• Vietnam, Laos seek stronger comprehensive cooperation

In his opening speech, NA Chairman Hung extended best wishes to all Lao Party, State and NA leaders, saying that it is his great honour to speak before the Lao NA.

Mr Hung highlighted the faithful relationship between Laos and Vietnam nurtured by late President Ho Chi Minh and former Lao Presidents Suphanuvong and Kaysone Phomvihan as a decisive factor behind every success of both countries and an invaluable asset to be left over for the next generations.

The ties of traditional friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two nations have been strengthened and developed in various fields over the years.

Improved relations in politics, national defence and security, external affairs, education and training, economics and trade have created a firm foundation for long--term cooperation between the two countries.

The close relationship between the two NAs has contributed to the successful organization of important international conferences and parliamentary forums such as ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF), ASEAN People’s Forum (APF), Mr Hung said.

He said the time-tested Vietnam-Laos relationship will be everlasting.