Vientiane: Professor and Academician Boviengkham Vongdara, President of the Lao-Vietnam Friendship Association, emphasized the growing importance of enhancing the special relationship between Laos and Vietnam in a recent interview with the Vietnam News Agency's resident correspondents in Vientiane.
According to Lao News Agency, Boviengkham noted that during Party General Secretary To Lam's state visit to Laos on the occasion of its 50th National Day, a meeting between the Politburos of both countries was convened. During this meeting, the Vietnamese leader introduced the concept of 'strategic cohesion' to the longstanding Laos-Vietnam relationship. This new dimension reflects the evolving needs of the bilateral ties amid rapid and unpredictable changes in global and regional landscapes.
Boviengkham described the bilateral ties as a legacy of great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation. The introduction of 'strategic cohesion' is a timely evolution, signifying an alignment in strategic vision and development goals, along with enhanced policy and strategy coordination. Key sectors such as infrastructure, logistics, transport, postal and telecom services, and digital transformation are seen as holding long-term strategic significance for sustainable development in both countries and the region.
Additionally, Boviengkham highlighted the importance of strategic connectivity in workforce development, particularly in Party building and personnel training. These efforts signify a profound strategic alignment between the two Parties, States, and peoples, aiming for shared goals of prosperity and sustainable development.
During the implementation of resolutions from the Lao People's Revolutionary Party's 11th National Congress, close bilateral cooperation has made significant contributions. Despite challenges such as economic and financial strains, global economic volatility, rising fuel prices, the COVID-19 pandemic, and natural disasters, support from the Vietnamese Party, State, and people has been instrumental in helping Laos overcome these obstacles.
Boviengkham noted that Laos's national strategic programmes addressing economic and financial challenges and drug-related issues have benefited from Vietnamese support. Vietnam's granting of sea access to Laos through Wharf No. 3 at Vung Ang Port has significantly expanded Laos's global connectivity. Furthermore, Vietnam has aided Laos in security and in establishing a population database linked to digital transformation.
Vietnam stands among the top foreign investors in Laos, with over 260 projects valued at more than 6 billion USD. Two-way trade reached about 3 billion USD in 2025 and is projected to grow to 5 billion USD annually in the coming years. These efforts have supported Laos in navigating hardships and advancing socio-economic progress.
People-to-people diplomacy has also intensified, with increased cooperation between localities and the granting of over 1,600 scholarships to Lao students in 2025 by Vietnam. Diplomatically, Laos and Vietnam have maintained tight coordination under bilateral treaties and within the ASEAN framework. Vietnam's strong support during Laos's 2024 ASEAN chairmanship, including hosting the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, elevated Laos's standing in global and regional contexts.