France has introduced new legislation to combat unwanted telemarketing calls, which will require companies to prove that individuals have given their explicit consent before being contacted. The law, expected to come into effect in August 2026, aims to protect citizens from harassment and potential scams. According to a recent survey, 97% of French people find these cold calls irritating, with many using tactics such as spoofing phone numbers to reach their targets.
The legislation was prompted by the failure of a existing service, Bloctel, to effectively prevent spam calls. Minister Amelie de Montchalin emphasized that the law will safeguard vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, from falling victim to massive fraud schemes. Senator Pierre-Jean Verzelen, who promoted the measure, stated that companies will have a year to adapt to the new regulations, after which there will be no exceptions.
The law will allow companies to contact individuals only if they have an existing contract or have given explicit consent. This move is part of a broader effort to protect citizens from unwanted marketing and potential scams. Spain is also considering similar action, with its government proposing that telecom operators block calls from firms not using a dedicated prefix to identify themselves as commercial callers.

Severe flooding has devastated eastern Australia, particularly in northern New South Wales, leaving 50,000 people isolated and four dead. The floodwaters, which have engulfed homes and roads, are starting to recede, revealing widespread damage. Over 2,000 workers have been deployed to aid in the cleanup and rescue efforts, with more than 600 people rescued so far.

The region received an extraordinary amount of rain - equivalent to half a year's worth in just three days - breaking flood records in some areas. State Premier Chris Minns described the flooding as unprecedented, with water levels not seen since 1920 in some local tributaries and rivers.

Residents and business owners are assessing the damage, with many expecting a long and challenging recovery process. The government has declared a natural disaster, unlocking additional resources for affected areas. Experts warn that climate change is likely to fuel more extreme weather patterns, citing this week's flooding as evidence of its impact.

The disaster zone stretches across a fertile region of rivers and valleys, with salvage crews preparing to embark on a massive cleanup operation. As waters recede, the full extent of the damage is becoming clear, with homes and businesses severely affected.

Nguyễn Thị Thành, Vietnam’s legendary street food chef known globally as the “Lunch Lady,” has died of cardiac arrest in Toronto at the age of 58, just days before the grand opening of her new restaurant in Canada.



The heartbreaking news was announced on May 21 via Instagram by the team behind The Lunch Lady restaurant in Vancouver — her first overseas culinary venture, which opened in 2020 in collaboration with Vietnamese-Canadian chef Michael Tran.

According to the South China Morning Post, Thành had just arrived in Toronto to prepare for the opening of her second Canadian restaurant, scheduled for June 3, when she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Emergency medical teams were unable to revive her.

Nguyễn Thị Thành rose from the bustling streets of Đa Kao Ward in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 to international stardom after a chance encounter with the late American celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain in 2008. Bourdain, known for his deep appreciation of authentic street cuisine, was captivated by her rotating daily menu of Vietnamese noodles, soups, and broths. He dubbed her the “Lunch Lady” — a nickname that stuck and made her an icon in global culinary circles.

“She served a different dish every day, and every one was unforgettable,” Bourdain said at the time. The praise from Bourdain — and later, media attention from around the world — turned her tiny food stall into a global foodie pilgrimage site.

Michael Tran, her business partner and founder of The Lunch Lady Vancouver, penned a heartfelt tribute:

“Cô Thành wasn’t just the heart and soul of The Lunch Lady. She was a mother, a mentor, and a quiet master of her craft. Her food told stories. Her presence made people feel seen. Her legacy lives in every bowl, every herb, every careful moment in the kitchen.”

Thành’s influence extended far beyond Vietnam. Her humble, rotating menu concept inspired a wave of modern Vietnamese eateries. She showed the world that extraordinary flavor doesn’t need white tablecloths — just heart, history, and herbs.

Plans are being made to bring her body back to Vietnam. In Ho Chi Minh City, fans and loyal customers are preparing to honor her with tributes at the original stall where it all began.

A queen of street food has left the table — but her legacy will simmer on forever.

VietBF@ Sưu tập

President Donald Trump recently unveiled plans for a massive, multi-billion dollar "Golden Dome" missile defense system for the United States, which he anticipates could be operational within approximately three years. Speaking from the Oval Office alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Trump asserted that this advanced system, once fully built, would be capable of intercepting missiles launched from anywhere in the world, including space, making it "the best system ever built."


The president specified that the chosen architecture for the "state-of-the-art" system will integrate next-generation technologies across land, sea, and space, including space-based sensors and interceptors. U.S. Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein, the vice chief of space operations, has been tasked with overseeing this ambitious project.

Trump estimated the total cost of the "Golden Dome" to be around $175 billion, noting that an initial $25 billion has already been allocated in the upcoming year's defense funding package. He emphasized the critical importance of this endeavor for the nation's "success and even survival," citing the dangerous global landscape. Furthermore, Trump mentioned that Canada has expressed interest in joining the project.


For months, the president has advocated for a U.S. missile defense shield akin to Israel's highly effective Iron Dome. He had previously urged Congress in March to fund a "state-of-the-art Golden Dome shield to protect our homeland" and, in January, shortly after taking office, signed an executive order mandating the creation of "The Iron Dome of America."

