Vietnam Launches Laos Executive Leadership Programme in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho chi minh city: The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with the Fulbright School of Public Policy and Management under Fulbright University Vietnam, opened the Laos Executive Leadership Programme (LELP) 2026 for senior Lao officials at both central and local levels in Ho Chi Minh City on March 23. According to Lao News Agency, the programme was described by Standing Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Nguyen Loc Ha as a meaningful initiative and a high-level policy dialogue platform. It aims to enable Lao policymakers and senior officials to engage with leading scholars and experts on key issues crucial for Laos' socio-economic development. Ha expressed confidence that through in-depth discussions and practical field studies, participants will gain valuable insights to support policymaking and contribute to implementing the strategic goals set by the Lao Party and State at the 12th National Party Congress. He highlighted the programme's role in enhancing the 'grea t friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic cohesion' between Vietnam and Laos. Ho Chi Minh City, being an economic and innovation hub, is prepared to deepen cooperation with Lao localities and support their development efforts. Lao Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Maythong Thammavongsa extended gratitude to the Vietnamese Government and Fulbright University Vietnam for organizing the training programme. He emphasized its relevance amid complex regional and global dynamics and described it as a testament to the cooperation between the two countries in developing high-quality human resources. Thammavongsa also praised Vietnam's socio-economic achievements, indicating that its development experience offers valuable lessons for Laos. The programme's focus on public finance, budgeting, and digital industry development is expected to enhance the capacity and strategic thinking of Lao officials, enabling effective application of knowledge in governance and policy implementation. R unning from March 23 to 28 in Ho Chi Minh City and other localities, the LELP 2026 is designed as a high-level policy dialogue. It aims to support Lao leaders in translating strategic objectives into practical policy options and actionable programmes, drawing on both domestic realities and regional development experiences, particularly those of Vietnam.