Vientiane: Governor of Vientiane Province Khamphan Sitthidampha recently welcomed a delegation of young leaders from the border provinces of Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia during their visit and study program in the province. The visit aimed to enhance cooperation and share developmental insights among the neighboring countries.

According to Lao News Agency, the delegation included prominent figures such as Mr. Chhair Sokty, Vice-Chairman of Cambodia’s Commission of External Relations; Mr. Vu Manh Ha, Party Central Committee member and Standing Deputy Secretary of Lai Chao Province, Vietnam; and Major General Lyvong Laoly, Lao Deputy Minister of Defense. Monitoring delegations from all three countries also participated, reflecting the importance of the visit.

Governor Khamphan provided an overview of Vientiane Province’s development, emphasizing its strategic importance as the ‘backyard garden’ of the capital. The province is known for its plantations, parks, and tourist destinations like Vang Vieng, the Nam Ngum Reservoir, Keo Oudom, and Phonhong Districts. The province received over 1 million visitors in the first half of 2025 and aims to exceed its annual target of 1.39 million visitors. Additionally, the provincial GDP grew by 3.8% in the first half of the year, with a target of 6.5% growth by year-end.

The Governor highlighted ongoing cooperation with four provinces in Vietnam and expressed hopes to establish future ties with Cambodian counterparts. This cooperation is seen as a catalyst for regional development and mutual growth.

Representatives from all three countries expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and commended Vientiane’s achievements. Mr. Chhair Sokty extended an offer of Cambodian scholarships for Lao students, fostering educational exchanges. Mr. Vu Manh Ha reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to strengthening trilateral cooperation and promoting youth leadership exchange among Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia.