The request was made at a meeting between Prime Minister (PM) Nguyen Tan Dung, Deputy PM Nguyen Sinh Hung, Deputy PM Hoang Trung Hai and representatives from ministries and central agencies in Hanoi on March 17.

The meeting aimed to discuss measures to implement plans on socio-economic development and national security and defence in Hanoi, as well as the city’s major traffic projects and its preparations for the celebrations of the 1,000^th anniversary of Thang Long-Hanoi.

The Chairman of the Hanoi municipal People’s Committee, Nguyen The Thao, delivered a report on Hanoi’s socio-economic development in 2009 and the first months of this year. He also pointed out some shortcomings in results of some major projects in the city, including traffic projects.

Mr Thao proposed that the Government create more favourable conditions for Hanoi to step up its key projects and attract more investment sources.

To ease traffic congestion, he asked the Prime Minister to add Hanoi’s plans on developing traffic infrastructure and building railways and flyovers to the national target programme, and so provide a prompt resolution.

Mr Thao also urged the Government to allow Hanoi to set up a fire department to deal with fires and explosions more efficiently in the city. Representatives from the Ministry of Public Security agreed to this proposal.

Participants in the meeting contributed ideas to resolving problems mentioned by Hanoi leaders. Representatives from the Ministry of Construction agreed to Hanoi’s proposal to improve degraded residential buildings. Representatives from the Ministry of Transport pledged to cooperate with Hanoi authorities in implementing key projects to prevent traffic jams. The Transport Ministry is currently expanding bus stations and intensifying strict management of taxis and buses.

Deputy Minister of National Defence, Nguyen Khac Nghien, affirmed that his ministry always provides good conditions for Hanoi’s ongoing projects to ensure national security and defence.