Vientiane:Party General Secretary and State President Thongloun Sisoulith received Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung in Vientiane during Hung's official visit to the Lao PDR from October 8-9. This visit, initiated at the invitation of Lao Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, aims to bolster the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Laos and Vietnam.

According to Lao News Agency, President Thongloun warmly welcomed Prime Minister Hung and appreciated his choice of Laos as his first overseas destination since taking office, highlighting Vietnam's commitment to their unique bilateral relationship. Thongloun also extended greetings to Vietnamese leaders and praised the outcomes of talks held between the Lao and Vietnamese prime ministers during Hung's visit.

The leaders discussed their countries' socio-economic development, acknowledging bilateral progress and future plans. They emphasized the importance of regular delegation exchanges and close coordination, particularly in implementing agreements from their respective Politburos and the Laos-Vietnam Intergovernmental Committee on Cooperation.

Significant advancements were noted in areas such as the population-management database and Lao citizen identification card project, and the construction of the Laos-Vietnam Friendship University. Both countries agreed on strengthening cooperation in national defense and security, maintaining coordination through bilateral and international forums.

Economic, trade, and investment cooperation remain critical, with emphasis on projects enhancing economic connectivity. The leaders also highlighted promoting public awareness of the historical significance of Laos-Vietnam relations, particularly among the youth.

Preparations are underway for the 2027 Laos-Vietnam Year of Friendship and Solidarity, celebrating 65 years of diplomatic relations and 50 years since the Laos-Vietnam Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation. The commemorative activities aim to reflect the deep significance of their bilateral ties.

Prime Minister Hung expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reiterated Vietnam's commitment to advancing strategic cooperation projects and fulfilling bilateral commitments, aiming for tangible results and achieving mutual objectives.