Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính presents gifts to contractors and construction units during a ceremony to launch a 500-day campaign to complete 3,000 kilometres of expressways in Đắk Lắk province. VNA/VNS Photo Dương Giang

ĐẮK LẮK – Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính launched a 500-day emulation campaign to complete 3,000 kilometres of expressways during a ceremony held in Đắk Lắk province on Sunday.

The event, organised by the Central Emulation and Commendation Council, was connected via videoconference with 14 other cities and provinces where expressway construction is underway.

Speaking at the main site in Đắk Lắk, PM Chính, who also chairs the council, highlighted that the Resolution of the 13th National Party Congress identifies the development of synchronised infrastructure as one of three strategic breakthroughs. Within this, the development of transport infrastructure is a key pillar, with the goal of having 3,000 kilometres of expressways operational by 2025 and 5,000 kilometres working by 2030.

To implement this resolution, the Government has consistently directed authorities at all levels, sectors and localities to take coordinated actions to accelerate investment in transport infrastructure projects, yielding significant progress.

So far, the country has completed around 1,000 kilometres of expressways, spanning 15 provinces and cities, bringing the total length to nearly 2,100 kilometres. Currently, over 1,700 kilometres are under construction, with preparations to begin work on an additional 1,400 kilometres, covering 48 provinces and cities nationwide, PM Chính noted.

On behalf of the Government and the Central Emulation and Commendation Council, PM Chính launched a 500-day matching campaign aimed at completing 3,000 kilometres of expressways. This effort aligns with the goals set in the resolution of the 13th National Party Congress and is meant to pave the way for the 14th Congress.

The PM urged Party committees at all levels to issue strong directives, called on the entire political system to fulfill its role and encouraged local administrations to intensify their efforts. He also appealed to the public and businesses nationwide to support this important task.

PM Chính emphasised that completing the expressways is a top political priority to be achieved before the 14th National Party Congress, scheduled to be held in early 2026, in order to meet socio-economic development goals and fulfill the public’s aspiration for a comprehensive and modern expressway network.

He expressed confidence that, with the collective strength built over 40 years of renewal, the consensus and joint efforts of the political system, public support and new opportunities and advantages under the Party’s visionary leadership, the target of 3,000 kilometres of expressways will be met by 2025. This achievement will contribute to the nation's socio-economic development and enhance the quality of life for the people.

He instructed the Ministry of Transport to actively monitor the situation, coordinate with the Government Office to expedite assigned tasks and promptly report on any challenges or obstacles that require resolution by the relevant authorities to ensure progress and quality.

The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Planning and Investment were tasked with arranging funding from the State budget and ODA sources, ensuring budgets are provided promptly to meet project timelines.

The State Bank of Việt Nam was directed to instruct credit institutions to arrange financing for investors involved in PPP projects.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment was tasked with ensuring an adequate supply of construction materials such as soil, stone, sand, and gravel for the projects.

PM Chính also asked the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to be responsible for converting rice and forest land, ensuring compliance with disaster prevention and climate change adaptation requirements.

The Ministry of Construction is responsible for setting standards and regulations, ensuring quality and timely acceptance of projects.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade, along with the State Capital Management Committee at Enterprises, was directed to oversee the Việt Nam Electricity Group in terms of the relocation of technical infrastructure, such as high-voltage power lines and underground cables, within the project areas.

The Government leader also requested relevant agencies to strengthen inspection, anti-corruption efforts and prevent waste and contract manipulation.

The Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Public Security are tasked with maintaining social order and safety and providing support as needed by investors and contractors.

The Ministry of Home Affairs will oversee, inspect and expedite the implementation of the emulation movement to ensure it is practical and effective.

In response to this campaign, leaders of various ministries, sectors and corporations affirmed that they would proactively develop action programmes and implementation plans, ensuring the quality of projects to meet the deadline of December 31, 2025. – VNS