Vietnam has reportedly constructed new artificial islands in contested waters to strengthen its maritime presence and counter China’s influence in the South China Sea. These developments come amid growing tensions in the region and highlight Hanoi’s efforts to assert its territorial claims.

Reports: Vietnam’s Secret Islands to Counter China

Severe floods in Vietnam have claimed at least 10 lives, with 5 more reported missing, as heavy rains inundate cities and disrupt the transport network. Homes, roads, and infrastructure have been heavily damaged, leaving thousands affected.


Vietnam Floods: At Least 10 Dead, 5 Missing | Transport Network Battered by Floods 

Floods kill at least 9, leave 5 missing in central Vietnam

Typhoon Halong approaches Japan’s Izu Island, prompting authorities to issue a red alert. Residents are urged to take precautions as heavy rains and strong winds threaten the region. Watch to know more on this!

Typhoon Halong Nears Japan's Izu Island, Red Alert Issued

Vietnam celebrates its Independence Day with a massive military parade in Hanoi, showcasing tanks, drones, and missile batteries. Watch the video to know more on this!


Vietnam Independence day:  tanks, drones and missile batteries line up Hanoi's streets

National Achievements Exhibition: Vietnam showcased its latest modern tank fleet at the National Achievements Exhibition, highlighting the country’s growing military capabilities and technological advancements.


National Achievements Exhibition: Vietnam Unveils Modern Tank Fleet 

#Gravitas Vietnam is rapidly expanding its presence in the South China Sea. The country is building artificial islands at a pace that could soon surpass China’s in the disputed Spratly Islands. 


Vietnam challenges China with island-building blitz in South China Sea

To mark the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2, the Vietnamese government will distribute a 100,000 VND (approx. 3.79 USD) gift to every citizen. The Prime Minister issued an official directive on August 28 to facilitate the rollout.


Vietnam announces National Day cash handouts worth $380 million

Vietnam's cash gift to citizens on National day 

Severe Flooding and Landslides Triggered by Tropical Storm Kajiki, Have Struck Parts of Southeast Asia, Leaving at Least Eight People Dead and Causing Widespread Damage....


Severe flooding and landslides triggered by tropical storm Kajiki

Typhoon Kajiki: Tens of thousands of residents are being urgently evacuated from coastal Vietnam, as powerful typhoon kajiki barrels toward the central region of the country. Watch to know more updates on this!


Typhoon Kajiki: Vietnam hit by strongest typhoon of the year 

Typhoon kajiki: Vietnam shuts airports, moves thousands of residents 

A bus crash in central Vietnam killed 10 people early Friday, the government said, a week after dozens were killed in a boat accident in the tourist site of Ha Long Bay. The overnight sleeper bus was travelling on a national highway from Hanoi to the central city of Da Nang when it veered off the road, hit the roadside markers and overturned, the government said in a statement.&nbsp;The crash killed 10 people, including two children -- all of them Vietnamese. Another 12 people were injured and taken to hospital, the statement said. Five of those killed were domestic tourists travelling to Da Nang for holidays, state media said. "The bus overturned... I couldn't sit up as my body and my hands were smashed into the side of the bed," a passenger told the Dan Tri news site.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-cost-of-progress-microsoft-ceo-satya-nadella-says-in-memo-progress-isn-t-linear-it-s-dynamic-1753448882219">The cost of progress? Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella says in memo, 'Progress isn't linear. It's dynamic'</a>&nbsp;Several of those killed and seriously injured had been occupying the bunks towards the front of the bus and "suffered from the strong impact", the passenger said. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called for an investigation into the accident. The crash comes a week after a boat capsized in the UNESCO-recognised Ha Long Bay, killing 38 Vietnamese tourists and crew members.&nbsp;Rescuers are still searching for one missing victim. Only 10 passengers survived the country's worst boat accident in the popular tourist destination.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deportation-flights-from-florida-s-alligator-alcatraz-detention-facility-begins-1753455374330">Deportation flights from Florida's 'Alligator Alcatraz’ detention facility begins</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Vietnam bus crash kills 10 passengers, several injured

