In a first, Vietnam has appointed an Honourary Consul General in Bengaluru as ties improve between the 2 countries. NS Srinivasa Murthy will be the first such appointment of honourary consul in India, and 19th globally by Vietnam.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Murthy said, "I will live up to expectations, to see that the interest of Vietnam is totally protected in the state of Karnataka".

He will serve as the honourary consul for a period of 3 years. He will be the Vietnam embassy's direct contact point in the state even as plans are afoot to increase direct connectivity between the state and the southeast Asian country.&nbsp;

Pointing out the reason behind it, the Vietnamese Ambassador in India Pham Sanh Chau said,"In order to expand the outreach of the Embassy of Vietnam to the state of Karnataka and the city of Bengaluru. This is a very big milestone between the relationship of Vietnam and India".

NS Srinivasa Murthy is a partner of NK Subbiah Shetty and sons, agarbatti manufacturers since 1932 and has in the past served as the president of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of commerce and industry.

In a first, Vietnam has appointed an Honourary Consul General in Bengaluru as ties improve between the 2 countries. NS Srinivasa Murthy will be the first such appointment of honourary consul in India, and 19th globally by Vietnam.

In a first, Vietnam has appointed an Honourary Consul General in Bengaluru as ties improve between the 2 countries. NS Srinivasa Murthy will be the first such appointment of honourary consul in India, and 19th globally by Vietnam. Speaking to WION, Murthy said, "I will live up to expectations, to see that the interest of Vietnam is totally protected in the state of Karnataka". He will serve as the honourary consul for a period of 3 years. He will be the Vietnam embassy's direct contact point in the state even as plans are afoot to increase direct connectivity between the state and the southeast Asian country. Pointing out the reason behind it, the Vietnamese Ambassador in India Pham Sanh Chau said,"In order to expand the outreach of the Embassy of Vietnam to the state of Karnataka and the city of Bengaluru. This is a very big milestone between the relationship of Vietnam and India". NS Srinivasa Murthy is a partner of NK Subbiah Shetty and sons, agarbatti manufacturers since 1932 and has in the past served as the president of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of commerce and industry.

In a first, Vietnam appoints Honourary Consul General in Bengaluru

Netflix Inc has removed Australian spy drama 'Pine Gap' from its services in Vietnam after a complaint from broadcast authorities in the Southeast Asian country about the appearance of a map which depicts Chinese claims in the South China Sea. 
 
The map, which briefly features on the screens of a control room at a spy base in two episodes of the six-part show, depicts China`s unilaterally declared "nine-dash line" and is displayed within the context of maritime claims in the region. 
 
"Netflix`s violations angered and hurt the feelings of the entire people of Vietnam," the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information said in a statement on its website. 
 
"This is the third time in a row in the last 12 months that Netflix has been found to distribute movies and TV shows containing content which violate Vietnam`s sovereignty," said the statement, which was dated July 1. 
 
The 'nine-dash line' is a U-shaped feature used on Chinese maps to illustrate its disputed claims over vast expanses of the resource-rich South China Sea, including large swathes of what Vietnam regards as its continental shelf, where it has awarded oil concessions. 
 
Chinese and Vietnamese ships have in recent years been embroiled in months-long standoffs in the disputed waterways. 
 
Netflix confirmed it had removed the show in Vietnam but said it remained available on the service in the rest of the world. 
 
"Following a written legal demand from the Vietnamese regulator, we have removed the licensed series, Pine Gap, from Netflix in Vietnam, to comply with local law," a Netflix spokesperson said. 
 
In October 2019, Vietnam pulled DreamWorks` animated film 'Abominable'&nbsp;from cinemas over a scene featuring a similar map showing the "nine-dash line". 
 
Vietnam`s broadcasting authority said the other two shows which it had raised as issues with Netflix were 'Put Your Head on My Shoulder', a 2019 Chinese rom-com, and the U.S. political drama 'Madam Secretary'. 
 
'Put Your Head on My Shoulder' was still visible on Netflix on Friday, although 'Madam Secretary' was not.

Netflix Inc has removed Australian spy drama 'Pine Gap' from its services in Vietnam after a complaint from broadcast authorities in the Southeast Asian country about the appearance of a map which depicts Chinese claims in the South China Sea.

Netflix Inc has removed Australian spy drama 'Pine Gap' from its services in Vietnam after a complaint from broadcast authorities in the Southeast Asian country about the appearance of a map which depicts Chinese claims in the South China Sea. The map, which briefly features on the screens of a control room at a spy base in two episodes of the six-part show, depicts China`s unilaterally declared "nine-dash line" and is displayed within the context of maritime claims in the region. "Netflix`s violations angered and hurt the feelings of the entire people of Vietnam," the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information said in a statement on its website. "This is the third time in a row in the last 12 months that Netflix has been found to distribute movies and TV shows containing content which violate Vietnam`s sovereignty," said the statement, which was dated July 1. The 'nine-dash line' is a U-shaped feature used on Chinese maps to illustrate its disputed claims over vast expanses of the resource-rich South China Sea, including large swathes of what Vietnam regards as its continental shelf, where it has awarded oil concessions. Chinese and Vietnamese ships have in recent years been embroiled in months-long standoffs in the disputed waterways. Netflix confirmed it had removed the show in Vietnam but said it remained available on the service in the rest of the world. "Following a written legal demand from the Vietnamese regulator, we have removed the licensed series, Pine Gap, from Netflix in Vietnam, to comply with local law," a Netflix spokesperson said. In October 2019, Vietnam pulled DreamWorks` animated film 'Abominable' from cinemas over a scene featuring a similar map showing the "nine-dash line". Vietnam`s broadcasting authority said the other two shows which it had raised as issues with Netflix were 'Put Your Head on My Shoulder', a 2019 Chinese rom-com, and the U.S. political drama 'Madam Secretary'. 'Put Your Head on My Shoulder' was still visible on Netflix on Friday, although 'Madam Secretary' was not.

Vietnam orders Netflix to remove Australian spy show over South China Sea map

Japan will send 1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Vietnam, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday. 
 
The shipment of AstraZeneca PLC vaccines produced in Japan are due to arrive in Vietnam on Wednesday, Motegi told reporters. 
 
Japan is considering additional vaccine donations to Vietnam and Taiwan, and it plans to send doses to Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand early next month, Motegi added. Taiwan received its first shipment of AstraZeneca doses earlier this month.

Japan will send 1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Vietnam, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday. The shipment of AstraZeneca PLC vaccines produced in Japan are due to arrive in Vietnam on Wednesday, Motegi told reporters.

Japan will send 1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Vietnam, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday. The shipment of AstraZeneca PLC vaccines produced in Japan are due to arrive in Vietnam on Wednesday, Motegi told reporters. Japan is considering additional vaccine donations to Vietnam and Taiwan, and it plans to send doses to Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand early next month, Motegi added. Taiwan received its first shipment of AstraZeneca doses earlier this month.

Japan to ship 1 million COVID-19 vaccines to Vietnam on June 16

After being lauded as a model country for a successful fight against the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>, Vietnam is now struggling to vaccinate its citizens.

Vietnam is now being attacked with a new wave of COVID-19, and has only been able to vaccinate one per cent of its population, out of 100 million.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/give-at-least-50-of-vaccine-doses-to-covax-programme-who-390032" hreflang="en">Give at least 50% of vaccine doses to Covax programme: WHO</a>

The authorities are now urging locals to donate money to the country’s ‘vaccine fund’ so that authorities can procure more doses and help vaccinate as many people as possible, at the earliest.

In order to make sure Vietnam’s economy continues to grow, like last year, the locals are also coming forward to donate whatever they can.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-pfizer-vaccine-trials-underway-for-kids-aged-5-to-11-years-390133">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-pfizer-vaccine-trials-underway-for-kids-aged-5-to-11-years-390133/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The locals have been receiving regular text messages asking for contributions and donations to the COVID-19 vaccine fund. In addition to this, the civil servants have been urged to donate one day’s pay to this fund.

Vietnam's government is hoping to procure 150 million vaccine doses by the end of this year through which they will be able to vaccinate nearly 70 per cent of the total population. This would cost nearly $1.1 billion, but the government has been able to collect only $640 million from the budget.

(With inputs from agencies)

After being lauded as a model country for a successful fight against the deadly coronavirus, Vietnam is now struggling to vaccinate its citizens. Vietnam is now being attacked with a new wave of COVID-19, and has only been able to vaccinate one per cent of its population, out of 100 million.

After being lauded as a model country for a successful fight against the deadly coronavirus, Vietnam is now struggling to vaccinate its citizens. Vietnam is now being attacked with a new wave of COVID-19, and has only been able to vaccinate one per cent of its population, out of 100 million. Also read | Give at least 50% of vaccine doses to Covax programme: WHO The authorities are now urging locals to donate money to the country’s ‘vaccine fund’ so that authorities can procure more doses and help vaccinate as many people as possible, at the earliest. In order to make sure Vietnam’s economy continues to grow, like last year, the locals are also coming forward to donate whatever they can. WATCH | The locals have been receiving regular text messages asking for contributions and donations to the COVID-19 vaccine fund. In addition to this, the civil servants have been urged to donate one day’s pay to this fund. Vietnam's government is hoping to procure 150 million vaccine doses by the end of this year through which they will be able to vaccinate nearly 70 per cent of the total population. This would cost nearly $1.1 billion, but the government has been able to collect only $640 million from the budget. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid coronavirus surge, Vietnam government urges donations for 'vaccine fund'

Vietnam's&nbsp;business hub&nbsp;Ho&nbsp;Chi&nbsp;Minh&nbsp;City&nbsp;will begin&nbsp;social&nbsp;distancing&nbsp;measures for 15 days starting from May 31 in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, the government said on Sunday.

The&nbsp;city&nbsp;has seen a rise in cases related to a religious mission that has recorded at least 125 positive tests, accounting for most of the&nbsp;city's infections, according to a government statement.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-reports-first-case-of-new-coronavirus-variant-353995">Vietnam reports first case of new coronavirus variant</a>

After successfully containing the virus for most of last year, infections in Vietnam have risen since late April, accounting for more than half of the total 7,107 registered cases among its population of 98 million. It still has one of the world's lowest cases, with a total of 47 deaths so far and authorities seem determined to keep it that way.

"All events that gather more than 10 people in public are banned&nbsp;city-wide, but the&nbsp;city&nbsp;is considering to lower the number of people to just five," the government said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spreads-through-air-vietnam-reports-new-variant-of-coronavirus-388243">'Spreads through air': Vietnam reports new variant of coronavirus</a>

Go Vap district, where the Revival Ekklesia Mission is located, will be under full restrictions, and people there will not be allowed to go out unnecessarily, the statement said.

