Vietnam, Laos PMs discuss ways to boost bilateral relations

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and his Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith on August 14 discussed strategies to boost bilateral relations in the 2021–2025 period, with vision to 2030.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (r) and his Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith (l). Photo: VGP.

The meeting in Hanoi took place during Mr. Sisoulith’s visit to Vietnam to attend the national funeral for former Party General Secretary Le Kha Phieu.

Mr. Sisoulith extended his condolences to the Vietnamese government and the people for the passing of Mr. Phieu, who had made significant contribution to the unique friendship and comprehensive partnership between the two countries.

Mr. Phieu is a great friend of Laos and therefore, his death is a great loss for two countries, Mr. Sisoulith said, adding Laos is committed to nurturing the special relations between Vietnam and Laos.

The Lao PM highly regarded Vietnam’s achievements in socio-economic development and expressed his thanks for the country's support for Lao’s efforts against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Vietnam’s PM Phuc said Mr. Sisoulith’s visit to Vietnam showcased the strong solidarity of Vietnam and Laos.

Mr. Phuc said Vietnam is in a decisive period to push back the Covid-19 pandemic and at the same time to ensure economic development and social security.

At the meeting, the two leaders also agreed on measures to boost major jointly executed projects, including the Lao parliament building, friendship hospitals in Lao provinces of Huaphanh and Xiengkhuang, as well as Vung Ang ports No.1, 2, 3 in Vietnam.

Vietnam and Laos would continue to cooperate in pandemic response, especially in border areas, while rolling out plan to reopen borders and flights between the two countries once the pandemic is put under control.

The two prime ministers agreed the move would help boost cooperation in trade, investment and economy between Laos and Vietnam.