A bus crash in central Vietnam killed 10 people early Friday, the government said, a week after dozens were killed in a boat accident in the tourist site of Ha Long Bay. The overnight sleeper bus was travelling on a national highway from Hanoi to the central city of Da Nang when it veered off the road, hit the roadside markers and overturned, the government said in a statement. The crash killed 10 people, including two children -- all of them Vietnamese. Another 12 people were injured and taken to hospital, the statement said. Five of those killed were domestic tourists travelling to Da Nang for holidays, state media said. "The bus overturned... I couldn't sit up as my body and my hands were smashed into the side of the bed," a passenger told the Dan Tri news site. Also Read: The cost of progress? Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella says in memo, 'Progress isn't linear. It's dynamic' Several of those killed and seriously injured had been occupying the bunks towards the front of the bus and "suffered from the strong impact", the passenger said. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called for an investigation into the accident. The crash comes a week after a boat capsized in the UNESCO-recognised Ha Long Bay, killing 38 Vietnamese tourists and crew members. Rescuers are still searching for one missing victim. Only 10 passengers survived the country's worst boat accident in the popular tourist destination. Also Read: Deportation flights from Florida's 'Alligator Alcatraz’ detention facility begins Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The overnight sleeper bus was travelling on a national highway from Hanoi to the central city of Da Nang when it veered off the road

A boy survived the sinking of a tourist boat in Vietnam which killed dozens of people by sheltering in an air pocket of the overturned vessel, it has emerged. The boy, 10, was with his family visiting Vietnam's famous Ha Long Bay when the boat they were on was caught in a surprise storm. Stranded in the boat as it overturned, the boy took shelter in an underwater air pocket, where he huddled and waited for rescuers. He was later discovered by rescue forces relatively intact, though he was under psychological trauma. He was eventually found by rescue teams relatively unharmed, although he was suffering from mental distress. He was warmed up and transferred to a nearby hospital, local media outlet VietnamNet reported. &nbsp;"Everything happened very quickly," the boy said. “I tried to leave, and then the soldiers rescued me.” Rescue operations are ongoing for missing crew and passengers after sightseeing vessel the Wonder Sea capsized in a squall on Saturday but have been delayed by poor weather.&nbsp;At least 37 are confirmed dead from the sinking, state media said. State media reported there were 53 passengers and crew on board and that 10 had been rescued. Another survivor, a 36-year-old Vietnamese man, said he survived the capsized boat by tossing aside his life jacket and swimming through a submerged window.&nbsp;Fire extinguisher salesman Dang Anh Tuan explained the instant the ship capsized unexpectedly in poor weather, not leaving much time for its occupants to react. “It rained for about 15 minutes, and then the boat started to shake vigorously, tables and chairs were jostled around and seconds later the boat overturned,” Tuan was quoted saying to the Associated Press. “I tried to breathe. But more water came in. I took a deep breath, got rid of my life vest and dove down. I saw a streak of light and followed it to swim out, escaping the boat, and then I climbed on the overturned boat to look for help,” he added. &nbsp;Tuan, and a number of others who were also on board, clung to the capsized vessel and waited for a further two hours until the emergency crews came. He had been on holiday in Vietnam's tourist bay with 11 university friends. Just three of their group survived. The majority of the passengers were from Vietnamese capital city Hanoi and were traveling as families, according to VN Express. Ha Long Bay is a popular tourist destination and an UNESCO world heritage including approximately 1,600 limestone islands and islets.

Miracle survival: Boy, 10, survives Vietnam boat tragedy by hiding in air pocket

A boy survived the sinking of a tourist boat in Vietnam which killed dozens of people by sheltering in an air pocket of the overturned vessel, it has emerged. The boy, 10, was with his family visiting Vietnam's famous Ha Long Bay when the boat they were on was caught in a surprise storm. Stranded in the boat as it overturned, the boy took shelter in an underwater air pocket, where he huddled and waited for rescuers. He was later discovered by rescue forces relatively intact, though he was under psychological trauma. He was eventually found by rescue teams relatively unharmed, although he was suffering from mental distress. He was warmed up and transferred to a nearby hospital, local media outlet VietnamNet reported. "Everything happened very quickly," the boy said. “I tried to leave, and then the soldiers rescued me.” Rescue operations are ongoing for missing crew and passengers after sightseeing vessel the Wonder Sea capsized in a squall on Saturday but have been delayed by poor weather. At least 37 are confirmed dead from the sinking, state media said. State media reported there were 53 passengers and crew on board and that 10 had been rescued. Another survivor, a 36-year-old Vietnamese man, said he survived the capsized boat by tossing aside his life jacket and swimming through a submerged window. Fire extinguisher salesman Dang Anh Tuan explained the instant the ship capsized unexpectedly in poor weather, not leaving much time for its occupants to react. “It rained for about 15 minutes, and then the boat started to shake vigorously, tables and chairs were jostled around and seconds later the boat overturned,” Tuan was quoted saying to the Associated Press. “I tried to breathe. But more water came in. I took a deep breath, got rid of my life vest and dove down. I saw a streak of light and followed it to swim out, escaping the boat, and then I climbed on the overturned boat to look for help,” he added. Tuan, and a number of others who were also on board, clung to the capsized vessel and waited for a further two hours until the emergency crews came. He had been on holiday in Vietnam's tourist bay with 11 university friends. Just three of their group survived. The majority of the passengers were from Vietnamese capital city Hanoi and were traveling as families, according to VN Express. Ha Long Bay is a popular tourist destination and an UNESCO world heritage including approximately 1,600 limestone islands and islets.

