The second session of the 15th National Assembly opens in Hanoi on October 20 morning. (Photo: VNA)

Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue, foreign guests, and National Assembly deputies attended the session. They observed a minute of silence for those who have lost their lives to COVID-19.

In his opening address, National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue noted the difficulties Vietnam has faced since the fourth COVID-19 wave broke out, that have impacted Vietnam’s supply chain, production, employment, and living conditions. Vietnam has weathered the COVID-19 storm thanks to the solidarity and determination of the whole political system, the army, businesses, Vietnamese people at home and abroad, and foreign friends.   

“The National Assembly appreciates the Government’s aggressive leadership and management, efforts made by compatriots, cadres, soldiers, and business community, and foreign assistance to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. During the hardships, the solidarity, patriotism, morale, and kindhearted nature of the Vietnamese people shine brighter than ever before. We want to extend our sympathy for the loss of lives and property that our people have suffered and our gratitude to the selfless frontline workers,” according to Chairman Hue.  

The National Assembly has worked closely with the Government to adopt resolutions to meet the COVID response needs and call for funding of 4.3 billion USD for employers and employees in trouble.

Chairman Hue said, “The National Assembly plans to approve two draft laws and five draft resolutions and debate five other draft laws. Deputies are expected to work on Government reports on the 2021 socio-economic development plan and the 2022 State budget estimate and development plan. They will deliberate the delay of salary reform, the COVID-19 fight, and economic restructuring until 2025.”

At the session, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reviewed socio-economic development and the battle against COVID-19 in 2021 and the plan for 2022.