Vietnam and Laos are set to deepen their bilateral cooperation following a meeting between Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng and Lao National Assembly President Sonexay Siphandone in Vientiane on October 8. This meeting, part of Hưng’s first official visit to Laos as prime minister, underscored the longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between the two neighboring countries.
Both leaders acknowledged progress in several key areas, including political relations, defense, security, foreign affairs, trade, and investment. They emphasized the importance of cooperation in education, transport, energy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges as essential components of their bilateral relations.
The discussions also focused on implementing existing agreements and commitments to convert diplomatic understanding into tangible outcomes. Hưng called on the Lao National Assembly to back policies that would enhance resource mobilization and improve the execution of development projects, thereby creating more favorable conditions for businesses from both countries to operate in each other’s markets.
The leaders highlighted the significance of enhanced cooperation between their national legislatures, advocating for more delegation exchanges, shared legislative experiences, and closer coordination at regional and international parliamentary forums. Strengthening public understanding of their shared history through people-to-people exchanges, especially among younger generations, was also identified as a priority.
Preparations for the Vietnam–Laos and Laos–Vietnam Year of Solidarity, Friendship, and Cohesion in 2027 were discussed, with plans to commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
Amid evolving regional and international conditions, both leaders reaffirmed the strategic importance of maintaining robust bilateral ties. They committed to continued coordination on development priorities and the execution of agreements to deliver concrete benefits for the people of both nations.