While Trump remains optimistic about completing this colossal undertaking before his term concludes, analysts have voiced skepticism regarding the feasibility of developing such a comprehensive system for a country as vast as the United States, which is significantly larger than Israel.

Gerry Connolly, a prominent Democratic Congressman representing Northern Virginia and a strong advocate for the federal workforce, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 75. His family confirmed his death through a statement from his congressional office, expressing their pride in his enduring life's work and acknowledging the significant void his absence would leave.


Connolly had announced on April 28, 2025, that he would not seek re-election in 2026 and would step down as the ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform due to a recurrence of esophageal cancer. In an email to his constituents, he stated that his time in public service was nearing its end, conveying his joy in having served them.


He had initially disclosed his cancer treatment in November 2024. Despite this, just weeks later, he secured the position of ranking Democrat on the Oversight panel, winning a closed-door caucus vote against Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).

As the former chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Connolly represented a district with a large population of government employees, for whom he was a consistent champion. In 2010, while seeking re-election, he highlighted his district's high education levels and its understanding of economic drivers, stating, "They know how they’re employed; they know what generates economic activity. And it isn’t to say we embrace big bad government, not at all. We care about the deficit. I’m a deficit hawk. We believe the budget ought to come closer to balance — but not with a meat cleaver, with a scalpel."

During the Trump administration, Connolly became a vocal defender of U.S. government workers. In May 2025, he criticized President Trump and the Department of Government Employees (DOGE), stating, "Since day one, Trump and DOGE have wasted no time attacking the federal workforce, mercilessly slashing funding for life-saving services, and ripping away Americans’ access to basic necessities."

Connolly's interests also extended to global affairs. From 1979 to 1989, he worked as a staffer on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, authoring reports on American foreign policy. In Congress, he served on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and participated in various caucuses focused on international relations. In 2024, he was elected acting president of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, an organization dedicated to addressing challenges faced by NATO member states. Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), a former president of the Assembly, praised Connolly in April 2025 for his "relentless in his pursuit of establishing a Centre for Democratic Resilience at NATO headquarters, which will recognize the importance of strengthening democratic institutions across NATO allies and partner nations.”




Born Gerald Edward Connolly on March 30, 1950, in Boston, his family had historical ties to the Kennedys. He once remarked, upon his father's passing in 2016, that his father's role as a "Boston Democratic ward committeeman and a delegate to the 1962 state convention that nominated Ted Kennedy to the U.S. Senate" instilled in him a lifelong passion for politics and public service.


Connolly initially considered a career in the priesthood, spending several years studying at a seminary. In a 2012 interview, he explained his motivation: “I wanted to be a priest. I grew up in an Irish Catholic home and was the product of a Catholic education. I liked the message of the church and wanted to help other people.” However, he ultimately felt the church was not sufficiently engaged with major political issues of the time, such as the Vietnam War, leading him to pursue a different path. He studied literature at Maryknoll College in Illinois before attending Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.


In that same 2012 interview, Connolly reflected positively on his career trajectory, stating, “I’ve never lost an election, and that’s everything from being the president of my high school, president of my college, president of my graduate school at Harvard, a twice-elected national delegate, president of my freshman class in Congress and I’ve won eight elections. This will be my ninth. But I’m very wonkish. I really love public policy.” His electoral victories included his 1995 election to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, his elevation to board chair in 2003, and his 2008 victory for an open House seat against Republican Keith Fimian. In a close 2010 rematch against Fimian, he narrowly secured the win, commenting, “While trees were falling all over the woods, this one didn’t,” after Fimian conceded.

Potential Dangers of Combining Durian with Certain Foods and Beverages
Durian, a fruit known for its unique flavor and aroma, is also packed with beneficial nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein, and various phytonutrients. Dr. Huynh Tan Vu of Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital highlights its numerous health advantages, including strengthening the immune system, aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and potentially even preventing cancer, supporting thyroid function, easing joint pain, and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.


However, despite its health benefits, durian should not be consumed with certain other foods and beverages due to potential adverse reactions.

Here's why you should avoid pairing durian with these items:

Alcohol: Consuming durian alongside alcohol can significantly increase internal body heat. For individuals with pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, this combination can lead to severe symptoms like headaches, heart palpitations, and in extreme cases, internal bleeding or stroke.

Certain Meats and Seafood: Durian is naturally high in sugar, potassium, and fat, and has a high glycemic index. When eaten with fatty meats like beef, lamb, or dog meat, or with seafood—all of which are rich in saturated fats and protein—this combination can cause a sudden and significant surge in blood cholesterol levels.

Spicy Foods: Given durian's inherent "warming" properties, it is advisable to avoid eating it with spicy ingredients such as chili, ginger, garlic, or pepper. This particular combination can lead to feelings of restlessness and general discomfort.

Coffee: Durian contains sulfur compounds that can interfere with the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase when combined with the caffeine found in coffee. This inhibition prevents the body from effectively neutralizing a large percentage (up to 70%) of oxidants within cells, potentially leading to a buildup of toxins and other negative health effects.

