Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng’s recent official visit to Laos marked a significant moment in the ongoing collaboration between the two countries. During his first visit to Laos as prime minister, Hưng met with Lao National Assembly President Sonexay Siphandone in Vientiane on October 8, reaffirming their commitment to bolstering bilateral relations and achieving tangible outcomes through enhanced cooperation.
The leaders celebrated the enduring friendship, special solidarity, and strategic partnership that have long characterized the relationship between Vietnam and Laos. They noted advancements in several areas, including political relations, defense, security, foreign affairs, as well as trade and investment. Additionally, cooperation in education, transport, energy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges was acknowledged as crucial to the bilateral relationship.
A key focus of their discussion was the implementation of existing agreements and senior leader commitments, with an emphasis on transforming diplomatic understanding into concrete results. Both leaders recognized the need to improve the business environment, address regulatory challenges, and accelerate key economic cooperation projects to foster investment between the two nations.
Prime Minister Hưng urged the Lao National Assembly to support policies that would mobilize public and private resources, enhance the execution of development projects, and create favorable conditions for Vietnamese and Lao businesses operating in each other’s markets. Likewise, the importance of stronger cooperation between their national legislatures was underscored, with plans for delegation exchanges and legislative experience sharing.
People-to-people exchanges, particularly among younger generations, were highlighted as a priority to promote awareness of their shared history and deepen public understanding of the longstanding friendship. Looking ahead, both countries agreed to prepare for the Vietnam–Laos and Laos–Vietnam Year of Solidarity, Friendship, and Cohesion in 2027, commemorating the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming the strategic importance of maintaining strong bilateral ties amid evolving regional and international circumstances. They pledged continued coordination on development priorities and the implementation of agreements to deliver tangible benefits for the people of both countries.