Oman’s Ministry of Health has rolled out several new initiatives aimed at slashing waiting times for essential medical services at Khoula Hospital and Al Nahda Hospital. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery in the country.
Reducing MRI Scan Delays
A major focus of these initiatives is reducing MRI scan waiting times. Khoula Hospital, with support from the Directorate General and under the patronage of Health Minister Dr. Hilal Ali Al Sabti, is leading this effort. The hospital plans to perform 12,000 MRI scans over the next year, with daily targets of 45 to 50 scans on weekdays and 20 on weekends. This initiative is expected to reduce MRI waiting times from the previous 16-month wait to under four weeks.
Expanding Endoscopy Services
The Ministry is also enhancing endoscopy services at both Khoula and Al Nahda hospitals. The number of endoscopy rooms has been increased from one to three, a change that is expected to reduce waiting times for these procedures from one year to just two months. The goal is to further reduce routine appointment waits to four weeks.
Read More: Oman’s Muscat Municipality Embraces a Digital Future
Boosting Surgical Capacity
To further reduce waiting times, the Ministry has launched several surgical initiatives. One such initiative aims to perform 1,000 tonsil and adenoid removal surgeries within a year, at a rate of 83 surgeries per month. This is supported by the activation of additional operating rooms in Khoula Hospital’s Day Care Building.
The Ministry is also planning 1,000 knee replacement surgeries over the next year, with 27 surgeries scheduled weekly, including on weekends. This initiative is designed to reduce knee replacement waiting times from 700 days to just 120 days.
Focus on Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is another priority for the Ministry. The plan includes performing 1,500 cataract surgeries over the next year, with 1,000 surgeries at Al-Nahda Hospital and 500 at Khoula Hospital. This initiative aims to reduce the cataract surgery waiting list by 50%, with an average of eight surgeries scheduled daily.
Evening Clinics and Specialized Care
To further address the issue of long waiting times, an evening clinic has been introduced at Al-Nahda Hospital’s Dentistry and Oral, Maxillofacial Surgery Department. This clinic is expected to treat over 900 patients in the next three months, reducing emergency case wait times to two weeks and routine appointments to less than six weeks.
Additionally, the Ministry has launched a program to expedite dental treatments for special needs patients under general anesthesia. This program aims to complete these treatments within four months, supported by increased operating room availability during weekdays.
Improving Financial Efficiency
In addition to patient care initiatives, the Ministry has introduced a revenue cycle management program at Khoula Hospital. This program is designed to improve the operational efficiency of the hospital’s billing system, which is critical for maintaining its role as a key center for emergencies and disaster response.
Pakistan, August21st, 2024—Xiaomi today introduced Redmi Pad SE 8.7 and its 4G variant, built to provide exceptional portable entertainment. Featuring a vibrant 8.7-inch display, powerful performance, and a sleek, lightweight design, the tablets are designed to keep up with the demands of an active and mobile lifestyle, delivering immersive experiences for streaming, gaming, reading, and working on the go.
Delivering portable entertainment with vibrant visuals and rich audio
Redmi Pad SE 8.7 and Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G boasts an 8.7-inch display¹ with up to 600 nits of brightness and a 1500:1 contrast ratio, ensuring vibrant visuals even in outdoor settings. With a 10-bit color depth capable of displaying 1 billion colors and a refresh rate of up to 90Hz,² users can enjoy an immersive viewing and gaming experience, making it perfect for catching up on movies or engaging in intense gaming sessions.
For avid readers, the unique 5:3 aspect ratio enhances web browsing and reading while being easy to hold with one hand. It offers two distinct reading modes, Paper and Classic, to improve comfort during extended reading sessions and suit different user preferences and environments, whether in bright daylight or dimly lit rooms. With TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light and Flicker Free certification, along with fast DC dimming, users can enjoy an optimal viewing experience.
For multimedia enthusiasts, the dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos® support deliver rich, immersive audio, elevating the enjoyment of movies and music.
