Phuc, 68, a former prime minister, held the largely ceremonial position for less than two years.

It was not immediately clear who would replace him.

“Fully-being aware of his responsibilities before the party and people, he submitted an application to resign from his assigned positions, quit his job and retire,” the Vietnam News Agency reported, citing the party’s powerful Central Committee.

There was widespread speculation about Phuc’s resignation following January’s dismissals of two deputy prime ministers, who were working under him when he led the government.

To become effective, Phuc’s resignation requires approval from the National Assembly.

Yesterday, it was reported that the legislature would hold a rare extraordinary meeting this week.

Vietnam has no paramount ruler and is officially led by four “pillars”: the powerful party’s secretary, the president, the prime minister and the chair of the Parliament.