Vientiane: The Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence has organized a gathering in Vientiane for former Lao military students who had pursued their studies in Vietnam. The event, which took place on January 17, commemorated the 80th founding anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army and the 76th anniversary of the Lao People’s Army.
According to Lao News Agency, the ceremony was chaired by Senior Lieutenant General Le Quang Minh, Vice Chairman of the General Department of Politics of the Vietnam People’s Army, and was attended by high-ranking officers from both nations. In his speech, Minh emphasized the strong and enduring friendship between Vietnam and Laos, highlighting the mutual support provided by the armed forces of both countries, particularly in terms of training and education.
Lao Minister of National Defence, Senior Lieutenant General Khamlieng Outhakaysone, acknowledged the longstanding cooperation between the two nations. He noted that every year, thousands of Lao military personnel receive training in Vietnam, with many going on to hold significant positions within the Lao government and military.
Colonel Soutchai Mahavong, representing the former Vietnamese military students, expressed deep gratitude to the Vietnamese Party, State, and Ministry of National Defence for their ongoing support in training Lao personnel. This was his second time attending the reunion, and he reflected on the notable changes and progress in the militaries of both countries. Soutchai committed to continue strengthening the special Laos-Vietnam relationship by educating future generations about the deep solidarity shared between the two nations.
The reunion was an opportunity to celebrate the shared history and close ties between Vietnam and Laos, with their relationship standing as a symbol of loyalty, trust, and cooperation.