He was finally found by rescue teams relatively unharmed, although he was suffering from mental distress. He was then transferred to a nearby hospital, state media reported

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 2) announced that he has made a trade deal with Vietnam after holding negotiations with General Secretary To Lam. Trump further detailed the terms on which the deal has been made.In a post on Truth Social, Trump announced to make a "great deal" with Vietnam."It is my Great Honor to announce that I have just made a Trade Deal with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam after speaking with To Lam, the Highly Respected General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. It will be a Great Deal of Cooperation between our two Countries," he wrote.<h2>Terms explained</h2>The US president detailed the terms on which he made the trade deal with Vietnam, stressing that it will be a great deal of cooperation between the two nations.Now, as per the new deal, Vietnam will pay the United States a 20% tariff on any and all goods sent into America, and a 40% Tariff on any transshipping.While, in return, Trump announced that Vietnam will be doing something they have never done before."Vietnam will give the United States of America TOTAL ACCESS to their Markets for Trade. In other words, they will OPEN THEIR MARKET TO THE UNITED STATES, meaning that, we will be able to sell our product into Vietnam at ZERO Tariff," Trump stressed."It is my opinion that the SUV or, as it is sometimes referred to, Large Engine Vehicle, which does so well in the United States, will be a wonderful addition to the various product lines within Vietnam," he added.The US president further said that dealing with General Secretary To Lam, which he did personally, was an absolute pleasure.This comes just a week before the July 9 deadline as the 90-day window for tariff negotiations was about to expire. Apart from Vietnam, the UK and China have reportedly secured a deal with the US.&nbsp;

As per the new deal, Vietnam will pay the United States a 20% tariff on any and all goods sent into America, and a 40% Tariff on any transshipping.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 2) announced that he has made a trade deal with Vietnam after holding negotiations with General Secretary To Lam. Trump further detailed the terms on which the deal has been made. In a post on Truth Social, Trump announced to make a "great deal" with Vietnam. "It is my Great Honor to announce that I have just made a Trade Deal with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam after speaking with To Lam, the Highly Respected General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. It will be a Great Deal of Cooperation between our two Countries," he wrote. Terms explained The US president detailed the terms on which he made the trade deal with Vietnam, stressing that it will be a great deal of cooperation between the two nations. Now, as per the new deal, Vietnam will pay the United States a 20% tariff on any and all goods sent into America, and a 40% Tariff on any transshipping. While, in return, Trump announced that Vietnam will be doing something they have never done before. "Vietnam will give the United States of America TOTAL ACCESS to their Markets for Trade. In other words, they will OPEN THEIR MARKET TO THE UNITED STATES, meaning that, we will be able to sell our product into Vietnam at ZERO Tariff," Trump stressed. "It is my opinion that the SUV or, as it is sometimes referred to, Large Engine Vehicle, which does so well in the United States, will be a wonderful addition to the various product lines within Vietnam," he added. The US president further said that dealing with General Secretary To Lam, which he did personally, was an absolute pleasure. This comes just a week before the July 9 deadline as the 90-day window for tariff negotiations was about to expire. Apart from Vietnam, the UK and China have reportedly secured a deal with the US.

As per the new deal, Vietnam will pay the United States a 20% tariff on any and all goods sent into America, and a 40% Tariff on any transshipping.

'TOTAL ACCESS to markets': Trump just made a trade deal with Vietnam | Terms EXPLAINED

