(VOVworld)- On April 7^th, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc underlined the primary government tasks over the next 5 years. Completing these tasks will be important for the national economy, public welfare, and national development path.

The members of the cabinet

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said the top priorities include macro-economic stabilization; economic growth; administrative reforms; the fight against corruption and waste; safeguarding independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity; and protecting people from natural disasters.

Boosting economic growth despite integration pressure  

Stabilizing  the macro-economy and boosting growth top the PM’s agenda. The government begins on its new term with Vietnam rapidly integrating into the world, making the economy is vulnerable to external uncertainties. Tran Hoang Ngan is a deputy for Ho Chi Minh city: “Competition between countries is fierce because of the broader integration. Because all countries are improving their business environment, the government needs to do more to increase Vietnam’s workforce productivity. Upgrading machinery and technology is alo crucial. But so far our enterprises have invested very little in science and technology. The government should initiate a support program to help enterprises invest in science and technology”.

Vietnam has become an active and dynamic player in the global economy, having already signed or begun negotiating 16 free trade deals. But some factors considered key to national competiveness are under pressure. There is a call to pay more attention to the private sector. Pham Trong Nhan, a deputy for Binh Duong province, says: “The resolution of the 12^th National Party Congress identifies the private sector as an important driver of national development and this recognition has been applauded at home and abroad. The government has pledged to boost domestic enterprises, including private businesses, to provide momentum for the economy and improve competitiveness and self-reliance. I hope to see clearer, more detailed policies in place”.

Another important task is to ensure agricultural sustainability. Although agriculture contributes only 17%-19% of the national GDP, it supports 70% of the rural population. Le Cong Dinh, a deputy for Long An province, says agricultural development should follow 5 major strategies:  “First, increase the competitiveness of products in terms of designs, quantity and price. Second, correct the shortcomings of Vietnam’s agricultural production, namely scattered production and uneven quality. Third, review uncompetitive sectors and adopt more appropriate policies. Fourth, adopt a clear strategy for agricultural products. Fifth, empower the farmers with agricultural management skills”.

Defending sovereignty while developing marine economy

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc vowed to resolutely and consistently defend national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Phuc described this task as a sacred responsibility. Many National Assembly deputies have proposed uniform solutions in politics, economics, diplomacy and defense, including national defense combined with marine economic development. Deputy Nguyen Thi Phuc for Binh Thuan province said: "I urge the government to develop the Vietnam’s marine economy while protecting national maritime soverignty. The government should evaluate the implementation of the policy of helping fishermen build ships for offshore fishing, and investing in methods to prevent coastal erosion. We need to build safe harbors and upgrade the transportation and defense facilities on islands”.

Determination to fight corruption

The National Assembly deputies said corruption prevention and control requires a shared determination and for the Prime Minister to keep his promise on this issue. Deputy Bui Manh Hung for Binh Phuoc province said the current National Assembly has passed a Law on corruption prevention and control and a Law on practicing thrift and combating wastefulness, but the implementation of these laws has been limited. So, the government needs a renewed commitment to fight corruption.

Vietnam has gained major socio-economic achievements over the past 5 years and the new government hopes to overcome further challenges and continue to develop the economy over the next 5 years.