Hanoi: The upcoming state visit to Laos by State President Luong Cuong from April 24-25 is poised to invigorate and significantly enhance the deep-rooted friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, according to a Vietnamese diplomat.
According to Lao News Agency, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Minh Tam, in an interview with Vietnam News Agency correspondents, highlighted the profound importance of the trip. He noted that it reflects the Vietnamese Party’s and State’s unwavering commitment to valuing the special relationship with Laos, considering it a top priority in Vietnam’s foreign policy framework. The visit aims to reaffirm Vietnam’s robust support for Laos’ ongoing reform efforts and acts as a tangible measure to fortify the bond between the high-ranking leaders of both nations.
The ambassador emphasized that the visit is not just about reinforcing the special solidarity but also presents an opportunity to exchange views on the current situations of ea
ch Party and country, as well as addressing regional and international issues of mutual interest. During this visit, both sides will assess the progress in their bilateral cooperation and explore strategies to further elevate this special relationship in the future.
Ambassador Tam suggested that for the Vietnam-Laos relationship to continue flourishing effectively, it is crucial for both countries to maintain strong political trust and closely coordinate on strategic issues and policies concerning national security and development.
He pointed out the necessity of enhancing the effectiveness of existing cooperation mechanisms, while also establishing new ones. This includes the improvement of information sharing and experience exchange in areas such as Party and political system building, socio-economic development, and national defence, security, and foreign affairs.
Looking ahead, the two nations should focus on intensifying cooperation and jointly advancing the implementation of high-level agreements, th
e outcomes of the 47th meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee, and the results from mutual high-level visits and cooperation agreements between various ministries, agencies, and localities.
The ambassador also called for preparations for significant future events, such as the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day, the 50th anniversary of Laos’ National Day, the 135th birthday of President Ho Chi Minh, and the 105th birthday of President Kaysone Phomvihane.
In terms of security, Tam suggested fortifying defence cooperation, which serves as a cornerstone for both nations in tackling increasingly complex non-traditional security challenges. He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure peace and stability, particularly through the establishment of a shared border characterized by peace, friendship, stability, cooperation, and development.
Economically, Tam advocated for enhanced connectivity and cooperation, suggesting that Vietnam and Laos strengthen their linkages in in
stitutional, infrastructure, financial, clean and renewable energy, telecommunications, tourism, and high-tech agriculture sectors. He encouraged Vietnamese enterprises to invest in areas where Laos holds advantages and potential, particularly in clean energy, digital transformation, and sustainable agriculture.
Despite bilateral trade exceeding 2 billion USD in 2024, the ambassador expressed belief in the potential to reach 5-10 billion USD in the coming years, given the strong relationship and leadership commitment between the two countries.
In education and training, Tam underscored the need to view this area as a strategic priority, advocating for increased student exchanges and improved training quality. He proposed the development of joint programmes in public administration, economics, science, and technology to help Laos cultivate a high-quality workforce.
Tam also proposed advancing cooperation in science, technology, and digital transformation, highlighting Vietnam’s active support for Laos in di
gital transformation, e-government development, and digital economy building. Strengthening joint scientific research, particularly in high-tech agriculture and the application of artificial intelligence and automation in production, was also recommended.
Lastly, the ambassador called for greater cooperation between localities, especially those sharing borders, to better connect economic zones and border areas. This, he noted, would enhance the role of businesses and promote people-to-people exchanges, crucial for strengthening bilateral ties.
The ambassador expressed confidence that with the determination of both Parties, States, and peoples, and the strategic directions established for future cooperation, the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos will continue to grow stronger and more sustainably.