Comrade Tran Duc Luong - A leader who made many contributions...

Báo Đắk Nông•23/05/2025

PHAM MINH CHINH - MEMBER OF THE POLITICAL BUREAU, PRIME MINISTER OF THE GOVERNMENT

Comrade Tran Duc Luong – former Standing Committee Member of the Politburo , former President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, former Vice Chairman of the Council of Ministers, former Deputy Prime Minister – a staunch and upright communist soldier, a close and dear comrade, a respected and exemplary technocratic leader, an outstanding scientist, who dedicated his entire life to the country and its people, has just passed away. His passing is a source of immeasurable sorrow, but at the same time leaves behind a precious legacy and a shining example for present and future generations.

Comrade Tran Duc Luong was born on May 5, 1937, in Quang Ngai – a beautiful land rich in cultural traditions and a glorious history. After the Geneva Accords divided the country into North and South, in 1955, at the age of 18, Comrade Tran Duc Luong moved to the North to study basic geological engineering, marking the beginning of many years of his involvement with the mining and geology industry, a crucial sector fundamental to national development.

From then until 1986, he dedicated over 30 years to the Mining and Geology sector, quickly demonstrating his professional competence and high sense of responsibility. He was entrusted with many important positions, including Director General of the General Department of Geology (now the Department of Geology and Minerals) from 1979 to 1987. He personally worked in mountainous and forested areas across the country, diligently surveying and researching geology, making significant contributions to building a national resource database to serve the socio -economic development of many localities and the entire country; he was also a co-author of the research project to create the "Geological Map at a scale of 1/500,000 of Northern Vietnam" - a Soviet-Vietnamese cooperation project from 1960 to 1965. He was a co-editor of the research project "Geological Map of Vietnam at a scale of 1/500,000," published in 1988, and was awarded the Ho Chi Minh Prize in 2005.

The rich practical experience from the Mining and Geology industry honed Comrade Tran Duc Luong's strategic vision, practical approach, sharp analytical thinking skills, and scientific and serious work ethic; creating an important foundation for his immense contributions during the country's renovation period from 1986, in various leadership positions from the Government to the Head of State.

President Tran Duc Luong speaks with people of ethnic minorities in Phong Du commune, Tien Yen mountainous district (Quang Ninh province), in 1997. Photo: Trong Nghiep/TTXVN

From 1987, immediately after the Party initiated the reform and integration policy, he was assigned to the position of Vice Chairman of the Council of Ministers (now Deputy Prime Minister). At the 7th National Party Congress in 1991, he was elected a member of the Politburo by the Party, and from 1992, he was elected by the National Assembly to the position of Deputy Prime Minister. After the 8th National Party Congress (1996), he was elected President of the Republic and held this position for two Party Congress terms until 2006. In his leadership positions in the Government and State, Comrade Tran Duc Luong made many important and comprehensive contributions to the cause of reform, integration, and national development with outstanding achievements , especially in the fields of economics, society, national defense, security, foreign affairs, and consolidating national unity.

On the economic front, as Deputy Prime Minister, Comrade Tran Duc Luong, together with the Government leadership, made many important decisions, creating a solid foundation for the socio-economic development of the country. He devoted much effort to directing research, exploration, and exploitation of resources, especially oil and gas, making a significant contribution to increasing state budget revenue; at the same time, he participated extensively in the process of formulating economic policies, promoting production and business, and encouraging foreign investment; together with the Politburo and the Government, he formulated correct guidelines and policies to overcome difficulties, maintain macroeconomic stability, promote administrative reform, and create a favorable environment for investment and business.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union and the socialist regimes in Eastern European countries, he proposed strengthening cooperative relations with the Russian Federation, especially in the oil and gas and energy sectors. Notable achievements include maintaining the purchase of equipment for the Hoa Binh Hydroelectric Power Plant, renewing and implementing the Vietnam-Russia cooperation agreement in the oil and gas sector according to international principles and practices, reforming the Vietnam-Soviet Oil and Gas Joint Venture (Vietsovpetro), and maintaining the operation of the Vietnam-Russia Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee. He directed and participated in the drafting of many important laws and resolutions of the Government during the early period of reform, including the Law on Foreign Investment in Vietnam in 1987, the Land Law in 1988, and government decrees on the management of basic construction, state-owned enterprises, labor, wages, cooperatives, individual economic households, and families during the early stages of the reform period…

