National flag of Germany (Photo: Internet) 
De Lasala said Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s official visit to Vietnam in April 2025 - the first by a Spanish prime minister since diplomatic ties were established in 1977 - marked a historic milestone, as leaders of the two countries agreed to work towards upgrading the bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, a goal reinforced by the inaugural meeting of the Joint Committee for Economic, Trade, and Investment Cooperation held in Madrid two months ago.
THe 11th National Patriotic Emulation Congress, PM Pham Minh Chinh's meeting with Can Tho voters, and Vietnam's reaction to the signing of the Joint Statement between Cambodia and Thailand are among news highlights last weekend.
The meeting devoted significant time to voter feedback, particularly regarding the implementation of Politburo Resolution No. 71 on breakthrough development in education and training, and Resolution No. 72 on measures to better protect and improve public health.
Vietnam and Laos have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in border management and development during the 34th annual meeting between their respective border delegations held in Vientiane from December 25–27.
Vietnam will continue to closely monitor the situation, stay ready to engage in dialogue with both countries, and participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)'s joint efforts to resolve disagreements between Cambodia and Thailand, including enhancing the effectiveness of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT).
Patriotic emulation movements across the country have produced landmark achievements in the Ho Chi Minh era, including defeating the COVID-19 pandemic, completing the elimination of substandard housing four months ahead of schedule, building more than 3,000 kilometres of expressways, and advancing science – technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
Launching the emulation movement, PM Chinh clearly stated that the overarching goal of the patriotic emulation movement for the 2026-2030 period is for the independence and freedom of the Fatherland; for the rapid and sustainable development of the country; and for the prosperous and happy lives of the people.
The Party chief stressed that emulation movements must closely follow political tasks and specific goals, using results that benefit the people as the key measure of success.
The 11th National Congress of Patriotic Emulation is an extremely important political and social event of the country, aiming to summarise the patriotic emulation movement and commendation work in the 2021-2025 period, and to propose and launch the patriotic emulation movement for the 2026-2030 stage.
Vice Chairwoman of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Thanh suggested Prof. Kim Hak-min help to encourage Korean enterprises and localities to further expand investments in Vietnam.
The Quang Tri Border Guard Command and the police of Laos' Salavan province will continue to effectively implement their signed cooperation agreements, jointly maintain the implementation of the agreement on border management and land border gate regulations, and build a border of peace, friendship, cooperation and development.
The Cuban Ambassador said the distinction recognises Nguyen Thanh Nghi’s contributions to fostering the traditional friendship, fraternal solidarity and cooperation between Vietnam and Cuba
The 11th National Patriotic Emulation Congress is set to draw 198 guests and 2,025 official delegates organised into 105 delegations.
The exhibition offers Party members and the public, particularly younger generations, an opportunity to gain deeper insights into the Party’s national congresses as well as the major victories and achievements secured by the country and its people under the Party’s leadership.
Politburo member and Permanent Member of the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat Tran Cam Tu urged the commission to keep reforming its thinking and action, elevate the quality of the strategic advisory work, and enhance its capacity for research, analysis, and forecasting—especially in response to major global trends.
Vietnam has become Germany’s “strategic anchor” in Southeast Asia. The shift from a donor – recipient model to a partnership of equals marks a defining turning point, demonstrating the special importance of bilateral relations.
The development of ethnic and mountainous areas is a strategic, long-term task of special importance to political stability, sustainable development and the consolidation of the great national unity bloc, Party leader To Lam said.
The following is a brief review of the day’s events as reported by the Vietnam News Agency.
Emphasising that the successful organisation of the congress would not only create strong momentum for patriotic emulation but also provide valuable experience for preparations for the 14th National Party Congress, PM Chinh requested adjustments and refinements to decorations, exhibitions and artistic performances.
Chairing a hybrid meeting to discuss draft decrees guiding the implementation of National Assembly Resolution No. 254/2025/QH15 on mechanisms and policies to address difficulties and obstacles in enforcing the Land Law, the Deputy PM emphasised that the draft decrees must strictly adhere to Resolution No. 254/2025/QH15, serving only as implementation guidelines without expanding authority beyond what the Resolution permits.