Vietnam joins BRICS as partner country: Here’s why its inclusion matters&nbsp;SOURCE: https://brics.br/en/news/vietnam-joins-brics-as-a-partner-country&nbsp;In a significant development, Vietnam has been formally admitted as a partner country of the BRICS grouping. The announcement was made by the Government of Brazil on Saturday (June 13). Brazil currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, in its capacity as pro tempore Chair.&nbsp;<h2>Vietnam becomes 10th partner country</h2>According to the BRICS, Vietnam becomes the tenth nation to join the BRICS as a partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;The partner country framework was first introduced during the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024.<h2>Why is Vietnam important?</h2>Vietnam's entry holds particular significance due to its strategic position in Asia and its robust economy deeply integrated into global value chains. Home to nearly 100 million people, Vietnam shares key values and priorities with the BRICS community, including the pursuit of a more equitable and representative international order.&nbsp;&nbsp;The country’s strong advocacy for South-South cooperation (technical cooperation among developing countries in the Global South) and sustainable development aligns with the objectives of BRICS.&nbsp;As BRICS continues to evolve beyond its original five-member structure — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — the inclusion of countries like Vietnam shows the bloc’s effort to support emerging voices from the Global South.<h2>Understanding the role of member and partner countries</h2>There are two participation categories at the BRICS: members and partners. The eleven members are Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. They participate in all meetings, where the decision-making process is based on consensus.&nbsp;On the other hand, partner countries are generally invited to participate in the BRICS Chancellors and Leaders Summit. However, they can also be present in other meetings if there is consensus among the members.&nbsp;Throughout 2024, over 30 countries expressed interest in participating in the BRICS, either as members or partners.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also visited Russia at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin from October 22-23, 2024, to attend the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan.&nbsp;The BRICS is currently composed of eleven countries. Its five original members are&nbsp;Brazil, China, India, Russia, and South Africa, and six new members were admitted in 2024-2025 — Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

Vietnam becomes the tenth nation to join the BRICS as a partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. 

Vietnam joins BRICS as partner country: Here’s why its inclusion matters SOURCE: https://brics.br/en/news/vietnam-joins-brics-as-a-partner-country In a significant development, Vietnam has been formally admitted as a partner country of the BRICS grouping. The announcement was made by the Government of Brazil on Saturday (June 13). Brazil currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, in its capacity as pro tempore Chair. Vietnam becomes 10th partner country According to the BRICS, Vietnam becomes the tenth nation to join the BRICS as a partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. The partner country framework was first introduced during the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. Why is Vietnam important? Vietnam's entry holds particular significance due to its strategic position in Asia and its robust economy deeply integrated into global value chains. Home to nearly 100 million people, Vietnam shares key values and priorities with the BRICS community, including the pursuit of a more equitable and representative international order. The country’s strong advocacy for South-South cooperation (technical cooperation among developing countries in the Global South) and sustainable development aligns with the objectives of BRICS. As BRICS continues to evolve beyond its original five-member structure — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — the inclusion of countries like Vietnam shows the bloc’s effort to support emerging voices from the Global South. Understanding the role of member and partner countries There are two participation categories at the BRICS: members and partners. The eleven members are Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. They participate in all meetings, where the decision-making process is based on consensus. On the other hand, partner countries are generally invited to participate in the BRICS Chancellors and Leaders Summit. However, they can also be present in other meetings if there is consensus among the members. Throughout 2024, over 30 countries expressed interest in participating in the BRICS, either as members or partners. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also visited Russia at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin from October 22-23, 2024, to attend the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan. The BRICS is currently composed of eleven countries. Its five original members are Brazil, China, India, Russia, and South Africa, and six new members were admitted in 2024-2025 — Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Vietnam becomes the tenth nation to join the BRICS as a partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.&nbsp;

Vietnam joins BRICS as partner country: Here’s why its inclusion matters

A Vietnamese bride was endowed with 100 civet cats in dowry as a way to secure her entire future. The female civet cats are valued at 1.8 billion Vietnamese dong (US$70,000). These cats are known to produce the world's costliest coffee. A civet cat that has given birth is valued at around 18 million dong (US$700), while a pregnant one can fetch up to 27 million dong ($1.036)In addition to the cats, the 22-year-old also got 25 taels of gold bars, 500 million dong ($20,000) in cash, company shares worth 300 million dong, seven properties and other assets. Dowry is common in several Asian countries, but the total cost of everything this woman was given has shocked social media.In addition to what her father gave, the groom's family showered her with 10 taels of gold, 200 million dong in cash and diamond jewellery.The bride's father, Hong Chi Tam, says he wanted to ensure his daughter had assets that guaranteed financial independence, according to SCMP. He added that every one of his children had become part of the family business after graduating.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/surrey-village-sinkhole-victorian-tunnels-british-village-1749273182455">188-year-old tunnels discovered under British village after 62-foot sinkhole swallowed streets overnight</a>&nbsp;Tam says he would support his daughter in every decision, whether she chose to raise the cats or sell them, so that she would be “financially independent.”&nbsp;<h2>People are shocked to see the amount of dowry</h2>&nbsp;Social media users are shocked to see how much the father gave as dowry. One of them quipped that "Vietnamese tycoons are already giving away entire industry chains as dowries", when cash dowries are still a rage in China.&nbsp;<h2>Civet cats produce expensive coffee</h2>&nbsp;Civet cats are popular for their role in the production of the world's most expensive coffee, the Kopi Luwak coffee. It is created from the faeces of the cats. The animals are fed ripe coffee cherries, after which they release the coffee beans as faeces. It is then cleaned and processed to make the coffee. The beans can cost $100 to $600 per pound.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hallucinogenic-herbal-tea-prince-harry-once-admitted-to-taking-kills-tourist-at-peru-retreat-1749267740251">Hallucinogenic herbal tea, Prince Harry once admitted to taking, kills tourist at Peru retreat</a>&nbsp;They are also caught for meat, which is a luxury food in China and Vietnam. Parts of civet cats are also used to produce certain traditional Chinese medicines.However, animal rights organisations have often raised concerns about the way the cats are captured and kept. They are caught using box traps and snares from the wild. They are kept by farmers in small cages where they face distress and end up dying early or harming themselves.&nbsp;

