The decision appointing Cuong as Secretary of Saigon Ward was formalized on the morning of 24/6 at the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee headquarters. He replaces Nguyen Tan Phat, who was transferred to become Director of the City Department of Education and Training. Cuong was relieved of his duties as Vice Chairman of the City People's Committee on 19/6.

Bui Xuan Cuong at a Ho Chi Minh City People's Council session on the afternoon of 19/6. *Photo: An Phuong*

Cuong brings a strong professional background to his new role. He holds a doctorate in civil engineering and previously served as Director of the Department of Transport. He also twice held the position of Head of the Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway Management Board. In 2022, he was appointed Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, where he oversaw key areas including transport, public investment, official development assistance (ODA) projects, urban railways, architecture, and urban development.

The newly established Saigon Ward, where Cuong will serve as Secretary, was formed on 1/7/2025. Its creation involved merging the entirety of Ben Nghe Ward with portions of Da Kao Ward and Nguyen Thai Binh Ward. Covering an area of 3,04 km2 with a population of nearly 42,000, Saigon Ward is positioned as the city's central core. It inherits 327 years of history from the land and is envisioned as Ho Chi Minh City's financial hub and a center for high-end commercial services.

Beyond its economic role, the ward is rich in history and culture. It is home to many historical architectural landmarks, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the City Opera House. These iconic structures reflect over a century of development in the Saigon - Gia Dinh - Cho Lon area.

Economically, Saigon Ward stands out as the city's largest generator of budget revenue. Projections indicate it will exceed 10,400 billion VND in 2026, a figure 2-7 times higher than that of some provinces, including Dien Bien, Lai Chau, Cao Bang, and Son La. The ward is a bustling center for commerce, services, finance, logistics, and high-end tourism, hosting over 5,300 businesses and more than 1,000 business households.

Le Tuyet