According to Narayana Health, a prominent private hospital network in India, liver detoxification is a critical component in managing fatty liver disease. This condition, often a consequence of unhealthy dietary habits, excessive alcohol consumption, or obesity, can lead to substantial and lasting liver damage if left unaddressed. Therefore, incorporating fruits that aid in detoxification can be a proactive step in maintaining liver well-being.

Here are five of the most effective fruits for supporting liver detoxification:

Grapefruits
Grapefruits are a powerhouse of antioxidants, particularly naringenin, a flavonoid known for its protective effects on the liver. Beyond its antioxidant benefits, the fruit's high vitamin C content actively assists the liver's detoxification pathways and provides a boost to the immune system, making it a valuable addition for liver health.

Blueberries
Widely recognized for their potent antioxidant properties, blueberries are rich in anthocyanins. These compounds are instrumental in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress within the liver, which are common culprits in liver damage. Regular consumption of blueberries may contribute to safeguarding liver cells and improving overall liver function.

Apples
Apples offer a significant amount of pectin, a type of soluble fiber that plays a crucial role in eliminating toxins from the body. By doing so, pectin effectively reduces the workload on the liver, allowing it to function more efficiently. Additionally, the high water content in apples helps to keep the liver hydrated, further enhancing its natural detoxification capabilities.

Lemons
Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C and various antioxidants, both of which are vital for stimulating the production of liver enzymes that facilitate detoxification. Moreover, lemons promote the generation of bile, a digestive fluid essential for the liver's ability to process and effectively eliminate waste products from the body.

Grapes
A 2022 study published in the U.S. National Library of Medicine underscored the effectiveness of grape seed proanthocyanidin (GSPE), a natural polyphenolic compound found in the skins and seeds of grapes. This compound was highlighted for its ability to defend against liver tissue damage and oxidative stress. Furthermore, grapes, especially the red and purple varieties, contain resveratrol, a compound shown to reduce liver inflammation and protect liver cells. Consuming grapes regularly can therefore contribute to improved liver functions.

China has pledged an additional $500 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) over the next five years, Vice Premier Liu Guozhong announced at the World Health Assembly in Geneva. The move comes as the WHO grapples with a significant budget shortfall following the expected withdrawal of funding from its top donor, the United States, under the Trump administration.

Liu criticized "unilateralism and power politics," emphasizing multilateral cooperation as essential for global health security.

To manage the shortfall, the WHO has already slashed its 2026–2027 budget by 21% to $4.2 billion and plans to raise member states' mandatory contributions by 20% over two years. This shift would make China the WHO’s largest state contributor. However, it remains unclear whether China's $500 million pledge includes this mandatory fee increase.

The funding development could reshape global health governance, elevating China’s influence in the WHO as the organization seeks financial stability.

Despite the dedicated treatment provided by the Party, the State, a team of professors and medical doctors, and the devoted care of his family, his advanced age and declining health ultimately led to his passing.



Former Politburo member and former State President Trần Đức Lương—born on May 5, 1937—has passed away at 22:51 on May 20, 2025 at his private residence, aged 88, after a period of illness, the Specialised Council for Protection of Central-level Officials' Health announced on Tuesday afternoon.

Despite the dedicated treatment provided by the Party, the State, a team of professors and medical doctors, and the devoted care of his family, his advanced age and declining health ultimately led to his passing.

Details regarding the memorial, funeral, and burial ceremonies for Trần Đức Lương will be announced at a later time.

Born in the central province of Quảng Ngãi, he has served as the State President between September 1997 and June 2006. before his retirement.

On February 3, President Lương Cường has bestowed him with the 65-year Party membership badge for Lương, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the Party and nation's revolutionary cause.

VietBF@ Sưu tập

Nguyen Thanh Phong, former head of the Vietnam Food Administration, has been arrested along with four subordinates for allegedly taking bribes in a major counterfeit dietary supplement scandal.

The Ministry of Public Security's Anti-Corruption Police Department (C03) said Tuesday it would prosecute Phong and Dinh Quang Minh, director of the Center for Food Safety Application and Training, Nguyen Thi Minh Hai, its deputy director, specialist Le Thi Hien, and Cao Van Trung, deputy head of the food poisoning surveillance department.


Nguyen Thanh Phong, former director of Vietnam Food Administration under the Ministry of Health. Photo by VnExpress/Linh Dan

Hai has been placed under house arrest, while the remaining four have been taken in.

Phong served as head of the VFA for two terms from 2015 until the end of last year. The agency is tasked with advising the health minister and enforcing food safety regulations.

Their arrests is part of a wider investigation into the production of hundreds of tons of counterfeit dietary supplements by Nguyen Nang Manh, CEO of MegaPhaco and Chairman of MEDIUSA, both based in Hanoi.

According to C03, Manh and his associates distributed fake supplements by bribing inspection teams from the VFA for securing favorable reports, guidance on how to fix violations and gain extra time to comply with regulations.

