Vientiane:The official visit to Laos by Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has significantly bolstered bilateral relations and advanced strategic connectivity between the two nations, according to Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane.
According to Lao News Agency, Mr. Thongsavanh emphasized that Vietnam’s choice of Laos as the Prime Minister’s first official overseas visit underscores the importance of their longstanding friendship and special solidarity. The visit reinforced commitments to enhancing comprehensive cooperation and strategic partnerships, focusing on implementing high-level agreements into tangible outcomes.
A primary focus of the visit was on improving economic and infrastructure connectivity through strategic projects such as the Vientiane-Hanoi Expressway, the development of Vung Ang Port, and railway and petroleum pipeline projects. These initiatives aim to enhance transport links, facilitate trade, and deepen economic integration between Laos and Vietnam.
The bilateral talks resulted in agreements to maintain close political ties and strengthen defense and security cooperation. The two prime ministers also led a handover ceremony for the Population Management Database and Lao Citizen Identification Card Project.
Economic cooperation was a key aspect of the visit, highlighted by the signing of 11 cooperation documents and the exchange of 18 joint investment documents to promote trade and investment. The Laos-Vietnam Investment Promotion Conference, co-chaired by the two prime ministers, focused on expanding investment opportunities and generating economic benefits for both countries.
In education and human resource development, Vietnam reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Laos, including assistance for school construction in Houaphanh and Champasak provinces. The two leaders also attended the launch of the Laos-Vietnam Friendship University construction project and signed an agreement to establish the university to train highly qualified Lao personnel.
The visit further strengthened local cooperation, with three agreements signed for 2026-2030 between Vientiane Province and Hai Phong City; Oudomxay Province and Hai Phong City; and Oudomxay Province and Ninh Binh Province.
Mr. Thongsavanh stated that these outcomes reflect the shared commitment of both Parties, States, and peoples to maintaining their longstanding friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic partnership, while advancing practical collaboration across key sectors.
