Vietnam expects to achieve all major targets in 2019: PM

Vietnam expects to fulfil all socio-economic development targets in 2019, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc told the National Assembly (NA) in Hanoi on October 21.

PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc presents a report on socio-economic situation in 2019 and socio-economic development plan for 2020 at the eighth session of the 14th-tenure NA in Hanoi on October 21. (Photo: NDO/Chuong Linh)
PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc presents a report on socio-economic situation in 2019 and socio-economic development plan for 2020 at the eighth session of the 14th-tenure NA in Hanoi on October 21. (Photo: NDO/Chuong Linh)

In presenting a report on socio-economic situation in 2019 and socio-economic development plan for 2020 at the eighth session of the 14th-tenure NA, the PM said 2019 is expected to be the second consecutive year when the country achieves all 12 major objectives, with five surpassed.

He said the economic growth is forecast to be higher than the target, while macro-economic stability is maintained and inflation kept under control, and major economic balances are strengthened.

The national gross domestic product (GDP) is projected to expand by 6.8% this year, one of the highest growth rates in the region and the world, the PM said, stressing that the results are attributable to great endeavours of administrations at all levels, all sectors and the entire nation amidst challenges to agriculture and difficulties faced by export activities.

Over the past time, Vietnam has maintained the macro-economy firmly in the face of uncertainties of the global financial and monetary markets, with the consumer price index (CPI) growing less than 3%, lower than the set target, PM Phuc said.

The building of new-style rural areas has reaped outstanding achievements, he reported, adding that by the end of this year, about 53-54% of communes and 110 districts are set to win the status, meeting the target set for 2020 nearly two years ahead of schedule.

The Government leader also highlighted outcomes in other areas like Party building and rectification, political system consolidation and the combat against corruption and wastefulness.

Regarding the socio-economic development plan for 2020, PM Phuc said the year 2020 is of significance as it marks the 90th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the 75th National Day and the 130th birthday of late President Ho Chi Minh. All-level Party congresses will also be held in the year, towards the 13th National Party Congress.

He listed the overall goals for 2020, which are stabilising the macro-economy; controlling inflation; improving productivity, quality, efficiency and competitiveness of the national economy, accelerating reform and perfection of institutions, creating a favourable, open business environment, stepping up economic restructuring in combination with growth model reform, speeding up the implementation of major national projects, promoting the role of key economic zones and major urban areas, developing high-quality human resources, and spurring economic growth rapidly and sustainably.

Vietnam will try its best to well perform its roles as ASEAN Chair in 2020 and a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2020-2021 term, while firmly protecting national independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and a peaceful and stable environment for development, and improving the country’s prestige and position in the international area, PM Phuc said.

He presented some major targets set for next year, including a GDP growth rate at about 6.8%, poverty reduction of 1-1.5% and health coverage of 90.7%, among others.