Seamless connectivity for on-the-go convenience
Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G elevates portable entertainment with seamless cellular connectivity. Featuring 4G support⁴ and dual SIM card slots, Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G ensures uninterrupted internet access wherever you are, making it ideal for users who need constant connectivity. The dual SIM feature also makes managing personal and work contacts effortless.
With advanced navigation and positioning features, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G provides reliable performance whether commuting, traveling, or enjoying a day out. This versatility ensures users stay connected and productive, appealing to those with active lifestyles.
Robust performance and lightweight design for extended use on the move
Equipped with an octa-core MediaTek Helio G85 processor, Redmi Pad SE 8.7 and its 4G variant easily handle multitasking and gaming. With a 6,650mAh (typ) battery and 18W fast charging,⁵ users can relish uninterrupted entertainment for extended periods.
The lightweight design also makes these tablets ideal on-the-go companions for various activities. Redmi Pad SE 8.7 is just 8.8mm thin and weighs 373 grams³, while the 4G variant weighs 375 grams³. Whether slipping them into your backpack for a day out or using them during a long flight, Redmi Pad SE 8.7 and its 4G variant ensure you have everything you need for entertainment and productivity right at your fingertips.
Price and availability
Redmi Pad SE 8.7 (WIFI) and Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G are available in Graphite Gray, Aurora Green, and Sky Blue⁶ with one variant: 6GB+128GB. Priced at PKR 49,999 for Redmi Pad SE 8.7 and PKR 54,999 Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G. It will be available offline in nationwide markets and online on Xiaomisale.com, Mistore.pk and corecart.pk.
Redmi Pad SE 8.7 Quick Specs
Display
8.7-inch (1340 x 800) LCD display¹ 5:3 aspect ratio, 84.41% screen-to-body ratio 90Hz AdaptiveSync refresh rate² Brightness: 500 nits (typ), 600 nits (outdoor mode) 1500:1 contrast ratio Color depth: 10-bit, 1 billion colors Classic and Paper reading modes TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light (Software Solution) Certified TÜV Rheinland Flicker Free Certified
Performance
MediaTek Helio G85 Mobile Platform CPU: Octa-core CPU, up to 2.0GHz GPU: Mali-G52 MC2 12nm Process Technology LPDDR4X Memory + EMMC 5.1 Storage Available configurations 6GB+128GB Supports up to 2TB expandable storage⁸
Camera and Audio
8MP rear camera f/2.0, 1.12μm 1080p@30fps 720p@30fps 5MP front camera f/2.2, 1.12μm 1080p@30fps 720p@30fps Stereo dual speakers Supports Dolby Atmos®
Software
Xiaomi HyperOS⁹ Android U
Connectivity
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11a/b/g/n/ac) Bluetooth 5.3 FM
Design
Stylish, slim, and light design Colors: Graphite Gray, Aurora Green, Sky Blue⁶ Dimensions: 211.58mm x 125.48mm x 8.8mm Weight: 373 grams³
Battery and Charging
Large 6,650mAh capacity (typ) 18W fast charging⁵ USB Type-C
Accessories
Redmi Pad SE 8.7 Cover⁷
Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G Quick Specs
Display
8.7-inch (1340 x 800) LCD display¹ 5:3 aspect ratio, 84.41% screen-to-body ratio 90Hz AdaptiveSync refresh rate² Brightness: 500 nits (typ), 600 nits (outdoor mode) 1500:1 contrast ratio Color depth: 10-bit, 1 billion colors Classic and Paper reading modes TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light (Software Solution) Certified TÜV Rheinland Flicker Free Certified
Performance
MediaTek Helio G85 Mobile Platform CPU: Octa-core CPU, up to 2.0GHz GPU: Mali-G52 MC2 12nm Process Technology LPDDR4X Memory + EMMC 5.1 Storage Available configurations 6GB+128GB Supports up to 2TB expandable storage⁸
Camera and Audio
8MP rear camera f/2.0, 1.12μm 1080p@30fps 720p@30fps 5MP front camera f/2.2, 1.12μm 1080p@30fps 720p@30fps Stereo dual speakers Supports Dolby Atmos®
Stylish, slim, and light design Colors: Graphite Gray, Aurora Green, Sky Blue⁶ Dimensions: 211.58mm x 125.48mm x 8.8mm³ Weight: 375 grams³
Battery and Charging
Large 6,650mAh capacity (typ) 18W fast charging⁵ USB Type-C
Accessories
Redmi Pad SE 8.7 Cover⁷
¹ Redmi Pad SE 8.7 WIFI and Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G’s screen size is about 8.7 inches when measured diagonally. The viewable area is smaller due to the curved corners. Measurements between individual products may vary. Data from Xiaomi Internal Lab.
