Vietnam, Laos rely on mutual support for national development
(VOV) - This statement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavat in a recent interview granted to a Radio Voice of Vietnam (VOV) reporter.
Chummaly Sayasone, State President and General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party’s (LPRP) Central Committee, will pay an official visit to Vietnam from December 26–28 as the highlight of the Vietnam-Laos Solidarity and Friendship Year.
Looking back on a significant year for Vietnamese-Lao relations, Deputy PM Lengsavat said it has provided fresh impetus for the two countries’ peoples to deepen mutual understanding and demonstrate their determination to advance forward.
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| Lao Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavat and Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung |
Reporter: Could you elaborate on the significance of major activities held during the year?
Lengsavat: Both nations have celebrated two historical events—the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the 35th anniversary of the signing of the Friendship and Cooperation Treaty.
I was most impressed by the Vietnam-Laos relationship contest that involved more than 3 million people in Vietnam alone.
This was a good opportunity for young generations to learn more about the special relationship between the two nations.
Reporter: The Friendship and Cooperation Treaty signed 35 years ago has led to the establishment of comprehensive relations in the new period. Do you think so?
Lengsavat: The two countries have strengthened bilateral cooperation in various fields ranging from politics, economics, culture, and education to security, defence, and external relations. They need to cooperate more closely to achieve the lofty goal of successfully building socialism.
Reporter: What is the most effective mechanism for both nations to develop cooperation relations?
Lengsavat: There are many mechanisms for cooperation, but I think the inter-government committee initiative headed by me and my Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Xuan Phuc is the most effective.
Reporter: The focus of the 2012 Vietnam-Laos Friendship Year is on anniversary celebrations. What areas of cooperation will both nations concentrate on next year?
Lengsavat: Our cooperation will continue to grown and flourish in both economic and political fields for mututal benefits.
Reporter: Thank you very much.