Vietnam, Laos may resume customs clearance for goods at border gates

Deputy Foreign Minister and Chairman of the National Boundary Commission Le Hoai Trung led the Vietnamese delegation during the meeting, while the Laotian side was led by Foreign Minister and Deputy Head of the Lao National Border Committee, Saleumxay Kommasith.

Delegates participating in the function reviewed the implementation of the agreement relating to management regulations of land borders and border gates, as well as the minutes taken during the 29th meeting.

Participants discussed future orientations, with a specific focus on measures aimed at further promoting socio-economic development in each country whilst ensuring security and defence is maintained in shared border areas.

Furthermore, they also proposed a range of measures aimed at dealing with challenges posed by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic for border management and protection.

The two sides expressed the view that the close work on border management by the authorities of both countries has served to contribute to the success of preventing the spread of COVID-19, whilst also encouraging co-operation and exchanges in border areas.

They therefore agreed to continue working together in an effort to carry out agreements on border management that were originally signed in 2016, along with other relevant agreements.

Efforts made by the two sides have also contributed to fostering friendship, special solidarity, and general co-operation between the two nations.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the minutes of the meeting were signed, with both sides agreeing to hold the 31st meeting in Vietnam during the fourth quarter of next year.