Vientiane:A delegation from Vietnam’s northwestern province of Dien Bien held talks with officials of northern Laos’ Bokeo province to formalize bilateral cooperation agreements. The focus was on expanding tourism ties and developing cross-border travel routes connecting Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand.
According to Lao News Agency, the two sides exchanged information on socio-economic development, geographic advantages, tourism potential, destination management, and promotion. They also discussed improving service quality and developing distinctive tourism products that reflect local cultural identities.
Khamseng Suliyavong, Vice Chairman of the Bokeo provincial Government Committee, emphasized that the talks were a significant step toward actualizing cooperation agreements. He highlighted Bokeo’s strategic location at the border intersection, noting its potential for eco-tourism and international trade. He stated that enhanced partnership with Dien Bien would help both localities maximize their strengths and
build transport infrastructure to facilitate cross-border travel.
Cao Thi Tuyet Lan, Standing Vice Chairwoman of the Dien Bien provincial People’s Council, agreed with the Lao official. She affirmed that the visit aims to expand international tourism linkages with northern localities of Laos and Thailand. She expressed confidence that closer ties between management agencies and travel enterprises would foster linked tour programs, particularly cross-border self-drive car and motorcycle caravan tours.
The two sides agreed to establish direct and regular cooperation between Dien Bien’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Bokeo’s Department of Culture and Tourism. They plan to organize exchanges, share professional expertise, and support mutual promotional activities.
Additionally, authorities from Dien Bien and Bokeo committed to creating favorable conditions for travel businesses to connect, conduct market surveys, and design new itineraries. They will also study coordination mechanisms to streaml
ine entry and exit procedures for tour groups, especially self-drive caravan fleets.
Efforts will also be made to enhance communication through active data sharing and joint promotion of each locality’s cultural heritage, scenic spots, and signature tourism products across media channels and major regional events.
After the talks, the delegations conducted field surveys at key tourism destinations and service facilities in Bokeo to assess infrastructure and service capacity, paving the way for practical cooperation. This visit by the Dien Bien delegation opens new avenues for sustainable tourism growth in both provinces and strengthens tourism connections between Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand.
