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The Vientiane Administration Authority and the Vietnamese Expert Team based in Laos met in Vientiane on October 22 to exchange experiences and review the capital’s socio-economic development and cooperation with Vietnamese partner cities.
(KPL) The meeting was attended by Phokham Xayasone, Vice President of the Vientiane Administration Authority, and Cao Viet Sinh, former Vice Minister of Planning and Investment, now under the Ministry of Finance, along with officials from both sides.
Phokham reported that Vientiane’s economy continued to expand, social conditions remained generally stable, and residents’ livelihoods had gradually improved. Business, trade, services and tourism activities also showed positive momentum, supported by efforts to address economic and financial challenges.
During the first nine months of 2026, Vientiane’s economy grew by 6.2%, compared with the annual target of 8%. Gross domestic product (GDP) reached 94.72 trillion kip against the annual target of 100.43 trillion kip, while GDP per capita stood at 78.85 million kip, compared with the target of 94.10 million kip.
Industry and trade accounted for 48% of GDP, growing by 7%, while the services sector represented 38.8% of GDP and expanded by 6%. Agriculture grew by 4%, accounting for 13.2% of GDP. Revenue collection also exceeded targets.
On cooperation with Vietnamese partner cities, the meeting highlighted continued political exchanges and cooperation through visits by leaders and technical delegations. The two sides are also preparing to mark the Vietnam–Laos Solidarity and Friendship Year in 2027.
Education and human resource development remain important areas of cooperation. Vietnam provides Vientiane with 75 scholarships annually, as well as training in Party building and state management for groups of 30 officials.
The meeting also reviewed development assistance from Vietnamese cities. Hanoi provided US$5 million in grant assistance for the construction of a modern one-stop service centre in Vientiane. Ho Chi Minh City is expected to provide financial support for three projects: a beef cattle breeding centre, a social welfare centre, and an office building for Nonvai Village in Saysettha District.
Cooperation also continues among local administrative bodies, the People’s Council, Party organisations, mass organisations, political institutes and district authorities in Vientiane and their Vietnamese counterparts, strengthening friendship and collaboration across various sectors.
Both sides exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining close ties and expanding practical cooperation between Vientiane and Vietnamese partner cities.
KPL
