Luang Prabang Military Command Extends Greetings on Vietnam’s National Day

In northern Laos, the military command of Luang Prabang Province extended greetings on the occasion of Vietnam's 81st National Day. On September 1, Brigadier General Sivilay Phengsantisouk, Standing Member of the Provincial Party Committee and Head of the Luang Prabang Political Military Command, led a delegation to present a flower basket and extend congratulations to the Consulate General of Vietnam in Northern Laos and the Office of the Dien Bien Trade Center in Northern Laos on Vietnam’s National Day, celebrated on September 2. The delegation was warmly received by Vu Ngoc Ly, Consul General of Vietnam in Northern Laos, and Pham Tuan Minh, Head of the Office of the Dien Bien Trade Center, along with their respective delegations. Brigadier General Sivilay conveyed best wishes for good health and success, and expressed his hope that the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Laos and Vietnam, particularly between the military and local authorities of both countries, would continue to deepen. The Vietnamese representatives expressed appreciation for the visit and extended best wishes to the leadership, officers, and soldiers of the Luang Prabang Provincial Military Command, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the enduring special relationship between the two countries. This event highlights Laos' commitment to confirming and strengthening its traditionally important relationship with Vietnam at both military and local levels. Under its one-party system, Laos bases its foreign policy and security on close ties with Vietnam and China. In particular, economic reliance on Chinese investment and infrastructure development is high, making the relationship with Vietnam also crucial for maintaining economic and geopolitical stability. Concurrently, Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith participated in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Plus Meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, as an official SCO Dialogue Partner for the first time, indicating Laos' efforts to diversify its diplomatic engagements. However, the reality remains that the relationships with its two major neighbors, China and Vietnam, significantly influence Laos' national interests. Information Source: KPL Laos News