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Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc meets with the Ministry of Information and Communications and the Ministry of Science and Technology regarding plans for reorganization and streamlining of government agencies. Photo: VGP/Tran Manh
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To soar, government agencies must be streamlined and efficient.
In a meeting with the Ministry of Information and Communications and the Ministry of Science and Technology on December 11, Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc emphasized that the decision to merge the two ministries is a wise one. He highlighted that the merger aims to optimize resources, prevent overlap and duplication of tasks, synchronize policies, and facilitate the development of science, technology, and digital transformation. This move will also encourage innovation, promote technological solutions, enhance communication, and improve the quality of services provided to citizens and businesses.
“As we enter a new era, we must aspire to soar. To achieve this, our government agencies must be streamlined and efficient, with reduced operational costs and increased market activity. We must also embrace technology and digital solutions vigorously,” said the Deputy Prime Minister.
He commended the ministers and the two Party committees for their collaboration and consensus, ensuring that the reorganization aligns with the established criteria. Their willingness to put the greater good first and accept certain sacrifices is commendable.
The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that the merger process must be swift and efficient, ensuring that the agencies continue to function smoothly and fulfill their assigned tasks and objectives. He referred to this as a “great revolution,” and the proposed plan must be harmonious with other ministries and departments. Once the integration is complete, it should promote development and ensure the effectiveness of the government’s work.
Regarding the name post-merger, the Deputy Prime Minister suggested a memorable, concise, and meaningful name that can be built into a long-lasting brand. Given the extensive functions and tasks of the two ministries, which will be outlined in a decree, he proposed including only the “common denominator” in the name. He suggested the name “Ministry of Technology and Communications” or “Ministry of Science, Technology, and Communications,” explaining that it encompasses both the technological and communicative aspects of the ministries’ work.
The Deputy Prime Minister also offered his thoughts on the reorganization of two newspapers, Vietnamnet and Vnexpress, and other public service units, including training schools, research institutes, and universities. He requested that the two ministries finalize the proposal, develop an implementation plan, and draft a decree, so that once the Central Steering Committee provides instructions, the merger can be promptly executed.
Reorganization and integration of the two ministries to create synergy and optimize strengths
According to Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Bui Huang Phuong, the two ministries agreed to merge the Ministry of Information and Communications and the Ministry of Science and Technology in their original state to create synergy and optimize their strengths. Currently, the Ministry of Information and Communications has over 5,000 digital technology businesses, and the merger will provide opportunities for their development.
The two ministries also agreed to establish a joint steering committee to develop the integration plan. This committee held its first meeting on December 10. The ministries are collaborating to prepare drafts and documents as per the government’s requirements, and they plan to submit the proposals to the government on December 12.
In terms of the organizational structure, the Ministry of Information and Communications has 26 units, while the Ministry of Science and Technology has 22 units, totaling 48 units. The ministries have agreed to reduce the number of units to 34 after reorganization. They also agreed on a roadmap for the integration of one media agency (currently, there are two newspapers, Vietnamnet and Vnexpress). Regarding personnel matters, the two ministries have agreed on the principle of arranging positions to ensure balance between the two sides.
Deputy Minister Bui Huang Phuong also mentioned some points that the ministries are discussing: the name of the new ministry, the integration of three public service units, and the request for the government to provide guidance on reasonable policies as soon as possible. He emphasized that the priority is to ensure unity and harmony among the agencies and units and to provide appropriate policies for civil servants, public employees, and workers.
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