The northern port city of Hai Phong needs to build on its strengths, as a sea port, and in terms of railways and aviation, to accelerate its growth, State President Nguyen Minh Triet has said.

President Triet urged Hai Phong to exert all efforts to become a strong hub, and a leading urban centre for the country during his working session with the city’s key officials on March 30-April 1.

The port city registered a GDP growth of 5.75 percent and met 11 out of 12 socio-economic targets in 2009.

President Triet, however, pointed out the city’s weaknesses and difficulties, saying the it does not take advantage of its railway system for transport of goods, instead using road transport with container lorries that cause traffic jams and are costly. Additionally, Cat Bi airport has few flights, failing to match with the city’s demand for development.

On this occasion, the President made a tour of the island district of Bach Long Vi, asking the city to call for investment to help the district develop and focus on improvements in healthcare and educational services as well as the living conditions of the local people.

The city authorities need to make a master plan on infrastructure and open more maritime services for international ships with the hope that Bach Long Vi Island will continue to be a centre for maritime and fishing logistical services, he said.

During his visit, President Triet also visited the High Command of Military Zone 3 and the Navy./.