Latest news with #People'sCommittee
The Star
4 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Hanoi pilots special mechanisms to develop urban railway network
The Cat Linh-Hadong Urban Railway. — VNA/VNS HANOI: Hanoi has issued a resolution introducing a pilot programme for a number of special mechanisms and policies aimed at developing the city's urban railway system. According to the plan accompanying the decision, the city has set clear objectives for fully, strictly and effectively implementing the conclusions of the Politburo and Resolution 188. The plan outlines seven key focus areas, notably including the drafting of specific legal documents to firm up the provisions of the resolution, the planning of the urban railway network and transit-oriented development (TOD) areas, and the preparation and implementation of major investment projects for the 2026-2045 period. Regarding legislative work, the city will establish an inter-agency task force, issue guidance and detailed regulations on route selection, project location, technology transfer mechanisms, design standards and establish criteria for selecting organisations and enterprises to participate in the urban railway sector. The planning efforts will focus on reviewing current land use along railway routes, updating the planning of TOD areas and integrating these into transport and electricity master plans for the capital to ensure sufficient land and energy resources for the projects. For project preparation and implementation, the People's Committee has requested the development of a funding mobilisation plan for the medium-term periods 2026-2030 and 2031-2035. This will involve the flexible use of local budget to advance funds for ODA loan agreement procedures, allocation of public investment capital for certain pre-investment activities and thorough preparation of land clearance, compensation, resettlement and technical infrastructure relocation. Specifically, the city aims to complete the underground section and begin full operation of the Nhon-Hanoi Station line by 2027. In October this year, construction is set to begin on two lines of Line 2 (Nam Thang Long – Tran Hung Dao section) and Line 5 (Van Cao – Hoa Lac section). Between 2026 and 2030, additional sections will be developed, including Line 3 (Hanoi Station – Yen So), Line 2 (Tran Hung Dao – Thuong Dinh), Line 2 (Nam Thang Long – Noi Bai), and the extension of Line 2A to Xuan Mai. Subsequent phases will continue implementing lines as per the master plan to 2045. The People's Committee has instructed relevant departments, agencies, units and local departments along project routes to organise and allocate staff to implement the plan with the highest sense of responsibility. The Hanoi Metropolitan Railway Management Board (MRB) has been assigned as the standing agency to oversee and coordinate the entire implementation process. — Vietnam News/ANN
The Star
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Spectacular fireworks light up HCM City to mark 50 years of National Reunification
Fireworks light up the night skies in HCM City to mark the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification. - Photo: VNA/VNS HCM CITY: At exactly 9pm on Wednesday (April 30), brilliant fireworks lit up the skyline of HCM City, greeted by cheers and applause from thousands of residents. The city hosted high-altitude firework displays at two locations: the Saigon River Tunnel area in Thu Duc City and Ben Duoc Temple in Cu Chi District. For fifteen minutes, the skies sparkled with an awe-inspiring showcase of pyrotechnics. The event formed part of a wider programme of cultural and sporting activities celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025). Excited spectators captured the dazzling spectacle, many sharing a deep sense of pride and joy as they marked the historic milestone. Onlookers enjoy a 3D Mapping projection of the symbol of 50 years of Southern Liberation and National Reunification in the city. - Photo: VNA/VNS Phan Suong Tuyet Mai, a resident of Binh Chanh District, said she had watched fireworks in the city many times, yet the experience still felt new. 'Nothing brings more joy than hearing fireworks on the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification,' she said. Nguyen Thi Thu Phuong, from the northern province of Thai Binh, said: 'This is my first time seeing fireworks in HCM City. I wanted to enjoy every moment of the commemorative occasion with my family.' Foreign visitors also joined in the festivities, with the displays leaving a lasting impression on international friends. German tourist Anna Stimkker said she had read about the April 30 holiday and learned that it is a time to celebrate the anniversary. She thoroughly enjoyed watching the cultural events and remarked on how wonderful it was to see people coming together to celebrate with such enthusiasm. In addition to the two main firework sites, lower-altitude fireworks were launched at 28 other locations across the city's districts. A drone light show was also held at 9.20pm. Earlier in the evening, at 7pm, Nguyen Hue pedestrian street in District 1 hosted a mass dance performance titled Vu dieu khan ran (The Dance of the Checkered Scarf), featuring more