Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc beats the gong to open the New Year's stock trading session in Hanoi on February 12, 2019. (Photo: VNA)

In his speech, the PM asked the Ministry of Finance and relevant agencies to improve the legal framework for securities-related activities, and revise the Securities Law to submit to the National Assembly for approval this year. Mr. Phuc stressed the need to bolster institutions to protect investors and take measures to strengthen Vietnam’s stock market.

“The Government will press on with improving the investment and business climate,  stabilizing the macro-economy and reforming the growth model. It will also maintain its view of the private sector as an important driving force for economic development. It’s important to sustainably develop the stock market and promote its role in creating medium- and long-term capital for the economy, enhancing the quality of growth and increasing economic transparency," the Prime Minister said.

"I hope that the securities sector will take the lead in realizing the government’s motto of ensuring discipline, responsibility, action, creativity, innovation and efficiency to further improve the quality of the stock market,” Mr. Phuc added.

The same day, the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange opened its first session of the new Lunar Year 2019.