Lao, Vietnamese Theoretical Councils Deepen Cooperation Amidst Regional Connectivity Seminar

Mr. Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune, Member of the Politburo of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee, expressed confidence that the visit would further deepen the two countries' great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic partnership. He welcomed the Vietnamese delegation led by Mr. Tuan Minh Huan, Member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Director of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, and Vice President of the Central Theoretical Council of the Communist Party of Vietnam. The visit takes place as both Parties, governments, and peoples continue implementing the resolutions of their respective Party congresses. It also coincides with Laos' observance of the 64th anniversary of Laos-Vietnam diplomatic relations and the 49th anniversary of the signing of the Laos-Vietnam Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation. Preparations are underway for commemorative activities next year. Mr. Kikeo briefed the Vietnamese delegation on recent achievements of the LPRP, including the successful conclusion of the 12th National Party Congress in early 2026. He noted that cooperation between the two Central Theoretical Councils has continued to expand under their Memorandum of Cooperation, with regular exchanges of theoretical and practical experience providing an important basis for strengthening the policy development of both Parties. Both sides also discussed preparations for the 13th Lao-Vietnam Theoretical Seminar, which Laos will host in Oudomxay Province in the fourth quarter of 2026. The seminar's theme will be "Strengthening Regional and International Connectivity and Deep Integration: Lessons from Laos and Vietnam." Separately, the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with support from the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) Special Fund, hosted a three-day sub-regional seminar from July 29–31. The seminar aimed to strengthen digital economy cooperation and support future economic growth across Mekong-Lancang countries. In other news, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Republic of El Salvador officially established diplomatic relations on July 28 at the United Nations headquarters in New York. The Ambassador of Israel to Laos concluded his diplomatic mission, and the Ministry of National Defense signed an MOU with Lao-Asia Telecom for digital transformation initiatives. The government outlined its agenda for August, prioritizing fiscal management, public security, disaster preparedness, fuel security, infrastructure, and legislative reform, following its July Regular Monthly Meeting to review the country’s socio-economic performance. Source: KPL Laos News