As Deputy Prime Minister in charge of economic and technical sectors, including industry, agriculture, trade and services, construction, transportation, and postal and telecommunications services, he devoted much time and effort to directing and achieving important results, contributing to gradually lifting our country out of hyperinflation and restoring production and business. The work of improving enterprise management and economic and technical sectors saw new developments with the promulgation of several important laws that he directed or participated in drafting ( such as the Private Enterprise Law of 1990, the Enterprise Bankruptcy Law of 1993, the Land Law of 1993, the Law on Encouraging Domestic Investment of 1995, the State-Owned Enterprise Law of 1995, the Oil and Gas Law of 1993, the Cooperative Law of 1996... ) .

Comrade [1] together with the Government leadership directed the issuance of decrees and decisions on the establishment of state-owned economic groups and corporations, on housing policy during the renovation period [1] , decisions and decrees on the right to self-reliance, self-investment, financial autonomy, and foreign investment cooperation to develop projects with advanced and modern scientific and technical levels in important fields such as: Oil and gas, energy, transport, aviation, cement, textiles, agriculture - forestry - fisheries... [2] ; thereby, opening up a period of strong development in all economic and technical sectors. The laws, decrees, and related legal documents during this period contributed to the formation and gradual improvement of the legal environment for enterprises and economic organizations to operate smoothly and effectively in a multi-sector economy, operating according to the socialist-oriented market mechanism, with state management.

Comrade [Name] worked with the Party and State leaders to focus on leading, directing, and guiding the entire Party, people, and army to accelerate the process of reform and deep international integration, especially effectively overcoming the negative impacts of the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis, helping the country quickly overcome difficulties and challenges, maintain macroeconomic stability, and restore and develop socio-economic life. At the same time, Comrade [Name] also paid special attention to building a socialist rule of law state, promoting administrative reform, strengthening the role of law in social life, and repeatedly emphasized: “We must build a state that is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people; all power must be for the benefit of the people.” Under his leadership, reforms in institutions, organizational structures, and administrative procedures were gradually implemented, creating an important foundation for the country's industrialization, modernization, and international integration.

Regarding national defense and security, in his capacity as President and Chairman of the National Defense and Security Council, Comrade Tran Duc Luong directed the development of many important strategies, programs, and policies on national defense and security, contributing to the firm protection of independence, sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. Among these, the East Sea and Islands Program is a program of particular importance both in the short and long term. Comrade Tran Duc Luong was assigned the task of leading the Steering Committee, primarily to direct the implementation of offshore fishing programs. Fishing ports and harbors were built for the first time on all islands, including Co To, Bach Long Vi, Ly Son, Phu Quy, Con Dao, Phu Quoc, and lighthouses in the Truong Sa archipelago. Comrade Tran Duc Luong directed the construction of the first DK offshore platforms on the continental shelf and proposed selecting island facilities for the construction of ports to serve economic development and ensure national defense, security, and sovereignty at sea. He directed the Government Border Committee to successfully negotiate the demarcation of the exclusive economic zone border at sea with Thailand and Malaysia, the demarcation of the continental shelf boundary with Indonesia, and the air traffic control rights over the southern sea region (FIR-HCM).

He was also assigned by the Politburo to head the inter-ministerial working group (diplomacy, defense, security, internal affairs, etc.) to draft the Plan for National Defense in the New Situation, which was approved by the Politburo and the Central Committee, leading to the promulgation of Central Resolution 8 (9th Congress) on "The Strategy for National Defense in the New Situation" . This resolution is of special importance and has long-term strategic significance for the task of defending the socialist Fatherland. He also contributed, along with the Politburo, to the successful negotiation and signing of documents delimiting the land and maritime borders (in the Gulf of Tonkin area) with China.

