The Prime Minister has recognised Thanh Hoa city in the central province of the same name as a first-tier city.

The rating system classifies cities into tiers based on political, economic and demographic factors signifying their current stage of development.

The city’s promotion follows its progress made in socio-economic development, with its GDP growth reaching 15 percent or more and per-capita income of over 5,000 USD per year during the 2010-2015 period.

From a heroic city adjacent to Ma River in the past, Thanh Hoa now becomes a political, socio-economic and cultural centre of Thanh Hoa province with improved infrastructure and ensured social security. It covers a natural area of 14,677 hectares with a population of more than 400,000.

Speaking at a November 16 ceremony to announce the PM’s decision, Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai hailed the encouraging achievements Thanh Hoa has gained in all fields over the past time, urging the city to fully tap its potential and advantages to improve its competitiveness.

The city should combine rapid and sustainable economic development with environmental protection, ensure social security and improve locals’ living conditions while paying attention to personnel training and scientific and technological development, he noted.

On the occasion, the municipal authorities and people received the first-class Independence Order by the State President.-VNA