(VOVworld) – National Assembly deputies listened to reports on the draft law on referendum and the draft Law on Sea and Island Natural Resources and Environment in Hanoi on Thursday. Deputy Bui Thi An of Hanoi stressed the need of a law on Sea and Island Natural Resources and Environment to effectively manage and tap the great potential of Vietnam’s long coastline and rich mineral resources: “The government should consider the establishment of a Marine Economy Ministry because at present the marine economy contributes approximately 50% of Vietnam’s GDP.”

Some deputies suggested that the National Assembly continue to get more ministries, organizations, and scientists involved in developing the Truong Sa and Hoang Sa archipelagoes, contributing to national defense and security. The deputies also debated reports on the draft administrative procedure law and the 2013 state budget.