PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc (middle) and Deputy PM Vuong Dinh Hue (left) at the working session with local leaders of Nghe An province, February 19, 2017 – Photo: VGP/Quang Hieu

PM Phuc praised the central province for their drastic economic transformation, increasing budget collection, better business environment, progressing FDI attraction, and building of business start-up program.

However, the Government chief also mentioned weak points, including a low number of businesses; low income per capita; and  budget overspending.

Regarding key tasks for 2017, PM Phuc tasked the locality to comprehensively implement Resolution 26 of the Politburo and the Government’s Resolution 01; accelerate the economic restructuring, especially in agriculture and high-tech farming.  

By 2025, Nghe An must become a well-off province in the North Central Region and work with Ha Tinh and Thanh Hoa provinces to become a newly emerging growth pole in industry; improve living standards; convert itself into a business start-up land and an attractive destination for talents.

The local authorities were urged to build Vinh city as a modern one in line with other peers like Da Nang.  

In addition, Nghe An was asked to optimize its potentials and advantages to develop in a sustainable manner; generate jobs; and transform labour infrastructure; improve the business environment and competitiveness; modernize international airports, seaports, and roads.  

Last year, the province fulfilled 25 out of 27 socio-economic development plans in which GRDP grew 7.5%. The locality welcomed 3.22 million guests, including 72,860 foreign visitors (representing a year-on-year surge of 12%)./.

By Khanh Phuong