The Government leader made the remarks at a working session with the Standing Committee of the municipal Party Committee in Hanoi on August 23.

An economic hub of the nation, Ho Chi Minh City should focus on innovation and the Fourth Industrial Revolution by applying criteria of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc speaking at the working session (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai).

He also pointed to some shortcomings such as unexpected economic growth, big gaps in living standards, and social problems.

The leader urged HCM City to take lead nationwide in improving both natural and investment environment.

Regarding the development tasks for 2020-2025, the PM suggested the city focus on science-technology solutions, innovative reforms, human resources, climate change adaptation, and infrastructure improvements.

HCM City should expand integration in its development strategy, as well as reform its growth models based on applying science-technology and promoting innovation.

He proposed the city to increase the level of investment for research and development to 5-7% of the local budget.