Mr. Phuc was speaking at the just-concluded government-locality teleconference on setting forth Vietnam’s socio-economic tasks in 2020.

“We need to expand the message of not pursuing economic growth at the expense of the environment, culture, and  civilization to promote the true nature of Vietnam’s socialist-oriented market economy. Cultural pollution is as harmful as air pollution. A solid social foundation is the launch pad for rapid, sustainable economic growth. It’s right to pursue economic growth but we need to pay more attention to the living environment, the cultural environment and society,” he said. 

The Prime Minister asked for joint efforts to ensure Vietnam fulfills its role as ASEAN Chair and AIPA 41 Chair in 2020 and defend national independence, sovereignty and interests.