A Vietnamese bride got dowry comprising 100 civet cats, multiple gold bars, properties, company shares, cash and more because her father wants her to be financially independent.   

A Vietnamese bride was endowed with 100 civet cats in dowry as a way to secure her entire future. The female civet cats are valued at 1.8 billion Vietnamese dong (US$70,000). These cats are known to produce the world's costliest coffee. A civet cat that has given birth is valued at around 18 million dong (US$700), while a pregnant one can fetch up to 27 million dong ($1.036) In addition to the cats, the 22-year-old also got 25 taels of gold bars, 500 million dong ($20,000) in cash, company shares worth 300 million dong, seven properties and other assets. Dowry is common in several Asian countries, but the total cost of everything this woman was given has shocked social media. In addition to what her father gave, the groom's family showered her with 10 taels of gold, 200 million dong in cash and diamond jewellery. The bride's father, Hong Chi Tam, says he wanted to ensure his daughter had assets that guaranteed financial independence, according to SCMP. He added that every one of his children had become part of the family business after graduating. Also Read: 188-year-old tunnels discovered under British village after 62-foot sinkhole swallowed streets overnight Tam says he would support his daughter in every decision, whether she chose to raise the cats or sell them, so that she would be “financially independent.” People are shocked to see the amount of dowry Social media users are shocked to see how much the father gave as dowry. One of them quipped that "Vietnamese tycoons are already giving away entire industry chains as dowries", when cash dowries are still a rage in China. Civet cats produce expensive coffee Civet cats are popular for their role in the production of the world's most expensive coffee, the Kopi Luwak coffee. It is created from the faeces of the cats. The animals are fed ripe coffee cherries, after which they release the coffee beans as faeces. It is then cleaned and processed to make the coffee. The beans can cost $100 to $600 per pound. Also Read: Hallucinogenic herbal tea, Prince Harry once admitted to taking, kills tourist at Peru retreat They are also caught for meat, which is a luxury food in China and Vietnam. Parts of civet cats are also used to produce certain traditional Chinese medicines. However, animal rights organisations have often raised concerns about the way the cats are captured and kept. They are caught using box traps and snares from the wild. They are kept by farmers in small cages where they face distress and end up dying early or harming themselves.

A Vietnamese bride got dowry comprising 100 civet cats, multiple gold bars, properties, company shares, cash and more because her father wants her to be financially independent. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Father gives daughter 100 civet cats, gold bars, cash and shares in dowry to make her 'financially independent'

Vietnam has scrapped its long-standing two children policy for citizens on Wednesday (June 4). This abrogation of the police came after the country struggled with a declining birth rate.&nbsp;The policy dated back to 1988 when Vietnam banned couple to have more than two children. But now, it's the decision of the families to decide the number of kids they would have, Vietnam News Agency reported.&nbsp;Vietnam has experienced historically low birth rates during the last three year. The total fertility rate of the nation dropped to 1.91 children per woman last year.&nbsp;Birth rates have fallen from 2.11 children per woman in 2021, to 2.01 in 2022 and 1.96 in 2023.&nbsp;This trend of having limited numbers of kids is mostly popular in urban and economically developed areas of the country. The reason? Rising cost of living.<h2>What do Vietnam women think?</h2>Tran Minh Huong, a 22-year-old office worker, told AFP that the government regulation mattered little to her as she had no plans to have children.&nbsp;"Even though I am an Asian, with social norms that say women need to get married and have kids, it's too costly to raise a child," she said.<h2>Male child over female?</h2>Vietnam's Deputy Health Minister Nguyen Thi Lien Huon, earlier this year, said at a press conference that it was increasingly difficult to encourage families to have more children. She said this was a tough job despite policy adjustments and public campaigns.&nbsp;She urged society to shift its mindset from focusing solely on family planning to a broader perspective of population and development.&nbsp;Vietnam is also grappling with sex imbalances due to a historic preference for a male child.&nbsp;The gender ratio at birth, though improved, remains skewed at 112 boys for every 100 girls.&nbsp;Hoang Thi Oanh, a 45-year-old mother of three children told AFP, "It's good that at last the authorities removed this ban."&nbsp;But she added that "raising more than two kids nowadays is too hard and costly".&nbsp;

