HANOI, May 15 (Xinhua) -- The Vietnamese National Assembly on Tuesday discussed a proposal to establish a free trade zone in the northern port city of Hai Phong to accelerate economic growth, the Vietnam News Agency reported.

The initiative also aims to strengthen Hai Phong's role as a key development driver in the Red River Delta region. The proposed free trade zone is expected to play a central role in achieving national economic targets for the 2026-2030 period.

Lawmakers reviewed specific policies and strategic measures intended to remove existing bottlenecks hindering the city's progress. ■