Vietnam has reiterated its commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with neighboring Laos, emphasizing the importance of deepening economic collaboration and enhancing infrastructure connectivity. During a meeting in Hanoi on Wednesday with Vilay Lakhamfong, a senior official from the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng highlighted the need for converting high-level commitments into practical projects that benefit both nations.
Hưng underscored Vietnam’s support for Laos’ national development initiatives and identified several areas for potential expansion, including trade, investment, defense, security, education, science, technology, and tourism. He also stressed the importance of working together on regional and international platforms such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the United Nations.
Key infrastructure projects, including the Hanoi–Vientiane expressway and the Vientiane–Vung Ang railway, were identified as priorities. Hưng also advocated for advancing energy connectivity projects and the proposed Laos–Vietnam Friendship University. The discussions reaffirmed the commitment from both sides to implement the Vietnam–Laos Cooperation Strategy for 2021–2030 and the bilateral governmental cooperation agreement for 2026–2030.
The leaders also discussed preparations for the 2027 celebrations, marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam–Laos Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation. The planned activities for the Vietnam–Laos Year of Friendship and Strategic Cohesion 2027 aim to celebrate the historic ties between the two countries, particularly among younger generations.
Vilay Lakhamfong expressed gratitude for Vietnam’s continued support of Laos’ development and reiterated his country’s dedication to preserving the bilateral relationship. He also highlighted the significance of ongoing cooperation to ensure regional security, stability, and economic progress.
Both parties expressed confidence that enhancing cooperation would not only fortify political trust but also advance shared development goals, contributing to peace and stability in the region.