(KPL) Laos and Vietnam have held their latest round of ministerial-level political consultations, reaffirming close ties and agreeing to deepen cooperation across diplomacy, trade and regional affairs.

The 12th Political Consultation Meeting between the two foreign ministries took place in Hanoi on 18 December 2025, co-chaired by Thongsavanh Phomvihane and Le Hoai Trung. The Lao delegation was visiting Vietnam from 17–20 December at the invitation of the Vietnamese side.

Officials reviewed the implementation of existing cooperation agreements and exchanged views on regional and international developments. They also discussed ways to strengthen the role of both foreign ministries as advisers to their respective parties and governments, and to better coordinate the implementation of high-level agreements between the two countries.

Both sides agreed to further elevate bilateral cooperation in line with current regional and global conditions, particularly in economic connectivity and integration. They reaffirmed the relationship of great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation and strategic partnership between Laos and Vietnam.

The meeting noted steady progress in overall bilateral relations, including close political, defence and security cooperation, supported by frequent exchanges of high-level visits. Trade and investment ties were also highlighted, with bilateral trade in early 2025 reaching nearly three billion US dollars, and Vietnam remaining one of the leading investors in Laos.

The two ministries agreed to intensify coordination under their cooperation framework for 2026–2030 and to work closely in preparing upcoming high-level exchanges in 2026. They also reaffirmed their commitment to implementing outcomes from recent top-level meetings between the two parties and governments.

On the sidelines of the consultations, representatives of the women’s unions from both foreign ministries held exchanges aimed at promoting closer cooperation. Officials said the meetings were held in a constructive atmosphere, reflecting the enduring solidarity and growing partnership between Laos and Vietnam.

KPL