Vietnam and Laos have pledged to strengthen their bilateral cooperation and strategic ties, as Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng met with Lao National Assembly President Sonexay Siphandone in Vientiane on October 8. During the meeting, both leaders reiterated their commitment to enhancing the longstanding friendship and special solidarity between the two countries, aiming for practical outcomes through closer cooperation.
This meeting marked Prime Minister Hưng’s first official visit to Laos since assuming his position. The leaders acknowledged progress in several areas, including political relations, defense, security, foreign affairs, trade, and investment. They also recognized the significance of cooperation in education, transport, energy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
Both sides agreed to implement existing agreements and commitments made by their senior leaders, focusing on converting diplomatic understanding into concrete results. They discussed the need to improve the business environment, address regulatory challenges, and expedite key economic cooperation projects to stimulate investment between the two nations.
Prime Minister Hưng urged the Lao National Assembly to support policies that would mobilize both public and private resources, improve the execution of development projects, and create conducive conditions for Vietnamese and Lao businesses operating in each other’s markets. The leaders also emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation between their national legislatures, including delegation exchanges, sharing legislative experiences, and coordinating at regional and international parliamentary forums.
People-to-people exchanges, especially among younger generations, were identified as a priority. Both nations agreed to promote awareness of their shared history and strengthen public understanding of their enduring friendship. The meeting also touched on preparations for the Vietnam–Laos and Laos–Vietnam Year of Solidarity, Friendship, and Cohesion in 2027, which will commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
The leaders reaffirmed that maintaining strong bilateral ties remains strategically important amid changing regional and international conditions. They committed to continuing coordination on development priorities and implementing agreements that deliver tangible benefits for the people of both countries.