In a letter dated April 10 marking the traditional Chol Chnam Thmay festival, the government leader described Vietnam as a unified nation of 54 ethnic groups, with the Khmer community forming an inseparable part thanks to its distinctive cultural heritage.
He noted that, with a strong patriotic tradition, the Khmer people have consistently placed their trust in the Party and State, contributing alongside citizens nationwide to national construction and defence.
The prime minister reaffirmed that ethnic and religious affairs are of strategic importance and a shared responsibility of the entire political system. Strengthening national unity, with religious harmony as a key pillar, remains essential to advancing Vietnam towards prosperity, strength and happiness.
In recent years, he said, living standards in ethnic minority and mountainous areas, including among the Khmer population, have steadily improved due to sustained attention from the Party and State. Infrastructure has been upgraded, rural areas have undergone positive transformation, and cultural values have been preserved and promoted, reinforcing public confidence.
Highlighting 2026 as the start of a new development phase, Hung pointed to major upcoming events, including the 14th National Party Congress and elections to the 16th National Assembly and People’s Councils for the 2026 to 2031 term. He also noted the rollout of key national programmes on new style rural development, sustainable poverty reduction, and socio economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous regions for the 2026 to 2035 period.
He called on ministries, sectors and local authorities to continue implementing Party and State policies, particularly Directive No. 19 CT TW issued on January 10, 2018, on strengthening work in Khmer populated areas.
The prime minister urged the mobilisation of all available resources to promote comprehensive socio economic development, with a focus on healthcare, education and training, as well as preserving ethnic cultural identity. He also stressed the importance of building a capable and dedicated contingent of ethnic minority officials.
Authorities at all levels were asked to enhance communication efforts to build social consensus, while promoting the role of respected community figures, religious dignitaries, intellectuals and role models.
Hung further emphasised the need to effectively implement social welfare policies, improve living conditions and support disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, ensuring that the Khmer community celebrates Chol Chnam Thmay in a spirit of unity, safety and thrift, in line with cultural traditions.
Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that the Khmer people will continue to uphold their solidarity and cultural values, contributing to national reform, integration and development, and helping build a strong, prosperous and inclusive Vietnam.
