He was briefed at a working session with the key provincial authorities and revolutionary veterans that despite numerous difficulties, Vinh Phuc still achieved a GDP growth rate of 17.7 percent in 2008 with a GDP per capita of US$1,300. The province attracted nearly 400 domestic and foreign investment projects capitalised at more than US$3 billion.

He acknowledged the province’s achievements, saying Vinh Phuc is one of the first localities to build new and effective economic development models, especially in agricultural production. 

He said together with the rapid urbanisation taking place in the province, Vinh Phuc should successfully implement the Party resolution regarding agriculture, farmers and rural development, with the aim of building a new rural model and improving farmers’ physical and spiritual lives. 

According to the Party leader, the province should take advantage of its geological location and transport infrastructure to develop the industrial and services sectors and use their profit to re-invest in disadvantaged areas.

He visited and presented Tet gifts to several families of social policy beneficiaries in Vinh Yen city. 

*** During a pre-Tet visit to the central province of Ha Tinh on January 20-21, State Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan presented gifts to families of war invalids and martyrs and those working at provincial vocational training, functional rehabilitation and employment centres for disabled people in Ha Tinh City.

She asked the provincial authorities to pay more attention to improving the living conditions of the residents, especially those living in difficult circumstances and far-flung areas.

*** Deputy Prime Minister Truong Vinh Trong paid a pre-Tet visit to the northern mountainous province of Dien Bien on January 20-21.

At a get-together for revolutionary veterans, intellectuals and provincial authorities, Mr Trong praised Dien Bien for its outstanding achievements in socio-economic development and asked local ethnic groups to join hands to alleviate poverty and build a prosperous province. 

To maintain steady growth in the long run, he suggested that the province build effective economic development models and prioritise personnel training.