(VOVworld) – The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development marked its 70^th anniversary and held its 4^th patriotic emulation congress in Hanoi on Saturday. In his address, President Truong Tan Sang said the sector should continue to restructure itself, apply scientific advances in agricultural production, and increase investment in infrastructure development.

He said: “More scientific advances should be applied in agricultural production to save costs, increase productivity and competitiveness, and ensure food safety and hygiene. Science and technology should be the driving force in achieving sustainable agricultural growth in the new period.”

A ceremony was held in Hanoi on Friday to honor 63 outstanding farmers and 80 individuals and collectives who won the 2^nd Golden Rice Award. The event also honored 100 businesses who have been supporting farmers over the last few years. In his address Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai said after 30 years of renewal Vietnam’s agricultural sector has continued to be the economy’s pillar. He urged continued cooperation between farmers, businesses, managers, and scientists to further agricultural and new rural development.