Hanoi: Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh warmly welcomed Lao Party General Secretary Thongloun Sisoulith during a significant visit to Vietnam, highlighting the deep and enduring relationship between the two nations. The meeting underscored the mutual commitment to fostering the special Vietnam-Laos relationship following their respective National Party Congresses, with upcoming elections for the National Assembly and People's Councils on the horizon.
According to Lao News Agency, the Vietnamese Prime Minister congratulated Thongloun Sisoulith on his re-election as the General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) for the 12th term. This re-election signifies the trust and esteem held by the Lao Party, State, and people for Sisoulith's contributions to the country's revolutionary cause. PM Chinh expressed confidence in Laos' continued political stability and successful implementation of socio-economic development plans under the LPRP's leadership.
PM Chinh also briefed the Lao leader on Vietnam's socio-economic progress during the 13th Party Congress term and outlined strategic development goals for 2026-2030, with a long-term vision extending to 2045. General Secretary Sisoulith praised Vietnam's significant development achievements, particularly under PM Chinh's leadership, and acknowledged Vietnam's accomplishments as a source of inspiration for Laos.
The leaders expressed satisfaction with the strengthening bilateral relations, overcoming regional and global challenges. They highlighted the importance of implementing high-level agreements to promote socio-economic development and benefit both nations' citizens.
In discussing future cooperation, both leaders agreed on the importance of enhancing economic ties, with a focus on strategic transport, energy, and logistics infrastructure. PM Chinh emphasized the need to facilitate large-scale investment projects and promote Vietnamese enterprises in Laos, particularly in border areas.
The Lao leader supported the advancement of economic connectivity, including projects like the Hanoi-Vientiane Expressway and the Northern Laos-Vietnam power transmission line. The expansion of local currency payments was also appreciated.
PM Chinh assured continued Vietnamese support for enterprise investments in Laos and proposed efforts to boost bilateral trade, aiming to increase trade turnover to 5-10 billion USD. Enhancing transport connectivity among Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia was also discussed to strengthen economic linkages.
Both sides agreed to bolster cooperation in national defense and security, focusing on combating transnational crimes. They also shared views on regional and international issues, emphasizing the need for coordination at global forums to promote peace and stability.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of their commitment to nurturing the special Vietnam-Laos relationship, aiming for deeper and more sustainable development for mutual benefits.
