State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc speaking at the meeting. Photo: VNA

The President emphasized that Dien Bien has an important strategic position in terms of economy, society, national defense and security, ecological environment and foreign affairs. He asked Dien Bien, a locality inhabited by many ethnic groups, to capitalize on its historical and cultural strength for local socio-economic development.

“As a border province, Dien Bien and other border provinces joined forces to create a solid economic stronghold of the country. It is necessary to study and propose a mechanism to create an arc corridor, and develop socio-economic development of border provinces, including Son La, Dien Bien, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Lang Son, and Quang Ninh. Resources should be concentrated for economic development based on three economic pillars of tourism and historical and cultural experience; smart agriculture; and processing industry combined with local raw material areas,” President Phuc said. 

President Phuc suggested that Dien Bien promote digital transformation in public service delivery and encourage e-commerce and digital economy. In addition, the province needs to well implement social security policies, improve education quality, and ensure people's access to quality services, the President said, adding that education is a key for Dien Bien to reduce poverty and develop local economy.