Hanoi: Laos has consistently regarded its relationship with Vietnam as a top priority in its foreign policy, Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Khamphao Ernthavanh said in an interview with the press on the occasion of the upcoming state visit to Vietnam by General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party and Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith and his spouse. The visit, made at the invitation of General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) To Lam and his spouse, is scheduled to take place from January 26 to 27.
According to Lao News Agency, Ernthavanh noted that the trip, coming immediately after the conclusion of the CPV's 14th National Congress, represents a demonstration of the friendship, solidarity, cooperation, and strategic partnership between the two countries. She emphasized that the visit is intended to convey congratulations on the achievements of the Party Congress and underscore the political trust and strategic commitment between the two parties, states, and peoples.
The Lao side expects the visit to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly within the framework of the newly defined concept of 'strategic cohesion', and to provide momentum for both sides to coordinate the implementation of high-level agreements and development goals.
The diplomat said the success of the 14th congress demonstrates the leadership, political resolve, and strategic vision of the CPV, reflecting the determination of the Vietnamese Party, State, and people to achieve development in the nation's new era. She added that the congress's success is a source of pride for both Vietnamese and Lao people, expressing confidence that bilateral relations will be strengthened and developed in a substantive manner.
According to the ambassador, the documents adopted at the Congress set out Vietnam's medium- and long-term development roadmap, with targets for 2030 and a vision to 2045, affirming the country's determination to build an independent economy that is integrated into the international community, with science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as key growth drivers.
She said Laos values Vietnam's achievements over 40 years of renewal and the strategic directions outlined by the 14th congress. These achievements have enhanced Vietnam's role in Southeast Asia and on the global stage, providing valuable lessons for developing countries, including Laos.
The ambassador expressed confidence that Vietnam will realize the objectives set by the congress and continue to develop in a stable and prosperous manner. Vietnam's success will also serve as an impetus for Laos, which stands ready to continue working closely with the traditional partner for the benefit of both peoples and for peace, stability, and development in the region, she concluded.