than 400 artists. The event paid tribute to the image of southern Vietnamese soldiers and created a vibrant street art atmosphere rich in local culture. The spectacular firework show in HCM city. - Photo: VNA/VNS At 7pm, a mounted parade by the mobile police cavalry unit marched along Nguyen Hue Street from Ton Duc Thang Street to the Lotus Fountain, wowing spectators with their ceremonial presence and well-trained horses. Crowds also enjoyed a 3D mapping display projected onto the façade of the People's Committee headquarters of the city. The visual showcase blended light and music to depict HCM City's dynamic development and the nation's historical journey in a captivating experience. Beyond the city centre, local stages and theatres contributed to the holiday spirit with a wide variety of performances from April 30 to May 1. The Idecaf Drama Theatre will stage 'Le Chi Vien! Bi mat vuon Le Chi' (Le Chi Vien! The Secret of Le Chi garden) on the evening of May 1 at Thanh Nien Theatre. At the same time, The Gioi Tre Stage will debut the play 'Co dao lai hat' (The Actress sings again). Other highlights include 'Ngu quy tuong phung' (Five fortunes reunited) at Thien Dang Theatre on Wednesday, '13 Duc thay - Duc thay 13' (The 13 Masters – Master 13) today, 'Mat Doi mat' (Face to face) at the Nho Stage Drama Theatre on Wednesday, 'Cay but than' (The Magic Brush) and the drama 'Dong chi'(Comrade) today. - Vietnam News/ANN
The Star
26-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
HCM City thrives 50 years post-reunification: insights from a city official
HCM CITY: Ho Chi Minh City has undergone a significant transformation over the past 50 years, emerging from the shadows of conflict to become one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic metropolises. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of South Vietnam liberation and national reunification, Vietnam News reporter Bo Xuan Hiep speaks with Vo Van Hoan, vice chairman of the municipal People's Committee (Administration), about the city's achievements since 1975 and the vision for the future. Can you share your view about how HCM City has developed since Vietnam's reunification in 1975? In 1975, when the war ended, HCM City, formerly known as Saigon, was a city grappling with the aftermaths of conflict. Infrastructure was undeveloped, the economy was in disarray, and social services were stretched thin. However, the determination of its people paved the way for recovery. One of the most significant achievements in HCM City's post-reunification era has been its economic growth. An important moment came in 1985 when 70 American business representatives visited, signalling the start of a new chapter in global engagement for us. The shift towards a market economy in the late 1980s, known as "Doi Moi" (Renewal), catalysed this transformation. HCM City is currently home to thousands of businesses, startups, and multinational corporations. It has positioned itself as the economic powerhouse of Vietnam, contributing nearly 23 per cent of the national GDP. The city has established solid relationships with 58 cities worldwide and is actively involved in various international organisations. What are the key sectors that have driven this development? Over the past 50 years, HCM City has transformed into a vibrant metropolis driven by key sectors such as manufacturing, services, technology, and logistics. Its manufacturing sector, focused on textiles, electronics, and food processing, has generated jobs and supported local and international markets. Passengers on HCM City's inaugural metro train, which began operation at the end of 2024. - Photo: VNS As Vietnam's largest economic hub, the city enjoys a dynamic retail and wholesale trade landscape due to its strategic location and advanced logistics. The services sector, including finance, banking, real estate, and tourism, has also grown significantly. In addition, the city's transport infrastructure has improved with developments such as the first metro line, which opened recently after 12 years of construction, marking a step toward a modern public transit system. The city is also becoming a thriving tech hub, focused on science, technology, and innovation to drive growth. It aims to launch 5,000 new start-ups by 2030 and already hosts over half of the country's start-ups. Ranked 111th in the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Index, the city stands third in Southeast Asia after Singapore and Jakarta. It also aims to reach the top 100 by 2030 and emerge as a regional start-up powerhouse. What role does culture play in the development of HCM City today? Beyond economic achievements, HCM City has also seen a cultural renaissance. Our rich history and vibrant culture are what make HCM City unique. The city is actually a melting pot of diverse influences, showcasing a blend of traditional Vietnamese culture and modern global trends. Festivals, art exhibitions, and culinary events abound, attracting both locals and tourists. Historic and cultural landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace honour the past while its contemporary galleries and theatres highlight the innovative spirit of the youth. In addition, cultural exchange programmes