Hanoi: The Lao Embassy in Vietnam held a ceremony in Hanoi on April 8 to celebrate the traditional New Year festival Bunpimay. The event was attended by Vice State President Vo Thi Anh Xuan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Hoai Trung, and President of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics Doan Minh Huan.

According to Lao News Agency, Minister Le Hoai Trung extended New Year greetings on behalf of the Vietnamese Party, State, and people to the leaders and citizens of Laos. He congratulated Laos on its achievements under the Lao People's Revolutionary Party's leadership and expressed satisfaction with the strengthening Vietnam-Laos relationship. The collaboration between the two nations has led to the successful organization of significant political and diplomatic events, further cementing the special ties between the two Parties, States, and peoples.

High-level visits have been conducted recently, following each country's Party Congress. Notable visits include the state visit to Laos by Party General Secretary To Lam and his spouse in December 2025, and the state visit to Vietnam by Lao Party General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith and his spouse in January 2026. Trung highlighted the agreement between Vietnamese and Lao leaders to incorporate 'strategic cohesion' into the bilateral relationship framework as a historic milestone. This reflects a long-term vision and shared determination to elevate bilateral ties to a new stage of development, built on deep political trust.

Trung affirmed Vietnam's pride in its relationship with Laos, forged through the sacrifices of many generations, and expressed confidence in the transition of bilateral ties from 'historical depth' to 'substantive, effective and sustainable cooperation.'

Lao Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh spoke at the ceremony, noting the special significance of 2026 for both nations as they celebrate their respective Party Congresses and National Assembly elections. He conveyed sincere gratitude for the support provided by Vietnam in Laos' national liberation and development efforts.

The event also featured traditional activities, including a wrist-tying ceremony wishing for peace, happiness, and good fortune, along with a banquet and cultural exchange that underscored the Vietnam-Laos friendship.