Vietnam celebrates Francophonie Day 2026 in HCM City

Francophonie Day 2026 was officially launched on April 11 at Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai High School in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring a range of educational and cultural activities designed to introduce local students more closely to the global Francophone community. The event brought together pupils, educators, and representatives from diplomatic and cultural institutions to celebrate the diversity and influence of the French-speaking world.

Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni diagnosed with prostate cancer

On April 10, Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni announced that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and he is currently undergoing a treatment in Beijing. The diagnosis was confirmed following a thorough medical examination conducted by a team of specialists at one of a state hospital in the capital of China. Based on the doctors’ recommendations, the king will remain hospitalised while receiving treatment.

Philippines sees sharp decline in birth rates

Women in the Philippines are having fewer children than ever before, with the country’s fertility rate continuing to fall below the level required to sustain population growth, according to a new survey released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).