The five officials are also accused of wrongfully approving four good manufacturing practice certifications for MediPhar and MEDIUSA's factories and issuing 20 product registration certificates for nine of Manh's companies.

Earlier, the police had also arrested Manh and several others, including directors and accounting staff from related companies, for producing and trading counterfeit food products and violating accounting regulations, causing serious consequences.

Investigators said the group used low-quality or untraceable raw materials, some imported from China, and falsely labeled the final products as being imported from the U.S. or Europe.

Tests revealed that the actual amounts of many ingredients were less than 30% of what was stated on the product labels.
Police seized about 100 tons of fake functional foods. Photo: Photo by police

Police seize about 100 tons of fake supplements at a facility in Vietnam. Photo by police

Since 2016 Manh and his accomplices allegedly set up multiple companies to legalize the production and sale of fake supplements targeted at elderly people and children.

The counterfeiting occurred through the entire production process, starting from the import of raw materials to manufacturing, packaging and distribution.

The group also maintained two sets of accounting records, one for internal use and one for tax authorities, to evade taxes, causing the government losses that have yet to be announced.

When alerted to the investigation, they attempted to destroy evidence, shut down factories and flee. Nevertheless, raiding police officers found 100 tons of fake supplements.


VietBF@ Sưu tập

Former Uruguayan President José Mujica, a onetime Marxist guerrilla and flower farmer whose radical brand of democracy, plain-spoken philosophy and simple lifestyle fascinated people around the world, has died. He was 89.

Uruguay's left-wing president, Yamandú Orsi, announced his death, which came four months after Mujica decided to forgo further medical treatment for esophageal cancer and enter hospice care at his three-room ranch house on the outskirts of Montevideo, Uruguay's capital.

"President, activist, guide and leader," Orsi wrote of his longtime political mentor before heading to Mujica's home to pay his respects. "Thank you for everything you gave us."

Mujica had been under treatment for cancer of the esophagus since his diagnosis last spring. Radiation eliminated much of the tumor but soon Mujica’s autoimmune disease complicated his recovery.

In January, Mujica’s doctor announced that the cancer in his esophagus had returned and spread to his liver. In recent days, "he knew that he was in his final hours," said Fernando Pereira, the president of Mujica's left-wing Broad Front party who visited the ailing ex-leader last week.

A colorful history and simple philosophy

As leader of a violent leftist guerrilla group in the 1960s known as the Tupamaros, Mujica robbed banks, planted bombs and abducted businessmen and politicians on Montevideo’s streets in hopes of provoking a popular uprising that would lead to a Cuban-style socialist Uruguay.

A brutal counterinsurgency and ensuing right-wing military dictatorship that ruled Uruguay between 1973 and 1985 sent him to prison for nearly 15 years, 10 of which he spent in solitary confinement.

During his 2010-2015 presidency, Mujica, widely known as "Pepe," oversaw the transformation of his small South American nation into one of the world’s healthiest and most socially liberal democracies. He earned admiration at home and cult status abroad for legalizing marijuana and same-sex marriage, enacting the region’s first sweeping abortion rights law and establishing Uruguay as a leader in alternative energy.

Rejecting the pomp and circumstance of the presidency, he drove a light blue beat-up 1987 Volkswagen Beetle, wore rumpled cardigan sweaters and sandals with socks and lived in a tin-roof house outside Montevideo, where for decades he tended to chrysanthemums for sale in local markets.

"This is the tragedy of life, on the one hand it's beautiful, but it ends," Mujica told The Associated Press in a wide-ranging October 2023 interview from his farmhouse. "Therefore, paradise is here. As is hell."


Uruguay's President Jose Mujica poses for a photo with his dog, Manuela, at his home on the outskirts of Montevideo, Uruguay, May 2, 2014. Photo by AP

As the Uruguayan government declared three days of national mourning, tributes poured in from presidents and ordinary people around the world. The first to share remembrances were allied leaders who recalled not only Mujica's accomplishments but also his hallowed status as one of the last surviving lions of the now-receding Latin American left that peaked two decades ago.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro praised Mujica as a "great revolutionary." Bolivia’s former socialist president, Evo Morales, said that he "and all of Latin America" are in mourning. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called Mujica "an example for Latin America and the entire world." Brazil's Foreign Ministry described him as "one of the most important humanists of our time."

Chile's leftist President Gabriel Boric paid tribute to Mujica's efforts to combat social inequality.

"If you left us anything, it was the unquenchable hope that things can be done better," he wrote. "The unwavering conviction that as long as our hearts beat and there is injustice in the world, it’s worth continuing to fight."

From robbing banks to running Uruguay

Mujica never attended university and didn’t finish high school. But politics piqued his interest as early as adolescence, when the young flower farmer joined the progressive wing of the conservative National Party, one of the two main parties in Uruguay. His pivot to urban guerrilla warfare came in the 1960s, as leftist struggles swept the region in the wake of the Cuban Revolution.

He and other students and labor radicals launched the Tupamaros National Liberation Movement, which quickly gained notoriety for its Robin Hood-style exploits aimed at installing a revolutionary government.

