Vietnam celebrates Laos’ National Day and 105th birth anniversary of President Kaysone

THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi’s streets and halls on November 27 resonated with the warmth of friendship as the city welcomed Laos to celebrate its 50th National Day and the 105th birthday of President Kaysone Phomvihane. The vibrant yet solemn ceremony reflected decades of shared history, deep solidarity and a partnership that continues to shape both nations.

The event brought together senior Vietnamese leaders and the Lao delegation in a setting that emphasized the emotional and historical weight of the relationship. Vietnam’s commitment to Laos was visible through the consistent presence of the country’s highest-ranking leaders at every major event marking Lao milestones.

A state-level reception took place on November 26, followed by the ceremony in Hanoi, where President Luong Cuong attended and delivered the keynote address.

The president’s presence underscored that Vietnam’s ties with Laos are not ceremonial obligations but a sustained pillar of the country’s foreign policy.

The Lao delegation, led by Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh and joined by members of President Kaysone’s family, diplomats and students, served as a powerful symbol of the generations connected to Vietnam.

Their attendance added emotional resonance to the anniversary, reminding participants of the shared history embedded in both nations’ political and social foundations.

In his remarks, President Luong Cuong reviewed major milestones in Laos’ modern development and praised the country’s achievements over five decades.

He described the establishment of the Lao Issara Government as a “historic breakthrough” that opened a new era of independence for Laos. [Lao Issara Government was a 1945 revolutionary government in Laos, established to secure independence from French colonial rule. “Issara” means freedom in Lao.]

President Luong Cuong said that, under revolutionary leadership, Laos has maintained political stability, strengthened national defense and security, expanded diplomatic outreach and improved living standards for its people.

He stressed that Vietnam views these achievements as shared victories rooted in a common struggle.

“Vietnam’s support for Laos will remain comprehensive and steady, covering economic cooperation, connectivity, education, infrastructure and human resource development,” said President Luong Cuong.

The historical depth of the Vietnam-Laos relationship was evident throughout the ceremony.

Speakers recalled the leadership of President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane and President Souphanouvong, whose contributions shaped an alliance often described as “unique in world history.”

Generations of Vietnamese and Lao revolutionaries fought side by side, forming bonds built on sacrifice, resilience and trust. This shared legacy continues to define the partnership today.

Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh, speaking for the Lao delegation, expressed deep appreciation for Vietnam’s long-standing support.

She said many of Laos’ national achievements were made possible thanks to the solidarity and assistance of Vietnamese comrades across different periods of struggle and development.

The ambassador described the relationship as one characterized by sincerity and deep affection, guiding both nations through contemporary challenges.

At the ceremony, cultural performances by Vietnamese and Lao artists created a warm and intimate atmosphere that reflects the closeness between the two countries.

A notable moment came from Vietnam’s younger generation. Ha Gia Linh, a representative from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, delivered remarks linking historical bonds with modern responsibilities.

She offered warm wishes to the Lao people, saying that her generation “takes pride in inheriting a friendship nurtured through decades of dedication and sacrifice.”

Linh recalled that Laos was where many Vietnamese once stood shoulder to shoulder in the trenches, contributing and sacrificing for the independence of both nations.

“For us today, this history is not distant,” she said. “It reminds us of our responsibility to preserve a bond built on faithfulness, purity and shared ideals.”

Hanoi–Vientiane cooperation stands out

Beyond national-level cooperation, the partnership between Hanoi and Vientiane has become one of the most active sub-national links between the two countries.

Under the 2022–2025 cooperation framework, the two capitals have carried out concrete initiatives, including Hanoi’s financial support of about US$3 million for the construction of the Vientiane Department of Justice and the Office of the Prosecutor.

Hanoi has also sent delegations to share expertise in urban planning, e-government development and administrative reform, while encouraging its enterprises to explore opportunities in Laos, especially in agriculture, agro-processing and technology transfer.

Collaboration also includes training and capacity building. Hanoi has supported Vientiane through teacher-training and vocational programs in technical fields.

Vietnamese government agencies have shared experience on developing data systems and digitalizing public administration, which Vientiane is prioritizing to improve governance.

Trade and community engagement form another core area of cooperation. The two capitals have organized trade and tourism promotion events, cultural exchanges and business forums to strengthen economic and social ties.

The relations between Hanoi and Vientiane helped strengthen the Vietnam-Laos cooperation.

Bilateral trade between the two economies rose 57% on-year to US$2.36 billion in January–September 2025. Vietnamese companies invested $322 million in Laos during the same period.

Hanoi Party Chief celebrate Laos’ National Day Hanoi Party Secretary Nguyen Duy Ngoc on November 25 visited and congratulated the Lao Embassy in Vietnam on the 50th National Day of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (December 2, 1975 – December 2, 2025). Secretary Ngoc extended his best wishes to Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh and the Lao Embassy in Vietnam on the occasion of the anniversary. He expressed his pleasure at Laos’ recent socio-economic gains and achievements in Party building under the leadership of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith. The Hanoi Party Chief said that the cooperation between Hanoi and Vientiane has continued to deepen and produce significant results that contribute to the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos. Reflecting on the progress in Hanoi–Vientiane cooperation, he voiced confidence that the partnership will continue to grow strongly in the coming years. Ngoc affirmed that Hanoi will continue to support the Lao Embassy in its activities. For her part, Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh said the National Day of December 2, 1975 was the result of great sacrifices by the Lao people and the valuable support of the Vietnamese people during the revolution and struggle for liberation. She said the 50th anniversary is a proud milestone for the Lao Party and people. The Lao Ambassador expressed appreciation for Hanoi’s support, including its assistance in organizing events marking the 50th anniversary. Agreeing with Secretary Ngoc’s proposals, Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh hoped the cooperation agreements between the two Parties and governments of Hanoi and Vientiane will continue to deliver real benefits to the people of both countries. She stressed that Hanoi and Vientiane will continue supporting each other, strengthening cooperation and cultivating the strong bond between the two capitals.