State-run Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reported&nbsp;Ho&nbsp;Chi&nbsp;Minh&nbsp;City&nbsp;authorities would conduct COVID-19 tests&nbsp;city-wide with a testing capacity&nbsp;of 100,000 samples per day.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/restaurants-to-close-in-largest-vietnamese-city-amid-new-covid-outbreak-388003">Restaurants to close in largest Vietnamese city amid new Covid outbreak</a>

"The&nbsp;city&nbsp;will prioritize testing high risk people first including workers in industrial parks and members of the religious mission," VNA reported.

"Ho&nbsp;Chi&nbsp;Minh&nbsp;City&nbsp;has done 50,000 tests so far. To date there are at least 62,000 people who&nbsp;came into contact with infected ones," it added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-extends-quarantine-for-arrivals-after-new-virus-outbreak-383059">Vietnam extends quarantine for arrivals after new virus outbreak</a>

Ho&nbsp;Chi&nbsp;Minh&nbsp;City&nbsp;on Friday shut shops, restaurants and other services, and suspended religious activities until further notice, the&nbsp;city&nbsp;said in a statement. People 60 or older were encouraged to stay&nbsp;home, it also said.

The re-emergence of the virus with complicated clusters has prompted calls for the Vietnamese government and the&nbsp;city's authorities to accelerate vaccinations.

In a letter to US&nbsp;President Joe Biden on Sunday, State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc suggested both countries enhance cooperation in COVID-19 vaccine research, production and technology transfer, the government said in a statement.

Around 64,000 frontline workers among&nbsp;Ho&nbsp;Chi&nbsp;Minh&nbsp;City's 13 million residents have been given at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, official data showed.

Vietnam has received around 2.9 million doses from purchases and via the international COVAX sharing scheme and is seeking to secure millions more from foreign vaccine makers for its inoculation campaign.

The country's locally-produced COVID-19 shot enters Phase III human trials involving 13,000 volunteers in early June.

Vietnam's business hub Ho Chi Minh City will begin social distancing measures for 15 days starting from May 31 in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, the government said on Sunday.

Vietnam's business hub Ho Chi Minh City will begin social distancing measures for 15 days starting from May 31 in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, the government said on Sunday. The city has seen a rise in cases related to a religious mission that has recorded at least 125 positive tests, accounting for most of the city's infections, according to a government statement. Also Read | Vietnam reports first case of new coronavirus variant After successfully containing the virus for most of last year, infections in Vietnam have risen since late April, accounting for more than half of the total 7,107 registered cases among its population of 98 million. It still has one of the world's lowest cases, with a total of 47 deaths so far and authorities seem determined to keep it that way. "All events that gather more than 10 people in public are banned city-wide, but the city is considering to lower the number of people to just five," the government said. Also Read | 'Spreads through air': Vietnam reports new variant of coronavirus Go Vap district, where the Revival Ekklesia Mission is located, will be under full restrictions, and people there will not be allowed to go out unnecessarily, the statement said. State-run Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reported Ho Chi Minh City authorities would conduct COVID-19 tests city-wide with a testing capacity of 100,000 samples per day. Also Read | Restaurants to close in largest Vietnamese city amid new Covid outbreak "The city will prioritize testing high risk people first including workers in industrial parks and members of the religious mission," VNA reported. "Ho Chi Minh City has done 50,000 tests so far. To date there are at least 62,000 people who came into contact with infected ones," it added. Also Read | Vietnam extends quarantine for arrivals after new virus outbreak Ho Chi Minh City on Friday shut shops, restaurants and other services, and suspended religious activities until further notice, the city said in a statement. People 60 or older were encouraged to stay home, it also said. The re-emergence of the virus with complicated clusters has prompted calls for the Vietnamese government and the city's authorities to accelerate vaccinations. In a letter to US President Joe Biden on Sunday, State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc suggested both countries enhance cooperation in COVID-19 vaccine research, production and technology transfer, the government said in a statement. Around 64,000 frontline workers among Ho Chi Minh City's 13 million residents have been given at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, official data showed. Vietnam has received around 2.9 million doses from purchases and via the international COVAX sharing scheme and is seeking to secure millions more from foreign vaccine makers for its inoculation campaign. The country's locally-produced COVID-19 shot enters Phase III human trials involving 13,000 volunteers in early June.

Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City to enact social distancing

A new hybrid variant of the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=coronavirus">coronavirus</a> has been discovered in Vietnam that spreads through the air. This new variant is believed to be a combination of the two variants that were first detected in the UK and India.

"The characteristic of this strain is that it spreads quickly in the air. The concentration of virus in the throat fluid increases rapidly and spreads very strongly to the surrounding environment," Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long told local reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-update-malaysia-announces-complete-nationwide-lockdown-388177">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-update-malaysia-announces-complete-nationwide-lockdown-388177/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Vietnam has been struggling to contain widespread of COVID-19, especially in the industrial areas and bigger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

The variant has not been announced formally and the government is planning to make an announcement as per the world’s map of genetic strains.

Vietnam has been, previously, applauded for its quick and effective response against the deadly virus which has infected more than 6,700 people and caused 47 deaths in the country.

A new hybrid variant of the deadly coronavirus has been discovered in Vietnam that spreads through the air. This new variant is believed to be a combination of the two variants that were first detected in the UK and India.

A new hybrid variant of the deadly coronavirus has been discovered in Vietnam that spreads through the air. This new variant is believed to be a combination of the two variants that were first detected in the UK and India. "The characteristic of this strain is that it spreads quickly in the air. The concentration of virus in the throat fluid increases rapidly and spreads very strongly to the surrounding environment," Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long told local reporters. WATCH | Vietnam has been struggling to contain widespread of COVID-19, especially in the industrial areas and bigger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The variant has not been announced formally and the government is planning to make an announcement as per the world’s map of genetic strains. Vietnam has been, previously, applauded for its quick and effective response against the deadly virus which has infected more than 6,700 people and caused 47 deaths in the country.

'Spreads through air': Vietnam reports new variant of coronavirus

Tens of millions of mask-wearing Vietnamese were expected to vote on Sunday to select a largely rubber-stamp legislature amid a rapidly spreading COVID-19 outbreak in the country.

Fewer independent candidates than before are standing in the election for the 500-seat National Assembly, which is held every five years and usually after the ruling Communist Party holds its congress to select a new leadership.

Nearly 69.2 million registered voters are expected to select from 866 candidates for the parliament. They will also vote for members of the people's councils at provincial and district levels.

"I hope all voters, knowing their role as the owners of the country, will join the vote to select the most trusted and worthy candidates to represent their voices," National Assembly chairman Vuong Dinh Hue said ahead of the election.

Of the candidates standing for the National Assembly, some 92% are party members and 8% are independents.

The number of independent candidates this year fell to 74 from the 97 in the previous elections in 2016, while local media say the number of assembly deputies who were not party members halved over the last three elections.

Official data show that 99% of Vietnam's 67.5 million registered voters participated in the 2016 elections. The ballot is anonymous, but each voter's name, age, occupation, ethnicity and address are posted outside polling centres.

The election is taking place as the Southeast Asian country is battling a new COVID-19 outbreak that is spreading rapidly, infecting around 2,000 people since it emerged in late April.

State media reports said voters in some remote areas and in a centralised quarantine centre in Bac Ninh province voted early on Saturday. The province is part of the epicentre of the new outbreak.

Organisers wearing hazmat suits were seen spraying disinfectant on a ballot box, which was then brought to each voter in the quarantine centre for the vote, a video clip on VTC News showed.

"This is the first time we have held an election amid the most dangerous coronavirus outbreak that has spread to nearly half of the number of provinces, with many of them under lockdown," Hue said.

Hue said the organisers of the election have taken measures to ensure the election will take place in a safe manner.

Election results are typically announced after about two weeks.

Tens of millions of mask-wearing Vietnamese were expected to vote on Sunday to select a largely rubber-stamp legislature amid a rapidly spreading COVID-19 outbreak in the country.

Tens of millions of mask-wearing Vietnamese were expected to vote on Sunday to select a largely rubber-stamp legislature amid a rapidly spreading COVID-19 outbreak in the country. Fewer independent candidates than before are standing in the election for the 500-seat National Assembly, which is held every five years and usually after the ruling Communist Party holds its congress to select a new leadership. Nearly 69.2 million registered voters are expected to select from 866 candidates for the parliament. They will also vote for members of the people's councils at provincial and district levels. "I hope all voters, knowing their role as the owners of the country, will join the vote to select the most trusted and worthy candidates to represent their voices," National Assembly chairman Vuong Dinh Hue said ahead of the election. Of the candidates standing for the National Assembly, some 92% are party members and 8% are independents. The number of independent candidates this year fell to 74 from the 97 in the previous elections in 2016, while local media say the number of assembly deputies who were not party members halved over the last three elections. Official data show that 99% of Vietnam's 67.5 million registered voters participated in the 2016 elections. The ballot is anonymous, but each voter's name, age, occupation, ethnicity and address are posted outside polling centres. The election is taking place as the Southeast Asian country is battling a new COVID-19 outbreak that is spreading rapidly, infecting around 2,000 people since it emerged in late April. State media reports said voters in some remote areas and in a centralised quarantine centre in Bac Ninh province voted early on Saturday. The province is part of the epicentre of the new outbreak. Organisers wearing hazmat suits were seen spraying disinfectant on a ballot box, which was then brought to each voter in the quarantine centre for the vote, a video clip on VTC News showed. "This is the first time we have held an election amid the most dangerous coronavirus outbreak that has spread to nearly half of the number of provinces, with many of them under lockdown," Hue said. Hue said the organisers of the election have taken measures to ensure the election will take place in a safe manner. Election results are typically announced after about two weeks.

Vietnam holds parliament election amid new COVID-19 outbreak

'All for love, love for all': Meet Luong The Huy, Vietnam's first openly-gay parliament candidate

Vietnam&nbsp;has extended the quarantine period for anyone arriving in the country to three weeks, authorities said Wednesday, following a fresh community outbreak of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>.

The nation has so far kept case numbers low,&nbsp;recording&nbsp;just over 3,000 cases and 35 deaths, thanks to strict quarantine measures and extensive contact tracing.

But&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;reported its first community outbreak in weeks last Thursday, and other clusters have since emerged.

Several cases have been linked to people who tested positive after their two-week stay in hotel quarantine had ended.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vietnamese-envoy-gets-first-dose-of-indian-covid-19-vaccine-covaxin-377081">Vietnamese envoy gets first dose of Indian COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin</a>

"The Ministry of Health has decided to extend the period of mandatory quarantine for people who have made close contact with COVID-19 patients and people who have entered&nbsp;Vietnam," said health minister Nguyen Thanh Long.

