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Hanoi has blocked the print distribution of The Economist magazine featuring Vietnam’s top leader on the cover, according to a distributor source. On May 29 (Reuters) – The latest Asia edition of The Economist, with an image of senior Vietnamese leader To Lam on its cover, has been banned in Vietnam, two sources from local media distribution companies told Reuters, marking a fresh instance of censorship in the Communist-led country.

The May 24 edition, still accessible online within Vietnam, features a stylized portrait of Lam with two stars over his eyes on a red background – a visual nod to the national flag – with the headline: “The man with a plan for Vietnam.” The subheading to the main article reads: “A Communist Party strongman must rescue Asia’s great success story.”

Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Information and Communications did not respond to requests for comment on the reported ban. The Economist also did not immediately reply to a request for comment outside business hours in the UK. Vietnam routinely bans books, films, and other cultural works, and many media outlets are also restricted.

“We were ordered to remove the cover and the article about him (Lam), making the magazine unsellable. After that, we were told to stop selling it entirely,” said an executive at local distributor Ngay Moi, declining to be named as she was not authorized to speak to the media. An employee from a second distributor, Global Book Corporation, confirmed that the Ministry of Information and Communications had prohibited circulation of the issue without providing a clear reason.

A third source at the distributor Xunhasaba said they had not encountered the issue, as they had not yet received enough customer orders. Vietnam, a rising manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia, is at a pivotal moment as it aims to sustain its long-running economic boom amid tariff-related trade tensions with the United States that could undermine its export-driven growth.

The article in The Economist describes Lam as an ambitious figure who rose “from the security state” and now “must become a reformer” to reshape the country’s economic model and lead it toward greater prosperity.

Lam, 67, previously headed the powerful Ministry of Public Security for many years before ascending to the pinnacle of Vietnam’s political hierarchy last year, following months of internal power struggles. He first became president, and later, general secretary of the Communist Party – the country’s most powerful position. “Vietnam is confidently stepping into a new era of growth – and the world is watching,” wrote sales director Yumi Thao Nguyen in a LinkedIn post linking to The Economist.

Le Thi Kim Ngoc, who identified herself as “a citizen of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam,” wrote on Facebook that The Economist's portrayal of Lam as a hardliner “obscures serious political and social developments currently unfolding in Vietnam.”

The country ranks 173rd out of 180 in the latest World Press Freedom Index, published by the non-profit organization Reporters Without Borders.

Authorities in this one-party state often detain citizens for so-called “anti-state” comments online and maintain tight control over the press and social media. Last week, Vietnam’s technology ministry issued a ban on the messaging app Telegram, citing allegations of criminal activity by users – noting in an internal document that the platform hosted groups created by “reactionary and opposition forces.”

Many Telegram users in Vietnam were unable to access the app this week. Telegram has not responded to requests for comment on the enforcement of the ban. Previously, the company said it was “surprised” by the measure and noted that it was addressing the newly raised concerns.

On the evening of May 26, singer Jack’s management company (real name Trinh Tran Phuong Tuan, born in 1997) surprised the public by issuing an official statement announcing that they had filed a lawsuit against Thien An. This marked the first time Jack publicly addressed the relationship and shared responsibility for their child.

Shortly after, Jack reposted the statement from his company to his personal Facebook page, which has over 2.2 million followers. The online community immediately exploded, with users rapidly sharing the announcement and flooding it with heated comments.

Instead of merely debating who was right or wrong, many netizens suddenly made a U-turn—writing “apology letters to Jack” and even expressing a desire to join the singer’s fandom. A wave of nearly identical comments—seemingly AI-generated—began to spread across platforms.

Amid the escalating tension, Thien An also made a noticeable move: that same night (May 26), she disabled comments on her personal social media page. Additionally, a previous post she had published in January 2025—accusing an unnamed male singer of irresponsibly abandoning his child—was deleted from all platforms.

When contacted, Thien An’s representative said she was not yet fully aware of the information circulating online and had not received any official court notice. Any response will be given at a later time.

Fans are now eagerly awaiting an official statement from Thien An to clarify the years-long relationship saga.

Back in 2021, the Vietnamese entertainment industry was rocked by a scandal involving Jack and actress Thien An. At the time, Jack was one of the most prominent young singers, with multiple million-view hits, a massive fanbase, and a packed performance schedule. He was hailed as a potential “Vpop phenomenon,” poised to succeed the older generation of artists. But once the scandal broke, Jack’s career essentially stalled.

In August 2021, a female fan unexpectedly accused Jack of “two-timing” and revealed his relationship with Thien An.

Specifically, a woman identified as “V” claimed she had been dating Jack since March 2020. Because the two shared an iCloud account, she discovered a strange number and looked it up on Zalo—only to find out it belonged to actress Thien An. When she confronted Jack, he denied any special relationship. But later, she discovered that Jack and Thien An had a daughter together.

Another woman, “Q,” also came forward, claiming to have been involved with Jack. She said he used to monitor her messages because he feared their relationship would damage his public image. Suspecting that Jack was dating her, Thien An, and V simultaneously, the scandal continued to heat up.

Rumors even spread that Jack and Thien An had lived together and raised a pet. There were unconfirmed reports that K-ICM had to sleep on the floor to make room for the pair, further fueling netizens' outrage.

Under public pressure, Thien An spoke up on August 8, confirming that she had a child with Jack. She revealed that they had been in a relationship supported by both families for two years but broke up just 20 days after the baby was born due to irreconcilable differences. Thien An spoke about the loneliness, betrayal, and hardship of becoming a single mother from pregnancy to childbirth.