² Refresh rate can be adjusted to up to 90Hz for supported apps.
³ Data obtained from Xiaomi Internal Labs. Industry measurement methods may vary, and therefore, actual results may differ.
⁴ Connectivity and network bands may vary based on region availability and local operator support.
⁵ 18W wired charging adapter provides 18W power, though actual output may vary depending on the environment. Redmi Pad SE 8.7 WIFI and Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G offer two variants across different regions: one with a 10W adapter and one without. 18W charging adapters are sold separately, and it is recommended to use 18W or higher PD-compatible adapters.
⁶ Color availability may vary between regions.
⁷ Sold separately. Availability may vary by region.
⁸ MicroSD card sold separately. Actual support and compatibility of memory cards may vary between manufacturers. External memory can store media (photos, video, and music files), not applications.
⁹ Availability of Xiaomi HyperOS features, apps, and services may vary depending on the software version and phone model.
About Xiaomi Corporation
Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.
Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the coolest company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.
Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies, with its global smartphone shipments ranked among the top three and global MAU (including smartphones and tablets) reached 641.2 million in December 2023. The Company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, reached approximately 739.7 million smart devices connected to its platform (excluding smartphones, laptops and tablets) as of December 31, 2023. In October 2023, Xiaomi upgraded its strategy to “Human × Car × Home” smart ecosystem, seamlessly merges personal devices, smart home products, and cars. Xiaomi always centers on humanity and is committed to providing comprehensive, better connected experiences. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2023, Xiaomi was included in the Fortune Global 500 list for the fifth year in a row, ranking 360th.
Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index.
inDrive Teams Up with WWF-Pakistan for Environmental Stewardship, Leading a Community-Driven Coastal Cleanup on Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day.
Karachi, August 2024 – In a heartfelt demonstration of its commitment to environmental sustainability and community welfare, inDrive, a leading ride-hailing company in Pakistan, proudly launched its “Tide of Care” campaign, a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative focused on cleaning up Karachi’s Sandspit and Turtle Beach on Pakistan’s Independence Day. This initiative, held in partnership with WWF-Pakistan, underscores inDrive’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Pakistan’s coastal areas and fostering a cleaner, greener environment for future generations.
The beach cleaning drive saw enthusiastic participation from inDrive employees, volunteers from educational institutes, celebrities and environmentalists who collectively removed plastic waste, including plastic bottles, discarded fishing nets, and other pollutants, from the shoreline. The event not only symbolized the company’s ongoing efforts to combat environmental degradation but also reflected its broader mission to support and uplift the communities it serves.
Sidra Kiran, PR and Communications Manager for inDrive Pakistan, commented on the initiative: “At inDrive, we believe in leading by example. Our ‘Tide of Care’ campaign is not just about cleaning beaches; it’s about inspiring a sense of responsibility in every citizen to protect our environment. By partnering with WWF-Pakistan, we are able to amplify our impact and contribute to a sustainable future for our nation.”
As part of the campaign, inDrive also distributed seeds for plantation to the participants, encouraging them to contribute to the reforestation efforts in their own communities. This initiative aligns with inDrive’s broader vision of climate change, focuses on sustainability, community engagement, and promotes environmental awareness.
This Independence Day, inDrive has reaffirmed its commitment to being a force for good, not only by providing exceptional services but also by leading initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of Pakistanis and the environment. The success of the “Tide of Care” campaign is a testament to what can be achieved when businesses and communities work together towards a common goal.
Through the “Tide of Care” project inDrive once again positions itself as a leader in corporate responsibility within Pakistan, creating awareness, building communities, and strong partnership.
