Defense Diplomacy: Japan says Vietnam’s defense minister Phan Van Giang will visit for four days, with talks Monday on regional security and defense equipment/tech cooperation. Corporate Moves: VinaCapital-linked investors cut their PNJ holdings, dropping below major-shareholder status after a share sale. Storm Watch: Typhoon Bavi, named after Ba Vi near Hanoi, is a huge system threatening East Asia with heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas, with Vietnam among areas at risk. Hanoi Development: Vietnam’s government backs an action programme to build Hanoi into a science-and-technology hub, pushing green growth, digital transformation and a circular economy. AI Push: Resolution 57 is driving Vietnam to build a national AI ecosystem and compete for tech talent, with AI now treated as strategic infrastructure. Agri Exports Plan: Vietnam targets $100bn in agro-forestry-fishery exports by 2027, with a proposed 500-day action programme to remove bottlenecks. Business & Markets: The VN-Index ended the week lower amid profit-taking, while auto sales rose 15% in H1 with hybrids leading growth. Tourism & Daily Life: Ho Chi Minh City’s free bus service since July 1 is drawing praise from residents and foreign tourists.