A working team from the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) on December 4 took part in a fact-finding tour of the northern mountainous province of Hoa Binh to assess a project it is funding to expand the provincial general hospital.

At a working session with the team, Deputy Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Tran Dang Ninh introduced the natural conditions and socio-economic development of the locality.

He said Hoa Binh is attempting to upgrade its infrastructure system for the healthcare sector and attract qualified staff for the work.

The province will do its utmost to back the implementation of the project, and ensure all resources for the design, construction and effective management of the hospital, thus benefiting locals, he pledged.

Hoa Binh called for funds from the SFD for the project after approving it at the end of October.

The project includes three main components, including the expansion of the hospital, the improvement of professional and management capacity for staff and officials and the management of the project.

The three-year development has a total investment of 20,804 USD, half of which is funded by the SFD.

Run by the Saudi Arabian Government, SFD channels bilateral aid to developing countries, predominantly through grants and soft loans. The fund is currently operating in nearly 80 countries.-VNA