On October 9, Hanoi honored the ten “Outstanding Citizens of the Capital” for their fantastic contribution to the city's development in 2023.

Hanoi's 10 Outstanding Citizens 2023. Photo: Thanh Hai/The Hanoi Times

The city also honored 16 people with "Good People, Good Deeds" merits in all activities throughout the year.

Decisions on the recognition and merits of the individuals were made by the Hanoi People's Committee on September 29.

At the ceremony today (October 9), Hanoi authorities also launched a program to encourage residents to strive for achievements in celebration of the 70th anniversary of Hanoi Liberation Day (October 10).

According to the Hanoi Emulation and Commendation Council, the "Outstanding Citizens of the Capital" merit is the most honorable award a Hanoi citizen can receive for their efforts and contributions to the city's socio-economic growth.

The awards showcase the uniqueness and beauty of Hanoi's people. The ceremony illustrates Hanoi's respect for these individuals for their dedication, sacrifice and involvement in all activities due to their love for the capital city.

Meanwhile, the "Good People, Good Deeds" program has received strong and positive support from all agencies, organizations, businesses and people. As of October 2023, Hanoi has honored nearly 860 people for their good deeds and good spirits.

At the event, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said that emulation and recognition had been one of the greatest activities in Vietnam over the past 75 years.

"It is a precious tradition, culture and heritage of the Vietnamese people, which has led our nation from one victory to another in history," he said.

Hanoi, as the capital, has always been among the best-performing localities in the country, he said.

"In 2023, despite difficulties and adversities, the people and Government of Hanoi have made great efforts to improve socio-economic conditions, especially in suburban and rural areas, and reduce poverty," the Prime Minister said.

In January-September, Hanoi recorded a gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth rate of 6.08%. The city also contributed to 13% of the country's total GDP and nearly 44% of the Red River Delta's budget revenue, attracted US$2.5 billion worth of foreign direct investment capital, inaugurated new infrastructure projects, stabilized both political and socio-economic conditions in the city, and improved international relations with other countries and cities.

"More than 800 people, including the 10 outstanding citizens, have played a major role in these achievements," he said.

Chinh urged the Hanoi authorities to encourage local people and officials to facilitate the city's growth, to take science and technology as the root of future development, to make the capital the historical and cultural center, and to complete the legal framework for the city's development soon.

He pointed out that the municipal government must soon finalize the amended Capital Law and the capital's urban development plans for 2021-2030 with a vision to 2065, speed up the implementation of vital socio-economic projects, improve the quality of education, and enhance achievements in defense, social stabilization and international cooperation.

In addition, Chinh stressed that Hanoi needs to build a robust and persistent government apparatus with competent, politically firm, creative, and dynamic individuals who are willing to take risks and strive for new achievements.

According to Tran Sy Thanh, Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee and Chairman of the Hanoi Emulation and Commendation Council, 2023 marks the midpoint of Hanoi's five-year socio-economic growth plan.

Since its first edition in 1992, the "Good People, Good Deeds" program and the "Outstanding Citizens of the Capital" awards have showcased many individuals with groundbreaking, effective initiatives and solutions that drive local development.