Vietnam, Laos enhance economic cooperation
VOV.VN - Vietnam and Laos will enhance economic cooperation and connectivity to support post-pandemic recovery and international integration in each country, said Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Lao counterpart Sonexay Siphandone during their meeting in Vientiane on April 5.
The PMs said the two countries will strive to implement the Vietnam-Laos strategic cooperation agreement for the 2021-2030 period, the Vietnam-Laos bilateral cooperation agreement for 2021-2023 and other signed cooperation agreements and plans in various fields.
The two sides will continue to strengthen the exchange of delegations, especially high-level delegations, to increase political trust, and at the same time coordinate closely in ensuring security, social order and safety along their common border.
They vowed to remove obstacles and promote the implementation of key cooperation projects such as Vung Ang 1, 2, and 3 ports, Nongkhang airport, as well as road and rail construction projects along the East - West corridor.
Both host and guest shared the view that the two countries have brought into full play bilateral cooperation mechanisms, including the 45th meeting of the Vietnam - Laos Intergovernmental Committee held early this year. They successfully organized hundreds of activities in celebration of the Year of Friendship and Solidarity between Vietnam – Laos last year.
Notably, trade cooperation is considered a bright spot in bilateral relations, with two-way trade turnover last year reaching more than US$1.7 billion, representing a 24% increase compared to 2021 and exceeding the set 10-15% growth target.
Exchanging views on regional and international issues of mutual concern, the two sides agreed to continue to coordinate closely, enhance information exchange and support each other at regional and international multilateral forums, especially at the United Nations, ASEAN and sub-regional cooperation mechanisms.
They vowed to, together with other ASEAN countries, maintain the unity and central role of ASEAN, as well as the bloc’s common stance on strategic issues, including the East Sea issue.
Vietnam is ready to support Laos to successfully organize international events in the coming time, including ASEAN summits and ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) meeting in 2024, said PM Chinh.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the fourth Mekong River Commission Summit in Vientiane on April 5.