Ministry of Planning and Investment Portal

MPI Deputy Minister Tran Quoc Phuon presented the insignia to IFAD Country Director Francisco Pichon. Photo: MPI

The MoU aims to boost the sustainable development of the Central Highlands according to the action plan of the Politburo’s Resolution 23-NQ/TW on orientations for socio-economic development and defence - security safeguarding in the Central Highlands by 2030, with a vision to 2045; and Decision No. 461/QD-TTg approving a planning scheme for the Central Highlands through 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050.

Deputy Minister Phuong highlighted the MoU’s significance to Vietnam in general, and the Central Highlands region in particular, underlining that this marked a new milestone in the Vietnam-IFAD substantial cooperation. IFAD has made effective contribution to the country’s development, particularly in the agricultural sector and other important infrastructure projects, he added.

On this occasion, Deputy Minister Phuong presented the “For the Cause of Planning and Investment” insignia to IFAD Country Director Francisco Pichon in recognition of his contributions to Vietnam’s planning and investment sector. He expressed his hope that in his new position, Pichon will continue to assist Vietnam in the country’s socio-economic development and promote the cooperation between Vietnam and the IFAD.

The deputy minister stressed, the MPI and the IFAD always coordinate closely and record important achievements, especially in the implementation of commitments to support developing Vietnamese regions like the Mekong Delta, the Northern mountainous, the Central Highlands. He hoped to receive Pichon’s attention for the remaining regions as well as recommendation for new projects for Vietnam.

Phuong wished Pichon and his successor will continue to support and collaborate with Vietnam to foster the Vietnam-IFAD partnership and the two agencies. His term in Vietnam was a great opportunity and the valuable experiences he gained would be a success in his new position, he continued.

The signing of MoU. Photo: MPI

Highly honoured to receive the insignia, IFAD Country Director thanked the MPI for their close coordination with him and the IFAD in Vietnam to jointly implement the support for Vietnam's socio-economic and regional development, especially vulnerable groups to help the country achieve its sustainable development goals.

Pichon also lauded the national outstanding achievements, and promised that no matter what position he holds, he will continue to make contributions to further strengthen the Vietnam-IFAD cooperation./.