Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (standing) speaks at a regular cabinet meeting in Hanoi on May 4, 2020 (Photo: VNA)

Mr. Phuc noted that global economic growth was negative from January-April due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In that period, Vietnamese ministries and departments focused on the dual objective of protecting people’s health while maintaining economic growth.

The government issued a number of directives and resolutions to resolve problems for enterprises and ensure social welfare, social order, and public safety, said PM Phuc, noting that the economy still reported year-on-year growth of 3.82%.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicted that Vietnam will enjoy the highest growth in Southeast Asia this year, which is projected at 2.7%, said Mr. Phuc. He said Vietnam intends to achieve an even higher rate, despite sectors and businesses having to resume operations while taking drastic health safety measures.