Vientiane: The Vietnamese Embassy in Laos held a gathering in Vientiane on February 9 evening to celebrate the success of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) and welcome the Lunar New Year of the Horse.According to Lao News Agency, Ambassador Nguyen Minh Tam emphasized that 2025 was a year of major historical significance for Vietnam, marked by milestones such as the 95th founding anniversary of the CPV, the 80th anniversary of the National Day, and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification. The 14th Congress in January 2026 was noted for ushering in a new era - the era of the nation's rise.Vietnam's international standing continues to rise, with diplomatic relations established with 194 countries and strategic or comprehensive strategic partnerships with 42 partners.Regarding bilateral ties, Tam affirmed that Vietnam-Laos relations have been elevated to a new height as a great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic cohesion framework following the state visit to Laos by Party General Secretary To Lam in December 2025. The diplomat expressed deep gratitude for the support extended by the Lao Party, State, and people to Vietnam.On behalf of the Lao Party and State leaders, General Vilay Lakhamphong conveyed warm congratulations to the Party, State, and people of Vietnam on the occasion of the Lunar New Year and the 96th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. He expressed confidence that, under the leadership of the Party after the 14th Congress, Vietnam will continue to achieve accomplishments in national development.He reaffirmed that regardless of global changes, the Lao Party, State, and people will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Vietnam, preserving and promoting the Laos-Vietnam relationship. He praised the two countries for establishing strategic consultation mechanisms and coordinating expert groups to address major issues in economic development and international integrati on.The event took place in a warm atmosphere, reflecting the friendship, solidarity, and cooperation between the two Parties, States, and peoples, reaffirming their shared resolve to advance together toward prosperity and socialism.