celebrate the diversity of its ethnic communities, enriching the social fabric and promoting inclusivity. What are the major challenges facing the city in the next decade? Despite these successes, HCM City is facing various challenges, including traffic congestion, pollution, and housing shortages, among others. As the population grows rapidly, many families struggle to find affordable housing, putting pressure on the city's infrastructure. The increase in vehicles has led to frustrating traffic jams that disrupt daily life, making commutes longer and more stressful. In addition, pollution and climate change are pressing concerns that demand green solutions for a healthier future. Healthcare services may also be stretched thin as more residents seek care, highlighting the need for improvement in medical facilities. We are working on comprehensive plans to improve public transport, enhance green spaces, and provide affordable housing. One of the city's most important tasks is to address the disparities between different economic groups to ensure that everyone has access to opportunities and resources. In your opinion, what does the future hold for the city? We envision a city that thrives mainly on innovation and inclusivity. It is focused on leveraging technology to improve governance and service delivery, aiming to create a more transparent and efficient administrative system. Our mission is to empower our citizens, promote equality, and ensure that the benefits of growth are shared by all. The city aims to be a leading economic, financial, and innovative hub in Southeast Asia by 2045, enhancing its global presence through creative diplomacy. With a strategic location, youthful workforce, and expanding consumer market, the city also aims to become an International Financial Centre (IFC) over the next five years. With a rich history, a vibrant economy, and a commitment to sustainable development, the city is poised for a promising future where there is no one left behind. - Vietnam News/ANN
Saudi Gazette
14-03-2025
- Politics
- Saudi Gazette
Syria's president signs temporary constitution amid ongoing conflict
DAMASCUS — Syria's president on Thursday signed a temporary constitution that leaves the country under his group's rule while promising to protect the rights of all Syrians for five years during a transitional phase. The nation's rulers came to power when the former Islamist insurgent group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, overthrew longtime President Bashar al-Assad in a lightning offensive last December. Since then, they have struggled to exert authority across much of Syria, which remains territorially divided and riven by violence. Former HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa is now the country's president. His appointment was announced after a meeting of the armed groups that joined the overthrow of al-Assad, who also agreed to repeal and replace the country's old constitution. While many Syrians are happy to see an end to the al-Assad family's 50-plus-year dynastic dictatorship, the country's religious and ethnic minorities have so far been skeptical of the new leaders, and are reluctant to allow them to take full control of the national government. Abdulhamid Al-Awak, a constitutional law expert and one of the seven members of the committee al-Sharaa tasked to draft the temporary constitution, told a news conference on Thursday that the document holds over some provisions from the previous constitution, including the stipulation that the head of state has to be a Muslim and the primacy of Islamic law. But Al-Awak also said that the temporary constitution includes provisions that enshrine freedom of expression and the media, and will "balance between social security and freedom" while setting up an "absolute and rigid separation" between the legislative, executive and judicial branches of text of the temporary constitution sets up a People's Committee which will serve as an interim parliament until a permanent constitution is adopted and elections held. Two-thirds of its members will be appointed by a committee selected by the president and one-third by al-Sharaa document, published late on Thursday evening, says the Syrian state is "committed to combating all forms of violent extremism while respecting rights and freedoms" and that "citizens are equal before the law in rights and duties, without discrimination based on race, religion, gender or lineage."It also makes clear that the army is a "professional national institution", that arms outside of its control are prohibited, and that "glorifying the former al-Assad regime" is now a crime.A new committee to draft a permanent constitution will be formed, but it remains unclear if it will be more inclusive of Syria's political, religious and ethnic groups than the current what may be a sign of things to come, al-Sharaa has struck a landmark deal with the US-backed and Kurdish-led authorities in northeastern Syria, establishing a ceasefire and merging the insurgent armed forces into the central government's security pact was sealed after government forces and allied groups crushed an insurgency launched last week by gunmen loyal to groups say that hundreds of civilians, most of them