International News 07 January 2025
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Vietnam's Economic Growth to Surge 7.09% by 2024
Vietnam's economy demonstrated notable growth in 2024, expanding by 7.09% and surpassing the prior year's growth rate of 5.05%. This expansion was driven by strong exports and a significant influx of foreign investment. Despite the impact of a major typhoon, Vietnam's economy demonstrated resilience, aided by a recovery in global demand, contributing to its economic growth. The General Statistics Office of Vietnam has reported that GDP expanded by 7.55% in the fourth quarter of 2024. Exports surged by 14.3% to reach $405.53 billion, driven by robust performances in electronic products, smartphones, garments, and agricultural goods. Imports also rose by 16.7% to $380.76 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $24.77 billion for Vietnam. In addition, the government increased coal imports for power generation to prevent electricity shortages experienced in previous years. Coal imports rose by 24.8%, while electricity production increased by 9.6% in 2024.
https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/pertumbuhan-ekonomi-vietnam-melesat-709-pada-tahun-2024
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Rumoured to Announce Resignation
According to a source familiar with the Prime Minister's thinking, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his intention to resign as leader of the ruling Liberal Party. While Trudeau has not yet made a final decision, the announcement is likely to be made in the near future, possibly before an emergency meeting of Liberal Party legislators scheduled for Wednesday. Trudeau has led the Liberal Party for nine years, but he is facing unfavourable poll results and predictions of a landslide defeat to the Conservative Party in the upcoming election, scheduled for late October. His resignation would leave the Liberal Party without a permanent leader. The source, who requested anonymity due to not being authorised to speak publicly about the matter, added that the Liberal Party is preparing for a leadership contest. Trudeau has not yet made a statement regarding his potential resignation.
Besides China, Malaysia also recorded a surge in HMPV cases in 2024
Malaysia has seen a notable increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection, with 327 cases recorded in 2024, marking a 45% rise from the previous year.The Health Ministry has clarified that HMPV is not a new disease, but a respiratory infection caused by a virus.Symptoms of HMPV are similar to the common cold, but can escalate into bronchitis or pneumonia in more severe cases. The ministry has emphasised the ongoing vigilance required, as respiratory infections are likely to persist within the community.The public has been advised to adhere to good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing, wearing face masks, and covering coughs and sneezes.Enclosed and crowded areas, especially in at-risk countries, have been identified as high-risk locations. The ministry also noted that an increase in respiratory infections at the beginning and end of the year is a common occurrence in many countries, particularly those with colder seasons, and they will continue to monitor the situation both domestically and internationally.