She said she once hoped to reconcile with Jack, but after being contacted by other women who revealed the truth, she realized she was just one of many who had been hurt. Her emotional account moved the online community deeply.

Three days later, Jack confirmed the past relationship with Thien An and apologized to the public for the personal drama being discussed online. He said the relationship started from mutual empathy but ultimately did not work out. He denied being in a relationship with anyone and expressed his intention to take full responsibility as a father.

After the scandal, Jack disappeared from the spotlight for a long time before making a musical comeback in July 2022. However, he was quickly embroiled in another controversy involving plagiarism and the unauthorized use of Messi’s image in a music video. Despite this, Jack still appeared at a few events but was much less active online.

In early 2025, Thien An stirred up public attention again by revealing that Jack provided only 5 million VND per month for child support—and had stopped sending money since March 2022. Rumors circulated that she had received 300 million VND from Jack, but her representative denied this.

In January 2025, the drama reignited when Thien An claimed she had been pregnant three times—twice in 2020 she had to terminate due to pressure from Jack and his family. She said she once viewed Jack’s mother as her own, but the older woman advised her to abort the pregnancy, causing a mental breakdown. She gave up her first child on February 13, 2020—just ten days before her birthday. The second child was lost on May 20, 2020.

Ultimately, Thien An decided to keep baby Sol and become a single mom. Her emotional and painful post has since been deleted from all platforms.

Most recently, Jack filed a lawsuit against Thien An for spreading false information and requested the court to confirm paternity and grant him custody of Sol under Vietnamese law. According to Jack’s team, Thien An had cut off contact since the child’s birth and blocked his attempts to reach the child.

The statement read: “Due to vague statements from Ms. Tran Nguyen Thien An, Jack has been unable to access or exercise his rights as a father. To avoid further misunderstandings, Jack has filed a petition with the court requesting a paternity test and legal custody rights. We hope Ms. Thien An will cooperate so the child does not suffer further harm.”

The case is currently under judicial review. The public continues to watch closely, wondering how this four-year-long scandal will finally conclude.

As air pollution continues to worsen in major urban centers, Ho Chi Minh City—the most populous city in Vietnam—is gearing up for an ambitious transformation of its two-wheeled transportation landscape. Over the next 2 to 3 years, the city plans to convert 400,000 gasoline-powered motorbikes into electric ones.

This initiative goes beyond reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It signals a bold move toward sustainable urban development, offering a cost-effective solution for hundreds of thousands of ride-hailing and delivery drivers—workers who now form the backbone of the country’s digital economy.

The Green Shift: Converting 400,000 Motorbikes to Electric

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Development Studies (HIDS), the proposal is entering its finalization phase, with a detailed roadmap expected to be announced in July. The ultimate goal is that by 2027, 100% of all motorbikes used for passenger and delivery services will run on electricity.

The primary focus will be ride-hailing drivers working for platforms like Grab, Gojek, Be, and Baemin, as well as independent delivery riders—all of whom rely on gasoline-powered bikes for daily operations. It's estimated that around 400,000 two-wheelers are currently in service in this sector in Ho Chi Minh City alone.

Fuel Costs: A Daily Burden for Tech-Enabled Drivers

One of the city's major concerns is the operating cost borne by drivers. According to a survey of over 400 drivers conducted by HIDS, the average daily travel distance is between 80 to 120 kilometers, consuming about VND 70,000 to 100,000 worth of gasoline each day.

Worse yet, because drivers often face traffic jams, heavy loads, and stop-and-go conditions during peak hours, fuel consumption can be 20% to 40% higher than normal. In comparison, the cost of charging an electric bike is only about VND 20,000 per day. This means drivers could save between VND 1 to 2 million per month by switching to electric vehicles.

Strong Financial Support from the City

Recognizing that not every driver can afford to shell out tens of millions of dong for a new electric vehicle, the city has outlined a comprehensive financial support program:

• Interest Rate Subsidies: Drivers can take out loans to buy electric bikes with an interest subsidy of 2% from the city budget. For instance, if the market rate is 8%, drivers will only need to pay 6%.

• Tailored Installment Plans: HIDS is working with CEP Microfinance and several banks to offer 24–30 month installment plans. The monthly payments are designed to match the amount drivers would typically spend on fuel—essentially making the switch cost-neutral.

• Waiving Initial Fees: New electric vehicle buyers will be exempt from registration and license plate fees, saving up to VND 3 million.

• VAT Refund Per Trip: For each electric trip worth VND 80,000, drivers could get a VAT refund of VND 6,400—something that has never been offered before.

Phasing Out Old, Polluting Motorbikes

For aging gasoline-powered motorbikes that no longer meet emission standards or require costly repairs, the city plans to implement a buy-back and scrappage program. Businesses involved in motorbike recycling will also be eligible for preferential loans to develop green recycling chains.

Electric Infrastructure: The Bottleneck That Must Be Solved

Despite the clear economic and environmental benefits, the switch to electric vehicles comes with challenges:

• Long Charging Times: A major inconvenience for high-mileage drivers who need quick turnarounds.

• Limited Charging Stations: Especially problematic in densely populated residential areas and narrow alleys.

• Unreliable Backup Power Supply: As demand spikes, the city must ensure a stable power supply and a resilient energy infrastructure.

Ho Chi Minh City plans to develop a network of charging stations, rest stops, and battery-swapping hubs powered by renewable energy. Investors in electric infrastructure will also receive interest rate support.

Transport Companies: Supporting and Committing to the Cause

Be Group—one of Vietnam's leading ride-hailing platforms—has expressed strong support for the initiative. Currently, about 10% of their 500,000 partner drivers are already using electric bikes.