The new quarantine period will be 21 days.

The announcement came after one of the country's best hospitals,&nbsp;which has treated many COVID-19 patients, went into lockdown Wednesday after a doctor tested positive for the virus.

Fourteen others at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi were later found to be infected.

About 800 medical workers, patients as well as any relatives who were visiting at the time the lockdown was announced must remain in the hospital for two weeks, authorities said.

Vietnam&nbsp;has also detected cases in the community of a COVID-19 variant believed to be behind a devastating surge in infections in India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnams-pandemic-response-leader-sworn-in-as-president-375407">Vietnam's pandemic response leader sworn in as president</a>

The last community outbreak, centred on the northern city of Hai Duong, was successfully contained last month.

But the country has been on high alert amid a spiralling outbreak in other parts of Southeast Asia including Cambodia and Laos, which both share a border with&nbsp;Vietnam.

Vietnam has extended the quarantine period for anyone arriving in the country to three weeks, authorities said Wednesday, following a fresh community outbreak of the coronavirus.

Vietnam has extended the quarantine period for anyone arriving in the country to three weeks, authorities said Wednesday, following a fresh community outbreak of the coronavirus. The nation has so far kept case numbers low, recording just over 3,000 cases and 35 deaths, thanks to strict quarantine measures and extensive contact tracing. But Vietnam reported its first community outbreak in weeks last Thursday, and other clusters have since emerged. Several cases have been linked to people who tested positive after their two-week stay in hotel quarantine had ended. Also read | Vietnamese envoy gets first dose of Indian COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin "The Ministry of Health has decided to extend the period of mandatory quarantine for people who have made close contact with COVID-19 patients and people who have entered Vietnam," said health minister Nguyen Thanh Long. The new quarantine period will be 21 days. The announcement came after one of the country's best hospitals, which has treated many COVID-19 patients, went into lockdown Wednesday after a doctor tested positive for the virus. Fourteen others at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi were later found to be infected. About 800 medical workers, patients as well as any relatives who were visiting at the time the lockdown was announced must remain in the hospital for two weeks, authorities said. Vietnam has also detected cases in the community of a COVID-19 variant believed to be behind a devastating surge in infections in India. Also read | Vietnam's pandemic response leader sworn in as president The last community outbreak, centred on the northern city of Hai Duong, was successfully contained last month. But the country has been on high alert amid a spiralling outbreak in other parts of Southeast Asia including Cambodia and Laos, which both share a border with Vietnam.

Vietnam extends quarantine for arrivals after new virus outbreak

The man behind Vietnam's successful handling of the coronavirus pandemic, Nguyen Xuan Phuc, was formally sworn in as president in Hanoi on Monday.

Phuc, 66, was Vietnam's prime minister for the last five years, a period in which the economy boomed, and his government's Covid-19 response won plaudits at home and abroad.

Following secret voting on Monday, Phuc scored the maximum votes among the almost 500-member rubber-stamp national assembly.

"This is his well-deserved award," said Nguyen Khac Giang, a Vietnamese politics expert from New Zealand's Victoria University of Wellington.

Authoritarian Vietnam is run by the Communist Party and officially led by the party general secretary, president, and prime minister, with key decisions made by the 18-member politburo.

Vietnam is in the midst of its twice-a-decade leadership transition, with 76-year-old Nguyen Phu Trong re-elected in January as party general secretary, the most important of the three roles.

Phuc was the only candidate nominated for president, as Trong -- who had held the presidency since 2018 after the sudden death of his predecessor -- stepped down.

The National Assembly said earlier this was "the first time ever a prime minister was nominated to the position of the president".

After his swearing in, Phuc told the nation he was "lucky and honoured" to be given the position, which is now only second to Trong in the power escalator.

Politburo leaders are usually expected to retire at 65, but Vietnam has bent the age rules for both of them.

Although the presidency is largely a ceremonial role, "Mr Phuc will now be the second-ranked member in the party which makes a strong case for him to claim the general secretary post if Mr Trong has to step down earlier than expected," Giang told AFP.

Rumours have swirled in recent years about Trong's health after he took a month-long absence in 2019.

According to Giang, Phuc's experience of "well managing Vietnam's relationship with the US under the turbulent administration of Donald Trump" will stand him in good stead for his foreign affairs responsibilities as president.

Phuc will later Monday designate a successor for the prime ministerial role.

Sources said the position will be given to Pham Minh Chinh, 62, a former deputy minister of public security.

The man behind Vietnam's successful handling of the coronavirus pandemic, Nguyen Xuan Phuc, was formally sworn in as president in Hanoi on Monday. Phuc, 66, was Vietnam's prime minister for the last five years, a period in which the economy boomed, and his government's Covid-19 response won plaudits at home and abroad.

The man behind Vietnam's successful handling of the coronavirus pandemic, Nguyen Xuan Phuc, was formally sworn in as president in Hanoi on Monday. Phuc, 66, was Vietnam's prime minister for the last five years, a period in which the economy boomed, and his government's Covid-19 response won plaudits at home and abroad. Following secret voting on Monday, Phuc scored the maximum votes among the almost 500-member rubber-stamp national assembly. "This is his well-deserved award," said Nguyen Khac Giang, a Vietnamese politics expert from New Zealand's Victoria University of Wellington. Authoritarian Vietnam is run by the Communist Party and officially led by the party general secretary, president, and prime minister, with key decisions made by the 18-member politburo. Vietnam is in the midst of its twice-a-decade leadership transition, with 76-year-old Nguyen Phu Trong re-elected in January as party general secretary, the most important of the three roles. Phuc was the only candidate nominated for president, as Trong -- who had held the presidency since 2018 after the sudden death of his predecessor -- stepped down. The National Assembly said earlier this was "the first time ever a prime minister was nominated to the position of the president". After his swearing in, Phuc told the nation he was "lucky and honoured" to be given the position, which is now only second to Trong in the power escalator. Politburo leaders are usually expected to retire at 65, but Vietnam has bent the age rules for both of them. Although the presidency is largely a ceremonial role, "Mr Phuc will now be the second-ranked member in the party which makes a strong case for him to claim the general secretary post if Mr Trong has to step down earlier than expected," Giang told AFP. Rumours have swirled in recent years about Trong's health after he took a month-long absence in 2019. According to Giang, Phuc's experience of "well managing Vietnam's relationship with the US under the turbulent administration of Donald Trump" will stand him in good stead for his foreign affairs responsibilities as president. Phuc will later Monday designate a successor for the prime ministerial role. Sources said the position will be given to Pham Minh Chinh, 62, a former deputy minister of public security.

Vietnam's pandemic response leader sworn in as president

The year was 2013. China was dragged to the Permanent Court of Arbitration. It faced a charge of threatening maritime entitlements and the status of features in the South China Sea. It was simply about breaking the law of the high seas.

The verdict came in 2016 and China was found guilty.

The court declared that China's 'nine-dash line' and its claim to historic rights in the South China Sea are both invalid under International Law.

It's been five years but after rejecting the ruling, China has continued to violate the law. It has built seven&nbsp;artificial islands in the South China Sea.

It is challenging maritime sovereignty of several countries. It violates the UNCLOS or the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

China has become a menace in waters that host traffic worth $3.4 billion in annual trade.

Some of the world's leading democracies are coming together in alliances against China.

And then there are smaller but perhaps, more important stakeholders in the South China Sea. They are coming together to press China and call out its maritime militia.

The president of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte recently expressed his concerns to the Chinese ambassador.

Duterte's spokesperson said, "The president said we are really concerned. Any country will be concerned with that number of ships."

The Philippines is protesting what it calls China's 'swarming and threatening presence' at the Whitsun Reef. The Whitsun Reef is claimed by China, the Philippines and Vietnam.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea under its nine-dash line. Now, China has reportedly moored over 200 vessels at the Whitsun Reef. All of these vehicles are within Manila's 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone.

Manila claims that these vehicles are being manned by the Chinese maritime militia. And if that's not a provocation enough, reports says China has also begun construction activities on one of its artificial islands.

It is being called a 'prelude to occupation'. This artificial island is also within the Philippines' EEZ.&nbsp;

Take a look at this tweet...

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Satellite imagery shows land cleared for new Chinese construction on Subi Reef in South China Sea. <a href="https://twitter.com/SCMPNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SCMPNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/ViCPRZnync">https://t.co/ViCPRZnync</a> <a href="https://t.co/oK6zZDZ8f6">pic.twitter.com/oK6zZDZ8f6</a>
— AMTI (@AsiaMTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/AsiaMTI/status/1374956712155746309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

While the Philippines called out Chinese aggressiveness at the Whitsun Reef, Vietnam was not far behind. Hanoi calls the reef- Da Ba Dau.

On 25th of March, it called on China to stop this violation and respect Vietnam's sovereignty.

Vietnam sent its coastguard vessels near the disputed area.

It said that the coastgard was 'exercising its duties as regulated by laws'.

The Philippines has deployed its air force.

China clearly is being challenged at sea. Things are not too comfortable in the mainland either.

Its crimes like the Uyghur genocide are being called out. The UK and the EU have already asked for access to Xinjiang. The UN is the latest to join the queue. The world body says that it is holding serious negotiations with China and that it wants unfettered access to Xinjiang.

"For us, it's important for the mission to take place, to be a mission that has unlimited access to what the human rights high commission want to visit. And this, of course, is the reason why a serious negotiation is at the present moment that taking place," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

In February, the UN's Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet called for a thorough assessment of the situation in Xinjiang. She cited reports of arbitrary detention, ill-treatment, sexual violence and forced labour. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, Bachelet's visit is being negotiated.

Where does all of this leave China?

The countries Beijing tried to silence with its vaccine diplomacy are now calling China out. Its aggressive posturing is being challenged. The world bodies China tried to bribe are now highlighting the genocide in Xinjiang.

Is the world finally coming together to make China pay?

The year was 2013. China was dragged to the Permanent Court of Arbitration. It faced a charge of threatening maritime entitlements and the status of features in the South China Sea.