By 1970, the government cracked down, and the Tupamaros responded with violence, planting bombs in upscale neighborhoods and attacking casinos and other civilian targets, killing more than 30 people.

Mujica was shot six times in a firefight with police in a bar. He helped stage a prison break and twice escaped custody. But in 1973, the military seized power, unleashing a reign of terror upon the population that resulted in the forced disappearance of some 200 Uruguayans and the imprisonment of thousands.

During his time in prison, he endured torture and long stretches in solitary confinement, often in a hole in the ground.

After power returned to civilians in 1985, Mujica left prison under an amnesty that covered the crimes of the dictators and their guerrilla opponents. He entered mainstream politics with the Broad Front, a coalition of radical leftists and centrist social democrats.

Rapidly rising through the party ranks, Mujica charmed the country with his low-key way of living and penchant for speaking his mind. In 2005 he entered government with the Broad Front as an agricultural minister. Just four years later he was Uruguay’s 40th president, elected with 52% of the vote.

His wife, Lucía Topolansky, a former co-revolutionary guerrilla member who was also imprisoned before becoming a prominent politician, bestowed the presidential sash on Mujica at his inauguration, as is custom for the senator who had received the most votes. They married in 2005 and had no children.

"I’ve been with him for over 40 years, and I’ll be with him until the end," she told a local radio station Sunday as Mujica's condition deteriorated.

A folksy president who fascinated the world

Pepe’s bracingly modest and spontaneous style as president — distributing pamphlets in the streets against machismo culture, lunching in Montevideo bars — made him a populist folk hero and token of global fascination.

"They made me seem like some impoverished president, but they were the poor ones ... imagine if you have to live in that four-story government house just to have tea," he told the AP of his decision to shun the presidential palace.

Over his years in power, Mujica presided over comfortable economic growth, rising wages and falling poverty. In speeches, he pushed Uruguayans to reject consumerism and embrace their nation’s tradition of simplicity.

Under his watch, the small nation became known worldwide for the strength of its institutions and the civility of its politics — rare features most recently on display during Uruguay’s 2024 presidential vote that vaulted Orsi, Mujica’s moderate protégé, to power.

Mujica's greatest innovations came on social issues. During his term, Uruguay became the first country in South America to legalize abortion for the first trimester and the first in the world to legalize the production, distribution and sale of marijuana. His government also legalized same-sex marriage, burnishing Uruguay’s progressive image in the predominantly Catholic region.

Mujica's government also powered a green energy revolution that transformed Uruguay into one of the world's most environmentally friendly nations. Today the country generates 98% of its electricity from biomass, solar and wind energy.

His tenure was also not without controversy. The opposition complained of rising crime and swollen fiscal deficit that forced his successor to raise taxes.

Some world leaders disapproved of his disdain for the established order. Conservative Uruguayans voiced outrage over his progressive policies.

Still, Mujica ended his tenure with a 60% approval rating. Ineligible to seek re-election because of a ban on consecutive terms, he continued to wield influence at home as an elected senator and abroad as a trailblazer and sage.

Even so, his humility defined him until the end.

"They ask you: ‘How do you want to be remembered?’ Vanity of vanities!" he exclaimed to the AP. "Memory is a historical thing. ... Years go by. Not even the dust remains."


VietBF@ Sưu tập

The bomb was discovered beneath the water trench.


The MK82 bomb weighs approximately 200kg. Photo: AD

While digging a water ditch, residents in Long An uncovered a highly lethal 200kg MK82 bomb, a remnant from the war era.

On May 13, the Military Command of Duc Hue District (Long An Province) coordinated with relevant forces to safely handle and dispose of the MK82 bomb, which weighed approximately 200 kilograms and posed a serious explosive threat.

Three days prior, while digging a trench next to his house in Binh Hoa Nam Commune, local resident Ho Van Dang unearthed the bomb buried beneath the soil. Recognizing the danger, he immediately reported the discovery to the commune’s military command.

Authorities quickly arrived at the scene, cordoned off the area, and evacuated residents to a safe distance.

Upon inspection, the bomb was identified as an MK82 model, known for its high explosive potential and severe lethality. Experts warned that improper handling could trigger detonation, making it a serious public safety hazard.

A military engineering team successfully defused, dismantled, and safely destroyed the bomb in accordance with technical procedures, ensuring complete safety for residents and surrounding areas.


VietBF@ Sưu tập

On May 14, the city’s Urban Infrastructure Construction Investment Project Management Board (known as the Urban Infrastructure Board) held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the beginning of the project.

The plan includes upgrading the stormwater drainage system to address rain-induced flooding around Lang Hoa Park and major roads such as Nguyen Van Khoi, Le Duc Tho, Pham Van Chieu, and Street No. 51. The project is also expected to improve traffic conditions, environmental sanitation, and the urban aesthetics of the area.

According to Van Phu Thai, Deputy Director of the Urban Infrastructure Board, the work will be carried out on high-traffic arteries with a total length of over 4.7 kilometers. New concrete sewer pipelines with a diameter of 1.2 meters will be installed, and the entire road surface will be repaved with hot asphalt, aligned with existing elevation levels.