Be has also teamed up with electric vehicle manufacturers like VinFast and Selex Motors to offer incentives such as:

• A VND 3 million discount per vehicle

• 30% discount on battery-swapping fees in the first year

• 4% discount when purchasing the VinFast Feliz S

However, companies are still requesting further assistance with battery costs, management software, and charging infrastructure to ensure a smooth transition.

Don’t Forget the Freelancers

A large portion of drivers operate independently, without being affiliated with any ride-hailing platforms. These drivers often face difficulties accessing financial support or official assistance programs.

The city is exploring ways to include them through used-bike trade-in programs and vehicle exchange initiatives—ensuring that no one is left behind in this green transition.

Target 2030: Fully Green Urban Transit

Ho Chi Minh City isn’t stopping with motorbikes. By 2030, the city aims for all public buses to run on green energy. Out of the 2,200 buses currently operating, about 31% already use electricity or compressed natural gas (CNG)—a figure that is steadily increasing each year.

Long-Term Benefits: Economic, Environmental, and Social

If successful, the project could help the city save hundreds of billions of dong annually for drivers, while also:

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fine dust, and noise pollution

• Improving overall urban quality of life

• Contributing to Vietnam’s pledge to cut emissions by 9% by 2030

• Laying the groundwork for carbon credit trading—a potential economic boost in the future

Conclusion: A Greener Future Is Within Reach

The transition from gasoline to electric motorbikes in Ho Chi Minh City is no longer a far-off dream. With clear financial incentives, a long-term infrastructure vision, and support from the private sector, the city is proving that green mobility is both possible and essential.

For ride-hailing drivers, this isn’t just a chance to cut costs—it’s a way to improve job quality, protect their health, and contribute to a cleaner environment. Most importantly, with the right policies, drivers can make the switch without any upfront investment.

The future of transportation in Ho Chi Minh City is being rewritten every day—and you just might be one of its pioneers.

How can I face the days we spent together,
Now it’s just me walking alone.
How can I express my heart so you’ll understand?
No one has ever truly known me—only you gave me those beautiful days.

With you, with me, with love, with birth, with death, with meaning,
Through every storm, I would still charge ahead—just for the immortal gaze we once shared
With you, with me, with love, with the sky, with the sea, with the earth.
You can’t blame fate—only then do you cherish the time we had.

Even the goodbye was lost for words,
Only left behind is a prisoner’s broken heart.
Drowning in sleep, as everyone…
I’ll share with you the final days of my life.

Still breathing, but without a soul,
Only now do I grasp the meaning of life and death.
Because the love was so deep, it finally understood,
Each emotion now wears a lonely coat.

With you, with me, with love, with the sky, with the sea, with the earth.
Back then, we never said goodbye,
Only through parting did I realize how foolishly the heart loved.
With you, with me, with love, with birth, with prison, with meaning.
I only want to explain how naive I once was,
But now there's no one left to understand.
All that remains is the shadow of past despair,
And the memory of a million aching words.

Drowning in sleep, as everyone…
I’ll share with you the final days of my life.
Still breathing, but without a soul,
Only now do I grasp the meaning of life and death.
Because the love was so deep, it finally understood,
Each emotion now wears a lonely coat.

With you, with me, with love, with the sky, with the sea, with the earth.
Back then, we never said goodbye,
Only through parting did I realize how foolishly the heart loved.
With you, with me, with love, with birth, with prison, with meaning.
I only want to explain how naive I once was,
But now there's no one left to understand.
All that remains is the shadow of past despair,
And the memory of a million aching words.

 Recently, the U.S. government announced a 46% countervailing duty on certain Vietnamese goods — a move that feels less like a policy update and more like a blaring alarm for Vietnamese businesses. While America has long been Vietnam’s largest export market, accounting for nearly 29.5% of total export turnover in 2024 (according to Vietnam Customs), this decision has highlighted just how precariously dependent Vietnam has become on a single trade partner.

The tariff doesn’t just bring higher costs. It signals a deeper shift in U.S. trade policy: increasing scrutiny on origin, environmental, and labor standards. The textile, seafood, electronics, and wood processing sectors are among the most affected — industries that already face growing pressure to prove transparent supply chains and compliance with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards.

Facing such sweeping trade actions, Vietnamese enterprises now find themselves at a strategic crossroads. At a recent “HUBA Business Café” seminar on May 10, Pham Binh An, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Development Studies, warned that companies must re-structure and de-risk their export strategies. “If businesses fail to diversify and adjust now, they will become vulnerable the moment any partner changes its policy,” he cautioned.

One promising path lies in tapping into the vast network of free trade agreements (FTAs) that Vietnam has signed. Countries like Japan, Australia, those in the EU and ASEAN offer more stable trade frameworks with lower technical barriers and preferential tax rates. At the same time, experts emphasize the untapped potential of the domestic market as a long-term anchor — especially in urban hubs like Ho Chi Minh City, which boasts growing logistics, finance, and industrial support infrastructure.

Some industries are already taking action. For instance, Vietnam’s textile sector is working to raise its domestic material sourcing ratio from 40% to 60%, according to Pham Van Viet, Vice Chairman of the HCMC Association of Garment, Embroidery and Knitting. This shift is crucial to minimize risks of origin investigations and reduce reliance on foreign raw materials.

But the real challenge doesn’t stop at supply chains. Global trade is being reshaped by two irreversible trends: green transformation and digitalization. Vietnamese firms that don’t adapt risk being left out of international value chains entirely.

On a national level, economist Dr. Can Van Luc revealed that Vietnam is preparing for three potential scenarios in trade talks with the U.S.:

• Optimistic: Tariffs are reduced to around 10%.

• Neutral: Tariffs drop to 20–25%.

