PM Urges Utilization of US$31.3 Billion Allocated for Key Infrastructure Projects

Construction site of the S9 Kim Mã depot, part of the Nhổn-Hà Nội Station metro line. — VNA/VNS Photo Dương Giang

Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính presided over the Steering Committee meeting on national key transport infrastructure projects held on Wednesday.

The committee focuses on nine nationally significant projects, including the Hồ Chí Minh Road, various expressways such as North-South, Bến Lức-Long Thành, Khánh Hoà-Buôn Ma Thuột, Biên Hòa-Vũng Tàu, Châu Đốc-Cần Thơ-Sóc Trăng, Hà Nội’s Belt Road No.4 and HCM City’s Belt Road No.3, the North-South high-speed rail line, urban metro projects in Hà Nội and HCM City, the Long Thành International Airport project, and other projects of importance as determined by the committee.

The delegations reached a consensus that these projects encompass significant transport infrastructure initiatives that play a pivotal role in facilitating socio-economic growth and enhancing national competitiveness.

According to the finance ministry, the total budget required is VNĐ734 trillion (US$31.3 billion) and the sheets have been balanced.

Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính emphasized the importance of pursuing three strategic breakthroughs outlined in the Resolution of the 13th National Party Congress: institutions, infrastructure, and human resources. These breakthroughs include prioritizing key transportation projects. Additionally, the 13th National Congress has set a goal of achieving a minimum of 5,000km of highways across the entire country by 2030. It is worth noting that up until 2021, only 1,100km of highways have been completed nationwide between the years 2000 and 2021.

According to PM Chính, it is imperative that the substantial budget of $31.3 billion assigned to these initiatives be utilized effectively in order to generate fresh momentum for national growth and development. This will involve enabling the establishment of new industrial zones, urban areas, and service centers, while also addressing transportation constraints and fostering commerce, job creation, and socio-economic revitalization.

“Prime Minister Chính highlighted that regions with well-established infrastructure, such as Hải Phòng, Quảng Ninh, and Thanh Hoá, are poised for significant growth.”

Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính on Wednesday chaired the steering committee on national key transport infrastructure projects. — VNA/VNS Photo Dương Giang

The Government leader emphasized the importance of responsible and proactive execution of assigned duties by all parties involved. It was stressed that a high sense of determination and discipline is essential, and that passing blame is not acceptable. Furthermore, strong coordination among all stakeholders is necessary to effectively meet the demands of the people, the Party, and the State.

The Ministry of Environment is responsible for procuring the necessary materials for the projects.

Ministries and local authorities should strive to work together smoothly to carry out investment procedures, including the selection of consultants for design and supervision, as well as contractors for quality control works. This collaborative approach should emphasize impartiality and transparency, ensuring that project progress and quality are upheld, while effectively combating corruption and vested interests.

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are required to adhere to the directives of the Prime Minister regarding the development of urban metro lines. These cities are also requested to provide the Government with regular reports addressing any additional concerns or challenges that may arise.

The resolutions regarding Hà Nội’s Belt Road No.4 and HCM City’s Belt Road No.3 are expected to be issued soon.

During the Long Thanh International Airport project, Prime Minister Chinh acknowledged the challenges that certain households and individuals are encountering in terms of land clearance and resettlement. As a result, he has instructed the Chairman of the Dong Nai Province People’s Committee to investigate and address these grievances by the end of August, ensuring the smooth transition of those affected by the project.

All the necessary construction projects for Long Thanh International Airport, including site clearance, resettlement, connecting roads, airport terminals, runways, and buildings, must be implemented simultaneously. These projects will be managed by the ministries of industry and trade, public security, and finance, and will support import and export activities. To read more about the construction of Long Thanh International Airport, please visit this link.

In relation to construction costs, the Prime Minister mentioned that domestic gasoline prices have currently decreased to a level comparable to the period prior to the Ukraine conflict. In light of this, it is imperative for ministries and localities to promptly implement measures to stabilize service prices, in accordance with relevant regulations.

The PM expressed his deep concern and empathy for the contractors and businesses involved in the project, as they face increased costs. However, he also highlighted the need for them to collaborate with the Party, State, and People in addressing the global challenges at hand.

Cooperation Based on Harmonized Benefits and Shared Risks

In order to achieve successful outcomes, it is essential that all parties involved work together, operating under the principle of “harmonized benefits, shared risks.” By aligning our goals and being willing to take on mutual responsibilities, we can ensure a balanced and mutually beneficial partnership.

He emphasized the importance of State agencies being adaptable and customer-oriented, efficiently addressing the needs and demands of enterprises while staying within their capabilities, all in order to ensure the smooth progress of the projects.