The year was 2013. China was dragged to the Permanent Court of Arbitration. It faced a charge of threatening maritime entitlements and the status of features in the South China Sea. It was simply about breaking the law of the high seas. The verdict came in 2016 and China was found guilty. The court declared that China's 'nine-dash line' and its claim to historic rights in the South China Sea are both invalid under International Law. It's been five years but after rejecting the ruling, China has continued to violate the law. It has built seven artificial islands in the South China Sea. It is challenging maritime sovereignty of several countries. It violates the UNCLOS or the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. China has become a menace in waters that host traffic worth $3.4 billion in annual trade. Some of the world's leading democracies are coming together in alliances against China. And then there are smaller but perhaps, more important stakeholders in the South China Sea. They are coming together to press China and call out its maritime militia. The president of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte recently expressed his concerns to the Chinese ambassador. Duterte's spokesperson said, "The president said we are really concerned. Any country will be concerned with that number of ships." The Philippines is protesting what it calls China's 'swarming and threatening presence' at the Whitsun Reef. The Whitsun Reef is claimed by China, the Philippines and Vietnam. China claims almost the entire South China Sea under its nine-dash line. Now, China has reportedly moored over 200 vessels at the Whitsun Reef. All of these vehicles are within Manila's 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone. Manila claims that these vehicles are being manned by the Chinese maritime militia. And if that's not a provocation enough, reports says China has also begun construction activities on one of its artificial islands. It is being called a 'prelude to occupation'. This artificial island is also within the Philippines' EEZ. Take a look at this tweet... Satellite imagery shows land cleared for new Chinese construction on Subi Reef in South China Sea. @SCMPNews https://t.co/ViCPRZnync pic.twitter.com/oK6zZDZ8f6 — AMTI (@AsiaMTI) March 25, 2021 × While the Philippines called out Chinese aggressiveness at the Whitsun Reef, Vietnam was not far behind. Hanoi calls the reef- Da Ba Dau. On 25th of March, it called on China to stop this violation and respect Vietnam's sovereignty. Vietnam sent its coastguard vessels near the disputed area. It said that the coastgard was 'exercising its duties as regulated by laws'. The Philippines has deployed its air force. China clearly is being challenged at sea. Things are not too comfortable in the mainland either. Its crimes like the Uyghur genocide are being called out. The UK and the EU have already asked for access to Xinjiang. The UN is the latest to join the queue. The world body says that it is holding serious negotiations with China and that it wants unfettered access to Xinjiang. "For us, it's important for the mission to take place, to be a mission that has unlimited access to what the human rights high commission want to visit. And this, of course, is the reason why a serious negotiation is at the present moment that taking place," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. In February, the UN's Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet called for a thorough assessment of the situation in Xinjiang. She cited reports of arbitrary detention, ill-treatment, sexual violence and forced labour. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, Bachelet's visit is being negotiated. Where does all of this leave China? The countries Beijing tried to silence with its vaccine diplomacy are now calling China out. Its aggressive posturing is being challenged. The world bodies China tried to bribe are now highlighting the genocide in Xinjiang. Is the world finally coming together to make China pay?

Is World coming together against China in South China Sea?

China is carrying out incursions, sinking foreign ships, establishing new districts, giving Chinese names to islands, building new artificial islands and using fishing vessels as maritime militias in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

Let us get to know about the strategic importance of the South China Sea and Beijing's never-ending nefarious activities in the region.&nbsp;

South China Sea is a strategic waterway surrounded by six nations, such as China, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. &nbsp;

Two groups of islands here are at the centre of a fierce territorial dispute. The first is the Paracel Archipelago, contested by China, Taiwan and Vietnam.&nbsp;

The second are the Spratly Islands, disputed between China and all other five nations. These islands are strategic because they are surrounded by waters teeming with marine life and are rich in oil and gas resources. &nbsp;

One-third of the world's shipping traffic also passes through the South China Sea. Beijing claims sovereignty over nearly the entire sea.&nbsp;

It uses a map from the 1940s to justify its territorial claims and military aggression aimed at making others accept its claims. &nbsp;

In March 2020, Chinese vessels rammed into a Taiwanese coast guard ship. In April 2020, a Chinese surveillance ship hit and sank a Vietnamese fishing boat.&nbsp;

The next month, China deployed an exploration vessel near Malaysia's exclusive economic zone. The frequency of harassment increased throughout 2020. Beijing strengthened its position amid the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

China established new administrative districts in the disputed waters with official Chinese names. At least 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea have been named in Mandarin.&nbsp;

The Global Times says the standardisation of names reflects China's sovereignty over them and to further strengthen these claims of sovereignty. China has established several artificial or man-made islands like the Fiery Cross and the Subi Reef, where Chinese research stations are conducting field navigation and scientific surveys.&nbsp;

Now, reports have emerged that Chinese maritime militias are operating in the area. These militias are primarily fishing vessels that are being used to augment the Chinese navy's operations.&nbsp;

The vessels possess sophisticated communication and GPS technology. They use swarm warfare tactics to enhance China's nefarious endeavours and assert Beijing's territorial claims. &nbsp;

These militias have become a critical feature of China's expansionist strategy and could trigger a fresh flare-up in the tense South China Sea.&nbsp;

China is carrying out incursions, sinking foreign ships, establishing new districts, giving Chinese names to islands, building new artificial islands and using fishing vessels as maritime militias in the South China Sea.

China is carrying out incursions, sinking foreign ships, establishing new districts, giving Chinese names to islands, building new artificial islands and using fishing vessels as maritime militias in the South China Sea. Let us get to know about the strategic importance of the South China Sea and Beijing's never-ending nefarious activities in the region. South China Sea is a strategic waterway surrounded by six nations, such as China, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. Two groups of islands here are at the centre of a fierce territorial dispute. The first is the Paracel Archipelago, contested by China, Taiwan and Vietnam. The second are the Spratly Islands, disputed between China and all other five nations. These islands are strategic because they are surrounded by waters teeming with marine life and are rich in oil and gas resources. One-third of the world's shipping traffic also passes through the South China Sea. Beijing claims sovereignty over nearly the entire sea. It uses a map from the 1940s to justify its territorial claims and military aggression aimed at making others accept its claims. In March 2020, Chinese vessels rammed into a Taiwanese coast guard ship. In April 2020, a Chinese surveillance ship hit and sank a Vietnamese fishing boat. The next month, China deployed an exploration vessel near Malaysia's exclusive economic zone. The frequency of harassment increased throughout 2020. Beijing strengthened its position amid the coronavirus pandemic. China established new administrative districts in the disputed waters with official Chinese names. At least 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea have been named in Mandarin. The Global Times says the standardisation of names reflects China's sovereignty over them and to further strengthen these claims of sovereignty. China has established several artificial or man-made islands like the Fiery Cross and the Subi Reef, where Chinese research stations are conducting field navigation and scientific surveys. Now, reports have emerged that Chinese maritime militias are operating in the area. These militias are primarily fishing vessels that are being used to augment the Chinese navy's operations. The vessels possess sophisticated communication and GPS technology. They use swarm warfare tactics to enhance China's nefarious endeavours and assert Beijing's territorial claims. These militias have become a critical feature of China's expansionist strategy and could trigger a fresh flare-up in the tense South China Sea.

Why South China Sea is a hotbed of confrontation

A heroic act by a delivery driver in Vietnam's Hanoi has saved a two-year-old child who fell from a 12th-floor balcony.&nbsp;

Nguyen Ngoc Manh&nbsp;was waiting inside his car at 5 pm on Sunday when a child's crying made him stick his head out of the window, Anninhthudo news organisation reported.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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A delivery man, 31, has become a real-life <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/superhero?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#superhero</a> after saving a two-year-old girl as she falls from the 12th floor of a 16-story building in Hanoi, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vietnam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vietnam</a>. 
The lucky baby was taken to a nearby hospital while the superhero delivery man suffered a slight sprain. <a href="https://t.co/0IZW1ZEFiL">pic.twitter.com/0IZW1ZEFiL</a>
— Bogar khattak (@Bogar_Khattak) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bogar_Khattak/status/1366707507792609281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The 31-year-old first thought the girl was showing tantrums, but soon realised that she was about 50 metres above the ground.&nbsp;

"I saw a girl climbing out of the balcony," the delivery man said, still trembling due to the incident, according to the Vietnam Times.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-men-in-parachutes-jump-off-25-floor-hotel-in-nashville-354306">Men in parachutes jump off 25-floor hotel in Nashville</a>

He lost control as he stood on a metallic roof&nbsp;used to store generators to catch the girl, he told VN Express International.&nbsp;

But, he flung forward to catch the child, causing a dent to the roof in the process.&nbsp;

"I tried to reach out my hand and took the maximum effort to catch the girl," the man said as he hoped that he&nbsp;can at least&nbsp;prevent the girl from falling directly on the ground.&nbsp;

A video of the incident showed how the child moved herself out of the balcony railing and began to fall as neighbours shouted for her rescue.&nbsp;

"Luckily, the baby fell into my lap," Nguyen said.&nbsp;

"I hurriedly embraced her then saw blood leaking from her mouth, I was very frightened."

The child was sent to the National Children's Hospital where doctors told local media her hip had been dislocated but there were no other injuries.

A heroic act by a delivery driver in Vietnam's Hanoi has saved a two-year-old child who fell from a 12th-floor balcony. Nguyen Ngoc Manh was waiting inside his car at 5 pm on Sunday when a child's crying made him stick his head out of the window, Anninhthudo news organisation reported.

A heroic act by a delivery driver in Vietnam's Hanoi has saved a two-year-old child who fell from a 12th-floor balcony. Nguyen Ngoc Manh was waiting inside his car at 5 pm on Sunday when a child's crying made him stick his head out of the window, Anninhthudo news organisation reported. Watch | A delivery man, 31, has become a real-life #superhero after saving a two-year-old girl as she falls from the 12th floor of a 16-story building in Hanoi, #Vietnam. The lucky baby was taken to a nearby hospital while the superhero delivery man suffered a slight sprain. pic.twitter.com/0IZW1ZEFiL — Bogar khattak (@Bogar_Khattak) March 2, 2021 × The 31-year-old first thought the girl was showing tantrums, but soon realised that she was about 50 metres above the ground. "I saw a girl climbing out of the balcony," the delivery man said, still trembling due to the incident, according to the Vietnam Times. Watch | Men in parachutes jump off 25-floor hotel in Nashville He lost control as he stood on a metallic roof used to store generators to catch the girl, he told VN Express International. But, he flung forward to catch the child, causing a dent to the roof in the process. "I tried to reach out my hand and took the maximum effort to catch the girl," the man said as he hoped that he can at least prevent the girl from falling directly on the ground. A video of the incident showed how the child moved herself out of the balcony railing and began to fall as neighbours shouted for her rescue. "Luckily, the baby fell into my lap," Nguyen said. "I hurriedly embraced her then saw blood leaking from her mouth, I was very frightened." The child was sent to the National Children's Hospital where doctors told local media her hip had been dislocated but there were no other injuries.

