This statement was made by National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong at a meeting with key provincial leaders on July 11.

The provincial leaders reported that five years after implementing the 8^th Party Congress’s resolution, the provincial socio-economy has made significant progress with an economic growth rate of nearly 12 percent and GDP per capita of over VND22 million. Based on these achievements, Long An aims to achieve an economic growth rate of 14 percent in the 2010-2015 period and GDP per capita of VND50 million by 2015.

By the end of June, 865 (99 percent) Party committees at grass-roots levels have already held their congresses. Preparations for documents and personnel for the 9^th provincial Party Congress was basically completed on schedule.

Mr Trong praised provincial socio-economic achievements, especially the successful implementation of the Politburo’s resolution No 37 on organising Party congresses at grass-roots level. He agreed with the provincial socio-economic targets, orientations and measures for the future and noted that the province should promote its role in this key economic region by linking with neighbouring areas, devising co-operative mechanisms in line with local potential and arranging appropriate human resources.

Mr Trong took note of Long An’s petitions for more investment capital flow into the Binh Hiep International Border Gate, as well as infrastructure and environmental projects.

On the same day, Mr Trong and the NA delegation visited Duc Lap Ha village in Duc Hoa district and some social policy beneficiary families.