Vietnam scraps two-children policy. Here's the reason

Vietnam has scrapped its long-standing two children policy for citizens on Wednesday (June 4). This abrogation of the police came after the country struggled with a declining birth rate. The policy dated back to 1988 when Vietnam banned couple to have more than two children. But now, it's the decision of the families to decide the number of kids they would have, Vietnam News Agency reported. Vietnam has experienced historically low birth rates during the last three year. The total fertility rate of the nation dropped to 1.91 children per woman last year. Birth rates have fallen from 2.11 children per woman in 2021, to 2.01 in 2022 and 1.96 in 2023. This trend of having limited numbers of kids is mostly popular in urban and economically developed areas of the country. The reason? Rising cost of living. What do Vietnam women think? Tran Minh Huong, a 22-year-old office worker, told AFP that the government regulation mattered little to her as she had no plans to have children. "Even though I am an Asian, with social norms that say women need to get married and have kids, it's too costly to raise a child," she said. Male child over female? Vietnam's Deputy Health Minister Nguyen Thi Lien Huon, earlier this year, said at a press conference that it was increasingly difficult to encourage families to have more children. She said this was a tough job despite policy adjustments and public campaigns. She urged society to shift its mindset from focusing solely on family planning to a broader perspective of population and development. Vietnam is also grappling with sex imbalances due to a historic preference for a male child. The gender ratio at birth, though improved, remains skewed at 112 boys for every 100 girls. Hoang Thi Oanh, a 45-year-old mother of three children told AFP, "It's good that at last the authorities removed this ban." But she added that "raising more than two kids nowadays is too hard and costly".

Vietnam has scrapped its long-standing two child policy for citizens on Wednesday (June 4). This abrogation of the police came after the country struggled with a declining birth rate.&nbsp;

Hours after a video went viral showing French President Emmanuel Macron's wife playfully smacking him on the plane, Macron finally broke the silence on the controversy people's spreading on social media.The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.Macron dismissed the videos, however, agreed that the video was authentic and not fake."The videos are all real, and yes, sometimes people tamper with them, but people are attributing all kinds of nonsense to them," he said while speaking to media in Hanoi on Monday.While defending the video, Macron said, "There’s a video showing me joking and teasing my wife and somehow that becomes a sort of geo-planetary catastrophe, with people even coming up with theories to explain it.”In a video making rounds on the internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam.In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband.Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold.After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?”The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing"."It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report. &nbsp;

The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.

Hours after a video went viral showing French President Emmanuel Macron's wife playfully smacking him on the plane, Macron finally broke the silence on the controversy people's spreading on social media. The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam. Macron dismissed the videos, however, agreed that the video was authentic and not fake. "The videos are all real, and yes, sometimes people tamper with them, but people are attributing all kinds of nonsense to them," he said while speaking to media in Hanoi on Monday. While defending the video, Macron said, "There’s a video showing me joking and teasing my wife and somehow that becomes a sort of geo-planetary catastrophe, with people even coming up with theories to explain it.” In a video making rounds on the internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam. In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband. Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold. After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?” The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing". "It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report.

The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.

'Geo-planetary catastrophe': French President Macron breaks silence over his video of his wife 'smacking' him - Here's what he said

