Deputy PM names VN’s top priorities in 2020

Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh addresses the meeting with diplomatic corps in Ha Noi on January 14, 2020. Photo: VGP

This is one of the four priorities of Viet Nam this year as the country assumes the tremendous responsibilities as the ASEAN Chair, the Chair of AIPA 41, and a Non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

Other key priorities include (i) promoting trade liberalization, and economic integration and connectivity, (ii) making more active contributions to the settlement of regional and global challenges; and (iii) realizing the ASEAN theme of “cohesive and responsive”, according to Minh.

Distinguished guests to the meeting. Photo: VGP

Minh took the occasion to brief about Viet Nam’s remarkable achievements in 2019 – the Year of Pig, especially the economy expanded above 7% for the second consecutive year while foreign trade turnover broke the record of US$ 517 billion.

The country also accelerated the implementation and official signing of new-generation FTAs such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), he said.

Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and US Ambassador to Viet Nam Daniel Kritenbrink. Photo: VGP

These important milestones in economic and social development, international integration and foreign relations have changed the face of Viet Nam, tangibly improved the quality of life for our people, and further elevated Viet Nam's standing among the world, Minh stressed.

These achievements came as a result of the determination for reform, the aspiration and the tireless effort of the Vietnamese Government and people as well as the strong support, effective cooperation and invaluable support from our friends and partners in the international community, the Deputy PM, FM said.

He express d his hope that the international community will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Viet Nam  to further bolster the partnership in all areas between with countries around the world./.

By Quang Minh