Watch: In a miraculous catch, delivery man saves two-year-old falling from 12th floor

Amid the growing activities in the South China Sea region by Beijing, Vietnam has been building up its defences in the Spratly Islands for the past two years 'to ensure it can strike Chinese facilities'.&nbsp;

Citing the Centre for Strategic and International Studies' Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative's report, South China Morning Post said that emplacements for air and coastal defence systems have been installed on most of Vietnam's bases in the Spratly islands, with the most significant upgrades at West Reef and Sin Cowe Island.&nbsp;

The report further stated that the building work by Vietnam is to emphasise its stance against China and also to ensure that the Chinese bases were within striking range.&nbsp;

According to the report, the recent upgrades at West Reef and Sin Cowe 'follow established patterns seen at other Vietnamese outposts in the Spratlys', the SCMP said.&nbsp;

"The coastal defence installations - concrete emplacements often connected to a bunker - are ubiquitous at Vietnam's larger outposts," the report said.&nbsp;

"In the past two years, West Reef has seen significant new construction, including several coastal defense installations, administrative buildings, concrete pads and bunkers, and a large tower structure presumably for communications or signals intelligence. The northern and southern tips of the island also saw the construction of a tunnel network similar to those on other Vietnamese features, as well as the planting of vegetation," it read.&nbsp;

The report further said that Sin Cowe Island has seen significant upgrades over the last two years, most notably the construction of an array of defensive installations along the coastline.&nbsp;

"This work began in 2019 and is concentrated on the roughly 26 acres of reclaimed land built between 2013 and 2016. The reclaimed area on the north side of Sin Cowe, vegetated in images from 2018, was cleared for the construction of new tunnels and coastal fortifications," it added.&nbsp;

The South China Sea is grouped into three archipelagos including the Paracel Islands and Spratly Islands. China claims almost the entire South China Sea as its sovereign territory, and it has aggressively asserted its stake in recent years. &nbsp;

Paracel island is disputed between China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. It has been occupied by China. Meanwhile, Spratly island is claimed by China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and to a lesser degree, Brunei.&nbsp;

Amid the growing activities in the South China Sea region by Beijing, Vietnam has been building up its defences in the Spratly Islands for the past two years 'to ensure it can strike Chinese facilities'.

Amid the growing activities in the South China Sea region by Beijing, Vietnam has been building up its defences in the Spratly Islands for the past two years 'to ensure it can strike Chinese facilities'. Citing the Centre for Strategic and International Studies' Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative's report, South China Morning Post said that emplacements for air and coastal defence systems have been installed on most of Vietnam's bases in the Spratly islands, with the most significant upgrades at West Reef and Sin Cowe Island. The report further stated that the building work by Vietnam is to emphasise its stance against China and also to ensure that the Chinese bases were within striking range. According to the report, the recent upgrades at West Reef and Sin Cowe 'follow established patterns seen at other Vietnamese outposts in the Spratlys', the SCMP said. "The coastal defence installations - concrete emplacements often connected to a bunker - are ubiquitous at Vietnam's larger outposts," the report said. "In the past two years, West Reef has seen significant new construction, including several coastal defense installations, administrative buildings, concrete pads and bunkers, and a large tower structure presumably for communications or signals intelligence. The northern and southern tips of the island also saw the construction of a tunnel network similar to those on other Vietnamese features, as well as the planting of vegetation," it read. The report further said that Sin Cowe Island has seen significant upgrades over the last two years, most notably the construction of an array of defensive installations along the coastline. "This work began in 2019 and is concentrated on the roughly 26 acres of reclaimed land built between 2013 and 2016. The reclaimed area on the north side of Sin Cowe, vegetated in images from 2018, was cleared for the construction of new tunnels and coastal fortifications," it added. The South China Sea is grouped into three archipelagos including the Paracel Islands and Spratly Islands. China claims almost the entire South China Sea as its sovereign territory, and it has aggressively asserted its stake in recent years. Paracel island is disputed between China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. It has been occupied by China. Meanwhile, Spratly island is claimed by China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and to a lesser degree, Brunei.

Vietnam builds up defences against China in Spratly Islands

Vietnam's health ministry has approved the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for domestic inoculation -- the first vaccine against Covid-19 to be approved in the country -- as it battles its biggest outbreak yet.

The AstraZeneca-Oxford coronavirus vaccine is cheaper than some others and can be stored at fridge temperature, which makes it easier to transport and use, particularly in developing countries.

Vietnam has recorded 208 new cases since reporting two locally transmitted cases in the northern province of Hai Duong on Thursday, including 62 cases reported on Saturday.

That is a rapid spread given Vietnam has recorded just 1,767 cases and 35 deaths since the disease was first detected a year ago, including 901 locally transmitted infections, thanks to mass testing and a centralised quarantine programme.

The government statement said materials and equipment designed to combat a hypothetical scenario of as many as 10,000 cases would be deployed before the Lunar New Year holiday. The coronavirus taskforce chief had previously advocated a plan designed to prepare for a scenario of 30,000 cases.

Vietnam on Saturday locked down two remote districts in the coffee-growing Central Highlands province of Gia Lai after at least five people there tested positive for the virus.

Authorities rushed to test thousands of people as authorities confirmed the outbreak had spread to Hanoi, where the ruling party is holding its five-yearly congress to pick a new leadership.

In another development, state media reported the Congress would end on Monday, a day earlier than planned.

The reports did not say why, and were later removed from the websites of official state news outlets.

The Vietnamese health ministry approved a vaccine from AstraZeneca PLC for domestic inoculation hours after Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said late on Friday that the country must have a vaccine in the first quarter.

The government had previously said it was in talks to procure 30 million doses of the vaccine.

The port city of Haiphong, where a case linked to the new outbreak has been detected, also said it would separately seek to secure 2 million vaccine doses for its population.

Vietnam's health ministry has approved the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for domestic inoculation -- the first vaccine against Covid-19 to be approved in the country -- as it battles its biggest outbreak yet.

Vietnam's health ministry has approved the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for domestic inoculation -- the first vaccine against Covid-19 to be approved in the country -- as it battles its biggest outbreak yet. The AstraZeneca-Oxford coronavirus vaccine is cheaper than some others and can be stored at fridge temperature, which makes it easier to transport and use, particularly in developing countries. Vietnam has recorded 208 new cases since reporting two locally transmitted cases in the northern province of Hai Duong on Thursday, including 62 cases reported on Saturday. That is a rapid spread given Vietnam has recorded just 1,767 cases and 35 deaths since the disease was first detected a year ago, including 901 locally transmitted infections, thanks to mass testing and a centralised quarantine programme. The government statement said materials and equipment designed to combat a hypothetical scenario of as many as 10,000 cases would be deployed before the Lunar New Year holiday. The coronavirus taskforce chief had previously advocated a plan designed to prepare for a scenario of 30,000 cases. Vietnam on Saturday locked down two remote districts in the coffee-growing Central Highlands province of Gia Lai after at least five people there tested positive for the virus. Authorities rushed to test thousands of people as authorities confirmed the outbreak had spread to Hanoi, where the ruling party is holding its five-yearly congress to pick a new leadership. In another development, state media reported the Congress would end on Monday, a day earlier than planned. The reports did not say why, and were later removed from the websites of official state news outlets. The Vietnamese health ministry approved a vaccine from AstraZeneca PLC for domestic inoculation hours after Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said late on Friday that the country must have a vaccine in the first quarter. The government had previously said it was in talks to procure 30 million doses of the vaccine. The port city of Haiphong, where a case linked to the new outbreak has been detected, also said it would separately seek to secure 2 million vaccine doses for its population.

Vietnam approves AstraZeneca vaccine

An artist in Vietnam's Mekong Delta is making paintings out of lotus leaves. The 62-year-old former soldier's artwork includes portraits of the great world leaders and Vietnam's late revolutionary figures.

Vietnamese soldier makes paintings out of Lotus leaves

Indian rice exports performed exceedingly well this year on both basmati & non-basmati fronts. Vietnam buys Indian rice for the first time in decades.

World Business Watch: Vietnam buys Indian rice for the first time in decades

Vietnam has detected its first imported case of the new coronavirus variant that is spreading rapidly around Britain, the health ministry said on Saturday.

The variant was detected in a 44-year-old woman returning to Vietnam from Britain, who was quarantined upon arrival and was confirmed positive for the virus on Dec. 24, the ministry said in a statement.

"Researchers ran gene-sequencing on the patient`s sample and found the strain is a variant known as "VOC 202012/01"", it said.

The variant includes a genetic mutation that, in theory, could result in the virus spreading more easily between people.

Countries around the world have cut off travel links to Britain to stop the spread of the new variant, which scientists have said is 40-70% more transmissible than the original virus.

Vietnam is still operating repatriation flights to bring its citizens stuck in the UK home amid the pandemic.

With strict quarantine and tracking measures, Vietnam quickly contained coronavirus outbreaks, allowing economic activity to rebound faster than in much of Asia. It has recorded 1,474 infections, with 35 deaths.

Vietnam has detected its first imported case of the new coronavirus variant that is spreading rapidly around Britain, the health ministry said on Saturday. The variant was detected in a 44-year-old woman returning to Vietnam from Britain, who was quarantined upon arrival and was confirmed positive for the virus on Dec.

Vietnam has detected its first imported case of the new coronavirus variant that is spreading rapidly around Britain, the health ministry said on Saturday. The variant was detected in a 44-year-old woman returning to Vietnam from Britain, who was quarantined upon arrival and was confirmed positive for the virus on Dec. 24, the ministry said in a statement. "Researchers ran gene-sequencing on the patient`s sample and found the strain is a variant known as "VOC 202012/01"", it said. The variant includes a genetic mutation that, in theory, could result in the virus spreading more easily between people. Countries around the world have cut off travel links to Britain to stop the spread of the new variant, which scientists have said is 40-70% more transmissible than the original virus. Vietnam is still operating repatriation flights to bring its citizens stuck in the UK home amid the pandemic. With strict quarantine and tracking measures, Vietnam quickly contained coronavirus outbreaks, allowing economic activity to rebound faster than in much of Asia. It has recorded 1,474 infections, with 35 deaths.

Vietnam reports first case of new coronavirus variant

India has sent 15 tons of flood support to Vietnam under its "Mission Sagar 3".&nbsp;

Indian navy ship Kiltan arrived at Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday with the aid which will be handed over to Vietnam’s Central Steering Committee for National Disaster Prevention and Control.

Indian navy release said, "this mission is part of India’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) assistance to friendly foreign countries during the ongoing pandemic."&nbsp;

Vietnam's envoy to India Sanh Chau Pham in a tweet said, "Grateful to India, her government, people and Indian Navy!"

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Indian Navy ship Kiltan arrives in Ho Chi Minh City today as part of Mission Sagar 3, bringing 10 tons of humanitarian assistance to Vietnam’s floods victims. Grateful to India, her government, people and Indian Navy! <a href="https://twitter.com/SanhChauPham?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SanhChauPham</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vietnam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vietnam</a> <a href="https://t.co/ipdNO5SDSK">pic.twitter.com/ipdNO5SDSK</a>
— SanhChau Pham (@SanhChauPham) <a href="https://twitter.com/SanhChauPham/status/1342117542119178244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Central Vietnam has been impacted by massive floods in which more than 100 people have died and 50 people still missing. Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi had offered his condolences due to the floods during his virtual summit with Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Monday.

