General Secretary To Lam delivers the opening speech at the 13th Party Central Committee Conference. (Photo: Ngoc Thanh/VOV)

In his opening remarks, the Party leader said the meeting will focus on five key topics, including review of Resolution 18, issued by the Party Central Committee in 2017, which seeks to streamline the political system for greater efficiency and effectiveness; the plan to adjust the GDP growth target, aiming for at least 8% in 2025 and double-digit growth for the 2026–2030 period; and personnel matters under the Party Central Committee’s authority. The Party leader said reviewing Resolution 18 of the Party Central Committee is the focus of the meeting.

At the 13th Party Central Committee Conference (Photo: Ngoc Thanh/VOV)

He said: "The review of Resolution 18 and the restructuring of the political system’s apparatus have received broad support and praise from Party members, officials, and the public, with a high level of activeness of all levels following the direction set by the Party Central Committee. On December 30, 2024, the Politburo and Secretariat announced decisions outlining the functions, tasks, and organizational structures of three Party Committees, four Party public service units, and six socio-political organizations. Many of the assigned tasks have surpassed the planned schedule while adhering to the directives of the Central Committee."

General Secretary To Lam highlighted that during the Party Central Committee’s meeting in September 2024, discussions centered on socio-economic issues and orientations for socio-economic development in 2025, targeting a GDP growth rate of 6.5–7% and striving for 7–7.5%. For the 2026–2030 period, the average growth target is set at 7.5–8.5%. The Politburo has guided the National Assembly and government agencies in translating these goals into actionable plans.

Regarding personnel affairs, the Party leader highlighted that the Politburo will present to the Party Central Committee the guidelines and plans for consolidating the Party Central Committee’s Inspection Commission, supplementing members of the Politburo and the Secretariat, as well as plans for the introduction and arrangement of personnel in various agencies after the restructuring and strengthening of some other related tasks.

These steps are aimed at gradually improving and enhancing the Party's leadership strength, and ensuring that agencies within the political system operate effectively and efficiently to meet the high requirements of national development in the new era, Lam stated, adding that these efforts lay the groundwork for personnel affairs for the 14th National Party Congress.

The top Party leader requested the Party Central Committee to provide feedback, particularly on aspects related to the management and direction of the Politburo and Secretariat in 2024 and the report on inspection and supervision activities in 2024, along with the program for 2025.

The conference of the 13th Party Central Committee is scheduled to conclude on Friday.