KPL
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam co-chaired the 48th annual meeting of the Laos–Vietnam Intergovernmental Committee for 2026.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed progress in implementing high-level agreements, the 2025 annual cooperation plan, and the 2021–2025 Cooperation Strategy between the two governments. The delegations also discussed priorities for the 2026 cooperation plan and the 2026–2030 Cooperation Strategy.
The two prime ministers commended the notable achievements under the 2025 cooperation plan. In the political, foreign affairs, national defense, and security sectors, Laos and Vietnam continued to maintain stability and strengthen mutual trust. Bilateral trade in 2026 is expected to reach USD 3 billion, a 1.5-fold increase compared to 2024 and a step toward meeting targets set by both governments.
Vietnamese investment in Laos has also expanded, particularly in the energy sector, with major projects such as the Xiengkhouang and Savannakhet 1 wind power developments receiving strong support and progressing well. As a result, the total registered investment capital of Vietnamese enterprises in Laos reached USD 6.21 billion in 2025, placing Vietnam first among the 85 countries in which it invests abroad.
Vietnam continues to support Laos in human resource development by providing scholarships and training opportunities for Lao officials and students. More than 10,000 Lao students are currently studying at Vietnamese educational institutions.
The outcomes of the meeting were described as an important contribution to further strengthening the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Laos and Vietnam, helping ensure continued and sustainable growth in bilateral relations.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the prime ministers witnessed the signing of several key documents, including the minutes of the 48th meeting, the 2026 annual cooperation plan, the 2026–2030 five-year cooperation agreement, and other bilateral cooperation documents.
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