Nguyen Thi Doan Trang, Vice Chair of the Go Vap District People’s Committee, noted that Go Vap is one of the most rapidly urbanizing districts in the city. However, the development of transport and technical infrastructure has not kept pace with the area’s growing population.



“The city’s decision to approve and implement this drainage project will help connect infrastructure systems, improve the urban landscape, and raise residents' quality of life,” she said. “It will effectively address stormwater drainage, flooding, and environmental pollution in the area.”

This project follows the May 10 launch of the VND17.2 trillion (approx. USD677 million) Xuyen Tam Canal rehabilitation project. That project involves dredging, environmental improvement, and infrastructure development along the 9-kilometer canal, stretching from the Nhieu Loc–Thi Nghe Canal to the Vam Thuat River across Binh Thanh and Go Vap districts.

The Xuyen Tam project will deepen the canal bed to 3.5 meters and widen it to 20–30 meters. A synchronized system will be built to collect both rainwater and wastewater, aimed at improving water quality and preventing pollution.

Both sides of the canal will also feature new 6-meter-wide roads with two lanes in each direction, 3–4 meter-wide sidewalks, as well as parks, greenery, and lighting systems.


VietBF@ Sưu tập

Da Nang is inviting investors to join a high-tech semiconductor packaging lab project worth approximately $70 million, aiming to advance chip manufacturing and AI research in Vietnam.

The Da Nang Department of Finance has issued an invitation for investors to submit applications for approval of investment policy and investor selection for a laboratory project supporting advanced semiconductor packaging technology.

The project, with a total investment of approximately 1,800 billion VND (around 70 million USD), was proposed by VSAP LAB JSC. It will be built in the second Da Nang Software Park, located in Hai Chau District, on a site covering more than 2,200 square meters.

The four-story laboratory will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support research, manufacturing, and testing of semiconductor products.

The project will focus on research and development in the semiconductor and artificial intelligence sectors, and will also create high-tech electrical and electronic products.

In addition, it will provide technical services such as inspection, analysis, installation, maintenance, consulting, and training related to manufacturing operations.

With a design capacity of 10 million products per year, the project is expected to break ground in the second quarter of 2025 and be completed in the fourth quarter of 2026. The facility will operate for 50 years from the date of investment approval.

According to the Da Nang Department of Finance, investor applications will be accepted from May 10 to May 24. The selection process will approve both the investment policy and the investor without requiring a land use rights auction or open bidding.


VietBF@ Sưu tập

Large drug trafficking cases have uncovered

The April 17 drug raid in Quang Ninh, where Lieutenant Nguyen Dang Khai (29) lost his life, left the public reeling. Before the shock subsided, Phu Tho Police announced the successful takedown of the province’s largest-ever drug case.

After over 10 months of investigation, Phu Tho Police finalized their report, transferring the case to the provincial People’s Procuracy to prosecute 73 suspects. Of them, 29 face charges under Clause 4, Article 251 of the Penal Code, with the maximum penalty of death.

The case began from a small-scale drug-dealing point in Cam Khe District, led by Hoang Van Thu, 48. Initial clues uncovered an inter-provincial, even transnational, drug trafficking network.

During the investigation, agencies seized massive evidence, including over 27 heroin bricks, nearly 278,000 ecstasy pills, hundreds of grams of crystal meth, seven kilograms of ketamine, and other drugs. They also confiscated five guns, 20 bullets, drug production equipment, and about VND2 billion in cash.

More recently, on March 22, the Drug Crime Investigation Police Department (C04), in coordination with Ministry of Public Security units, busted the nation’s largest illegal drug production case to date.

In this operation, C04 arrested 11 suspects (4 Chinese, 3 Taiwanese, 4 Vietnamese), seizing 1.4 tons of high-purity ketamine and nearly 80 tons of chemicals.

C04 found that the ringleader was Truong Xuan Minh, 51, of Taiwanese nationality, China. He came to Vietnam in 2021, where he has lived and worked under the guise of a businessman and investor, and breeds ornamental fish. He connected with locals to rent land, set up workshops, and hire workers to produce drugs.


Relentless crackdown on drug rings

The battle against drug crimes in Vietnam has grown increasingly intense. From border regions to major cities, police forces are tirelessly combating large-scale drug trafficking and distribution networks.

In 2024 alone, the Drug Crime Investigation Police handled nearly 30,000 cases, arrested over 51,000 suspects, and seized tons of various drugs and hundreds of firearms. Several high-profile cases highlight the growing audacity and sophistication of criminals.

On November 15, 2024, in the southern province of Binh Duong, C04 caught Duong Dinh Quang, 31, from Dong Nai and Nguyen Tien Dung, 31, delivering 15 sacks of marijuana. Based on their confessions, authorities raided warehouses in HCM City, Bac Giang, Dong Nai, and Vietnam Post, seizing about 200 kilograms of marijuana and arresting nine suspects. The exhibits totaled 550 kilograms of dried marijuana, 10 kilograms of cannabis resin, and 1.2 tons of packaging, food, and tea used to disguise drugs.

