| | | PM Nguyễn Tấn Dũng chairs the conference on curbing inflation – Photo: VNGOP | The 32 southern provinces account for 70% of exports, over 60% of GDP and nearly 70% of the food output of the whole country. So, to curb inflation, the PM made emphasis that these provinces should promptly lift all difficulties to promote production, export and investment. It is impossible to fight against inflation without boosting production, to reduce trade deficit without promoting export, and to increase production capacity without investments, said the Government chief. “All localities must do their best and show their highest sense of responsibility in successfully fulfilling the targets set in 2008", PM Dũng stressed. He also suggested the provinces to keep firm their growth norms, though the Government had made some readjustments at macro level. | | | PM Nguyễn Tấn Dũng in talks with correspondents – Photo: VNGOP | PM Dũng urged localities to focus investments on such major projects as seaports and roads, train human resource, enhance anti-corruption, maintain national security and defense as well as traffic safety. He asked the southern provinces to resolutely cut, restrain, or delay unnecessary projects using public budget in order to channel capital to effective ones. Mentioning the increased budget collection, the PM affirmed that it will be spent for social welfare, reserve funds and imperative works. He requested the localities to practice thrift by reducing meetings and saving 10% of expenses for fuels, electric consumption, and telephone charges. Leaders of the southern provinces all showed their support and determination to join hands with the Government in curbing inflation, stabilizing the macro-economy, ensuring social welfare and sustainable growth. They pledged to cut down 10% of administrative spending; tighten the market and price management; promote production and export; remove ineffective investment projects and pour capital on necessary ones; and help people stabilize their livelihood in the context of price escalation. By Nguyên Hồ | 