The northernmost province of Ha Giang celebrated its 120th anniversary on August 20 in the presence of Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, Vice Chairperson of the National Assembly (NA), and Trieu Tai Vinh, Secretary Ha Giang provincial Party Committee.

At the ceremony, which was also attended by representatives of central and local agencies, foreign guests, and local people, Mr Vinh recalled the province\'s establishment and development.

Since the earliest stage of national construction and defence, the people of Ha Giang, from all ethnic minorities have overcome many difficulties through their patriotism, unity, bravery, and diligence to exist and develop.

The leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam has always promoted the revolutionary movement and people’s patriotism, he said, adding that during the struggles against the French aggressors and the US imperialists, Ha Giang was the cradle of the Vietnamese revolution, making great contributions to the nation’s final victory.

Over the past 20 years, Ha Giang has seen significant socio-economic development. From 2005-2010, the province enjoyed annual economic growth 12.7 percent with the average per capita income reaching VND7.5 million in 2010.

NA Vice Chairperson Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan highlighted the efforts and achievements of the province’s Party and people over the past years.

However, she said, local authorities and people should continue to strive to escape from poverty.

Ms Ngan asked Ha Giang to uphold its achievements and consider socio-political stability the foundation for economic development.

The province should raise people’s educational levels, as well as their material and spiritual living conditions; create a strong, transparent political system; and be vigilant for hostile forces\' schemes for sabotage in order to maintain security and defence and protect the nation’s sovereignty, she said.

At the ceremony, NA Vice Chairperson Ngan also granted the Independence Order, third class, to Ha Giang’s Party Committee, local authorities, and people.