Many US congressmen have supported the US Congress’ approval of permanent normal trade relations status (PNTR) for Vietnam while some have opposed it with alleged charges against Vietnam’s human rights record. That discordant note only reflects the points of view of some hostile forces which are still trying to obstruct the development of Vietnam-US relations.

According to the National Committee on Population, Family and Children, Vietnam has 1.3 million births every year - that is equivalent to the population of a province. A surge in the number of third children is one of the major causes of overpopulation.

In the first half of this year, Vietnam’s agricultural production reached a growth rate of approximately 4 percent. The consumption market for agro-forestry products is considered one of lucrative markets, which had positively boosted production activities in certain sectors.

Following weeks of growing tension and despite warnings and threats from many countries, particularly the US and Japan, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) still went ahead with its missile test-firings early Wednesday morning.

In late June, several Vietnamese nationals residing in California, the US, who have claimed themselves to be patriots organised meetings to talk about democracy in Vietnam and released the so-called 2006 Declaration on Democracy and Freedom. They even petitioned several Western countries to force Vietnam to promote democracy in the country. What is the truth behind the move?

The ninth session of the National Assembly concluded in Hanoi this week. It was a regular activity of the legislature, but of great significance as, in addition to completing its working agenda as usual, it helped perfect the high-level State apparatus.

Vietnam’s upcoming admission to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) will be a comprehensive integration into the world economy, which will have certain impacts on the private economic sector. Therefore, if the sector fails to resolve weaknesses and pending issues, it is likely to suffer losses in the “game”, even right on its own ground.

The National Assembly has completed its law-making programme after approving nine draft laws and two resolutions and giving opinions on 13 more draft laws. Its current session in Hanoi shows deputies have made a great effort to meet urgent requirements for international integration.

The press is an important and effective means for helping to build and promote the traditional Vietnamese culture imbued with national identity. There are two notable things that the press has devoted to this cause. First, it supports, encourages and promotes a healthy and civilised lifestyle. Second, it absorbs, selects and develops the quintessence of overseas cultures and enriches the national culture.

The Secretary General of the Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Choumaly Sayasone began a four-day official visit to Vietnam on June 19. During the visit, leaders of the two Parties and States will exchange measures to boost the traditional friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries to a new height.