizenship was jailed for 12 years in Vietnam on terrorism charges, along with two other Vietnamese nationals who got 10 and 11 years.

Vietnam has come under fire for cracking down on activists since a conservative leadership came to power in 2016.

Last year, the government passed a controversial cybersecurity law that critics say is designed to scrub online dissent.

The bill -- which is not yet implemented -- requires sites like Facebook and YouTube to remove content if asked by the government to do so. The law would also require companies to hand over user data and host servers in the country.

Amnesty International says there are at least 128 political prisoners behind bars in Vietnam, 10 per cent it estimates were jailed for Facebook posts.

Other rights group put the number of jailed dissidents as far higher, but no official data is available.

Vietnam sentenced a music teacher to 11 years in prison on Friday for Facebook posts that allegedly undermined the one-party state, which has been accused of tightening the noose on online dissent. Communist Vietnam has long jailed its critics but has come under fire recently for targeting users on Facebook, a popular forum for activists in the country where all independent media is banned. Nguyen Nang Tinh is the latest activist jailed for his Facebook comments, including posts about a Taiwanese steel firm that dumped toxic sludge into the ocean, killing masses of fish in central Vietnam. He also wrote about police brutality and land rights, both flashpoint issues in Vietnam. Authorities accused the college music teacher of posting "hostile thoughts" and "profound anti-government material" on social media. The 42-year-old was sentenced to 11 years for "producing, disseminating or spreading information and documents aimed at undermining" Vietnam, his lawyer Nguyen Van Mieng told AFP from central Nghe An province. He got another five years probation. The jail term was "too harsh", Mieng told AFP, arguing that prosecutors did not have sufficient evidence to link the offending Facebook account to his client. Tinh's father Nguyen Ngoc Dinh insisted his son was innocent, saying he "only raised his voice against injustice in society". "My son was very strong in court. He didn't admit the charges," he added, calling the trial "ridiculous". Tinh was bundled into a car by police in May after taking his two young sons for breakfast. His conviction comes just days after a dissident with Australian citizenship was jailed for 12 years in Vietnam on terrorism charges, along with two other Vietnamese nationals who got 10 and 11 years. Vietnam has come under fire for cracking down on activists since a conservative leadership came to power in 2016. Last year, the government passed a controversial cybersecurity law that critics say is designed to scrub online dissent. The bill -- which is not yet implemented -- requires sites like Facebook and YouTube to remove content if asked by the government to do so. The law would also require companies to hand over user data and host servers in the country. Amnesty International says there are at least 128 political prisoners behind bars in Vietnam, 10 per cent it estimates were jailed for Facebook posts. Other rights group put the number of jailed dissidents as far higher, but no official data is available.

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