Chairing a working session between permanent cabinet members and the national steering committee for COVID-19 prevention and control on Thursday, PM Phuc stressed the necessity to carry out a compulsory quarantine for those who come from regions affected by the coronavirus. The Government leader also asked for the postponement of major festivals and conferences across the country to avoid mass gatherings. PM Phuc said: “The Covid-19 epidemic is getting more complicated and new cases have been reported in other countries. But we are confident that the situation will be well controlled in the second quarter of 2020. Ministries, sectors and localities are required to take actions to fulfill all socio-economic development targets assigned by the Party and the National Assembly, and prepare for breakthrough growth in the second quarter.”

He suggested reducing interest rates, taxes and logistics fees, and rescheduling debts as concrete measures to support the national economy.