PM Chinh discusses deepening bilateral relations with top Lao leader

Thongloun Sisoulith expressed his pleasure in welcoming PM Chinh to Laos, emphasizing that the visit marks a significant milestone for the Intergovernmental Committee and reaffirming Laos' commitment to prioritizing its special relationship and comprehensive cooperation with Vietnam.

He also extended warm greetings and congratulations to the Vietnamese leadership and people, including the victory of Vietnam's national football team in the 2024 ASEAN Cup.

During the meeting, the Vietnamese cabinet leader shared the outcomes of his discussions with his Lao counterpart Sonexay Siphandone, and highlighted the progress made during the 47th Intergovernmental Committee meeting, including resolving outstanding issues and setting future directions for cooperation between the two countries.

Both leaders showed their satisfaction with the depth and practicality of bilateral relations, with significant progress in political, security, defence, economic, trade, and investment cooperation. The total bilateral trade volume reached approximately US$2.2 billion, surpassing the target of US$2 billion, with plans to raise the figure to US$5 billion in the future. The two countries also discussed continued collaboration in other areas, including cultural exchanges, people-to-people connections, and locality-to-locality cooperation.

The Lao top leader hailed the efforts of the two governments, particularly in addressing difficulties and obstacles in various projects. He underscored the importance of further enhancing cooperation, particularly in the areas of finance, infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, and tourism in a bid to solidify the economic ties between Laos and Vietnam.

At the end of the meeting, the two leaders exchanged best wishes for the upcoming Lunar New Year 2025, expressing their hope for continued cooperation and prosperity in the future.