On November 6, 2024, the investigation of Case 424G in Tay Ninh wrapped up, leading to the arrest of Dang Thanh Tuan, 44, in Thong Nhat District in Dong Nai, and Pham Van Tien, 36, in Bien Hoa City, with 30 kilograms of crystal meth, 16 kilograms of ketamine, one gun, and many exhibits seized. At a Tay Ninh storage site, an additional 52 kilograms of synthetic drugs, 900 “happy water” packs, 200 candy pills, and documents were found.

On August 30, 2024, at My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi, authorities caught a group transporting 110 kilograms of synthetic drugs. The case yielded 211 kilograms of drugs and 10 arrests, including a Laotian ringleader.

On February 23, 2024, Hanoi Police discovered a social media-based drug ring led by Hoang Van Ha and Huynh Huu Hoang, seizing over 700 kilograms of marijuana, along with packaging equipment, hydraulic presses, and electronic scales.

On January 21, 2024, C04 and other forces inspected Phuong Lam Bar in HCM City, seizing 435 grams of synthetic drugs and identified 79 people testing positive. The bar, operating all night with a VND50 billion sound system, had staff selling drugs openly.

Following a case involving airline crew smuggling drugs from France, HCM City Police expanded investigations, busting hundreds of rings. To date, they’ve prosecuted 318 cases, arrested 961 suspects, and seized over 319kg of drugs, 12 guns, three grenades, and related exhibits. The total drug transaction value exceeded VND28,000 billion.

Rising numbers, increasingly sophisticated and brazen methods, and even armed criminals show that drug crimes remain a major challenge for authorities.

Most recently, Thanh Hoa Police discovered an inter-provincial drug trafficking ring, led by Nguyen Ba Khanh, born 1989, residing in An Hung Ward, Thanh Hoa City. Khanh often went to Hanoi to rent luxury hotels and motels to buy and sell drugs, sending them by bus to Thanh Hoa.


VietBF@ Sưu tập

A new study has found that climate change is significantly contributing to deaths and economic costs in the United States due to wildfire smoke. From 2006 to 2020, climate change contributed to around 15,000 deaths from exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from wildfires. The annual death toll ranged from 130 to 5,100, with states like Oregon and California being particularly affected.
The economic impact of these deaths was estimated to be around $160 billion during the same period. The study highlights that certain groups, such as children, pregnant people, the elderly, and outdoor workers, are more susceptible to the health risks associated with wildfire smoke. These particles can lodge deep into lungs and trigger coughing and itchy eyes with short-term exposure.
The study's authors used a multidisciplinary approach to quantify the impact of climate change on mortality and economic costs. They analyzed climate conditions, wildfire data, and health research to estimate the effects of PM2.5 from wildfires. The researchers drew on modeled and existing data to reach their findings.
They compared real climate conditions to a scenario without climate change and estimated the levels of PM2.5 from wildfire smoke tied to climate change. The study found that 10% of the 164,000 deaths related to wildfire-PM2.5 exposure from 2006 to 2020 were attributable to climate change.
The study's results are concerning, but not surprising, to experts in the field. Climate change is known to increase drought, extreme weather, and wildfires, which in turn lead to increased PM2.5 emissions. Scholars like Jacob Bendix and Lisa Thompson praise the study for its comprehensive approach and findings.
However, some experts, like Marshall Burke and Patrick Brown, raise questions about the study's conclusions and methodology. They note that linking burned area to smoke is trickier because wind patterns can vary, and non-climate drivers also play a significant role in wildfires.
The study emphasizes the need for policymakers and individuals to take action to mitigate climate change and reduce the risks associated with wildfires. By understanding the impact of climate change on wildfire smoke and mortality, we can work towards reducing the economic and health costs associated with these events. This can involve fuel breaks, prescribed burns, ignition-source regulation, and public health efforts.
Ultimately, the study highlights the far-reaching impacts of climate change on human health and the economy. As the frequency and severity of wildfires continue to increase, it's essential to take proactive steps to mitigate these risks and protect vulnerable populations.

A 30-year-old man from Hanoi's Ha Dong District recently fell victim to an online scam, losing over VND3.5 billion. The man accessed Telegram on April 29, looking for explicit content and became curious about female escort services. He joined a group that claimed to offer such services.
The group administrators told him to deposit money to activate a membership card, promising he would earn commissions. Believing the promise, the man transferred over VND3.5 billion based on the group's instructions. However, he was unable to withdraw any of the promised commissions.
When the man was asked to complete more tasks to withdraw the money, he realized he had been scammed. Understanding the situation, he reported the incident to the police. The authorities have since warned the public about engaging in illicit activities and joining forums or groups related to explicit content online.
The police have also cautioned people about dealing with financial issues with strangers. They advise against paying money online or participating in financial transactions with unclear origins, especially when promises of high returns or attractive investment opportunities are involved.
To avoid falling victim to similar scams, people are advised to only transfer money when they are certain about the recipient's identity. They should also refrain from sending money to strangers, even if they claim to be working with the police, prosecutor's office, courts, or banks.
When encountering suspicious links, individuals should not click on them or install apps from unknown sources. By being vigilant and cautious, people can protect themselves from online scams and financial losses.

