In his opening remarks at the third Vietnam Reform and Development Forum, the minister said the country is striving to win the high middle-income status globally by 2030. He briefed the forum on achievements Vietnam has recorded in pandemic combat and economic development, with a trade surplus of US$12 billion so far this year, positive GDP growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) of US$20 billion.
However, given the adverse impact of trade tensions among powers, and shortcomings of the domestic economy, Vietnam needs consultations of scientists, ministries, agencies, development partners and international organisations that would help the Vietnamese government adjust and adopt decisions and policies for early economic recovery and macro balances towards sustainable and inclusive growth.
Carolyn Turk, WB Country Director for Vietnam, said the forum offers an opportunity to assess the progress made by the Vietnamese economy amidst a changing world. Lauding the country’s marked achievements, Turk, however, noted her concern about the negative impact of climate change, unusual weather patterns and natural disasters on the national socio-economic development.
She suggested Vietnam bring into full play opportunities, work to attract more foreign investments, optimise scientific-technological advances, and pay more attention to health care, education and social welfare.
The country should identify priorities and revamp its working methods to seek new values in the spirit of innovation and creation, in order to restructure its economy and improve its resilience and adaptability in the new context, she said.
The forum, themed “Vietnam: Actions for making growth recovery inclusive and sustainable in the COVID-19 era,” was jointly held by the Ministry of Planning and Investment and the WB.
Its objective is to discuss issues related to economic reform and development of Vietnam in the newly emerging context, reflect on major issues of particular concern to businesses and people, particularly in this new context characterised by both new challenges and new opportunities, continue contributing to the formulation of the SEDS 2021-2030 and SEDP 2021 – 2025, and contribute to enhancing Vietnam’s position in international and regional fora. It comprised two sessions - COVID-19 and Vietnam’s actions to seize opportunities and move up the global value chain, and digital transformation and structural change towards inclusiveness and sustainability.
