Hanoi seeks specific measures to bolster cooperation with the World Bank in addressing urban issues that pave the way for the city’s sustainable development.

Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Chu Ngoc Anh and World Bank Country Director in Vietnam Carolyn Turk. Photos: Tu Anh

The city’s mayor Chu Ngoc Anh gave the remarks in a meeting with World Bank Country Director in Vietnam Carolyn Turk today [March 4], in which they discussed air quality control, wastewater treatment, urban railway, e-government, smart city, and especially the setup of a traffic network management center.

According to Anh, since the 90s, as many as 109 projects financed by the official development assistance (ODA) have been instrumental for the development of Hanoi, of which 80 were funded by the World Bank.

As transport projects make up 69% of the total ODA projects, Anh said World Bank’s support has significantly transformed Hanoi’s landscape.

For present and future cooperation, Anh suggested the World Bank assist Hanoi to carry out the Long Bien – Gia Lam waste treatment project and another one in safe agricultural production.

Delegates at the meeting.

Regarding ongoing transport projects, Anh said the fact that Hanoi aims to diversify investment capital sources “opens the door for donors such as the World Bank.”

World Bank Director in Vietnam Carolyn Turk said Hanoi has made significant advances compared to 30 years ago when she first came to Hanoi.

Referring to Hanoi as one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia, Turk said the city is a combination of Asia and Europe architecture and green spaces.

Turk said the challenges for Hanoi would be to preserve its values and environment while maintaining rapid economic growth, pledging that the World Bank would accompany Hanoi in this regard.

In addition to the urban issues that the city’s leader mentioned, Turk said the World Bank is ready to support Hanoi in urban infrastructure projects, especially urban railway.