Assigned by the Politburo to head the Central Steering Committee for Judicial Reform, he directed the Central Internal Affairs Commission and judicial agencies to vigorously promote judicial reform nationwide, creating fundamental changes throughout the system in accordance with the Politburo's Directive on judicial reform in the đổi mới (renovation) period. He also discussed and directed the drafting of the Ordinance on Emergency Situations with the National Defense and Security Council, which was unanimously approved by the Politburo and the Standing Committee of the National Assembly.

People of Khe Sanh town, Huong Hoa district, Quang Tri province welcome President Tran Duc Luong on his visit (January 8, 1999). Photo: Trong Nghiep/VNA.

On the foreign affairs front, drawing on his extensive experience as Vietnam's Permanent Representative to the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (SEV) from 1987 to 1992, and in his capacity as President, Comrade Tran Duc Luong closely supervised and successfully carried out numerous visits and receptions of heads of state, contributing to enhancing Vietnam's position on the international stage and expanding friendly relations, cooperation, and development with countries, regions, and multilateral organizations. A prime example is President Tran Duc Luong's visit to the Russian Federation in August 1998, which created a new breakthrough in multifaceted cooperation between the two countries; in which, for the first time, Russian President Boris Yeltsin affirmed that Russia considers Vietnam a strategic partner in Southeast Asia. Comrade Tran Duc Luong also made many important contributions to the significant transformation of Vietnam-US relations after the two countries normalized relations in 1995. He officially met with US President Bill Clinton in New York in September 2000 during his participation in the United Nations Millennium Conference and invited the US President to visit Vietnam; subsequently, in November 2000, he welcomed President Bill Clinton on his historic visit to Vietnam, the first US President to visit Vietnam since the end of the war. He also closely supervised the preparation and negotiation process with the United States to sign the Vietnam-US Trade Agreement, which was approved by the US Senate on October 4, 2001.

Comrade Tran Duc Luong made many important contributions to the creative application of Ho Chi Minh's diplomatic thought in the new situation, shaping an independent and self-reliant foreign policy, gradually promoting multilateralism and diversification of international relations, making Vietnam an active and responsible member of the international community, especially Vietnam's accession to APEC (1998) and the important preparations for joining the WTO (2007), paving the way for a period of proactive and positive integration with a series of bilateral and multilateral trade and investment agreements that our country has signed since then.

Strengthening national unity was always a top priority for Comrade Tran Duc Luong. His touching interactions with ethnic minorities, women, children, associations, socio-political organizations, and the Vietnamese community abroad moved millions of Vietnamese hearts. He held numerous meetings, delivered speeches, and sent letters filled with warmth, sincere encouragement, and profound guidance to the Vietnam Red Cross, the Vietnam Youth Union, the Vietnam Women's Union, the Vietnam Buddhist Association; national heroes, exemplary workers, and outstanding individuals; teachers, teenagers, and children; and held cordial meetings with overseas Vietnamese celebrating the Lunar New Year...

As a member of the National Assembly from the 7th to the 11th terms, Comrade Tran Duc Luong was closely involved in the legislative and supreme oversight activities of the National Assembly, bringing the voice of the people to the National Assembly and contributing to enhancing the role and position of the highest state power organ. Promoting policies for the poor and vulnerable, especially in remote areas, Comrade Tran Duc Luong believed that the ideology of "the people are the foundation," valuing human resources, and "leaving no one behind" was not just a motto, but a sincere and profound sentiment towards the people. Under his guidance and attention, many programs to alleviate poverty, provide information coverage, electricity, schools, and health stations in poor, mountainous, and border districts were prioritized for implementation.

Not only was Comrade Tran Duc Luong a leader of great stature with many important contributions to the country, but he was also a loyal Party member who dedicated his life to the communist ideal, to the development of the country, and to the happiness of the people. He joined the Party in 1959 and has continuously trained and contributed for the past 66 years. In every position he held, he always demonstrated a pioneering spirit, exemplary conduct, humility, and closeness to the people; maintaining integrity, simplicity, and impartiality; and diligently preserving the unity and solidarity of the Party. He always placed the interests of the country and the people above all else, constantly striving to find effective mechanisms, policies, and solutions to serve socio-economic development, improve the material and spiritual lives of the people, and ensure a better future for the nation. His humility and sincerity have created the image of a respected leader, beloved by the people and admired by international friends.

