The APEC winds lift the wings of the pearl island.

APEC 2027 places Phu Quoc at the center of the international event map. Choosing this island as the host is not simply a recognition of its beauty or geographical location. It's a test of organizational capacity, an opportunity to demonstrate the development vision and the strength of consensus of a locality striving for progress.

An Thoi town (Phu Quoc) viewed from above. Photo courtesy of Hong Dat/TTXVN.

Since the beginning of 2025, life on Phu Quoc Island has changed. Construction sites are one after another, and the sound of machinery is incessant. The government, ministries, and An Giang province have agreed on the "6 clear principles" to ensure all projects proceed on the right track: Clear person, clear task, clear time, clear product, clear responsibility, and clear authority. Progress reports are maintained monthly, and inter-agency inspection teams are present periodically to resolve difficulties on-site. A sense of urgency has become a daily routine.

The list of 21 key projects, with a total capital of over VND 137,138 billion, forms the backbone of infrastructure serving APEC and for the long term. Three public-private partnership projects have already secured investors: the expansion of Phu Quoc International Airport (VND 22,000 billion); the Bai Dat Do urban area (VND 64,000 billion); and the Nui Ong Quan ecological tourism area (VND 5,550 billion).

Simultaneously, other key projects are underway, such as the APEC Convention Center, covering 28 hectares and costing 21,860 billion VND; the upgrading of the An Thoi International Port to 100 hectares, capable of accommodating the world's largest cruise ships; and the transportation system, plazas, museums, children's centers, wastewater and waste treatment facilities, regulating lakes, resettlement areas, and a smart operation center.

The vision is broadened through strategic projects not included in the APEC list. The 44km eastern coastal road, with a capital of VND 14.1 trillion, will open up new avenues for urban and tourism development. The 2.7km An Thoi port connection route, with a capital of VND 2.65 trillion, will increase maritime transport capacity and connect the southern part of the island. Environmental and social infrastructure projects are being implemented simultaneously, laying the foundation for a modern, sustainable coastal city.

The large investment figures reflect the scale, but the real value lies in the organization and implementation. The provincial leadership is steadfast in its goals, the management apparatus closely monitors progress, businesses dare to invest, and the people support and are ready to participate. This combined strength is what guarantees that opportunities will become achievements. APEC 2027 therefore signifies the creation of a new image for Phu Quoc – modern, integrated, and resilient.

When APEC 2027 concludes, the infrastructure projects will remain to continue serving socio-economic development. The expanded airport, upgraded seaport, and improved transportation will propel Phu Quoc into the ranks of top international destinations. The impression of a dynamic Vietnam and a green, clean, and hospitable Phu Quoc will follow APEC delegations back to all corners of the world. This is a valuable asset for expanding the tourism market, attracting investment, and gradually competing on equal footing with Phuket, Bali, and the Maldives.

The road ahead is fraught with challenges. The workload is immense, the deadlines are tight, and international standards are stringent. Success depends on discipline, responsibility, and the ability to combine creativity with a spirit of service. Every citizen of Phu Quoc today embodies the essence of the island, from their interactions with tourists to their awareness of preserving the blue sea and white sand. When the Party's will aligns with the people's aspirations, and when the common good is prioritized, there will be no insurmountable obstacle.

APEC 2027 is a major event. International friends are anticipating it. The people of Phu Quoc are anticipating it. The entire An Giang province, in this new phase, is anticipating it. This opportunity is like a powerful wave carrying a ship out to sea. If we know how to steer and navigate in the right direction, Phu Quoc will not only reach the open sea but will stand firm amidst it.

And as the sun sets, casting golden hues across the APEC-themed beaches, Phu Quoc Island will stand firm against the vast ocean, silently and proudly, as a witness to this historic moment. From here, the nation's aspirations for integration and its will to rise have reached a new vision, ushering in an era of prosperous and modern development.

VT

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/ngon-gio-apec-nang-canh-dao-ngoc-a426095.html