On April 16, 2025, significant discussions unfolded in Vietnam as General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong addressed a National Conference aimed at implementing the resolutions from the 13th Party Congress. The meeting focused on the necessity of reforming thinking and strategic vision to meet the evolving requirements of national development.
Trong emphasized that the essence of the nation is rooted in the concept of "country as home," urging officials and citizens alike to transcend regional mentalities. He stated, "We need to overcome regional psychology to foster unity and progress for the collective good of the country." This call to action reflects a broader desire to unify the nation under a common purpose, moving away from localized interests.
The conference highlighted the urgency of completing key tasks before the end of the year, including constitutional amendments and local administrative reforms. Trong outlined a timeline for these initiatives, asserting that all necessary work should be finalized by January 1, 2025, with discussions at the central level concluding by April 30, 2025, and provincial levels by October 31, 2025.
In a bid to enhance organizational efficiency, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang proposed four critical tasks for the Ministry of Planning and Investment. These tasks aim to bolster the construction of industrial parks, economic zones, and to integrate various local plans into a cohesive framework. Quang noted that achieving these goals would require unwavering determination from the political system and the business community.
Moreover, Quang stressed the importance of not allowing bureaucratic hurdles to impede progress. He remarked, "The organizational apparatus must not be cumbersome; it should be efficient and capable of performing its functions effectively." His comments underscore a collective acknowledgment that the current structures may hinder rather than help the nation’s development efforts.
General Secretary Trong also addressed the need for a strategic mindset that is both comprehensive and focused on the country’s development. He stated, "In the new context, we must reform our thinking and vision to meet the requirements of national development." This sentiment resonates with the ongoing push for modernization and innovation within Vietnam's political and economic spheres.
As the conference progressed, Trong reiterated the significance of unity among party members and the public. He urged all levels of government to be proactive in their roles, asserting that every member must contribute to the collective mission of national development. "We must not wait and see; we need to act decisively and responsibly, ensuring that our actions align with the goals of the Party and the people," he emphasized.
The discussions at the conference come at a time when Vietnam is striving to enhance its economic growth, targeting an ambitious growth rate of 8% or more by 2026. This goal reflects the country’s commitment to fostering a robust economy capable of competing on a global scale.
In addition to economic objectives, the conference also highlighted the importance of integrating science and technology into national development strategies. Deputy Prime Minister Quang pointed out that the advancement of science and technology is crucial for achieving a modern educational system that meets both regional and global standards.
As part of the discussions, the need for a shift in mindset was emphasized, particularly in overcoming localized thinking. Trong stated, "We need to cultivate a broader perspective, understanding that our roots are intertwined with the progress of the nation as a whole." This perspective aims to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose among the Vietnamese people, encouraging them to work together for the collective good.
The conference also served as a platform for addressing the restructuring of local governance. Trong noted that the restructuring process is not merely about administrative efficiency but also about redefining economic zones and resource allocation to better serve the public. He remarked, "This is an opportunity for us to filter, prepare, and build teams that can genuinely meet the development needs of the country in the new era."
In his closing remarks, Trong called for a commitment to innovation and creativity, stressing that without these qualities, Vietnam risks falling behind in a rapidly changing world. He stated, "If we do not innovate, we may find ourselves at a disadvantage. The world is moving quickly, and we must keep pace to ensure our national development."
The outcomes of this National Conference are expected to shape Vietnam's political and economic landscape as the country navigates through its developmental challenges and opportunities. With a clear vision and a united front, the leadership aims to propel Vietnam toward a prosperous future, reinforcing the notion that the nation’s strength lies in its unity and collective effort.