from the Alawite minority to which al-Assad himself belongs, were killed in retaliatory attacks by factions involved in the counteroffensive.A key goal of the interim constitution was to provide a timeline for the country's political transition into a permanent arrangement. Al-Sharaa said in December that it could take up to three years to rewrite Syria's constitution and up to five years to organize and hold full appointed a committee to draft the new constitution after a "national dialogue conference" last month. Critics said that the hastily-organised conference wasn't inclusive of Syria's different ethnic and sectarian groups or civil US and Europe have been hesitant to lift harsh sanctions imposed on Syria during al-Assad's rule until they are convinced that the new leaders will create an inclusive political system and protect and regional governments have been urging them to reconsider, given the risk of further instability during a time of deep economic strife. — Euronews
Saudi Gazette
14-03-2025
- Politics
- Saudi Gazette
Syria's interim president signs temporary constitution amid ongoing conflict
DAMASCUS — Syria's interim president on Thursday signed a temporary constitution that leaves the country under his group's rule while promising to protect the rights of all Syrians for five years during a transitional phase. The nation's interim rulers came to power when the former Islamist insurgent group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, overthrew longtime President Bashar al-Assad in a lightning offensive last December. Since then, they have struggled to exert authority across much of Syria, which remains territorially divided and riven by violence. Former HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa is now the country's interim president. His appointment was announced after a meeting of the armed groups that joined the overthrow of al-Assad, who also agreed to repeal and replace the country's old constitution. While many Syrians are happy to see an end to the al-Assad family's 50-plus-year dynastic dictatorship, the country's religious and ethnic minorities have so far been skeptical of the new leaders, and are reluctant to allow them to take full control of the national government. Abdulhamid Al-Awak, a constitutional law expert and one of the seven members of the committee al-Sharaa tasked to draft the temporary constitution, told a news conference on Thursday that the document holds over some provisions from the previous constitution, including the stipulation that the head of state has to be a Muslim and the primacy of Islamic law. But Al-Awak also said that the temporary constitution includes provisions that enshrine freedom of expression and the media, and will "balance between social security and freedom" while setting up an "absolute and rigid separation" between the legislative, executive and judicial branches of text of the temporary constitution sets up a People's Committee which will serve as an interim parliament until a permanent constitution is adopted and elections held. Two-thirds of its members will be appointed by a committee selected by the interim president and one-third by al-Sharaa document, published late on Thursday evening, says the Syrian state is "committed to combating all forms of violent extremism while respecting rights and freedoms" and that "citizens are equal before the law in rights and duties, without discrimination based on race, religion, gender or lineage."It also makes clear that the army is a "professional national institution", that arms outside of its control are prohibited, and that "glorifying the former al-Assad regime" is now a crime.A new committee to draft a permanent constitution will be formed, but it remains unclear if it will be more inclusive of Syria's political, religious and ethnic groups than the current what may be a sign of things to come, al-Sharaa has struck a landmark deal with the US-backed and Kurdish-led authorities in northeastern Syria, establishing a ceasefire and merging the insurgent armed forces into the central government's security pact was sealed after government forces and allied groups crushed an insurgency launched last week by gunmen loyal to groups say that hundreds of civilians, most of them from the Alawite minority to which al-Assad himself belongs, were killed in retaliatory attacks by factions involved in the counteroffensive.A key goal of the interim constitution was to provide a timeline for the country's political transition into a permanent arrangement. Al-Sharaa said in December that it could take up to three years to rewrite Syria's constitution and up to five years to organize and hold full appointed a committee to draft the new constitution after a "national dialogue conference" last month. Critics said that the hastily-organised conference wasn't inclusive of Syria's different ethnic and sectarian groups or civil US and Europe have been hesitant to lift harsh sanctions imposed on Syria during al-Assad's rule until they are convinced that the new leaders will create an inclusive political system and protect and regional governments have been urging them to reconsider, given the risk of further instability during a time of deep economic strife. — Euronews