India and Vietnam has seen increased engagement, ties were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2016. India sees the country as an important pillar of its act east and Indo pacific vision. The Navy release explained that the mission highlights the "importance accorded to ASEAN countries and further strengthens the existing bonds."

2020 saw Indian Navy reaching out with COVID-19 aid with medicines and food to countries under its mission Sagar 1 and 2.&nbsp;

Under mission Sagar 1, it reached out to five Indian Ocean countries-- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles followed by Mission Sagar 2 under which it reached out to four African countries - Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti, and Eritrea.

India has sent 15 tons of flood support to Vietnam under its "Mission Sagar 3". Indian navy ship Kiltan arrived at Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday with the aid which will be handed over to Vietnam’s Central Steering Committee for National Disaster Prevention and Control.

India has sent 15 tons of flood support to Vietnam under its "Mission Sagar 3". Indian navy ship Kiltan arrived at Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday with the aid which will be handed over to Vietnam’s Central Steering Committee for National Disaster Prevention and Control. Indian navy release said, "this mission is part of India’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) assistance to friendly foreign countries during the ongoing pandemic." Vietnam's envoy to India Sanh Chau Pham in a tweet said, "Grateful to India, her government, people and Indian Navy!" Indian Navy ship Kiltan arrives in Ho Chi Minh City today as part of Mission Sagar 3, bringing 10 tons of humanitarian assistance to Vietnam’s floods victims. Grateful to India, her government, people and Indian Navy! @SanhChauPham #Vietnam pic.twitter.com/ipdNO5SDSK — SanhChau Pham (@SanhChauPham) December 24, 2020 × Central Vietnam has been impacted by massive floods in which more than 100 people have died and 50 people still missing. Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi had offered his condolences due to the floods during his virtual summit with Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Monday. India and Vietnam has seen increased engagement, ties were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2016. India sees the country as an important pillar of its act east and Indo pacific vision. The Navy release explained that the mission highlights the "importance accorded to ASEAN countries and further strengthens the existing bonds." 2020 saw Indian Navy reaching out with COVID-19 aid with medicines and food to countries under its mission Sagar 1 and 2. Under mission Sagar 1, it reached out to five Indian Ocean countries-- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles followed by Mission Sagar 2 under which it reached out to four African countries - Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti, and Eritrea.

India sends flood support to Vietnam under Mission Sagar 3

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc. This is the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country.

The announcements will be on a range of issues from defence to energy, to development partnership to healthcare. On defence, a key focus will be on implementation of India’s Defence Line of Credit for high-speed guard boats for Vietnam. New Delhi has in the past extended defence Lines of Credit worth US $600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-senior-officials-meet-second-time-this-year-india-says-focus-on-covid-vaccine-asean-centrality-350845" hreflang="en">Quad senior officials meet second time this year; India says focus on COVID vaccine, ASEAN centrality</a>

Both countries will discuss projects in water resource management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region, digital connectivity, PhD fellowships, and heritage conservation. They are already engaging under Mekong–Ganga Cooperation, which is a two-decade-old mechanism involving India and five ASEAN countries including Vietnam. They will explore new opportunities in renewable energy cooperation.

This is the ninth such virtual summit of PM Modi. So far, he has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh counterparts.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-vietnam-virtual-summit-on-monday-350783" hreflang="en">India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday</a>

Speaking to WION last month, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "Vietnam has been able to establish direct air link between the two countries, it adds to physical connectivity. Now, on infrastructure connectivity, we hope one day we will have highway connecting various countries crossing Thailand, Cambodia, Laos in order to reach Vietnam."

New Delhi and Hanoi will also issue joint vision on the future development of the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and explore cooperation potential on India’s IPOI (Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative) and ASEAN’s AOIP (ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific) that Vietnam subscribes to.

The virtual summit, a new form of digital diplomacy, comes amidst COVID-19 pandemic and both leaders are expectedly going to take stock of the regional and global situation and explore convergences on new and resilient supply chains. ​India and Vietnam will concurrently serve at the UN Security Council in 2021 as non-permanent members and will use this for a stronger voice for reforms at the 75-year-old body.

Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year, and the last few years have seen a number of high-level visits and engagement between the two countries. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019 and PM Modi in 2016 during which ties were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership". President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018.

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc.

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc. This is the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country. The announcements will be on a range of issues from defence to energy, to development partnership to healthcare. On defence, a key focus will be on implementation of India’s Defence Line of Credit for high-speed guard boats for Vietnam. New Delhi has in the past extended defence Lines of Credit worth US $600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. Also read| Quad senior officials meet second time this year; India says focus on COVID vaccine, ASEAN centrality Both countries will discuss projects in water resource management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region, digital connectivity, PhD fellowships, and heritage conservation. They are already engaging under Mekong–Ganga Cooperation, which is a two-decade-old mechanism involving India and five ASEAN countries including Vietnam. They will explore new opportunities in renewable energy cooperation. This is the ninth such virtual summit of PM Modi. So far, he has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh counterparts. Also read| India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday Speaking to WION last month, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "Vietnam has been able to establish direct air link between the two countries, it adds to physical connectivity. Now, on infrastructure connectivity, we hope one day we will have highway connecting various countries crossing Thailand, Cambodia, Laos in order to reach Vietnam." New Delhi and Hanoi will also issue joint vision on the future development of the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and explore cooperation potential on India’s IPOI (Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative) and ASEAN’s AOIP (ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific) that Vietnam subscribes to. The virtual summit, a new form of digital diplomacy, comes amidst COVID-19 pandemic and both leaders are expectedly going to take stock of the regional and global situation and explore convergences on new and resilient supply chains. India and Vietnam will concurrently serve at the UN Security Council in 2021 as non-permanent members and will use this for a stronger voice for reforms at the 75-year-old body. Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year, and the last few years have seen a number of high-level visits and engagement between the two countries. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019 and PM Modi in 2016 during which ties were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership". President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018.

India, Vietnam virtual summit to see around 27 key outcomes

Describing Vietnam as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy, PM Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the importance of the relationship between New Delhi and Hanoi. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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In his opening remarks for the India-Vietnam virtual bilateral summit, he also expressed sympathy with the loss Vietnam faced due to floods and landslides.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/understand-indian-concept-on-indo-pacific-but-quad-detrimental-to-inclusivity-russia-351345">Understand Indian concept on Indo-Pacific, but Quad detrimental to inclusivity: Russia</a>

The Indian prime minister also said that Vietnam is an "important pillar of India's Act East Policy" and a "big partner" of India's Indo-Pacific vision.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-vietnam-virtual-summit-to-see-around-27-key-outcomes-351235">India, Vietnam virtual summit to see around 27 key outcomes</a>

"The scope of our comprehensive strategic partnership is very wide," Modi said, adding that New Delhi looks at relations with Hanoi with a "long term" and "strategic" view.

"For Indo-Pacific region, peace, stability and progress are our shared objectives," Modi said.

"To establish peace and stability in the region, our partnership can give important contributions."

Modi also said that in this summit, both countries will evaluate the various aspects of cooperation in their comprehensive strategic partnership.

He also said the summit will also give an opportunity to discuss their common issues at the regional and international level.&nbsp;

"Next year, we both will collectively participate as members of United Nations Security Council and that is why our cooperation at a global stage is important," he added.

He also expressed delight that with the summit, they will be able to unveil the Plan of Action of their bilateral engagement in Joint Vision Document 2021-2023.&nbsp;

"With this, the world will get a strong message of our deepening ties," Modi added.

He also said that both countries have signed seven important agreements on security, petrochemicals, renewable energy, cancer treatment, among others.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Describing Vietnam as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy, PM Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the importance of the relationship between New Delhi and Hanoi.

Describing Vietnam as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy, PM Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the importance of the relationship between New Delhi and Hanoi. Watch | In his opening remarks for the India-Vietnam virtual bilateral summit, he also expressed sympathy with the loss Vietnam faced due to floods and landslides. Also read | Understand Indian concept on Indo-Pacific, but Quad detrimental to inclusivity: Russia The Indian prime minister also said that Vietnam is an "important pillar of India's Act East Policy" and a "big partner" of India's Indo-Pacific vision. Also read | India, Vietnam virtual summit to see around 27 key outcomes "The scope of our comprehensive strategic partnership is very wide," Modi said, adding that New Delhi looks at relations with Hanoi with a "long term" and "strategic" view. "For Indo-Pacific region, peace, stability and progress are our shared objectives," Modi said. "To establish peace and stability in the region, our partnership can give important contributions." Modi also said that in this summit, both countries will evaluate the various aspects of cooperation in their comprehensive strategic partnership. He also said the summit will also give an opportunity to discuss their common issues at the regional and international level. "Next year, we both will collectively participate as members of United Nations Security Council and that is why our cooperation at a global stage is important," he added. He also expressed delight that with the summit, they will be able to unveil the Plan of Action of their bilateral engagement in Joint Vision Document 2021-2023. "With this, the world will get a strong message of our deepening ties," Modi added. He also said that both countries have signed seven important agreements on security, petrochemicals, renewable energy, cancer treatment, among others.

Vietnam 'important pillar' of India's Act East Policy: PM Narendra Modi

Your Story: Indian PM Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc hold virtual meeting

India's&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc will hold a virtual summit on Monday, December 21, Vietnam's Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang has announced.

This will be the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country. Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year and recent years have seen a number of high-level engagements and visits.

"During the Summit, the two leaders will exchange views on wide-ranging bilateral, regional and global issues and provide guidance for the future development of India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," an official <a href="https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/33317/Virtual_Summit_between_Prime_Minister_Shri_Narendra_Modi_and_Prime_Minister_of_Vietnam_HE_Nguyen_Xuan_Phuc">statement</a> by the&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs read.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-produce-about-300-mn-doses-of-russian-vaccine-new-deals-signed-350702" hreflang="en">India to produce about 300 mn doses of Russian vaccine; new deals signed</a>

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018 and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019. President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018. During the 2016 visit of PM Modi, ties between India and Vietnam were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership", a status Vietnam shares with only two&nbsp;other countries&nbsp; — Russia and China.&nbsp;

The India Vietnam virtual summit will be the ninth virtual summit of the Indian PM. He has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh so far. Earlier this month, under this new form of digital diplomacy, he had had virtual summits with his Uzbek and Bangladeshi counterpart.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farm-laws-have-not-been-introduced-overnight-pm-modi-slams-opposition-for-misguiding-farmers-350700" hreflang="en">Farm laws have not been introduced overnight, PM Modi slams opposition for 'misguiding' farmers</a>

Last month speaking to WION, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "India is a very important country, it is going to be the global partner for ASEAN and as a global player India will assume responsibility in many many fields. So we need to strengthen further cooperation that has been in existence between ASEAN and India, also between India and Vietnam."

