MM Lee meets Vietnam PM Nguyen Tan Dung, discusses economic situation
By Hasnita A Majid, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 15 April 2009 2132 hrs

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Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, who is now visiting Vietnam, has met with Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.

During the meeting, Mr Lee was told Vietnam expects growth of about five to 5.5 per cent this year, lower than the 6.2 per cent growth last year.

Briefing Mr Lee on Vietnam's economic situation, Mr Dung said besides putting measures in place, the country is also ensuring sustainable growth for the future. This includes developing its human resources and helping the needy.

The government is also trying to mobilise all stakeholders, such as the private sector and international financial institutions, to invest more in social infrastructure, in particular, in education, transport and health.

Mr Lee expressed confidence in Vietnam, saying the country is lucky to still experience positive growth, unlike Singapore.

He told Mr Dung that when the crisis is over, a new world economy will emerge, and he urged Vietnam to seize this opportunity to upgrade its workforce to prepare for future challenges.

Mr Lee is in Vietnam on a five-day official visit, at the invitation of Mr Dung. - CNA /ls