The Central Government of Vietnam is currently deliberating on the proposal to upgrade Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh to city status. This discussion took place during the third session of the 14th Central Conference, which was held on July 22. The meeting was chaired by National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man, who oversaw discussions on two key topics.

The first topic involved a review of Resolution No. 36, dated October 22, 2018, which outlines the strategy for sustainable development of Vietnam's marine economy until 2030, with a vision extending to 2045. The second topic focused on the assessment of Resolution No. 24, dated June 3, 2013, concerning proactive responses to climate change, resource management, and environmental protection.

In the afternoon session, participants discussed four significant proposals, including the establishment of a disciplined, safe, civilized, and harmonious society; a national security strategy; and the proposals for upgrading Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh to cities under central authority. In his opening remarks at the conference on July 20, General Secretary and President To Lam emphasized that these proposals must be evaluated in light of the need to create new growth poles, enhance urban governance, and strengthen regional connectivity.

According to the General Secretary, changing the administrative status of these areas should lead to substantial improvements in governance capacity, resource mobilization, and development impact. He urged a thorough assessment of infrastructure conditions, resource availability, operational costs, and the effects on local populations, ensuring that each proposal generates new development value for the locality, region, and the entire country.

Leaders of the Party and State affirmed that the administrative space should not limit development thinking. Land, sea, urban areas, infrastructure, resources, and data must be viewed as an integrated whole, organized according to national strategy, regional advantages, and overall effectiveness.