The buzz is real: Xiaomi Pakistan is thrilled to introduce a stunning new addition to the Redmi Note 13 lineup. Introducing “Ocean Sunset”—a light, gradient-inspired hue that captures the vibrant essence of a sunset over the ocean.
Since its debut on January 26th, 2024, the Redmi Note 13 has quickly become a favorite in Pakistan, earning a reputation as the top choice for those seeking a value-packed, mid-range smartphone. With its powerful performance, super-clear 108MP camera, and AMOLED display, it’s no wonder that both consumers and tech experts have showered it with praise.
The Ocean Sunset edition comes in two configurations: 8GB+128GB for PKR 52,999 and 8GB+256GB for PKR 57,999. You can find it in stores nationwide or purchase it online at Xiaomisale.com, Mistore.pk, and Corecart.pk.
Combining the trusted performance of the Redmi Note 13 with a premium design, the Ocean Sunset edition offers an unbeatable blend of style and reliability. For those looking to make a statement with a unique shade while enjoying top-notch performance, this edition is definitely worth exploring. See what sets it apart and discover why it’s generating so much excitement.
In a bid to empower Pakistan’s youth and accelerate the country’s digital transformation, Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has announced the launch of e-Rozgar centres across the nation. The initiative, disclosed during the National Youth Convention, aims to equip young Pakistanis with essential digital skills and create new employment opportunities through public-private partnerships.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja emphasized the significance of youth in driving Pakistan’s progress, stating, “Our youth are the future of Pakistan. Their energy, creativity, and determination are key to our country’s development. We must provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.”
The minister highlighted the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, noting that a substantial budget of over Rs. 4 billion has been allocated for skills development this year. She urged young people to take advantage of the DigiSkills Program, which has already trained 4.5 million individuals across the country. “The DigiSkills Program is a cornerstone of our efforts to prepare the next generation for the digital economy,” she said.
Shaza Fatima also discussed the broader impact of digital transformation on various sectors, including the economy, security, and governance. She stressed the importance of ensuring that Pakistan’s youth are equipped with the latest digital skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world. “Information technology is the engine of modern progress,” she said. “We must ensure that our youth are at the forefront of this transformation.”
In addition to the e-Rozgar centres, the minister announced the construction of an IT Park in Islamabad, a project that will create numerous job opportunities and serve as a hub for innovation and technology. A similar IT Park is planned for Karachi, further expanding the government’s efforts to promote digitalization across the country.
The minister also highlighted the importance of responsible media use, particularly in the age of social media. She warned of the dangers of fake news, noting that misinformation can have serious consequences for the country’s image and stability.
The launch of the e-Rozgar centres is a key component of the government’s strategy to empower Pakistan’s youth. By providing them with the necessary skills and opportunities, the government aims to position Pakistan as a leader in the global digital economy.
Pakistan marked its 77th Independence Day with celebrations that spanned the length and breadth of the country, filling the air with joy, patriotism, and a deep sense of national pride. As the clock struck midnight on August 14, the country erupted in festivities, with people from all walks of life coming together to honor the nation’s journey to freedom.
In Karachi, the celebrations kicked off with a breathtaking display of fireworks along the city’s coastline. Thousands gathered at the beach, their faces illuminated by the colorful bursts of light in the night sky. The atmosphere was electric, as the people of Karachi came together to celebrate not just a day, but the spirit of unity and resilience that defines Pakistan.
Lahore’s Minar-e-Pakistan was the center of attention in the city, hosting a grand musical event that drew large crowds. The historic monument, a symbol of Pakistan’s struggle for independence, was bathed in lights, while the surrounding area echoed with the sounds of celebration. The event brought together people from all corners of the city, reflecting the unity that lies at the heart of Pakistan’s national identity.
Across the country, buildings were adorned with lights and flags, transforming the streets into a sea of green and white. The national flag, with its crescent and star, was a common sight, proudly displayed on homes, offices, and public buildings. The decorations were a testament to the pride and patriotism that the people of Pakistan feel for their country.
