Mr. Phuc made the request during his New Year visit to the Confederation in Hanoi on Thursday. He said trade unions at all levels should strictly abide by disciplines, enhance labor productivity, and accomplish this year’s tasks. Prime Minister Phuc also asked for better protection of workers’ rights: “I call on the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor to continue to ensure food safety for workers, as food poisoning in canteens, particularly alcohol poisoning have occurred during the Lunar New Year holiday. Secondly, efforts should be made to prevent workers from occupational accidents.”

The Prime Minister said that labor and trade union issues are part of negotiations of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). He asked the Confederation to assist workers in enhancing their skills and propose legal institutions to protect the rights of the working class in a more competitive environment.