Hanoi (VNA) – Despite unpredictable global and regional landscapes, the relationship between Vietnam and Laos has continued to grow steadily, underpinned by the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Manh Cuong told the press ahead of the state visit to Laos by Vietnamese President Luong Cuong.

Deputy FM Cuong said that first, frequent mutual visits, meetings, and engagements at all levels, especially high levels, through various mechanisms have strengthened the mutual trust between the two countries' leaders. The countries have reached many strategic agreements, affirming both sides’ commitment to reinforcing their special friendship and fostering practical, effective, and sustainable cooperation.

Second, the official went on, all-faceted partnerships, which span areas such as politics, defence, security, economy, health care, culture, education, and coordination at regional and international forums, have continued to be promoted and seen consistent progress.

Thanks to attention from leaders of both Parties and countries, bilateral agreements and statements have been carried out strongly. Projects like the Lao National Assembly House and the Vung Ang seaport stand as visible markers of the fruitful collaboration. Additionally, key joint projects have been revitalised, generating new momentum for future cooperation, he noted.

Third, regular people-to-people contacts and delegation exchanges at various levels from ministries, sectors to localities have continued to play a crucial role in reinforcing the friendship while reflecting the deep-rooted connection between the two nations, shaped by the shared struggles for independence in the past and the current national construction and defence efforts, said the Deputy FM, attributing the results to the strong determination and joint efforts by the two Parties and countries over the years.

Regarding President Luong Cuong’s forthcoming visit — the first in his capacity as the State leader of Vietnam, the Deputy FM described it as a reaffirmation of Vietnam’s strong regard and high priority for Laos and the determination of both Parties and countries' leaders to further promote the special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation.

President Luong Cuong’s state visit to Laos comes at an important moment when the two Parties and countries are actively implementing the resolutions of their respective Party congresses and pressing ahead with national socio-economic development plans. At the same time, efforts are underway to build on recent high-level engagements, including the meeting between the two Politburos, the trilateral summit of the top leaders from the Vietnamese, Lao, and Cambodian parties, and the session of the Vietnam – Laos Inter-governmental Committee. These developments form a backdrop of the visit, which is expected to give fresh impetus to bilateral cooperation by translating high-level consensus into more practical and effective action.

The visit is also imbued with symbolic significance, taking place in April 2025 — a year of great historical importance for both nations. Vietnam is commemorating the 80th anniversary of its National Day and the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification. Meanwhile, Laos marks the 50th anniversary of its National Day. Against this backdrop, the visit is also seen as an occasion to reflect on the profound and unique friendship that has bound the two nations through decades of struggles and national construction, according to Deputy PM Cuong.

He held that this visit will help to strengthen political trust and reinforce the deep-rooted solidarity between the two nations. It also presents an opportunity to raise the awareness of the public, especially the younger generations, of the Vietnam – Laos special relationship – an “invaluable shared asset” and “one-of-a-kind” on the global stage. This partnership remains an extremely solid foundation for both sides to navigate difficulties and challenges and together safeguard and develop their countries, thereby contributing to peace, friendship, stability, and development in the region and the world.

ꦜ The official expressed his belief that the trip will be a success, marking another proud chapter in the Vietnam – Laos relations — one characterised by enduring loyalty, mutual trust, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation./.