In Abbottabad, the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul hosted an Independence Parade, a solemn and dignified event that was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir. The parade, which featured cadets in perfect formation, paid tribute to the martyrs who gave their lives for Pakistan’s freedom. The event was a reminder of the sacrifices that have been made in the name of independence and the ongoing commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty.
Karachi’s Sindh Governor House was the venue for a grand celebration titled “Fard Nahi Qoom Hain Hum” (We Are a Nation, Not Individuals). The event, which featured a 1,000-pound cake cutting ceremony, was attended by prominent figures, including Asifa Bhutto Zardari and Faryal Talpur. The celebration was a reflection of the unity and pride that defines Pakistan’s national character.
The UAE Consulate in Karachi also held a ceremony in honor of Pakistan’s Independence Day, where high-performance awards and certificates were distributed. The event was a reminder of the strong ties between Pakistan and the UAE, reflecting a partnership built on mutual respect and shared goals.
In Peshawar, the Governor House hosted an Azadi Night Music Ceremony, attended by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi. The event celebrated the region’s rich cultural heritage, with music and performances that brought the community together in a shared expression of national pride.
Even in smaller towns like Toba Tek Singh, the spirit of Independence Day was alive and well. The district administration organized a fireworks display at the local football ground, bringing the community together in a joyful celebration of the nation’s 77th year of independence.
As Pakistan celebrated its 77th Independence Day, the nationwide festivities reflected the unity, resilience, and hope that define the nation. From grand celebrations in major cities to community gatherings in smaller towns, the day was a powerful reminder of the collective strength that has carried Pakistan through 77 years of independence and will continue to guide it into the future.
Dreaming of exploring New Zealand’s stunning landscapes?
To turn that dream into reality, Pakistani citizens need a visitor visa. While the process isn’t overly complex, it’s essential to meet the updated requirements, especially when it comes to financial proof.
New Zealand Visa Overview
A New Zealand visitor visa allows stays of up to six months for multiple entries or nine months for a single entry. While you can’t work on this visa, you can study for up to three months.
Essential Documents
To apply for a New Zealand visitor visa, you’ll need:
Valid passport and passport-sized photos
Medical and police certificates
Confirmed return flight and accommodation
Crucially, proof of sufficient funds
Financial Requirements: A Closer Look
The most significant change for Pakistani citizens is the updated bank statement requirement. As of July 2024, you need:
NZD $1,000 per month if you’re covering accommodation costs.
NZD $400 per month if accommodation is pre-paid.
For a three-month stay without pre-paid accommodation, you’ll need NZD $3,000 (approximately Rs 497,910).
Acceptable proof includes bank statements, credit card statements, and pre-paid accommodation vouchers.
Additional Tips
Apply well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Ensure your bank statements clearly show your account balance and transaction history.
Be prepared to explain the source of the funds if required.
By understanding these requirements and preparing your documents meticulously, you’re well on your way to experiencing the magic of New Zealand.
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan – USAID’s flagship private sector health project, Frontier Health Markets (FHM) Engage, has launched the Youth Council for Sustainable Action in Sindh. The youth council aims to amplify youth voices and promote sustainable health practices, particularly in family planning services across Pakistan.
FHM Engage is a global cooperative agreement that provides technical assistance to support local actors to improve the ability of health markets to meet supply-side capacity gaps and consumer preferences, contributing to equitable provision of and access to high-quality family planning and other health services and products in mixed health systems.
As one of the core consortium partners of FHM Engage, Pathfinder International, renowned for its community-led health programs globally, brings expertise to ensure meaningful youth engagement in healthcare decision-making. “As the key implementer of the FHM Engage activity in Pakistan, Pathfinder International is proud to contribute to the launch of this initiative that empowers young people to actively shape interventions that enhance their health and overall well-being,” stated Madiha Latif, Country Director at Pathfinder International, Pakistan.
The Youth Council for Sustainable Action signifies a strategic effort by FHM Engage in partnership with Pathfinder International, to develop a youth council, brand and a digital platform to collectively empower youth to shape the discourse on their reproductive health.