• Pessimistic: Tariffs remain at 46%.

The neutral scenario is considered the most likely — though it could still lead to a 1.2–1.5% decrease in exports and a 3–5% decline in foreign direct investment (FDI). If the worst-case scenario materializes, Vietnam’s GDP growth could slow to 5.5–6%, especially impacting high-value sectors like electronics, plastics, and seafood.

At the monthly government meeting on April 6, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stressed that the U.S. is indeed Vietnam’s top export market — but not its only one. He called this challenge an “opportunity in disguise” to restructure the economy toward speed, sustainability, and innovation. The directive to ministries? Help businesses upgrade quality, open new markets — especially in the Middle East, Latin America, India, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe — and reduce over-dependence on any single market.

In other words: the time for polite hesitation is over. Vietnamese businesses must either adapt — or be left behind.

 Over six decades of steering the Berkshire Hathaway empire, 94-year-old billionaire Warren Buffett made several investments that earned the company hundreds of billions of dollars—most famously in Apple, BYD, and Coca-Cola.

On May 3rd, Buffett officially announced he would step down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway by the end of this year, marking the end of his 60-year reign at the helm of the investment conglomerate.

Often hailed as one of the greatest investors in modern history, Buffett took control of Berkshire Hathaway in 1965, back when it was a struggling textile mill. Over time, he reshaped it into a multi-sector powerhouse through acquisitions and strategic investments. Today, he owns approximately $169 billion in assets—$160 billion of which is in Berkshire stock. The company’s market cap has surpassed $1.16 trillion.

Buffett's remarkable track record has earned him legendary status on Wall Street and the nickname "The Oracle of Omaha"—a tribute to his hometown, where he was born, raised, and spent decades working.

Here are some of Buffett’s most successful and regretful investments throughout his storied career:

Profitable Investments

1. National Indemnity and National Fire & Marine

Insurance has always been a key pillar for Berkshire. In 1967, Buffett acquired National Indemnity and National Fire & Marine for $8.6 million—among his earliest ventures into the insurance industry.

The float (premium money collected before claims are paid) became a vital funding source for Berkshire’s other investments and helped drive the company’s growth. By Q1 of this year, Berkshire’s total float reached $173 billion.

2. American Express, Coca-Cola, and Bank of America

Buffett bought large stakes in these companies during times of turmoil—market crashes or corporate scandals. These holdings have grown by over $100 billion since acquisition, excluding the substantial dividends Berkshire has collected.

3. Apple

Despite his longstanding reluctance to invest in tech, Buffett began buying Apple shares in 2016, saying he viewed it as a consumer brand with exceptional customer loyalty. At its peak, the investment was worth over $174 billion, before Berkshire gradually began reducing its stake.

4. BYD

Following advice from Charlie Munger, Buffett bet big on Chinese EV company BYD in 2008 with a $232 million investment. At one point, this stake grew to over $9 billion. Berkshire has since trimmed its position and now holds $1.8 billion in BYD stock.

5. See’s Candies

The 1972 See’s Candies acquisition was a turning point in Buffett’s investment philosophy. Munger convinced him to focus on quality businesses with competitive advantages, not just cheap ones. Berkshire bought the company for $25 million and, by 2011, had earned $1.65 billion in pre-tax profits from it.

6. Berkshire Hathaway Energy

The energy sector has been a stable cash generator. In 2000, Berkshire bought MidAmerican Energy for $2.1 billion. It was later renamed and expanded to include PacifiCorp and NV Energy. In 2024 alone, this division brought in over $3.7 billion in profit.

Costly Mistakes

1. Berkshire Hathaway (the textile company)

Buffett has called his original 1962 purchase of the Berkshire textile firm his “worst investment.” The business struggled and ultimately shut down in 1985. Ironically, the stock has since soared from around $7–8 to over $800,000, making it a “bad decision that turned out well.”

2. Dexter Shoe Co

In 1993, Buffett paid $433 million in Berkshire stock to acquire Dexter Shoe. He later admitted this was a huge blunder—he gave away 1.6% of Berkshire’s equity for a company that turned out to be worthless.

Buffett has also expressed regret over missed opportunities. He passed on early investments in Amazon, Google, and Microsoft—costing Berkshire billions. He also abandoned plans to buy 100 million shares of Walmart, now worth nearly $10 billion.

Before the pandemic, Buffett soured on bank stocks, dumping 500 million shares of Wells Fargo amid ongoing scandals—many sold at around $30 each. He also sold JP Morgan shares for under $100. Both have more than doubled since.

General Secretary Tô Lâm has stated that only a few urgent provisions of the Constitution will be amended this time, while any fundamental revision will be evaluated after the upcoming National Party Congress and a comprehensive review of the Party platform.

On the morning of May 5, during a group discussion in the National Assembly regarding the proposal to amend and supplement certain provisions of the 2013 Constitution, General Secretary Tô Lâm emphasized that this important issue was scheduled earlier than usual to ensure sufficient time for delegates to study and contribute ideas. He affirmed that only a few articles would be revised to address pressing needs, based on careful preparation by relevant agencies.

“If feasible, we will consider fundamental constitutional revisions later—but that must wait until after the next Congress,” the General Secretary said. He added that such changes should be based on an overall assessment of the Party platform and the country’s development direction after four decades of reform, ensuring alignment with national strategic goals. He encouraged National Assembly deputies to gather public opinion and actively contribute to the process of constitutional and legal development.

Earlier, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly Nguyễn Khắc Định presented a proposal from the National Assembly Standing Committee on amendments to the 2013 Constitution. A Constitutional Amendment Drafting Committee is proposed, consisting of 15 members, primarily central agency leaders, chaired by National Assembly Chairman Trần Thanh Mẫn.

