Deputy PM Hung made the remarks during a conference held in Kien Giang province by the Southwestern Region Steering Committee to review the implementation of Prime Minister's Decision on transportation, irrigation, education and vocational training in the Mekong Delta and development of Phu Quoc island.

He emphasised the need for effective investment in key projects to promote the development of the whole region, avoiding ineffective investment distribution.

During one year after the implementation of the PM's decision, Mekong Delta has seen a new prosperous phase, with GDP growth averaging more than 12 percent of the whole region.

Several infrastructure projects are under construction, including the upgrade of Can Tho airport, the construction of Can Tho bridge, Rach Gia and Ca Mau airports. Kien Giang province's Phu Quoc island, is seen as a focal point of investment in the region.

However, many shortcomings still hinder the region's socio-economic development, including an unstable economic growth, and insufficient transport infrastructure, failing to meet socio-economic development demands. Other limitations are the region's poor human resources and a very low educational level of the locals, falling below national standards.

VOVNews/VNA