On the morning of August 11, the National Assembly Standing Committee discussed the July citizen petition report.

Duong Thanh Binh, Chairman of the National Assembly's People’s Petition and Oversight Committee, noted that voters and the public have high expectations for the government’s directives to achieve the national growth target of 8.3-8.5% in 2025, laying the foundation for growth of 10% or higher in 2026.

Voters also praised progress in streamlining administrative structures, building two-tier local government models, implementing tuition waivers for general education students, and investing in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social welfare.

However, Binh said citizens remain concerned about the spread of diseases among livestock, particularly African swine fever, as well as crimes using 4.0 technologies and AI to commit fraud. Other concerns include food safety violations at schools, industrial kitchens, and small-scale processing facilities, and the content of history and geography lessons after administrative unit restructuring.

Voters urged government agencies to address these issues in the near future.

Balancing the interests of the state, businesses, and the public

Regarding the planned restriction and eventual ban on gasoline motorbikes within Hanoi’s Ring Road 1 and later other rings, Vu Hong Thanh called for stronger public communication, noting that official information remains limited while social media discussions have caused public concern.

While supporting the policy for its environmental benefits, Thanh reiterated that the ban should be implemented step-by-step, with assistance provided from manufacturing to registration, inspection, and vehicle replacement.

Under current plans, gasoline motorbikes will be prohibited in Ring Road 1 from mid-2026. Thanh stressed the need for clear information and balanced solutions to protect environmental goals while considering the interests of fuel-vehicle manufacturers and residents - particularly those who have recently purchased motorbikes that will be banned from operating in the zone within just one year.

Concluding the session, Deputy National Assembly Vice Chairman Tran Quang Phuong highlighted the importance of a clear roadmap and effective measures to promote green transportation, especially the ban on gasoline motorbikes in Hanoi’s Ring Road 1.

He noted that some opinions suggest Ring Road 1 or Ring Road 3 are part of the national transportation system, so implementation must follow a carefully planned, coordinated approach.

Phuong also emphasized the need to address flood damage, prepare for the new school year - particularly in remote areas and disaster-hit localities.

Thu Hang