The committee will be responsible for preparing the draft resolution to amend the Constitution and submit it to the National Assembly for discussion. It will also organize public consultations, collect feedback from various sectors, and refine the draft based on public input for final approval during the 9th session.

This drafting committee is authorized to use the official seal of the National Assembly, with the Standing Committee on Legal and Judicial Affairs acting as the permanent body. The committee will be supported with the necessary resources to fulfill its responsibilities.

Given the limited scope of the amendments—expected to affect 8 out of 120 articles—the Standing Committee recommends using a National Assembly resolution as the legislative instrument. Since the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam), the country has adopted five constitutions, each reflecting different development stages. The 2013 Constitution represents the comprehensive reform era, affirming the roles and relationships of the Vietnam Fatherland Front, socio-political organizations, and the administrative units at the provincial, district, and commune levels.

After more than 11 years of implementation, the 2013 Constitution has laid the groundwork for strengthening the political system. However, the Standing Committee believes further improvements are needed to meet current development needs.

Streamlining Mass Organizations Under the Fatherland Front

According to the amendment report, the National Assembly Standing Committee proposes restructuring socio-political and mass organizations to come under the Vietnam Fatherland Front.

Article 9 is expected to be amended to clarify the Party’s leadership over the Fatherland Front, reaffirming its position as a component of the political system, a political foundation for the people’s government, and a hub for unity, public will, and people’s rights.

The Front will act as a coordinating body, unifying social classes and organizations, representing and protecting people’s legitimate rights and interests, promoting democracy, enhancing consensus, conducting supervision and social critique, and participating in the development of the Party and the State.

The Standing Committee suggests a general provision stating that the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor, Vietnam Farmers’ Union, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Vietnam Women’s Union, and Vietnam Veterans’ Association are socio-political organizations under the Vietnam Fatherland Front. These groups would be formed voluntarily, act in the interests of their members, and operate uniformly under the Front’s leadership, engaging in democratic consultation and unified actions.

Article 10 of the Constitution will also be reviewed to reflect the role of trade unions, consistent with Article 4, when positioned under the Fatherland Front. Additional provisions will recognize trade unions’ role in representing workers domestically and internationally.

Article 84 is expected to be revised to remove the provision allowing central agencies of member organizations within the Front to submit legislative proposals directly to the National Assembly Standing Committee.

Local Government Reorganized into Two Levels

Article 110 may be amended to outline a two-tier administrative system: provinces/centrally-run cities and their sub-units—rather than the current three-tier structure. The Law on Local Government Organization will define commune-level units such as wards or special administrative zones, ensuring constitutional stability while allowing administrative restructuring.

Technical updates are also proposed, such as removing the phrase "local government level" and adding transitional provisions to ensure uninterrupted governance during mergers or adjustments.

According to the National Assembly Standing Committee, these amendments are in line with directives from the Politburo, Secretariat, and Central Resolution 60 to consolidate political and mass organizations under the Vietnam Fatherland Front. They also support streamlining local government into two efficient levels and enhancing decentralization based on the principle: “Localities decide, implement, and are accountable.”

 The new "Golden Card" program introduced by former President Donald Trump is causing a stir as it allows foreigners to purchase U.S. permanent residency for $5 million. The program aims to attract investment from wealthy individuals, with the ambitious goal of raising $1 trillion to reduce the national debt. Although still in its early stages, data from the U.S. Department of Commerce reveals that 1,000 "Golden Cards" were sold within just 24 hours.

It is estimated that around 37 million people worldwide have the financial means to participate in this program. Former President Trump is confident he can sell a million cards: "Unlike the Green Card, this is the Golden Card. We are pricing it at around $5 million, granting the same privileges as a Green Card and a pathway to U.S. citizenship. We believe this program will be a massive success."

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that the "Golden Card" will replace the traditional Green Card. Although holders can still apply for citizenship, Lutnick noted that most would likely opt out to avoid U.S. global taxation.

The concept of a "Golden Card" is not new. More than 100 countries, including the UK, Australia, Canada, Italy, and Greece, have implemented similar programs. Some nations, such as Malta and Egypt, even offer direct citizenship through investment.

At $5 million, the U.S. "Golden Card" would be one of the most expensive visa programs in the world. However, it has sparked controversy, as it could be exploited for money laundering and might drive up housing prices in major cities.

Concerns over "Golden Visa" programs have led several European nations to scale back or suspend them. If Trump's plan moves forward without congressional approval, the debate is likely to intensify further.

In reality, many ultra-wealthy individuals are not particularly interested in the U.S. "Golden Card." A Forbes survey of 18 billionaires found that 13 were uninterested, three were undecided, and only two were seriously considering it. The primary deterrent? Taxes—since the U.S. taxes its citizens on their worldwide income, something many billionaires seek to avoid.

Will the "Golden Card" be a lucrative deal for the U.S., or is it just another ambitious dream of Donald Trump?

A shocking security breach involving former President Trump’s aides discussing military plans in a Signal group chat—including a journalist—has raised serious concerns. However, instead of addressing the gravity of the situation, pro-Trump media outlets are working to discredit the reporting, downplay the incident, and shift public focus elsewhere.

Rather than debating the risks of such a leak, conservative media figures have chosen to attack The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg, who exposed the story. On X, Elon Musk and his supporters mocked the controversy, while right-wing outlets like Breitbart focused on undermining Goldberg’s credibility instead of analyzing the national security implications.

This approach is reminiscent of Trump’s first term, during which damaging reports were routinely dismissed as partisan smears or “fake news.” Right-wing media played a key role in shaping Trump’s response then, and the same pattern is repeating now.

