These two words "happiness" show a profound change in the development thinking of the capital Hanoi - linking growth with the quality of life of the people, taking the people as the center of all decisions.
If previously, indicators such as GDP, urbanization rate or infrastructure density were the main measures towards "civilization and modernity", now, Hanoi has chosen an additional humane measure rather than "happiness". Because in the end, the goal of all policies and projects is still to serve people.
It is no coincidence that the anniversary of the Liberation of the Capital (October 10, 1954 - October 10, 2025) and the 18th City Party Congress took place in parallel with Hanoi starting a series of strategic projects: Thuong Cat Bridge, Hanoi Opera House along with a series of roads, parks, hospitals... in the group of 18 key projects.
These works, if we look at them from a technical perspective, as infrastructure for transportation, culture, health care, etc., but if we look at them from a social perspective, they are the "infrastructure of happiness".
Happiness, for the capital Hanoi, is not an empty concept, but very specific things: Open roads, fresh air, good schools, near hospitals, green parks, a sense of security every time you go out on the street...
That is also a strong message from the city's leaders when identifying priority groups of solutions in the coming time: Handling air pollution, reducing flooding, developing public transport, overcoming congestion, reviving inner-city rivers... All aim at a common goal of improving the quality of life and people's satisfaction.
It can be said that Hanoi is pioneering in promoting the model of "economic growth" and "happy growth". This is not only a step forward for an urban area, but also a vision for a civilized city - where material and spiritual values are harmoniously developed.
Therefore, including "happiness" in the direction of "unstoppable happiness" in the criteria in the Congress document is a commitment that the capital Hanoi does everything for the people, for the people.
In the journey of building, "developing the capital into a civilized, modern, and happy place", the projects underway today are the foundation for a new height. Where the measure of development is not only the height of buildings, but the depth of joy, peace of mind and trust of the people in the government.
And that is also the way Hanoi affirms its pioneering position, not only as the political, economic and cultural center of the country, but also as a model of a humane, livable city, where happiness is considered the ultimate goal of development.
