VIENTIANE: The governments of Laos and Vietnam reinforced their “one-of-a-kind” special relationship on Thursday (April 9), when Standing Member of the Secretariat of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), Tran Cam Tu, held high-level meetings with top Lao leaders during his official visit to the Lao PDR.
The visit was made at the invitation of Politburo member and Standing Member of the Secretariat of the Central Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP), General Vilay Lakhamfong.
Tran Cam Tu and his delegation arrived at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane on Thursday morning, where they were welcomed by the Head of the Party Central Committee Office, Dr Phet Phomphiphak, along with senior officials from Party and State bodies, Vientiane authorities, and representatives of the Vietnamese diplomatic mission and community in Laos.
The delegation laid a wreath at the Unknown Soldier Monument and was received by the Secretary of the Vientiane Party Committee and President of the Vientiane People’s Council, Dr Athsaphangthong Siphandone.
An official welcome ceremony followed at the Party Central Committee Office, attended by senior representatives from Party organisations, the Lao Front for National Development, the National Assembly, government ministries, and provincial authorities.
During talks, General Vilay Lakhamfong described the visit—Tran Cam Tu’s first overseas mission in his new role—as a vivid reflection of the enduring solidarity between the two Parties, States, and peoples.
He noted that it followed the successful conclusion of the 12th LPRP National Congress and the 14th CPV National Congress, as well as the formation of new leadership structures in both countries.
He proposed strengthening cooperation through sustained high-level exchanges, effective implementation of bilateral agreements, enhanced coordination between Party and State institutions, expanded exchanges on Party-building and governance, and closer engagement among ministries, mass organisations, and local authorities.
He also highlighted the importance of promoting economic integration and infrastructure connectivity.
Tran Cam Tu expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent policy of prioritising relations with Laos. He emphasised Vietnam’s readiness to work closely with Laos to deepen the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive strategic partnership.
The two sides shared views on their respective national situations and highlighted achievements in maintaining political stability, socio-economic progress, improved living standards, and strengthened national defence and security.
They agreed that bilateral cooperation continues to expand in a substantive and effective manner, with political trust further consolidated and cooperation in defence, security, foreign affairs, trade, investment, education, and technology delivering tangible benefits.
The two sides also expressed deep gratitude for the valuable support extended to each other during their struggles for national liberation and ongoing development efforts.
On the same day, cooperation documents were signed, concerning entry-exit management, documentation, and library cooperation for 2026-2030, as well as a Memorandum of Understanding between Luang Namtha province in Laos and Dien Bien province in Vietnam.
Later in the day, Politburo member and Lao Prime Minister, Dr Sonexay Siphandone, received Tran Cam Tu and his delegation.
Dr Sonexay described the visit as a strong reflection of deep-rooted solidarity and mutual trust, noting its significance as Tran Cam Tu’s first foreign engagement in his new role, taking place ahead of the Lao New Year.
He congratulated Le Minh Hung on his appointment and expressed appreciation for Vietnam’s continued support to Laos.
Both sides reviewed key achievements, including the successful organisation of the LPRP and CPV National Congresses and the inaugural sessions of their respective National Assemblies, which established new State leaderships.
They expressed satisfaction with the growing depth of cooperation, noting that political, defence, and security ties remain key pillars supported by regular exchanges at all levels.
Progress in major joint projects was highlighted, including the Vung Ang seaport, the Laos–Vietnam Friendship Park, and the Huaphan Friendship Hospital.
The two sides agreed to accelerate key connectivity schemes, including the Vientiane-Thakhaek-Vung Ang railway, the Vientiane-Hanoi expressway, and the 500kV cross-border power transmission line.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination in regional and international frameworks and to preparing for Laos-Vietnam Friendship and Solidarity Year in 2027, marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
In response, Tran Cam Tu reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to effectively implementing bilateral agreements and extended New Year wishes to the Lao leadership and people.
Also on the same day, Secretary General of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and President of Laos, Thongloun Sisoulith, welcomed Tran Cam Tu and his delegation.
They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the comprehensive Laos-Vietnam strategic partnership and maintaining close coordination ahead of commemorative activities in 2027. - Vientiane Times/ANN