Fox News, the dominant conservative news network, has taken the lead in minimizing the scandal. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a former Fox host, dismissed the controversy by branding Goldberg a “discredited journalist” and accusing him of spreading misinformation. This mirrors Trump’s long-standing tactic of labeling unfavorable reports as “hoaxes” to rally his base into ignoring them.

Despite these denials, the Trump administration has already confirmed the authenticity of the leaked messages. Goldberg directly refuted Hegseth’s claim, stating, “That’s a lie. He was texting war plans.”

Fox News hosts, however, have continued to downplay the situation. Sean Hannity criticized media reactions as “hysteria,” while Laura Ingraham suggested only “left-wing networks” were interested. Jesse Watters trivialized the issue, saying, “We’ve all texted the wrong person before.”

Rather than providing serious coverage, Fox & Friends prioritized a segment on deportations before briefly addressing the leak, casting doubt on Goldberg’s account instead of acknowledging the severity of the breach.

Meanwhile, Trump’s advisors appear unconcerned. Axios quoted an anonymous Trump aide stating, “We don’t care what the media says” and predicting that the issue “will blow over.”

However, Trump is known to care deeply about media coverage. Despite recently attacking NBC News, he called into the network to comment on the Signal chat scandal.

Goldberg’s report remains The Atlantic’s top-read article, demonstrating the public’s continued interest. Unfazed by potential backlash, Goldberg asserted, “All we can do is just go do our jobs.”

While pro-Trump media scrambles to spin the narrative, the core issue remains unchanged: a major security breach has occurred, and no amount of deflection can erase the facts.

 According to Taiwan's Central News Agency (CNA), a Chinese woman surnamed Liu used the name "A A in Taiwan" on social media platforms to post comments opposing Taiwan.

Taiwan's immigration authorities revoked her family reunion residence permit in Taiwan in accordance with the law and prohibited her from reapplying for five years. The penalty decision was issued on March 15, requiring her to leave Taiwan within 10 days and exit the country by March 25.

On March 20, she submitted an appeal to Taiwan's Ministry of the Interior and the appellate authority to request a temporary suspension of the penalty. However, the Taipei High Administrative Court ruled that she had promoted war propaganda against Taiwan and decided to dismiss the case on the evening of March 22. She still has the right to appeal.

According to Liberty Times, in addition to A A, two other Chinese women, Xiao Wei and En Yi, who married Taiwanese citizens, were also summoned by Taiwan’s Immigration Agency. They had frequently posted videos and statements supporting the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in its efforts to unify Taiwan by force.

On March 21, Taiwan's Immigration Agency summoned the two individuals, revoked their residence permits, and restricted them from applying for family-based residency for five years. They were also required to leave Taiwan within the specified timeframe and would be forcibly deported if they exceeded the deadline.

The article also noted that Xiao Wei and En Yi had large followings on Douyin in mainland China and had posted content such as:

"Taiwan’s streets are filled with five-star red flags."

"The People's Liberation Army’s military exercises demonstrate strong military power and firmly uphold national sovereignty."

"Taiwan is an inseparable part of China."

They also made other statements advocating for the CCP’s military action to eliminate Taiwan’s sovereignty.

According to a video posted on March 24, Xiao Wei and En Yi went live together online to attract attention. Xiao Wei even shouted, "I was deported from Taiwan because of my patriotism, and I feel very happy! My sacrifice is completely worthwhile."

Both declared that they would return to mainland China together and continue live streaming upon their return.

A post on platform X questioned: "Are they too arrogant? Should they be deported? Three women from mainland China who married Taiwanese citizens (including A A) have repeatedly called for the CCP to use force to unify Taiwan, expressing their desire to return to their beloved homeland."

The revocation of the residence permits of A A, Xiao Wei, and En Yi was welcomed by Taiwanese netizens but did not receive support from mainland Chinese netizens. Instead, they were mocked.

According to a viral video on March 23, a mainland Chinese woman accused them of profiting from controversy. She said, "This only creates division rather than bringing the two sides of the Taiwan Strait closer together."

A man questioned, "Some mainland Chinese brides in Taiwan keep posting videos criticizing Taiwan. If they think Taiwan is so bad, why did they marry and live there?"

Another man mocked, "They constantly talk about patriotism, but in reality, they don’t want to return home. Are they saying one thing and doing another?"

A young man joked, "A A praised life in mainland China so much, so she shouldn’t feel sad when she returns. After all, ‘the domestic situation is very good now,’ with an annual economic growth rate of 6%, and the government claims that over 99% of food meets safety standards."

He added, "A A, come back, let’s build China together. She should bring her husband and family along so we can all experience the good life."

A post on platform X stated: "A major reversal! A A and Xiao Wei have gained fame in mainland China, but not for patriotism—rather, they have become a laughingstock among mainland netizens!"

Netizens continued to post satirical videos about them. Some Douyin comments mocked, "Xiao Wei is already 41 years old. She previously claimed she would return to the mainland to marry and have three children. What happens now?"

X users actively discussed: "Internet celebrities in China can be hit by the ‘iron fist’ at any time. Having a large following is a double-edged sword, especially for those who exploit patriotism—it can backfire at any moment."

"Just wait, maybe one day the Chinese authorities will crack down on them too, and then they will truly understand what pain is!"

YouTube is an attractive platform for making money, but not everyone can easily meet the requirements of the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). One of the key conditions is to achieve at least 4,000 public watch hours within 12 months or 10 million Shorts views in 90 days, along with 1,000 subscribers. So how can you quickly meet these requirements? Let's explore the most effective strategies below! 

