Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng and Lao National Assembly President Sonexay Siphandone have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between Vietnam and Laos. During Hưng’s official visit to Vientiane on October 8, both leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing strategic ties and achieving practical results through closer cooperation.
This meeting marked Hưng’s first visit to Laos since becoming the Vietnamese prime minister. The leaders highlighted the longstanding friendship and special solidarity between their countries, along with the progress made in 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 as pivotal components of their bilateral relationship.
The two countries agreed to implement existing agreements and commitments made by their senior leaders, focusing on translating diplomatic understanding into tangible outcomes. They acknowledged the need to improve the business environment, address regulatory obstacles, and expedite key economic cooperation projects to facilitate investment between Vietnam and Laos.
Prime Minister Hưng urged the Lao National Assembly to support policies that would enhance the mobilization of public and private resources, improve the implementation of development projects, and create favorable conditions for businesses from both countries operating in each other’s markets.
The leaders also stressed the importance of stronger cooperation between their national legislatures, including delegation exchanges, sharing legislative experience, and closer coordination at regional and international parliamentary forums. People-to-people exchanges, particularly among younger generations, were identified as a priority to promote awareness of their shared history and strengthen public understanding of their longstanding friendship.
Preparations for the Vietnam–Laos and Laos–Vietnam Year of Solidarity, Friendship, and Cohesion in 2027 were discussed, which will commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation. Both leaders reaffirmed that maintaining strong bilateral ties is strategically important amid changing regional and international conditions, pledging continued coordination on development priorities and the implementation of agreements for the benefit of their peoples.