Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng has reiterated Vietnam’s dedication to enhancing its strategic partnership with Laos, emphasizing the importance of economic collaboration, infrastructure development, and the effective execution of bilateral agreements. During a meeting in Hanoi on Wednesday with Vilay Lakhamfong, a senior official from the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, Hưng highlighted the deepening and effectiveness of the cooperation between the two nations.
Hưng underlined the necessity of turning high-level commitments into tangible projects that yield benefits for citizens of both countries. He expressed support for Laos’ national development initiatives and identified sectors such as trade, investment, defense, security, education, science, technology, and tourism as areas ripe for expanded cooperation. The Vietnamese leader also advocated for enhanced coordination on regional and international fronts, through bodies like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the United Nations.
Focusing on infrastructure, Hưng urged both nations to expedite significant projects, including the Hanoi–Vientiane expressway and the Vientiane–Vung Ang railway, alongside energy connectivity efforts. Progress on the proposed Laos–Vietnam Friendship University was also a priority. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to the Vietnam–Laos Cooperation Strategy for 2021–2030 and the bilateral governmental cooperation agreement for 2026–2030.
Preparations are underway for 2027, which will commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam–Laos Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation. The planned Vietnam–Laos Year of Friendship and Strategic Cohesion 2027 aims to celebrate and strengthen historical ties, with a focus on engaging younger generations.
Vilay Lakhamfong conveyed gratitude for Vietnam’s assistance in Laos’ development and reiterated his country’s dedication to maintaining the bilateral relationship. He emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration on regional security, stability, and economic growth. Both sides expressed confidence that deepened cooperation would bolster political trust, advance shared developmental objectives, and contribute to regional peace and stability.