1. Passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong
General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong passed away on July 19, leaving a legacy of invaluable thought and theory on Vietnam’s revolutionary path. His dedication to the nation and people earned him respect from Vietnamese and international communities alike. His life exemplified the virtues of studying and following the ideology, morality, and style of President Ho Chi Minh, inspiring future generations to strive for Vietnam's development and uphold its revolutionary ideals.
2. Key leadership restructuring
To Lam was elected Party General Secretary, Tran Thanh Man became National Assembly Chairman, and Luong Cuong assumed the role of State President. These leadership changes were made during pivotal sessions of the National Assembly, reflecting the unity and resolve of the Party and the people to maintain stability and foster national progress. The Politburo also issued rare disciplinary warnings to high-profile leaders, showcasing a commitment to accountability and ethical governance in Vietnam’s political system.
3. Streamlining the political system
Following Resolution 18, Vietnam began restructuring its political system to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Agencies across Party, State, and socio-political organisations developed plans for streamlined operations. Under the principle of "The central level sets an example," the new apparatus aims to be "elite, streamlined, strong, efficient, valid, and effective." This ongoing reform highlights the Party’s dedication to modernising governance and strengthening public trust while addressing challenges to meet the demands of a new era.
4. 70th anniversary of Dien Bien Phu Victory
On May 7, Vietnam marked the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory with a grand ceremony in Dien Bien province. The event celebrated the historic triumph that "shook the globe" and reinforced patriotism and national unity. It highlighted the Vietnam People’s Army's evolution over eight decades, underscoring its commitment to safeguarding the country’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The victory remains a symbol of resilience and a source of inspiration for future generations.
5. Economic growth amid challenges
Despite global uncertainties and the devastation of Typhoon Yagi, Vietnam achieved GDP growth exceeding 7% in 2024, surpassing targets. Trade turnover neared $800 billion, FDI inflows exceeded $31 billion, and inflation remained below 4%. Tourism rebounded, with international arrivals up 40% from 2023. Vietnam’s national brand value reached $507 billion, ranking 32nd globally. These achievements underscore the country’s resilience and potential as a thriving economy amidst global challenges and natural disasters.
6. Impact of Super Typhoon Yagi
Typhoon Yagi, the most powerful storm in decades, caused severe destruction in Vietnam, leaving 345 dead or missing and 3.2 billion USD in damages. Entire villages were flattened, and thousands were injured. The government’s swift response, combined with national solidarity and international support, ensured effective recovery efforts. People quickly resumed their lives, with significant progress in rebuilding infrastructure and restoring livelihoods. The tragedy highlighted the importance of disaster preparedness and climate resilience in Vietnam.
7. Major project approvals
Vietnam approved two critical projects: the North-South High-Speed Railway and the Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Plant. The 66.7 billion USD railway will address growing transport demands and support sustainable development along the North-South corridor. The nuclear power project will diversify energy sources and enhance energy security. Both projects reflect Vietnam’s commitment to advancing infrastructure and ensuring long-term socio-economic growth while addressing environmental and energy challenges in the face of rapid industrialisation.
8. Completion of 500kV circuit-3 transmission line
The 500kV Circuit-3 transmission line was completed in a record six months, spanning from Quang Binh to Hung Yen. This critical project strengthens national energy security and resolves power shortages in northern Vietnam. Designed and executed by Vietnamese engineers, it showcases the nation’s technical expertise and collective spirit. The success sets a benchmark for future national projects, demonstrating Vietnam’s ability to implement large-scale infrastructure efficiently and effectively under tight deadlines.
9. Revised Land Law passed
The National Assembly passed the amended Land Law, along with revised Housing and Real Estate Business laws. These updates aim to synchronise legal frameworks, foster a sustainable real estate market, and enhance land resource management. Taking effect earlier than planned, the new laws address long-standing institutional bottlenecks and create a favourable environment for socio-economic development. They mark a significant step toward modernising Vietnam’s legal landscape and ensuring efficient land use.
10. 5G network launched
Viettel officially launched Vietnam’s 5G network on October 15, marking a milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. As a pillar of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the 5G network is expected to boost innovation and productivity across industries. In 2024, Vietnam also achieved significant progress in digital government, activating 57.9 million VNeID accounts and establishing 32.1 million electronic health records. These developments highlight Vietnam’s growing focus on leveraging technology for socio-economic growth./.