1. Choosing Content That Attracts ViewersTo gain more watch hours, you first need to create engaging content that keeps viewers watching longer. Some popular topics that can help you reach your goal faster include:

Movie summaries and reviews: This type of content extends watch time as viewers often want to know the storyline before deciding to watch a movie.

AI-powered storytelling: Mysterious stories, legends, and crime cases always spark curiosity among viewers.

Educational and tutorial content: Videos about skills, life hacks, and learning tips can keep viewers engaged for longer.

Compilation videos: Edited clips of interesting, funny moments or event highlights tend to attract a large audience.

2. Strategies to Increase Watch HoursBesides great content, you need to optimize watch time using smart techniques:

✅ Long livestreams: Broadcasting live for 2-5 hours helps boost watch hours quickly, especially if the content is engaging or involves audience interaction.

✅ Create playlists: Group related videos together so viewers continue watching relevant content.

✅ YouTube SEO: Optimize titles, descriptions, and tags to make your videos more discoverable.

✅ Run YouTube Ads: If you have a budget, advertising can quickly increase legitimate views.

✅ Repurpose existing content: If using copyrighted material, edit, analyze, and add reactions to comply with YouTube’s policies.

3. Avoid Common Mistakes When Increasing Watch HoursTo avoid wasting effort, keep these points in mind:

❌ Don't use bots or sub-for-sub methods: These tactics are ineffective and may lead to YouTube removing watch hours.

❌ Don't re-upload videos passively: Simply re-uploading content without modifications or added creativity may not qualify for monetization.

❌ Don't generate fake views: If the same account or IP watches a video repeatedly, YouTube may not count those views.

ConclusionReaching 4,000 watch hours is not an easy task, but by leveraging suitable content and optimization strategies, you can grow your channel quickly and sustainably. Have you decided on an idea for your YouTube channel? Start today and work towards your monetization goal on this platform!

Like a washed-up actor clinging to a faded dream, former President Joe Biden is desperately trying to re-enter the political stage, believing he can “rescue” the Democratic Party from its current state of disarray. But there’s one major problem—no one wants him back, except himself.

The 82-year-old former president, who was widely blamed for the Democratic Party’s crushing defeat last November, is now attempting to “offer his help.” But his party is anything but grateful. Under Biden’s leadership, the Democrats lost the White House, were wiped out in the Senate, and suffered a humiliating failure in their attempt to retake the House from the Republicans. And yet, Biden still clings to the illusion that he can fix the very disaster he created.

“Biden’s time is long over. He’s like a rusting statue that everyone has forgotten,” a Democratic strategist bluntly stated. But Biden doesn’t seem to get it. Instead of bowing out gracefully, he went to meet Ken Martin, the newly elected Chairman of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), to offer his assistance—a move that has been met with more ridicule than appreciation.

Recent polls paint a grim picture: the Democratic Party is in freefall. Approval ratings have hit rock bottom in surveys conducted by CNN, NBC, and Quinnipiac University. Biden’s political legacy is dragging the party into an abyss, with the latest Fox News poll showing Congressional Democrats’ approval rating at just 30%—dangerously close to an all-time low.

Of course, some still cling to the past. “Biden did a few good things,” admitted longtime Democratic consultant John MacNeil. “But it’s time to move forward.” Even his most loyal allies can no longer deny the reality that Biden has become a burden to his own party.

Within Democratic fundraising circles, panic is spreading. “Biden was never good at raising money. He hated it,” a top party donor confessed. And after his disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump—where he stumbled, fumbled his words, and completely lost control—the pressure became unbearable. Just weeks later, Biden was forced to drop out of the 2024 race, but not before leaving behind a fractured party and a broken campaign. With mere months before Election Day, Kamala Harris was hastily installed as his replacement—a move akin to handing the wheel to someone on a sinking ship.

A Democratic strategist summed up the sheer absurdity of the situation:
“The man who wrecked the party now thinks he can save it? This is the same guy who tried to convince the world he wasn’t too old to lead. Who’s buying that?”

Meanwhile, Donald Trump, who has returned to power, isn’t wasting any opportunity to mock his old rival. From speeches and interviews to social media posts, Trump has turned Biden into a national punchline. When asked whether Biden should play a bigger role in politics, Trump smirked and delivered the final blow:

“I sure hope so.”

It doesn’t get more humiliating than that. Biden dreamed of a triumphant comeback, but instead, he became the ultimate political cautionary tale.

THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO REMOVE PAYPAL LIMITATIONS

PayPal is a widely used and convenient online payment platform. However, users may encounter account limitations (limits) for various reasons. When account functions are restricted, it can be challenging to complete transactions. Below are methods to check and quickly resolve these limitations.

1. Why Is Your PayPal Account Limited?

Your account may be restricted due to one of the following reasons:

• Suspicious activity: PayPal detects unusual transactions, such as large payments or logins from unfamiliar devices.

• Unverified identity: You have not linked a bank card or provided the required verification documents.

• Violation of PayPal’s terms: Sending or receiving money related to prohibited products/services according to PayPal's policies.

• Disputes or claims: Customers may open refund requests or disputes, leading to transaction restrictions.

• Third-party reports: If someone reports your account, PayPal may impose limitations.

2. How to Check Your PayPal Account Status

• Log in to https://www.paypal.com/disputes

• Go to the Resolution Center to view details of the restriction notice.

• The system will display the necessary steps to remove the limitation.

3. How to Unlock Your PayPal Account

3.1. Complete Account Verification

• Update personal information: Ensure all account details are accurate and up to date.

• Link a bank account or card: Add a Visa/Mastercard or connect a bank account.

• Verify your identity: If required, submit the following documents:

  • A photo of your ID card or passport.

  • A utility bill or bank statement showing your address.

