During an official visit to Laos, Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng engaged in discussions with Lao National Assembly President Sonexay Siphandone on October 8, underscoring a mutual commitment to bolster bilateral relations. This meeting, marking Hưng’s first visit to Laos since his appointment, highlighted the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between the two neighboring nations.
The leaders acknowledged advancements across various sectors, including political relations, defense, security, foreign affairs, trade, and investment. They also emphasized the importance of cooperation in education, transport, energy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, viewing these areas as crucial components of their bilateral relationship.
A key outcome of the meeting was the agreement to implement existing agreements and commitments, with a particular focus on converting diplomatic understandings into tangible outcomes. Both sides recognized the necessity of enhancing the business environment, overcoming regulatory challenges, and expediting critical economic cooperation projects to stimulate investment between Vietnam and Laos.
Prime Minister Hưng urged the Lao National Assembly to back policies that would mobilize both public and private resources, facilitating the execution of development projects and improving conditions for Vietnamese and Lao businesses operating in each other’s markets. The leaders also agreed on the importance of strengthened cooperation between their national legislatures, including delegation exchanges and sharing legislative expertise.
Fostering people-to-people exchanges, especially among younger generations, emerged as another priority. The leaders expressed a shared commitment to promoting awareness of their intertwined histories and strengthening public understanding of their longstanding friendship.
Preparations for the Vietnam–Laos and Laos–Vietnam Year of Solidarity, Friendship and Cohesion in 2027 were also discussed, with the commemorations set to mark the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation. Both leaders reaffirmed that maintaining robust bilateral ties is strategically vital amidst evolving regional and international dynamics, and pledged to continue working together on development priorities to deliver substantive benefits for their citizens.