From left: Politburo Vo Van Thuong, Party Chief and State President Nguyen Phu Trong, PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc, and Deputy PM Truong Hoa Binh attend the teleconference between the government and localities on December 30, 2019. (Photo: VGP/Quang Hieu)

The event reviewed 2019 and discussed measures to meet the targets set for next year. 

“Vietnam’s economic growth rate was among the most rapid in the world despite a global downturn. The country’s GDP was estimated at 266 billion USD, representing a GDP per capita of 2,800 USD, the highest in history. Inflation was kept below 3% while the poverty rate dropped to 4%. Defense capabilities, security, external relations, and international integration were all enhanced. Party building and the battle against corruption were intensified,” Mr. Trong underlined the key factors for Vietnam’s progress this year. 

He said that priority should be given to strengthening the macro-economy and controlling inflation, while improving internal capacity and economic independence to achieve greater progress next year. Attention should be paid to raising people’s living standards, maintaining political stability, and boosting national defense and foreign affairs, he said.

In 2020, Vietnam will assume the role of the ASEAN Chair and a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2020-2021 term.

Mr. Trong urged more efforts be made to consolidate Party building, while preventing degradation in political ideology and lifestyle, and streamlining the state apparatus.