The US and China have agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war, reducing tariffs on each other's imports. The US will lower its tariff on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%, while China will reduce its levy on US imports from 125% to 10%. This move aims to de-escalate tensions and foster a more conducive environment for negotiations.
The agreement has sent positive shockwaves through financial markets, with the Chinese yuan surging to a six-month high and European stocks rising sharply. Germany's DAX index jumped nearly 1%, led by gains in Mercedes-Benz, Daimler Trucks, and BMW, while France's CAC 40 index rose by 1.3%. Shares in the Danish shipping group Maersk soared by 12%, and Brent crude oil rose almost 3% to $65.75 a barrel.
Experts are cautiously optimistic about the truce, but note that underlying structural issues remain a significant challenge. Critical issues like intellectual property rights, technology transfer policies, and market access barriers are still unresolved. "The agreement does not represent the resolution of the structural contradictions between China and the United States," warned Wang Wen, head of the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies.
Businesses are advised to use this 90-day window to reassess their supply chains, negotiate better terms with suppliers, and explore alternative markets to mitigate future risks. Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading economist specializing in international trade and supply chain management, suggests that companies should be aggressively evaluating their supply chains and diversifying sourcing outside of China.
The truce may lead to a surge in imports as US companies take advantage of the lower tariffs. However, supply chain experts warn that the 90-day window may not be enough for producers or importers to adjust, given the uncertainty and constant back-and-forth swings in trade policies. Factories in China that have furloughed workers need to bring them back, and raw material orders that were canceled need to be reinstated, which will take time ¹ ².
Potential Outcomes:
Thorough Trade Agreement: A genuine agreement that addresses key concerns and establishes a framework for long-term economic cooperation.
Extension of the Truce: Both sides agree to extend the 90-day period to allow more time for negotiations, potentially with further concessions.
Return to Escalation: If no progress is made, the trade war could reignite, leading to renewed tariffs and economic disruption.
The American Apparel & Footwear Association welcomed the thaw in the trade war but emphasized that only a permanent deal will allow them to make trade and investment decisions. The residual 30% tariff will still make for an expensive back-to-school and holiday season for most Americans ².

The Qatari royal family has proposed gifting a luxury Boeing 747-8, valued at around $400 million, to the U.S. government to serve temporarily as Air Force One. Former President Donald Trump confirmed the potential gift on Truth Social, describing it as a transparent, cost-saving move amid delays in the delivery of new Air Force One jets.

The aircraft, reportedly toured by Trump in February, would ultimately be transferred to his presidential library after his presidency. However, the plan has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats and ethics groups. Critics argue the gift raises serious constitutional and ethical concerns, including potential violations of the Constitution’s Emoluments Clause, which prohibits U.S. officials from accepting gifts from foreign governments without congressional approval.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called it "premium foreign influence with extra legroom," while watchdog group CREW questioned the propriety of accepting such a large gift from a country where Trump has past business ties.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that any foreign gift would be accepted in accordance with the law, and ABC News reported that legal reviews by the White House counsel and Justice Department found the plan to be legally permissible.

Qatar’s government has not yet finalized the gift. Trump is expected to visit Qatar this week, but no official exchange of the aircraft will occur during the visit.

Adding nutrient-dense nuts such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews, and Brazil nuts to your daily meals may support healthy aging and improve overall wellness, according to health experts.

Almonds
Almonds are packed with vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that shields the skin from sun damage, helps it retain moisture, and promotes skin repair. Dermatologist Dr. Raja K. Sivamani of the University of California, Davis, notes that almonds offer essential fatty acids and polyphenols, making them a smart choice for general nutrition. He especially recommends them for post-menopausal women as part of a healthy aging plan.

Walnuts
Rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, walnuts help combat inflammation and support brain health. Research suggests that their high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols can help preserve memory and cognitive abilities as we age, according to UC Davis Health.

Pistachios
Pistachios are among the highest in protein content for nuts, with protein making up 20% of their weight. This makes them filling and helpful for weight control. They also rank highly in antioxidants, just behind walnuts and pecans. These compounds protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to early aging and diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart problems. Additionally, pistachios supply unsaturated fats and potassium, which offer both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Cashews
Cashews provide a good mix of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which contribute to heart health. A 2023 review in the journal Nutrients found strong evidence that eating cashews can reduce the risk of heart-related issues like coronary artery disease and irregular heart rhythms. Earlier studies have also shown that cashews may help lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels.

Brazil Nuts
Found in the Amazon regions of Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru, Brazil nuts stand out for their extremely high selenium content. Selenium is a vital antioxidant that boosts immune function and supports the thyroid. Studies highlighted by Healthline show that selenium helps reduce oxidative stress—an underlying cause of chronic diseases including cancer, diabetes, and heart conditions. Brazil nuts also offer magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and healthy fats, all of which benefit cardiovascular health. However, because of their high fat content, it's best to enjoy them in moderation.