Vietnam Roundup: UN recognition, death sentence cancelled, nuclear power plant

UN Recognition

Vietnam’s artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, outlined in Resolution 57, was praised at the launch of the 2025 Human Development Report in Hanoi for advancing national development and contributing to the country’s rising Human Development Index (HDI), which reached 0.766 in 2023. Experts from the UN, UNESCO, and academia highlighted Vietnam’s progress in digital infrastructure, workforce development, and AI integration across key sectors. However, they also urged the government to establish a national ethical framework for AI, strengthen legal protections, and enhance public education to ensure AI development remains inclusive and human-focused.

Bank leads profit

As of Q1 2025, Vietnam's banking sector remains the most profitable, dominating the country's corporate earnings with 8 out of the top 10 spots and 12 of the top 20, reflecting its central role in financing infrastructure and consumer growth. In contrast, China, while still led by state-owned banks like ICBC and CCB, is gradually shifting profit centres toward tech giants like Tencent and Alibaba. Meanwhile, the U.S. continues to lead globally in profits through its innovation-driven tech sector, with companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia at the forefront.

Death sentence cancelled

The Lao Cai provincial police have confirmed that 10 death row inmates at a local detention facility have had their sentences officially commuted, following a clemency order signed by President Luong Cuong on April 23. This act of leniency, part of a broader national effort, marks the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification and reflects the state’s commitment to compassion and rehabilitation, even for those convicted of the most serious crimes. The decision underscores the Vietnamese government’s humane approach to justice and social reintegration.

Belarus-Vietnam partnership

Belarus and Vietnam have officially established a strategic partnership, following high-level talks in Minsk on Monday between Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, To Lam. President Lukashenko pledged to enforce existing agreements strongly and emphasised Belarus’ interest in deepening bilateral trade. He proposed joint production ventures, particularly in equipment manufacturing, and expressed readiness to resume military-industrial exports to Vietnam.

Nuclear power plant

Russia and Vietnam have agreed to swiftly negotiate and sign intergovernmental agreements for the construction of nuclear power plants in Vietnam, according to a joint statement released during Vietnamese Communist Party chief To Lam’s visit to Moscow. The two countries committed to using advanced technology and adhering strictly to nuclear and radiation safety standards. The agreement is aimed at boosting Vietnam’s socio-economic development and meeting the country’s growing energy demands.