Laos, Vietnam Armed Forces Vow to Bolster Political, Theoretical Cooperation

Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, a member of the Politburo of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee, welcomed Nguyen Trong Nghia, also a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of Vietnam and Head of the General Political Department of the Vietnam People's Army. He praised the longstanding friendship and close cooperation between the two Parties, the two States, the two armies, and the peoples of Laos and Vietnam. The Prime Minister congratulated Vietnam on the successful conclusion of its 14th National Party Congress and the inaugural session of the 16th National Assembly, extending his congratulations to the country's newly elected senior leaders for the 2026–2031 term. He also commended the expanding cooperation between the Lao and Vietnamese armed forces, particularly in political education and training, exchanges of experience, personnel development, infrastructure cooperation, the search and repatriation of the remains of Vietnamese volunteer soldiers, and the recognition of the Luang–Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos as a national historical heritage site. PM Sonexay called on both armies to continue implementing agreements reached by the leaders of the two countries and armed forces, while further strengthening exchanges of experience and practical cooperation under existing bilateral plans. He also expressed appreciation to the Party, State, Army, and people of Vietnam for their longstanding support to Laos and asked Nguyen Trong Nghia to convey his warm regards to the Prime Minister of Vietnam. Nguyen Trong Nghia thanked the Lao Prime Minister for the warm reception and briefed him on the outcomes of his working meetings with the Lao Ministry of National Defense, including discussions on Party-building, political work, and future areas of military cooperation. He reaffirmed Vietnam's commitment to maintaining close coordination with the Lao People's Army and the Lao government, implementing bilateral agreements and cooperation plans, and further strengthening the special solidarity and comprehensive partnership between Laos and Vietnam. This high-level exchange underscores the deep-rooted ties between Laos and Vietnam, reinforcing a partnership that is crucial for both nations' stability and development. For Laos, which faces economic challenges and navigates complex relations with its larger neighbors, this strengthened alliance with Vietnam is a key pillar of its foreign policy and national security strategy. Information Source: KPL Laos News