Sanaa:Vietnam's relations with Laos and Cambodia have developed positively, delivering substantive and effective results across various fields, as stated by Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Manh Cuong.
According to Lao News Agency, the Vietnamese Prime Minister's upcoming official visits to Laos on October 8-9, and to Cambodia on October 9-10, are at the invitation of Lao Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. These visits, the first official ones by the Vietnamese PM to these countries, highlight Vietnam's prioritization of its relationships with these neighbors.
The visits aim to deepen the great friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, and the good neighborliness and sustainable cooperation with Cambodia. They are expected to strengthen cooperation amidst complex regional and global developments, focusing on agreements reached by the countries' senior leaders.
In Laos, the visit coincides with Saleumxay Kommasith's recent election as Prime Minister, offering both leaders an opportunity to discuss future cooperation strategies. In Cambodia, the visit follows Prime Minister Hun Manet's recent visit to Vietnam, with potential discussions on expanding partnerships in trade, investment, and tourism.
During the visits, PM Hung is expected to engage in discussions to promote cooperation in areas that benefit each nation, and to foster friendship and people-to-people connections, particularly among the youth.
Political ties with Laos have been bolstered by reciprocal state visits by top leaders from both countries, indicating the special priority of bilateral relations. Defence and security cooperation remains crucial, with both nations working to maintain stability along their shared border. Economic collaboration has also progressed, with trade reaching about $3 billion in 2025, and Vietnam being one of the largest foreign investors in Laos.
Regarding Cambodia, political trust has been reinforced through high-level visits. Defence and security cooperation are contributing to a peaceful and cooperative border environment. Trade, investment, and tourism are key drivers of bilateral ties, with trade reaching $11.33 billion in 2025. Vietnam has significant investment projects in Cambodia, making it a major destination for Vietnamese overseas investment.
Vietnam coordinates closely with Laos and Cambodia within ASEAN, the United Nations, and Mekong sub-regional cooperation, supporting ASEAN's solidarity. The visits are aligned with Vietnam's foreign policy priorities, aiming to implement high-level agreements effectively and to enhance economic, trade, and investment partnerships.
The trips are also seen as preparations for significant anniversaries in 2027, marking Vietnam's diplomatic ties with Laos and Cambodia. Cuong expressed confidence that these visits will provide new momentum for cooperation, contributing to regional peace and development.