In a video making rounds on internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam.Macron landed in Hanoi on Sunday evening, beginning his Southeast Asia tour.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-macron-and-zelensky-lead-wave-of-new-mobile-phone-diplomacy-8893739">Also read: &nbsp;Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy'</a>&nbsp;However, not his visit or political agendas made headlines as much as the president and his wife's playful act did.It was the brief, awkward exchange caught on camera by news agency Associated Press.<h2>Watch video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Macron’s ‘playful smack’ goes viral; Elysee official says &quot;it was a moment of closeness&quot; . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmmanuelMacron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmmanuelMacron</a> <a href="https://t.co/cHGtBMEFWf">pic.twitter.com/cHGtBMEFWf</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1926951929596252271?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband.Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold.The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing"."It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report.A source close to President Macron told BFMTV, a French news broadcaster, that the couple was “bickering” and trying to unwind before the start of a long tour.“It was a moment of complicity,” the source said. Another source described it as “a harmless squabble.”After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?”Some also asked, "Was it a real slap, or just an awkward push?"Later, as Macron reached Hanoi, his office asked the internet to top-feed the “conspiracy theories,” especially the ones involving, of course, Brigitte’s act.The couple's visit to Southeast Asia will focus on strengthening ties in defence, innovation, and energy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/seven-delegations-32-nations-india-s-diplomatic-outreach-on-operation-sindoor-1747556526647">WATCH | Seven Delegations, 32 Nations: India's Diplomatic Outreach On ‘Operation Sindoor’</a>

The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing".

In a video making rounds on internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam. Macron landed in Hanoi on Sunday evening, beginning his Southeast Asia tour. Also read: Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy' However, not his visit or political agendas made headlines as much as the president and his wife's playful act did. It was the brief, awkward exchange caught on camera by news agency Associated Press. Watch video here

The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing".

Did French President Macron's wife 'playfully smack' his face on plane? Watch video to know

In Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City, spiritual energy is speaking as the city prepares for the Holy Buddha Relic Exposition that is just two days away. Over 3.5 lakh devotees have already visited the venue, showcasing immense reverence and global interest in the sacred event.

Ho Chi Minh City gears up for Holy Buddha relic expo

The Indian Air Force transports sacred relics of Lord Buddha to Vietnam for the 2025 Vesak celebrations. This marks a significant gesture of cultural diplomacy and reinforces the deep spiritual and historical ties between India and Vietnam.

Buddha's Sacred Relics From India Arrive In Vietnam

The Indian Air Force is set to transport sacred relics of Lord Buddha to Vietnam for the 2025 Vesak celebrations. This marks a significant gesture of cultural diplomacy and reinforces the deep spiritual and historical ties between India and Vietnam.

Indian Air Force all set to send sacred Buddha relic to Vietnam for Vesak

<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">A piping hot cup of coffee has long been a morning ritual for millions. But that ritual is coming with a heavier price tag &mdash; and not just because of inflation. From drought-hit plantations in Brazil to unpredictable the US trade policies, the global coffee supply chain is under siege. Here&rsquo;s why your favorite brew might soon feel like a luxury.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">Climate crisis hits coffee farms hard</h2>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Climate change is wreaking havoc in coffee-growing regions, especially in Brazil and Vietnam, which are also two powerhouses in global production.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Extreme heat and prolonged drought have reduced yields drastically, driving up bean prices across the board. As reported by the Associated Press (AP), global green coffee exports fell by 14.2% in February compared to last year.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Rene&eacute; Col&oacute;n, owner of Fuego Coffee Roasters in New York, told AP that she paid $5.50 per pound for beans in March, a sharp jump from just $2.50 in September. That&rsquo;s more than double the cost in just six months.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">She warned of worsening scarcity: &ldquo;Coffee is going to become scarcer. The Brazilian crop loss we just saw is a prime example of how climate extremes are affecting supply,&rdquo; she told AP.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">Trump tariffs brew fresh trouble</h2>
<div class="x_elementToProof">As if climate wasn&rsquo;t enough, the US import tariffs under President Donald Trump are further tightening the screws.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Currently, a 10% import tariff applies to coffee imports from Brazil, Ethiopia, and Colombia &mdash; three major coffee-exporting nations. Trump had also threatened 46% tariffs on Vietnamese coffee and 32% on Indonesian imports. Although these specific hikes were paused, the mere announcements sent shockwaves through the coffee industry.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Coffee buyers and roasters are struggling to make sense of the constant policy flip-flops.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&ldquo;It felt like a rollercoaster,&rdquo; said Daria Whalen, a buyer at Ritual Coffee Roasters, while speaking to AP. She described being in Mexico during April as she scrambled to secure contracts amid uncertainty over which tariffs would take effect and when. &ldquo;By the end of the day, sometimes the tariffs just disappeared,&rdquo; she added.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">This unpredictability is forcing businesses to rework supply chains. Many roasters are now pre-buying stock, fearing future tariffs. But that also drives up short-term demand and prices.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">Prices, profits and panic: A triple-whammy situation</h2>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Coffee roasters are now walking a tightrope: how much of the rising cost can they absorb, and how much can they pass on to consumers?</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Col&oacute;n shared with AP that her business has already raised wholesale bean prices by 25 cents per pound and may soon raise prices for espresso drinks and pour-overs at her cafes. Yet, she&rsquo;s wary of losing customers as consumer confidence in the U.S. hits a 12-year low.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&ldquo;It&rsquo;s tough on every side,&rdquo; she told AP. &ldquo;The price goes up for us, the consumer pays more, and the farmers suffer massive losses from droughts and storms.&rdquo;</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">How small businesses are adapting?</h2>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Despite the odds, Col&oacute;n is expanding. According to AP, she and her husband took out a $50,000 loan in December to purchase a custom coffee roaster from Turkey, tripling their roasting capacity. They&rsquo;re also focusing on direct-to-consumer sales through a subscription model and pursuing more wholesale clients.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">To save costs, she&rsquo;s exploring in-house storage of raw beans, avoiding monthly charges of $500 at port-side warehouses.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">And while international suppliers have approached her with cost-saving alternatives &mdash; like routing coffee through Canada due to a strong U.S. dollar &mdash; Col&oacute;n isn&rsquo;t biting.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&ldquo;That adds more borders, more delays, more confusion,&rdquo; she told AP. &ldquo;I want things to be less complicated, not more.&rdquo;</div>

