Phu Quoc becomes second-tier city
VGP – A ceremony was held on November 15 to announce the PM’s decision recognising Phu Quoc island district in southern Kien Giang as a second-tier city.
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A ceremony to announce the PM’s decision recognising Phu Quoc island district in southern Kien Giang as a second-tier city, Phu Quoc, November 15, 2014 - Photo: VGP/Le Son |
Addressing the event, Deputy PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc called on Phu Quoc island to bring into play its advantages and potential to develop the maritime economy and tourism.
The Deputy PM also asked the local authorities to pay attention to building a green-clean-beautiful-friendly city while preserving the natural environment to keep the reputation as the Pearl Island.
Located on the Vie Nam-Cambodia-Thailand marine economic corridor, Phu Quoc island district covers more than 593sq.km with a population of over 100,000. It comprises 27 islands with Phu Quoc being the largest and dubbed the Pearl Island.
Its average annual economic growth is 25% with per capita income reaching US$ 3,416 per year.
Kien Giang is also working on procedures to recognise Phu Quoc Island a provincially-run city in the time to come, which is a step in turning the island district into a special economic-administrative zone.
In the long term, the island district is envisioned to become an economic and political hub, a crucial frontier in national defence and security, and a crucial transit point for international travelers./.
By Kim Anh
