The State President made the affirmation while receiving a delegation of entrepreneurs, who are participating in the second Vietnam Investment Forum in Hanoi on March 19.

The president said that although Vietnam's national economy is changing into a market economy, the country has consistently pursued its goal of advancing towards socialism.

According to the president, to ensure that economic benefits are given to people from all strata, Vietnam has always created favourable conditions for businesses to develop. These businesses will then make more contributions to the State budget for the poor.

Regarding the country's policies for investment in education, President Triet affirmed it as the nation's top priority, saying Vietnam spends almost 20 percent of its State budget on education and this proportion is rather high in the world.

Explaining a regular dialogue mechanism between investors and relevant Vietnamese agencies, President Triet said that if facing any difficulties, investors in localities can contact their local authorities or relevant ministries and departments. For much more important issues, investors can propose meetings with the Prime Minister or the President. Vietnam respects investors and leaders at all levels are willing to share and solve difficulties to help investors better operate, thus contributing to the country's development.

Regarding the State's policy on Vietnamese expatriates, the President affirmed that the country highly appreciates the role of overseas Vietnamese and consider them an integral part of the Vietnamese community. The Vietnamese Party and State call for Vietnamese expatriates to contribute to building the homeland, he said.