In particular, Comrade Tran Duc Luong always emphasized the importance of unity, cooperation, and solidarity within the Party and among the entire nation. He consistently upheld principles and correctly implemented policies to resolve issues objectively, scientifically, based on practical realities and national interests. He was an exemplary leader with a serious work ethic, meticulousness in every decision, and unwavering dedication to the common cause, leaving behind a beautiful example of revolutionary morality that spread many important values, both in policy, in spirit, and in the memories of the people and those who had the opportunity to work alongside him in various capacities.

Even after retiring from the Party and State, Comrade Tran Duc Luong remained deeply concerned, passionate, and continued to make important contributions in the fields of economics, culture, society, national defense, security, and foreign affairs. Whenever Party and State leaders and I visited him, he would engage in profound discussions on important, strategic issues, emphasizing the need for foresight, broad vision, deep thinking, and ambitious action, all for the development of the country, for the happiness and well-being of the people, and especially for greater attention to the training and development of the younger generation – the future masters of the nation.

On the occasion of the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Party (February 3, 1930 / February 3, 2025), he was awarded the 65-year Party Membership Badge. He was also awarded the Second Class Anti-American Resistance and National Salvation Medal (1995) and the Golden Star Medal (December 2007) - the highest medal of the Party and State awarded to those who have made exceptionally outstanding contributions to the country. At the same time, he also received many medals and honorary titles awarded by international friends [3] . These valuable awards are a recognition and appreciation from the Party, the State, and international friends for Comrade Tran Duc Luong's immense and outstanding contributions to the glorious revolutionary cause of the Party and the nation, as well as to the cooperative and friendly relations between Vietnam and other countries. Comrade Tran Duc Luong's practical experiences and contributions are a precious asset for present and future generations to learn from, cherish, preserve, and continue to develop in the cause of national construction, development, and defense.

The legacy, significant contributions, and profound lessons learned from the life and career of Comrade Tran Duc Luong remain invaluable to us today, especially in the process of implementing the revolution on streamlining the organizational structure and the Politburo's " Four Pillars " policies to lead the country steadily into an era of national development, prosperity, and civilization, as affirmed by General Secretary To Lam.

The life and tireless dedication of Comrade Tran Duc Luong are a source of inspiration for cadres, Party members, the people, and the younger generation of today and tomorrow to continue writing glorious chapters in the nation's history. He will forever be a shining example for compatriots, comrades, cadres, and soldiers throughout the country to cherish, learn from, and emulate, fostering the spirit of unity and cooperation to successfully build a socialist Vietnam that is prosperous, strong, democratic, just, civilized, thriving, and happy, standing shoulder to shoulder with the world's leading nations, as beloved President Ho Chi Minh always wished.

[1] Government Decree No. 60-CP dated July 5, 1994 on the right to own housing and the right to use land in urban areas and Government Decree No. 61-CP dated July 5, 1994 on the purchase, sale and business of housing.

[2] Projects of particular importance in this period include: Construction of Yaly and Tri An hydroelectric power plants; construction of the 500 kV North-South high voltage power transmission line; Bach Ho oil and gas exploitation project; project to bring gas from Bach Ho field to the mainland and build Phu My gas-electricity-fertilizer industrial cluster; irrigation works exploiting the Long Xuyen quadrilateral; completion of renovation of key national highways of the country (National Highway 1, National Highway 5, National Highway 10, National Highway 51, National Highway 18...).

[3] Including the title of Honorary Professor of the Russian Academy of Sciences (1998); the José Marti Order of the Cuban Government (2000); the Agricola Order, United Nations Food and Agriculture Programme (2002); the Order of Merit of the Congolese Government (2002); the Legion of Honor of the French Government (2002)…

Source: https://baodaknong.vn/dong-chi-tran-duc-luong-nha-lanh-dao-co-nhieu-dong-gop-quan-trong-cho-su-nghiep-doi-moi-phat-trien-dat-nuoc-va-bao-ve-to-quoc-253475.html