3.2. Provide Transaction Information

• Confirm recent transactions: PayPal may ask for explanations regarding suspicious activities.

• Submit valid documents: If you are selling goods, provide invoices or receipts to verify the legitimacy of the transactions.

3.3. Resolve Any Disputes

• If the limitation is due to a dispute, visit the Resolution Center to address the issue:

  • Provide valid proof of transactions if the customer’s complaint is incorrect.

  • If there is a chargeback request, contact PayPal or the customer to negotiate a resolution.

3.4. Contact PayPal Support Directly

If you have completed all the required steps but your account is still limited, reach out to PayPal via:

• Support email: Visit https://www.paypal.com/help → Select “Contact Us.”

• Phone support: PayPal has customer service hotlines in multiple countries (available in the "Contact Us" section).

• Live chat: Use the PayPal Message Center to communicate with the support team.

4. How to Prevent Future PayPal Limitations

• Fully verify your account: Ensure your identity is verified and payment methods are linked.

• Avoid sudden large transactions: Gradually increase transaction amounts to prevent suspicion.

• Maintain a stable login IP: Avoid frequent IP address changes to reduce security risks.

• Follow PayPal’s policies: Do not engage in transactions involving prohibited goods/services.

Conclusion

Removing PayPal limitations is not too complicated if you follow the correct steps. Make sure your account is fully verified, comply with PayPal’s policies, and contact support if needed. If you have specific issues, feel free to ask for more advice! 🚀

 Penguins are not always the symbol of lifelong love that many people believe. A study in Australia has revealed that little penguins (Eudyptula minor)—the smallest penguin species in the world—have a divorce rate significantly higher than that of humans.

According to data from Monash University, over 12 breeding seasons from 2000 to 2013, researchers recorded approximately 250 cases of "breakups" among nearly 1,000 penguin pairs on Phillip Island. On average, around 21 couples separated each year. In contrast, the annual divorce rate for humans in the U.S. is only about 2.4 per 1,000 couples—nearly ten times lower than that of these penguins.

Scientists define a penguin divorce when a tagged individual from a previous breeding season reappears with a new mate. Although the little penguin population on Phillip Island exceeds 37,000, researchers believe their sample size accurately reflects the species’ broader behavioral trends.

And it's not just little penguins—other species also fail to uphold the illusion of monogamy. Emperor penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri) and Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) have been known to engage in extramarital affairs despite pairing up. A 1999 study found that only 15% of emperor penguins remained with the same partner across consecutive breeding seasons.

According to ecologist Richard Reina from Monash University, a penguin’s decision to stay or leave a mate is largely based on reproductive success. “During good seasons, they tend to stick with their partner, even if occasional infidelity occurs. However, after a failed breeding season, they often seek a new mate to increase their chances of success the following year.”

Divorce among penguins isn’t always a sign of trouble—it can actually be a survival strategy. “Switching partners can improve long-term reproductive success, especially if the previous mate was unsuitable, a higher-quality partner becomes available, or environmental factors disrupt reunions,” explained marine scientist Andre Chiaradia from Monash University.

This study highlights the crucial role that social dynamics play in the conservation of wildlife species.

 Love in the Rain

Carrying with me a dream that has faded away,
Admiring lovers walking through the stormy rain.
The coldness of yesterday’s dream still lingers,
The wind is vast and endless, yet our old love has not frozen.

Memories from yesterday gently stir again,
Warming my heart with longing.
Wandering around the street corner, rain drizzles softly,
Cars rush past without a pause.
The umbrella slips from my hand, revealing my exhaustion.
Trying to forget turns out to be such a painful thing.
I let each raindrop dissolve into my dream.

The sun seems to understand my silent pain,
Wiping away the rain, shining warm rays onto my frozen heart.
Is this the same place where we first met?
Your warm embrace once chased away the emptiness inside me.
From the shadows of our togetherness,
Memories of our first encounter awaken.
We met when the sky was heavy with rain,
Yet love drifted by so lightly, like the wind…

A new study from OpenAI and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) reveals that people who frequently use ChatGPT tend to feel lonelier and engage less in social interactions. In particular, those who are emotionally vulnerable are more likely to become dependent on the chatbot.

Spending time conversing with AI may temporarily ease loneliness, but in the long run, it can reduce the need for real human connections. The study found that daily ChatGPT users reported higher levels of loneliness and emotional reliance on the chatbot.

Although generative AI is widely used for work, coding, and even emotional support, constant interaction with a chatbot may gradually distance some individuals from real-world social connections. Experts worry that as AI becomes more advanced and human-like in its communication, forming one-sided relationships with chatbots could negatively impact users' mental health.

To better understand ChatGPT’s effects, researchers monitored nearly 1,000 individuals over a month. Participants were divided into groups using either a text-based or voice-based version of the chatbot. They engaged in conversations ranging from personal topics to general discussions. The results showed that individuals who are more emotionally affected in real-life relationships were also more prone to becoming attached to ChatGPT, leading to increasing dependency.

Additionally, the research team analyzed over three million user conversations with ChatGPT and found that while AI does not fully replace human interaction, some users seek comfort from the chatbot. However, this engagement does not alleviate loneliness; instead, it may heighten feelings of social isolation.

It remains unclear whether AI directly causes loneliness or simply attracts individuals who are already predisposed to feeling isolated. Nevertheless, one thing is certain—chatbots are becoming an integral part of many people’s lives, and their psychological impact requires further study.

Cathy Mengying Fang, an MIT graduate student and co-author of the study, emphasized that using ChatGPT does not always lead to negative consequences. However, the research team hopes these findings will encourage further studies on AI’s influence on human emotional well-being.