Pacific island countries such as Tonga, Samoa and Kiribati, are the first places to welcome 2023. A few hours later, the New Year arrived in New Zealand, Australia, etc. Following a 2-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the spectacular fireworks displays have returned to several major cities around the world.

Large crowds, especially young people, flocked to the central areas of the major cities around the country, to join the Countdown Festivals and enjoy firework displays to welcome the New Year 2023.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has not been repelled completely and the global economy is facing many great challenges, the festive atmosphere of Christmas and New Year 2023 is still overwhelming throughout the world , with sparkling lights, brightly decorated markets and warm gatherings.

Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh visited and congratulated Archbishop Vu Dinh Hieu and Catholic dignitaries, priests and followers at Bui Chu Diocese in Xuan Truong district in the northern province of Nam Dinh on December 23, on the occasion of Christmas and New Year 2023.