6 draft laws and several resolutions were passed and 9 other bills were deliberated at the year-end session from October 23 to November 24.

Spirit of reform, democracy

Debates, including a Q&A session, were conducted in an open, candid, and democratic manner. Deputies grilled cabinet members with sharp and practical questions. National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan said: “Generally, the Q&A session was held in a democratic, upbeat, and constructive atmosphere. Deputies were passionate, serious, responsible, and active in discussions with cabinet members and with other deputies. The Prime Minister and other cabinet members replied fully, candidly, and seriously and promised to repair shortcomings and improve governance in order to create positive changes.”

The National Assembly session was covered widely by the mass media. 12 meetings were broadcast live. The Assembly spent more time discussing problems and oversight. These efforts have been applauded by voters, including Vuong Xuan Hiep of Hanoi: “More time spent on live broadcasts triggered more interest from voters. The quality of the Q&A session improved. State Bank of Vietnam Governor Le Minh Hung had the best answers. He replied to deputies’ queries fully and accurately without a script, living up to the expectations of voters and people.”

Socio-economic solutions prioritized

Social and economic issues topped the agenda. Deputies echoed the government’s view of prioritizing the macro economy and sustaining growth. Nguyen Ngoc Phuong, a deputy for Quang Binh province, said: “The voters and I, personally, are hopeful about the session. This year’s GDP growth target of 6.7% is expected to be met, creating a premise for Vietnam to move forward in the coming years.”

Deputies praised the Prime Minister’s idea of building a facilitating government, calling it a breakthrough governance method. They made thoughtful comments and suggestions on draft laws on competiveness, anti-corruption, and special administrative-economic units.