WB aids poverty alleviation programme for ethnic groups

Hanoi (VNA) – The Board of Executive Directors of the World Bank (WB) on June 29 has approved a preferential credit package worth 153 million USD for Vietnam’s national programme on poverty reduction and rural development.

The package seeks to improve rural infrastructure, generate jobs, as well as increase planning and service capacity for ethnic people.

It will be launched in 18 provinces of Cao Bang, Ha Giang, Lao Cai, Bac Kan, Dien Bien, Lai Chau, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Thua Thien – Hue, Quang Ngai, Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan, Binh Dinh, Kon Tum, Dak Lak, Soc Trang and Tra Vinh, aiming to enhance institutional reform and efficient implementation of the national programme.

Ousmane Dione, Country Director of the WB in Vietnam, said Vietnam has reaped many achievements in poverty alleviation. However, most people living in mountainous and rural areas remain poor.

The WB will continue its cooperation with Vietnam for comprehensive growth by providing support for vulnerable groups, raising productivity of agricultural sector and creating more job opportunities, he added.

The package is in line with the new Country Partnership Strategy framework for Vietnam in 2017-2022. Along with other prioritised development goals, it will support the growth of rural businesses and investment activities for rural manufacturers, especially for ethnic people.-VNA