An action plan on socio-economic development in the Mekong Delta to 2030 and vision to 2045 is contained in a Resolution signed by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on June 18.

The Resolution sets out a number of specific targets for the Delta region to 2030, including average growth in the 2021-2030 period of 6.5-7 per cent a year, with the size of the economy to be 2-2.5 times larger than in 2021.

To achieve its objectives, the Resolution also outlines main tasks and solutions. It will be necessary to understand and create unity and consensus among society on developing and organizing programs and action plans to implement Resolution No. 13-NQ/TW from the Politburo.

Another goal within the Resolution is to build Can Tho city into a development center of commerce, healthcare, education, science and technology, culture, tourism, and advanced processing. My Tho, Tan An, Long Xuyen, Rach Gia, Ca Mau, and Soc Trang cities are to become general and specialized centers.

An additional objective to 2030 is to complete the expressway network connecting the Mekong Delta with the southern region and its seaport and international gateway network. The focus is on completing seaport network planning, including for Tran De Port and Hon Khoai Port, expanding Phu Quoc International Airport, adjusting the plan and investment for Rach Gia and Ca Mau airports, and completing preparations for investment in the Ho Chi Minh City - Can Tho railway line.

The Prime Minister’s Resolution also sets out another important task, which is to accelerate the restructuring of the regional economy in association with the transformation of the growth model towards increasing the application of science and technology, digital technology, innovation, and the development of the digital economy, the green economy, the circular economy, and the night-time economy.

It also clearly states that strengthening national defense and security is to be done in combination with economic, cultural, and social development under feasible master plans, associated with ensuring economic security, network safety, and security in all situations.

Political security and social order and safety are to be maintained. Guidelines and policies from other countries towards the Mekong sub-region are to be grasped, to adopt appropriate response measures. Moreover, the Resolution sets out tasks and solutions for socio-cultural development, improving people’s material and spiritual lives, and focusing on building the Party and the political system.