Delegates to the ongoing 11^th National Women’s Congress made the proposal during a meeting with State President Truong Tan Sang in Hanoi on March 12.

They noted that over the years, the Party and State have paid due attention to women’s affairs, raising their role and position in society. More and more women have taken part in social movements, as well as scientific research and management.

However, they said, they are still faced with difficulties to accomplish their tasks, such as the widening income gap between regions, limited access to healthcare services, strong male chauvinism, and spiritual and physical violence against women.

President Sang acknowledged the issues raised by women and said in addition to State support, women should work harder to adapt to changes in the market economy.

“Vietnamese women play an important role in the cause of national construction and defence,” said Mr Sang. “History shows that there are many examples of staunch and heroic Vietnamese women in society, creating a source of pride of the nation.”

As Vietnam is speeding up the Doi Moi (Renewal) and global integration process, together with other social classes, women should better perform their role to overcome difficulties and strengthen unity to contribute to the common cause of national industrialization and modernization, said President Sang.

He expressed his belief that the Women’s Congress will be a great success and a newly-elected executive committee will continue to work toward promoting gender equality, and creating conditions for women to study and improve their qualifications, while generating jobs, especially for those living in disadvantaged areas.

He also proposed that the new executive committee put forward effective solutions to protect women’s dignity.

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