Hanoi, World Bank pledge to boost urban infrastructure cooperation
Hanoi and the World Bank are committed to resolving policy bottlenecks to accelerate infrastructure projects, especially metro lines.
THE HANOI TIMES ─ Hanoi and the World Bank stand ready for a stronger partnership to accelerate infrastructure development projects, especially urban railway systems.
These projects are key to Hanoi’s goal of becoming a modern, sustainable, and well-connected city.
Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Tran Sy Thanh presents a handcrafted lotus souvenir to World Bank Country Director Mariam J. Sherman during their meeting in Hanoi on June 17. Photo: The Hanoi Times
This was the main focus of a meeting on June 17 between Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Tran Sy Thanh and Mariam J. Sherman, World Bank Country Director for Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
According to Sherman, the World Bank is currently working with Vietnam’s Ministry of Construction on several initiatives related to urban planning, green space preservation, and sustainable landscape management. One of the key projects under discussion is the Ngoc Hoi-Hanoi Station metro line.
The World Bank executive described the metro sector as one with great potential, and expressed the institution’s willingness to work closely with Hanoi throughout the implementation process.
She suggested that the Vietnamese Government clarify the roles and responsibilities of all relevant stakeholders.
For his part, Chairman Thanh said that developing an urban railway system is a top priority for Hanoi in 2025-2030.
“Hanoi Station is the strategic hub of the northern region. Thus, it needs a comprehensive plan for effective development,” he said.
Pointing to the Hanoi Department of Construction as the technical focal point, Thanh agreed with the World Bank on the need for coordinated action among all parties involved in infrastructure development.
He affirmed the Vietnamese Government and Hanoi’s proactive and determined approach to major projects.
“We have our own financial mechanisms to advance funding and are ready to move forward with the World Bank,” the mayor said.
“Any party that lags behind will be removed from the national implementation process.”
He further encouraged the World Bank to maintain direct contact with local departments to ensure clear communication and effective cooperation.
Agreeing with Chairman Thanh, Sherman said this is the right time to push cooperation and speed up progress, even though challenges remain.
She praised Hanoi’s openness and readiness to act, acknowledging the complexity of each country's unique policy environment.
Frequent meetings like this will help both sides better understand each other and work more effectively, Sherman said.
The World Bank executive also recommended that both sides have more discussions and meetings to better address the city’s development needs.
