KPL
General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam will pay a state visit to the Lao PDR on February 5–6, marking the first high-level exchange following the 14th National Congress of the CPV and the 12th National Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP).
(KPL) General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam will pay a state visit to the Lao PDR on February 5–6, marking the first high-level exchange following the 14th National Congress of the CPV and the 12th National Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP).
In an interview ahead of the visit, Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane said the visit reflects the deep and special relationship between Laos and Vietnam, describing bilateral ties as a special alliance and strategic partnership without parallel.
He noted that frequent exchanges between senior leaders demonstrate the long-standing solidarity between the two Parties and States, rooted in their shared origin from the Indochinese Communist Party and strengthened through joint struggle for national liberation.
While political and security cooperation remains the foundation of relations, the Minister said both sides are working to further strengthen economic cooperation, noting that trade volume has yet to reach its full potential. He highlighted efforts to raise bilateral trade toward a target of USD 5 billion, expand infrastructure connectivity, and enhance Laos’ access to the sea through Vung Ang Port in Vietnam.
Priority projects include the Hanoi–Vientiane Expressway and the Vientiane–Vung Ang Railway, which are expected to improve logistics, trade, and regional connectivity. These initiatives align with Laos’ development goals as the country targets at least 6 percent GDP growth in 2026, alongside Vietnam’s pursuit of high economic growth.
The visit comes as Laos prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026 amid regional and global uncertainties. Minister Thongsavanh expressed confidence that both countries will continue close coordination to maintain stability and promote development.
He said the visit carries historic and strategic significance, reaffirming the commitment of both sides to translate Party Congress outcomes into concrete cooperation and ensure that regional connectivity brings tangible benefits to their peoples.
KPL
