(VOVword) – A national conference was held in Hanoi on Saturday to review the scientific and technological activities to implement the Party Central Committee’s resolution on agriculture, farmers and rural areas. Delegates said major achievements have been made over the past 5 years, resulting in higher productivity and lower prices. The competitiveness of Vietnamese staples such as rice, wood, coffee, cashew and seafood has been improved. Addressing the conference, National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung said from 5 to 15 years to come, Vietnam’s agriculture will remain playing a crucial role in socio-economic development and contributing to food security. He urged for a focus on investment in agriculture, farmers and rural areas by applying technological advances and improving farmers’ qualification: “Science is important but it’s essential to boost the close relationship between farmers, businesses, banks and scientists. Science and technology should be applied appropriately to benefit farmers. This is the task of scientists”.

Delegates including managers, scientists, business people and farmers pointed out shortcomings and limitations in scientific and technological application and put forth measures to successfully implement the Party Central Committee’s resolution on agriculture, farmers and rural areas.