Vietnam, Laos Agree to Intensify Search for Fallen Soldiers' Remains in 2026-27 Dry Season

Vietnam and Laos have agreed to strengthen the search, collection, and repatriation of the remains of Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who died in Laos during wartime. This agreement was confirmed at the 31st session of the Joint Committee between the Vietnamese Government's Special Committee and the Lao Government's Special Committee, held in Ho Chi Minh City on July 27. The meeting discussed specific plans for the search and collection of remains during the dry season of 2026-2027. This reflects the strong will of both governments to identify as many remains of soldiers lost in the war as possible and return them to their families. Vietnam consistently emphasizes commemoration of the fallen and consideration for their families, and cooperation with Laos is a concrete manifestation of this policy. Both countries continue their efforts to face the legacy of past wars and foster a spirit of peace and reconciliation. This agreement also has aspects of deepening bilateral relations and contributing to peacebuilding in the region. Previous sessions have seen the repatriation of remains of soldiers who died in various provinces in northern and southern Laos. Building on these achievements, further progress is expected from this meeting. This remains search and collection activity is not merely a past endeavor but holds significant meaning in contemporary Vietnamese society, promoting respect for national history and national unity.