New Delhi sees Vietnam as the vital&nbsp;pillar of its ‘Act East Policy’ and an essential partner in ‘Indo-Pacific Ocean’s Initiative (IPOI)’.

Vietnam is among 11 countries where India under its defense cooperation has deputed Mobile training teams. Defense Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million being oriented towards strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defense manufacturing. Both India and Vietnam will serve concurrently as non-permanent members at the United Nations Security Council in 2021.&nbsp;

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc will hold a virtual summit on Monday, December 21, Vietnam's Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang has announced.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc will hold a virtual summit on Monday, December 21, Vietnam's Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang has announced. This will be the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country. Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year and recent years have seen a number of high-level engagements and visits. "During the Summit, the two leaders will exchange views on wide-ranging bilateral, regional and global issues and provide guidance for the future development of India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs read. Also read| India to produce about 300 mn doses of Russian vaccine; new deals signed Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018 and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019. President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018. During the 2016 visit of PM Modi, ties between India and Vietnam were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership", a status Vietnam shares with only two other countries — Russia and China. The India Vietnam virtual summit will be the ninth virtual summit of the Indian PM. He has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh so far. Earlier this month, under this new form of digital diplomacy, he had had virtual summits with his Uzbek and Bangladeshi counterpart. Also read| Farm laws have not been introduced overnight, PM Modi slams opposition for 'misguiding' farmers Last month speaking to WION, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "India is a very important country, it is going to be the global partner for ASEAN and as a global player India will assume responsibility in many many fields. So we need to strengthen further cooperation that has been in existence between ASEAN and India, also between India and Vietnam." New Delhi sees Vietnam as the vital pillar of its ‘Act East Policy’ and an essential partner in ‘Indo-Pacific Ocean’s Initiative (IPOI)’. Vietnam is among 11 countries where India under its defense cooperation has deputed Mobile training teams. Defense Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million being oriented towards strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defense manufacturing. Both India and Vietnam will serve concurrently as non-permanent members at the United Nations Security Council in 2021.

India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday

Facebook has removed two hacking groups operating from Bangladesh and Vietnam from its platform that were distributing malware and compromising people`s accounts across the Internet. 
 
The Bangladesh-based group targeted local activists, journalists and religious minorities, including those living abroad, to compromise their accounts and have some of them disabled by Facebook for violating its Community Standards. 
 
"Our investigation linked this activity to two non-profit organisations in Bangladesh: Don`s Team (also known as Defense of Nation) and the Crime Research and Analysis Foundation (CRAF). They appeared to be operating across a number of internet services," said Nathaniel Gleicher, Head of Security Policy, and Mike Dvilyanski, Cyber Threat Intelligence Manager at Facebook. 
 
APT32, an advanced persistent threat actor based in Vietnam, targeted Vietnamese human rights activists locally and abroad, various foreign governments including those in Laos and Cambodia, non-governmental organisations, news agencies and a number of businesses with malware. 
 
"Our investigation linked this activity to CyberOne Group, an IT company in Vietnam (also known as CyberOne Security, CyberOne Technologies, Hanh Tinh Company Limited, Planet and Diacauso)," Facebook said in a statement late on Thursday. 
 
APT32 has deployed a wide range of adversarial tactics across the internet. 
 
"The people behind these operations are persistent adversaries, and we expect them to evolve their tactics. However, our detection systems and threat investigators, as well as other teams in the security community, keep improving to make it harder for them to remain undetected," said Gleicher.

Facebook has removed two hacking groups operating from Bangladesh and Vietnam from its platform that were distributing malware and compromising people`s accounts across the Internet.

Facebook has removed two hacking groups operating from Bangladesh and Vietnam from its platform that were distributing malware and compromising people`s accounts across the Internet. The Bangladesh-based group targeted local activists, journalists and religious minorities, including those living abroad, to compromise their accounts and have some of them disabled by Facebook for violating its Community Standards. "Our investigation linked this activity to two non-profit organisations in Bangladesh: Don`s Team (also known as Defense of Nation) and the Crime Research and Analysis Foundation (CRAF). They appeared to be operating across a number of internet services," said Nathaniel Gleicher, Head of Security Policy, and Mike Dvilyanski, Cyber Threat Intelligence Manager at Facebook. APT32, an advanced persistent threat actor based in Vietnam, targeted Vietnamese human rights activists locally and abroad, various foreign governments including those in Laos and Cambodia, non-governmental organisations, news agencies and a number of businesses with malware. "Our investigation linked this activity to CyberOne Group, an IT company in Vietnam (also known as CyberOne Security, CyberOne Technologies, Hanh Tinh Company Limited, Planet and Diacauso)," Facebook said in a statement late on Thursday. APT32 has deployed a wide range of adversarial tactics across the internet. "The people behind these operations are persistent adversaries, and we expect them to evolve their tactics. However, our detection systems and threat investigators, as well as other teams in the security community, keep improving to make it harder for them to remain undetected," said Gleicher.

Facebook removes two hacking groups from Bangladesh, Vietnam

For more than two decades, Pham Van Thuoc has scoured Europe in search of historical church clocks, bringing them back to his home in Vietnam where he lovingly restores them. For his efforts, Thuoc has been recognised by the Vietnam Records Association as having the largest collection of public clocks in the country.

Time is precious, says Vietnamese collector of European church clocks

(with inputs from Sidhant Sibal)

India has assured Vietnam of help in modernisation of its armed forces as both sides work on a new joint vision statement.

The commitment&nbsp;came as Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with his Vietnamese counterpart General Ngo Xuan Lich over video-conferencing on Friday.

To this end, reports say, Singh told his counterpart that defence cooperation has been one of the most significant pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership initiated by the two countries in 2016.

Vietnam is keen on acquiring a host of military equipment, including India’s Akash air defence system and the Dhruv helicopters, besides the BrahMos.

Vietnam notably has maritime border issues with China in the South China Sea, over Hanoi’s interest in acquiring the Indo-Russian supersonic cruise missile BrahMos.

Also, as part of increased defence cooperation, India and Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective air forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions.

A readout of the meet from Indian defence ministry said both ministers "discussed various ongoing projects and the future trajectory of bilateral Defense engagements...(and) expressed satisfaction that despite the COVID-19 situation Defense exchanges between both Armed Forces have maintained positive momentum."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-vietnam-to-jointly-train-pilots-collaborate-in-shipbuilding-345950">Also read |&nbsp;India, Vietnam to jointly train pilots, collaborate in shipbuilding</a>

Both countries are also looking at collaborating in a number of domains of defense cooperation like shipbuilding, surface and subsurface capacities like submarines at sea. New Delhi has already extended defence Lines of Credit worth USD 600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

Both sides also signed the agreement on Hydrographic cooperation that will enable the sharing of Hydrographic data and assist in the production of navigational charts by both sides.

The Vietnamese defence minister invited the Indian defence minister for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and also the meeting being hosted by Vietnam on December 10 through virtual mode.

(with inputs from Sidhant Sibal) India has assured Vietnam of help in modernisation of its armed forces as both sides work on a new joint vision statement. The commitment came as Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with his Vietnamese counterpart General Ngo Xuan Lich over video-conferencing on Friday.

(with inputs from Sidhant Sibal) India has assured Vietnam of help in modernisation of its armed forces as both sides work on a new joint vision statement. The commitment came as Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with his Vietnamese counterpart General Ngo Xuan Lich over video-conferencing on Friday. To this end, reports say, Singh told his counterpart that defence cooperation has been one of the most significant pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership initiated by the two countries in 2016. Vietnam is keen on acquiring a host of military equipment, including India’s Akash air defence system and the Dhruv helicopters, besides the BrahMos. Vietnam notably has maritime border issues with China in the South China Sea, over Hanoi’s interest in acquiring the Indo-Russian supersonic cruise missile BrahMos. Also, as part of increased defence cooperation, India and Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective air forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions. A readout of the meet from Indian defence ministry said both ministers "discussed various ongoing projects and the future trajectory of bilateral Defense engagements...(and) expressed satisfaction that despite the COVID-19 situation Defense exchanges between both Armed Forces have maintained positive momentum." Also read | India, Vietnam to jointly train pilots, collaborate in shipbuilding Both countries are also looking at collaborating in a number of domains of defense cooperation like shipbuilding, surface and subsurface capacities like submarines at sea. New Delhi has already extended defence Lines of Credit worth USD 600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. Both sides also signed the agreement on Hydrographic cooperation that will enable the sharing of Hydrographic data and assist in the production of navigational charts by both sides. The Vietnamese defence minister invited the Indian defence minister for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and also the meeting being hosted by Vietnam on December 10 through virtual mode.

India assures Vietnam of help in modernising its armed forces

As part of increased defense cooperation, India & Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions.

India, Vietnam to jointly train pilots, collaborate in shipbuilding

As part of increased defense cooperation, India &amp; Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions.

This was one of the key outcomes of the virtual meet between India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich that took place on Friday.

A readout of the meet from Indian defense ministry said both ministers,"discussed various ongoing projects and the future trajectory of bilateral Defense engagements...(and) expressed satisfaction that despite the COVID-19 situation Defense exchanges between both Armed Forces have maintained positive momentum.".

Both countries are also looking at collaborating in a number of domains of defense cooperation like shipbuilding, surface and subsurface capacities like submarines at sea. New Delhi has already extended defence Lines of Credit worth USD 600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

The release explained out,"Ministers discussed collaboration in Defence Industry capability building, training and cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations"

India assured Vietnam, a key partner in Indo-Pacific that it remains committed to the modernization of the Vietnamese Armed Forces during. Both sides also signed the agreement on Hydrographic cooperation that will enable the sharing of Hydrographic data and assist in the production of navigational charts by both sides.

The Vietnamese defence minister invited the Indian defence minister for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and also the meeting being hosted by Vietnam on 10 Dec through virtual mode.