The Youth Council for Sustainable Action comprises representatives from six diverse organizations across Sindh, including the Baithak, Center for Sustainable Development, Collective Pakistan, Indus Youth Welfare Organization, Jagruti and School of Leadership. These organizations converge under the common goal of advocating for accessible and informed health choices among Pakistani youth. Through a recent election, the Indus Youth Welfare Organization was selected as the President and the Center for Sustainable Development as the General Secretary of the Council.
oladoc has pioneered a digital platform called ‘Bolo Health’ to deliver sexual and reproductive health services tailored for the youth. Derived from the Urdu word for ‘speak,’ Bolo embodies a call to action for youth to express their health needs and highlights Bolo Health’s commitment to foster dialogue and awareness around family planning issues in Pakistan. The Bolo Health platform offers certified doctor consultations, products, and health information, all conveniently accessible privately and online. This initiative aims to empower young individuals by providing them with reliable authentic resources and support to make informed decisions about their health.
From June 13 to 14, 2024 the School of Leadership convened Youth Council for Sustainable Action’s inaugural session and a capacity building training for young men and women representing youth led organizations. The session facilitated discussions on the council’s scope, norms and the strategic vision behind Bolo Health. “We are thrilled to launch the Youth Council for Sustainable Action and introduce Bolo Health to the community,” said Waqar Ali, CEO of the School of Leadership. “This initiative underscores our commitment to empowering youth to take charge of their health and advocate for positive change.”
Youth Council for Sustainable Action’s collaborative approach promises to drive meaningful impact by integrating youth perspectives into the fabric of healthcare advocacy in Pakistan by actively participating in public-private dialogues and advocacy. As Bolo Health continues to evolve, it seeks to inspire a generation of young Pakistanis to embrace proactive health practices and contribute to a healthier future for Pakistan.
Nike has revealed the Premier League ball for the 2024/25 season, the ‘NIKE Flight’. This innovative football will be the focal point of every match, featuring design elements that celebrate the iconic graphics of previous Premier League balls.
Aerowsculpt Technology for Precision
The NIKE Flight ball is engineered with Aerowsculpt technology, which includes strategically placed grooves on the ball’s surface. These grooves facilitate smoother air movement around the ball, resulting in a more predictable and accurate flight path. This advancement in ball design promises to enhance the performance and precision of every match, giving players a reliable tool for their gameplay.
Debut Match
The new Premier League season will commence with the NIKE Flight ball on Friday, August 16th, with Manchester United taking on Fulham at Old Trafford. This inaugural match of the 2024/25 season will not only set the tone for the months to come but will also showcase the capabilities of the NIKE Flight ball in a competitive setting for the first time.
Celebrating 25 Years with Nike
This season’s launch is especially noteworthy as it celebrates 25 years of Nike being the official ball supplier for the Premier League. Over these years, Nike has continually introduced groundbreaking innovations in football technology and design. The NIKE Flight ball is a testament to this enduring legacy, combining the latest in aerodynamics with a nod to the Premier League’s storied past.
Elevating the Game
The NIKE Flight ball, with its advanced technology and historical homage, is poised to become a central part of the Premier League’s tradition. Anticipation is high among fans and players, who are eager to experience the enhanced quality and excitement the ball is expected to bring to the game. The NIKE Flight ball is set to redefine the standard of play, making each match more exhilarating and memorable.
Vietnam is making a bold move to revitalize its tourism industry by significantly relaxing visa restrictions for international visitors. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s directive to expedite visa waiver processes for multiple countries signals a proactive approach to attracting global travelers.
While the country has seen a resurgence in tourism following the pandemic, it still lags behind its Southeast Asian neighbors in terms of visa-friendly policies. By expanding visa-free entry, Vietnam aims to level the playing field and position itself as a more accessible and attractive destination.
The government’s decision is underpinned by the recognition that tourism is a key driver of economic growth. By simplifying travel procedures, Vietnam hopes to stimulate increased visitor arrivals, boosting revenue for the hospitality industry and creating jobs.
As the details of the visa waiver program unfold, the world watches with anticipation. The potential economic impact of this policy change is substantial, and it could reshape Vietnam’s tourism landscape for years to come.
