In addition to major issues such as five-year strategies, building a new generation of citizens, and development spaces, I believe that the "new era" of Da Nang encompasses a synthesis of specific targets and directions. The early days of the new year present a suitable opportunity for us to outline the significant orientations for our beloved city.

I dream of a Da Nang that is peaceful and humane. A place free from crime and violence, devoid of drug trafficking, where neighborhoods live in harmony, and “everywhere echoes with songs of love for life and optimism,” as Nguyen Trai once hoped. Nature has bestowed this city with invaluable advantages; we must keep our beaches as clean and beautiful as possible and implement measures to encourage businesses to invest in groundbreaking coastal tourism with unique, world-class products. We should ensure that rainwater does not flow into the sea through drainage systems, so that from Nam Hai Van to Ha My can truly become a paradise for relaxation, allowing residents to enjoy the beach as a way to soothe their souls.

Few places have a river flowing through the city as beautifully as in Da Nang. We should preserve the eastern bank as a model of a vibrant corridor rich in soulful impressions. Non Nuoc (Ngu Hanh Son) is regarded as the capital of unique stone sculpture, so let’s create many statues of renowned figures from Vietnam and around the world here. For now, let’s transform the eastern bank of the Han River and the path to Linh Ung Pagoda into avenues lined with statues of distinguished personalities. The legacy of our ancestors reminds us of our pride in the past, but more importantly, it drives us to find motivation for a new phase of development. The "Statue Road" will become a unique hallmark that defines a new brand for this region.

A small population may not create enough power to influence the market, but it shouldn't be overly large either. The issue of urban organization should focus on simplicity while ensuring effective management, and Da Nang needs a deeper transformation in this regard. I envision a team of officials from the ward level to the city who see caring for the people and serving them as a joy, rather than just an administrative duty. The city's traffic police have been praised for their service attitude, earning commendations from residents, especially drivers nationwide; this is not only a source of pride for the police force but also a "brand" for the people of Da Nang. Being mechanical, indifferent, and demanding bribes is always unacceptable, no matter where it occurs.

There are significant challenges, such as building infrastructure and training people, but there are also less costly actions we can take. How can the city reduce the sound of car horns? We need to promote civilized traffic, where drivers yield to pedestrians, and pedestrians show appreciation with a slight nod when drivers give way. The markets in Da Nang should be renowned for their hospitality and should not engage in price gouging. Most importantly, vendors must be conscious not to poison our own people with food contaminated by harmful chemicals. Among the evils, the worst is mixing chemicals into fish or vegetables and selling them to consumers. We must conduct widespread awareness campaigns and impose strict penalties on those who disregard the lives of the people.

The year 2025 is seen as the beginning of a new era, the era of our nation's advancement. From now until then, Da Nang must ensure that its citizens feel truly excited, confident, and willing to share in the city's journey. Every policy, every target, and every project of the city should be a source of pride for the people, with each individual finding their reflection in the collective development efforts. General Secretary To Lam once reminded us to "speak less and do more". Each of us, whether officials or citizens, should spread this spirit of "doing more", bringing new hope and enthusiasm into the new year.

Reporting by THUC NHAN – Translating by HONG VAN