As part of increased defense cooperation, India & Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions. This was one of the key outcomes of the virtual meet between India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich that took place on Friday. A readout of the meet from Indian defense ministry said both ministers,"discussed various ongoing projects and the future trajectory of bilateral Defense engagements...(and) expressed satisfaction that despite the COVID-19 situation Defense exchanges between both Armed Forces have maintained positive momentum.". Both countries are also looking at collaborating in a number of domains of defense cooperation like shipbuilding, surface and subsurface capacities like submarines at sea. New Delhi has already extended defence Lines of Credit worth USD 600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. The release explained out,"Ministers discussed collaboration in Defence Industry capability building, training and cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations" India assured Vietnam, a key partner in Indo-Pacific that it remains committed to the modernization of the Vietnamese Armed Forces during. Both sides also signed the agreement on Hydrographic cooperation that will enable the sharing of Hydrographic data and assist in the production of navigational charts by both sides. The Vietnamese defence minister invited the Indian defence minister for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and also the meeting being hosted by Vietnam on 10 Dec through virtual mode.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges.&nbsp;

In terms of defence, both sides have increased partnership significantly. India trains a number of Vietnamese defence personnel under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) which has 70 slots for the country.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nsa-ajit-doval-arrives-in-sri-lanka-to-attend-trilateral-maritime-dialogue-345789">NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue</a>

In October 2019, the 12th annual security dialogue at defence secretary-level took place in Ho Chin Minh city. India has deputed mobile training teams to 11 countries, among them one is&nbsp;Vietnam. Defence industrial cooperation has been a new focus area of cooperation, with New Delhi extending defence Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million to strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

Both, India and Vietnam, have been dealing with an aggressive China — India at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh while Vietnam in the South China Sea — with Chinese vessels breaching into the country's exclusive economic zone.

Amidst the aggressive behaviour, both are working together, especially on the Indo Pacific concept. ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, have come up with their own outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which is broadly similar to India’s Indo-Pacific Vision.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges. In terms of defence, both sides have increased partnership significantly. India trains a number of Vietnamese defence personnel under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) which has 70 slots for the country. Also read| NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue In October 2019, the 12th annual security dialogue at defence secretary-level took place in Ho Chin Minh city. India has deputed mobile training teams to 11 countries, among them one is Vietnam. Defence industrial cooperation has been a new focus area of cooperation, with New Delhi extending defence Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million to strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. Both, India and Vietnam, have been dealing with an aggressive China — India at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh while Vietnam in the South China Sea — with Chinese vessels breaching into the country's exclusive economic zone. Amidst the aggressive behaviour, both are working together, especially on the Indo Pacific concept. ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, have come up with their own outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which is broadly similar to India’s Indo-Pacific Vision.

Indian and Vietnamese defence ministers hold talks

Food Scandals are rising in Vietnam as many NGOs are collaborating regarding this issue in the country, Food poisoning is one of the major problems in Vietnam nowadays

Vietnam: Food Scandals are rising in Vietnam

Vietnam, the chair of Asean for this year said that the grouping saw India as an important country and called for strengthening of ties and cooperation in Pharma, connectivity.

Speaking exclusively with our Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau over aggressiveness by certain countries, said, "We call for all countries to abide by international law, to try to abide by the principle of peaceful negotiation of dispute".

Vietnam &amp; India, both dealt with an aggressive China in 2020. He also confirmed that India and Vietnam will hold a virtual summit in December.

WION: As the chair of ASEAN, what will be the key focus of the Asean Summit and related meetings?&nbsp;

Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: I believe the most important priority for Asean host is to collectively with other Asean countries, trying to address with other Asean countries the most effective way to deal with pandemic Covid. That's why, when we prepare for the summit, we did not expect that Covid would have happened. The theme of this year is cohesive and responsive. Thereby, we have come up with number of solutions in order to address the pandemic and one of the most successful outcome of the chairmanship of Vietnam is that we are able to organise medical supplies stock. Second priority is to maintain regional integration of Asean, we are building communities. 3rd is we continued to work with our partners outside the region in order to implement the plans.&nbsp;

 
WION: How do you see India role vis-a-vis Asean, and the ties with Vietnam? If you can provide details on the upcoming virtual summit as well.&nbsp;

Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: When you talk about dialogue partner of Asean, we should not forget or ignore the importance of role played by India. India and Asean established dialogue partner relations in 1992. Recently we have upgraded bilateral relations to comprehensive partner. We are having India-Asean summit. Concerning the virtual summit between Vietnam and India, normally we have summit every 2 years. This time, because of the pandemic we have to organise it virtually. Two sides are preparing for it. You know for Vietnam, India is one of the most important partners because it is comprehensive strategic partner of Vietnam. It has wide range of issues to be discussed and talk on this occasion. Recently we finished joint commission meeting of the 2 foreign ministers of the 2 countries who have identified the pillars of the strategic partnership. At PM levels, they will review, basic 2 pillars are defence and security, and trade and economic partnership.

 
WION: How has been Covid cooperation between both countries?

Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: Certainly we will discuss the common efforts, in order to address effectively the pandemic. We also, discuss cooperation in pharma area. Both sides have exchanged experience and efforts in order to put Covid under control. Vietnam will compliment India for effort it has put to control the pandemic. We also share with India, what we done to make our country, Covid free.&nbsp;

 
WION: How do you see India-Asean ties, cooperation between India and the grouping?

Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: India is a very important country, it is going to be global partner for ASEAN and as a global player India will assume responsibility in many many fields. So we need to strengthen further cooperation that has been in existence between Asean and India, also between India and Vietnam. If you talk about specific sectors, number of things can be done--we can improve Mekong-Ganga cooperation, review the FTA, talk about people to people connectivity and deepening our economic and trade connectivity, which is very important. Two PMs have set the target of USD15 billion per year.

 
WION: Amidst the pandemic, one country has been aggressive with both India and Vietnam..your reaction to it..

Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: In the world of growing uncertainty we believe that respect for international law is the most important thing. We call for all countries to abide by international law, to try to abide by the principle of peaceful negotiation of dispute and try to exercise self-restraint to make sure peace and security are in the interest of all the countries in the region.

 
WION: India has been focusing on connectivity with Asean. Any update on it?&nbsp;

Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: In order to bring 2 sides closer together, in order to materialise Act East Policy of India, infrastructure and connectivity has been very important. Recently, Vietnam has been able to establish direct air link between the 2 countries, it adds to physical connectivity. Now, on infrastructure connectivity, we hope one day we will have highway connecting various countries crossing Thailand, Cambodia, Laos in order to reach Vietnam. We are very optimistic on that day, but we need to work very hard because it's not easy when it comes to projects. Basically, that is the direction we have to take in future.

 
WION: How do you see the Indo Pacific concept, backed by India.

Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: I think, this concept has been tabled by Asean as a grouping, and one of the key factors which is very similar to the Indo Pacific vision of India, number 1, every country should respect international law, UN charter, UNCLOS, number 2 in any evolving security situation ASEAN centrality should be observed and respected and number 3, anything happens, we need to return to peaceful settlement of all disputes via dialogue and consultations.

Vietnam, the chair of Asean for this year said that the grouping saw India as an important country and called for strengthening of ties and cooperation in Pharma, connectivity.

Vietnam, the chair of Asean for this year said that the grouping saw India as an important country and called for strengthening of ties and cooperation in Pharma, connectivity. Speaking exclusively with our Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau over aggressiveness by certain countries, said, "We call for all countries to abide by international law, to try to abide by the principle of peaceful negotiation of dispute". Vietnam & India, both dealt with an aggressive China in 2020. He also confirmed that India and Vietnam will hold a virtual summit in December. WION: As the chair of ASEAN, what will be the key focus of the Asean Summit and related meetings? Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: I believe the most important priority for Asean host is to collectively with other Asean countries, trying to address with other Asean countries the most effective way to deal with pandemic Covid. That's why, when we prepare for the summit, we did not expect that Covid would have happened. The theme of this year is cohesive and responsive. Thereby, we have come up with number of solutions in order to address the pandemic and one of the most successful outcome of the chairmanship of Vietnam is that we are able to organise medical supplies stock. Second priority is to maintain regional integration of Asean, we are building communities. 3rd is we continued to work with our partners outside the region in order to implement the plans. WION: How do you see India role vis-a-vis Asean, and the ties with Vietnam? If you can provide details on the upcoming virtual summit as well. Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: When you talk about dialogue partner of Asean, we should not forget or ignore the importance of role played by India. India and Asean established dialogue partner relations in 1992. Recently we have upgraded bilateral relations to comprehensive partner. We are having India-Asean summit. Concerning the virtual summit between Vietnam and India, normally we have summit every 2 years. This time, because of the pandemic we have to organise it virtually. Two sides are preparing for it. You know for Vietnam, India is one of the most important partners because it is comprehensive strategic partner of Vietnam. It has wide range of issues to be discussed and talk on this occasion. Recently we finished joint commission meeting of the 2 foreign ministers of the 2 countries who have identified the pillars of the strategic partnership. At PM levels, they will review, basic 2 pillars are defence and security, and trade and economic partnership. WION: How has been Covid cooperation between both countries? Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: Certainly we will discuss the common efforts, in order to address effectively the pandemic. We also, discuss cooperation in pharma area. Both sides have exchanged experience and efforts in order to put Covid under control. Vietnam will compliment India for effort it has put to control the pandemic. We also share with India, what we done to make our country, Covid free. WION: How do you see India-Asean ties, cooperation between India and the grouping? Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: India is a very important country, it is going to be global partner for ASEAN and as a global player India will assume responsibility in many many fields. So we need to strengthen further cooperation that has been in existence between Asean and India, also between India and Vietnam. If you talk about specific sectors, number of things can be done--we can improve Mekong-Ganga cooperation, review the FTA, talk about people to people connectivity and deepening our economic and trade connectivity, which is very important. Two PMs have set the target of USD15 billion per year. WION: Amidst the pandemic, one country has been aggressive with both India and Vietnam..your reaction to it.. Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: In the world of growing uncertainty we believe that respect for international law is the most important thing. We call for all countries to abide by international law, to try to abide by the principle of peaceful negotiation of dispute and try to exercise self-restraint to make sure peace and security are in the interest of all the countries in the region. WION: India has been focusing on connectivity with Asean. Any update on it? Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: In order to bring 2 sides closer together, in order to materialise Act East Policy of India, infrastructure and connectivity has been very important. Recently, Vietnam has been able to establish direct air link between the 2 countries, it adds to physical connectivity. Now, on infrastructure connectivity, we hope one day we will have highway connecting various countries crossing Thailand, Cambodia, Laos in order to reach Vietnam. We are very optimistic on that day, but we need to work very hard because it's not easy when it comes to projects. Basically, that is the direction we have to take in future. WION: How do you see the Indo Pacific concept, backed by India. Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau: I think, this concept has been tabled by Asean as a grouping, and one of the key factors which is very similar to the Indo Pacific vision of India, number 1, every country should respect international law, UN charter, UNCLOS, number 2 in any evolving security situation ASEAN centrality should be observed and respected and number 3, anything happens, we need to return to peaceful settlement of all disputes via dialogue and consultations.

India is an important partner: ASEAN chair Vietnam

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