Business & Economy: Uncover how climate and trade disruptions are impacting the coffee industry, and making your favorite cup of latte more costly.

A piping hot cup of coffee has long been a morning ritual for millions. But that ritual is coming with a heavier price tag — and not just because of inflation. From drought-hit plantations in Brazil to unpredictable the US trade policies, the global coffee supply chain is under siege. Here’s why your favorite brew might soon feel like a luxury. Climate crisis hits coffee farms hard Climate change is wreaking havoc in coffee-growing regions, especially in Brazil and Vietnam, which are also two powerhouses in global production. Extreme heat and prolonged drought have reduced yields drastically, driving up bean prices across the board. As reported by the Associated Press (AP), global green coffee exports fell by 14.2% in February compared to last year. Reneé Colón, owner of Fuego Coffee Roasters in New York, told AP that she paid $5.50 per pound for beans in March, a sharp jump from just $2.50 in September. That’s more than double the cost in just six months. She warned of worsening scarcity: “Coffee is going to become scarcer. The Brazilian crop loss we just saw is a prime example of how climate extremes are affecting supply,” she told AP. Trump tariffs brew fresh trouble As if climate wasn’t enough, the US import tariffs under President Donald Trump are further tightening the screws. Currently, a 10% import tariff applies to coffee imports from Brazil, Ethiopia, and Colombia — three major coffee-exporting nations. Trump had also threatened 46% tariffs on Vietnamese coffee and 32% on Indonesian imports. Although these specific hikes were paused, the mere announcements sent shockwaves through the coffee industry. Coffee buyers and roasters are struggling to make sense of the constant policy flip-flops. “It felt like a rollercoaster,” said Daria Whalen, a buyer at Ritual Coffee Roasters, while speaking to AP. She described being in Mexico during April as she scrambled to secure contracts amid uncertainty over which tariffs would take effect and when. “By the end of the day, sometimes the tariffs just disappeared,” she added. This unpredictability is forcing businesses to rework supply chains. Many roasters are now pre-buying stock, fearing future tariffs. But that also drives up short-term demand and prices. Prices, profits and panic: A triple-whammy situation Coffee roasters are now walking a tightrope: how much of the rising cost can they absorb, and how much can they pass on to consumers? Colón shared with AP that her business has already raised wholesale bean prices by 25 cents per pound and may soon raise prices for espresso drinks and pour-overs at her cafes. Yet, she’s wary of losing customers as consumer confidence in the U.S. hits a 12-year low. “It’s tough on every side,” she told AP. “The price goes up for us, the consumer pays more, and the farmers suffer massive losses from droughts and storms.” How small businesses are adapting? Despite the odds, Colón is expanding. According to AP, she and her husband took out a $50,000 loan in December to purchase a custom coffee roaster from Turkey, tripling their roasting capacity. They’re also focusing on direct-to-consumer sales through a subscription model and pursuing more wholesale clients. To save costs, she’s exploring in-house storage of raw beans, avoiding monthly charges of $500 at port-side warehouses. And while international suppliers have approached her with cost-saving alternatives — like routing coffee through Canada due to a strong U.S. dollar — Colón isn’t biting. “That adds more borders, more delays, more confusion,” she told AP. “I want things to be less complicated, not more.”

Is your coffee getting pricier?: Here’s how climate change and Trump tariff is affecting it

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