State President Sang praised the cooperation between Hanoi and Vientiane which has contributed to developing the special friendship and comprehensive collaboration between the two Parties, States and peoples.

Hanoi and Vientiane will play an important role in celebrating the 50^th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries in 2012 - the “Year of Vietnam-Laos Solidarity and Friendship”.

Both sides will promote friendship and cultural exchanges to make the year more practical and successful.

Mr. Mahalath said his capital city will join hands with Hanoi to organise the 50^th anniversary celebration successfully. He thanked the city of Hanoi for helping Vientiane build cultural and educational establishments and vocational training centres, along with training highly skilled workers.