Tourist Boat Capsizes in Vietnam’s Halong Bay
HANOI/HALONG BAY – On July 19, a tourist vessel named Wonder Sea carrying 53 people (48 passengers and 5 crew) capsized around 14:00 local time in Halong Bay, Quang Ninh province, as Storm Wipha approached Vietnam across the South China Sea. … Continue reading Tourist Boat Capsizes in Vietnam’s Halong Bay
Trump Tariff Ultimatum Sparks Global Alarm
WASHINGTON – The Trump administration has reignited global trade tensions with a sweeping series of letters to 14 countries, including key allies in Asia, warning of harsh tariffs unless bilateral trade agreements are reached within three weeks. The letters—some outlining … Continue reading Trump Tariff Ultimatum Sparks Global Alarm
Vietnam Emerges as Southeast Asia’s Brightest Star
HANOI – Vietnam is rapidly emerging as a powerhouse in international travel. As of 2024, the country received approximately 17.5 million international arrivals, overtaking Singapore to become Southeast Asia’s third-most-visited destination—behind Thailand (35 million) and Malaysia (25 million). Remarkably, Vietnam has reclaimed 98 % … Continue reading Vietnam Emerges as Southeast Asia’s Brightest Star
Southeast Asia Deepens Ties with Russia
Jakarta/Moscow — In a marked geopolitical pivot, key Southeast Asian nations are intensifying their partnerships with Russia, signaling a shift in the region’s diplomatic posture. Indonesia and Malaysia, two of ASEAN’s most influential members, have both demonstrated growing alignment with … Continue reading Southeast Asia Deepens Ties with Russia
US presses Hanoi to reduce dependence on China
WASHINGTON/HANOI – The US is urging Vietnam to lessen its reliance on Chinese tech in devices assembled locally—such as Apple iPhones, Samsung smartphones, and Meta/Google VR headsets—exported to the American market. Hanoi is hosting meetings with domestic manufacturers to boost … Continue reading US presses Hanoi to reduce dependence on China