Vietnam Roundup: Hong Kong Athletics Championship, Agriculture collaboration with Australia, high gold demand

70 years since battle that ended French colonial rule

Vietnam on May 7 celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu battle, which ended French colonial rule. The battle marked the collapse of colonialism worldwide. “The historic Dien Bien Phu victory is a remarkable event, not only for the Vietnamese revolution. It is also a monumental saga that inspired countries rising to fight for independence and freedom, marking the collapse of colonialism all over the world,” said Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the ceremony. French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu attended the commemorations, the first time a senior French official paid a visit to the site of the battle and took part in the commemorations, according to AP News.

Sustainable agriculture collaboration with Australia

Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment has requested support from the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) in optimising investment resources for sustainable agriculture and rural development. Vietnam's vision includes promoting efficient, sustainable agriculture with integrated multiple-value approaches, and the growth of green, organic, and circular agriculture. According to Vietnam Plus, the ACIAR has been assisting Vietnam since 1993 and is currently focused on climate change and emission reduction initiatives. The collaboration aims to ensure farmers' resilience in the face of climate change.

Highest gold demand since 2015

Vietnam's gold demand in the first quarter of the year reached its highest levels since 2015. This demand was driven by strong investment in gold bars and coins, as well as concerns about inflation and currency depreciation, Vietnam News reports. However, demand for gold jewellery declined. The global gold market also saw strong demand, driving the average gold price to a record high. According to Vietnam News, the State Bank of Vietnam's attempts to stabilise the domestic gold market have had limited success, as the price of gold continues to rise.

Three gold medals at Hong Kong Athletics Championship

Vietnam won three gold medals at the Hong Kong Athletics Championship. Nguyen Thi Oanh won gold in the women's 3,000m steeplechase and 5,000m events, while Bui Thi Loan took gold in the women's triple jump. Two other Vietnamese athletes won bronze medals. The team consisted of four athletes in total, Vietnam Plus reports.

Food poisoning affects over 500

Over 500 people in Vietnam fell victim to food poisoning with 12 in critical condition after eating sandwiches from a bakery in Long Khanh a city in Đồng Nai Province in Southeast Vietnam on April 30. Local authorities reported on May 6 that around 200 people had been discharged since the incident occurred. The bakery has been shut down and suspected of using spoiled ingredients as health officials begin official investigations, according to local media.