(Photo: quochoi.vn)

He also addressed concerns about violations in belief practices, deviation from traditional values in modern society, management of arts and exhibition activities, and management of revenue from spiritual tourism and relic sites.

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam said the Government has asked the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism to design a project on technological application in tourism to make it a spearhead of Vietnam’s economy.

He said: “The tourism sector needs breakthrough measures to overcome weaknesses. We need to address environmental pollution and impolite behavior in public places, and encourage people to create a safe and friendly environment for visitors.”

Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh clarified Vietnam’s socio-economic situation in the first half of 2019: Vietnam has seen positive signs, such as macro-economic stability and a 2.74% Consumer Price Index increase in May−the smallest increase in three years. He noted that the industrial production index was up 9.4% in the first five months of this year. Manufacturing and processing in May alone were up 11.6%, the highest growth in the past five years. Mr. Minh highlighted greater efforts in foreign affairs and maintenance of social security.

He said: “The Government has asked ministries and localities to study thoroughly, and respond appropriately to, complications in Vietnam and around the world. We are implementing coordinated measures to realize Vietnam’s 2019 targets. The Government is working on revisions to the Law on Investment and the Law on Enterprises to create a level playing field in accordance with market mechanism.”

Deputy Prime Minister Minh said Vietnam is determined to maintain macro-economic stability, push administrative reforms, and eradicate corruption. The Government has submitted to the National Assembly a draft revised Law on Public Investment that is focused on decentralization and simplification of administrative procedures.