Top leader To Lam stresses worker welfare as key political task
VOV.VN - General Secretary and President To Lam on April 27 called for continued efforts to improve workers’ living conditions, describing it as a key political task, during a meeting with labourers in Ho Chi Minh City.
The meeting was held ahead of Vietnam’s Southern Liberation and Reunification Day (April 30, 1975-2026)) and International Workers' Day (May 1), as part of his working visit to the southern economic hub.
Speaking with approximately 200 workers at the meeting, the leader emphasised that caring for labourers should go beyond short-term support, focusing instead on stable jobs, higher incomes, safe working environments and improved living conditions.
He said policies must take into account not only production targets but also the well-being of workers and their families.
“Efforts to improve the living conditions of workers must continue to be treated as a key, long-term political task,” he said. “The city should further review demand for social housing, worker accommodation, schools, kindergartens, healthcare facilities, cultural institutions and community spaces in industrial and export processing zones and areas with large labor populations.”
General Secretary and President To Lam urged trade unions to stay close to workers, better represent their voices and protect their legitimate rights and interests.
Businesses were also encouraged to improve wages, benefits and workplace safety, while creating opportunities for skill development and career advancement.
Highlighting the city’s role as a major economic centre with a large labour force, the top leader called on local authorities to prioritise housing, healthcare, education and social infrastructure for workers, especially in industrial and export processing zones.
He encouraged workers to enhance their skills, adopt industrial discipline, learn new technologies and contribute initiatives to improve productivity and product quality.
Representatives of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour expressed appreciation for the attention of Party and State leaders, while providing updates on workers’ conditions and trade union activities. Several workers also shared their personal circumstances and raised proposals and expectations regarding labour policies and welfare support.
At the event, Party General Secretary and President To Lam presented gifts to representatives of workers in the city.