Gov’t talks socio-economic goals for 2012

Prime Minister Nguyễn Tấn Dũng (standing) addresses the Government’s meeting on ways to realize the socio-economic development plan and State budget for 2012, Hà Nội, December 22, 2011 – Photo: VGP/Nhật Bắc

Minister of Planning and Investment Bùi Quang Vinh reported that in spite of domestic and international difficulties, the realization of the Government’s Resolutions 02/NQ-CP and 11/NQ-CP has contributed to making positive changes nationwide.

Accordingly, GDP growth rate was estimated to reach 5.9%. CPI was on the decline. Total means of payment increased by 10%. Foreign exchange market was stable. Foreign reserve was risen. Budget collection outstriped forecast. Exports rocketed and trade deficit was narrowed, helping balance international payments and stabilize foreign exchanges.

However, some key areas were yet fulfilled. The macro-economy was instable, inflation remained high, bad debts in the banking system kept  increasing, exchange rates suffered high pressures, the securities and real estate markets went to stand still, and inventory rose.

The living standards of people, especiall of the poor, low-income laborers, workers, social beneficiaries, ethnic minoriites have still faced difficulties. Corruption and waste have yet been driven back. Spontaneous strikes, traffic congestion and accidents, pollution, and social evils still happened.

Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Nguyễn Tấn Dũng said in 2012, the Government will give priority to rein in inflation, stabilize the macro-economy, control trade gap, clear business difficulties and strive for a GDP growth rate of around 6%, and the effective restructuring of the economy. 

The Prime Minister recommended ministries, sectors and localities give comments on the Government’s draft resolution on key measures to fulfill the socio-economic development plan and state budget for 2012.

He stressed the necessity of evaluating the achievements as well as shortcomings in socio-economic performance in 2011 in order to successfully realize the new goals in 2012.

The meeting will wrap up on December 23./.

By Kim Loan