Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc outlined the need to come up with solutions aimed at coping with the worse possible scenarios that may occur during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic while chairing a cabinet meeting in Hanoi on March 31 to discuss a range of measures aimed at tacking the pandemic.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc chair a cabinet meeting
discussing a score of anti-epidemic measures

The main focus of the meeting was on how to implement solutions as a means of ensuring social security, with a particular emphasis placed on policies relating to those who have been affected by the COVID-19.

In his remarks, PM Phuc stated that the government has been forced to anticipate a range of worst-case scenarios caused by the epidemic in order to devise a score of solutions that could be implemented in a timely manner in case of further outbreaks.

Therefore, the government must be prepared to initiate plans suitable for a range of situations in the battle against the epidemic. Some of the policies discussed by cabinet members include setting up additional field hospitals, pooling resources, and taking necessary measures in an attempt to protect the health of citizens.

With regard to social security amid the increasingly complicated nature of the epidemic, the PM said the epidemic will have negative consequences for many poor people due to increasingly unemployment, with deprived families who already live in difficult circumstances set to be the hardest hit.

The issue of social security remains urgent, especially for poor people and the unemployed, noting that it is imperative to concentrate on solutions that can provide support for disadvantaged people nationwide, he said.

Other issues relating to providing the resources necessary to implement solutions to support underprivileged people will be debated at a regular government meeting which is scheduled to take place on April 1, he added.

During the meeting, representatives from the Ministry of Health also touched upon the current situation, the ongoing outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, and the potential worst-case scenarios.