“Spectacular transformation” and “miraculous recovery and development” are among the praises that many international friends have offered when describing Vietnam after 50 years of national reunification.

Dr. Le Duc Thinh, head of the Department of Cooperatives and Rural Development under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, believes the viewpoint that “the state must walk along with its people” is the key to achieve prosperity and happiness. The Vietnam Times spoke with the distingushed professor about his philosphy and his wishes for Vietnamese society.