HANOI FOREIGN RELATION ACTIVITIES
Hanoi and Vientiane pledge to foster bilateral relationship, making it a foundation for better Vietnam-Laos relations.
Hanoi and Vientiane have deepened their cooperation, further solidifying the long-standing friendship between Vietnam and Laos, heard a meeting on September 17 between the two sides’ leaderships.
At the meeting, Hanoi People’s Committee Chairman Tran Sy Thanh and Vientiane Party Committee’s Secretary Anouphap Tounalom emphasized the pivotal role of Hanoi and Vientiane, as the capitals of their respective nations, in leading by example when it comes to local-level collaboration.
According to the two officials, both cities have fostered close coordination, exchanging information and expertise, while offering mutual support across multiple sectors.
The aim is to ensure that these joint efforts reflect the significance of the Vietnam-Laos relationship and meet the expectations of their national leaders and citizens, they said.
Thanh and Anouphap praised the comprehensive nature of Hanoi-Vientiane cooperation, noting that the partnership has become deeply rooted within local communities. They also reviewed progress under the 2022-2025 cooperation agreement between the two capitals’ governments and parties.
During this period, both cities have seen marked growth in trade, cultural development, and foreign direct investment (FDI). New professional collaborations have emerged, including discussions on local governance and exchanges in Party oversight. Forums on investment, trade, and tourism have also been organized, with delegations participating in festivals and fairs hosted by each city.
Chairman Thanh lauded the ongoing efforts to nurture this bilateral relationship, citing the nine specialized agencies from both capitals that have signed cooperation agreements.
These pacts have enabled valuable knowledge sharing and mutual support in various professional fields, he said.
Moreover, Hanoi and Vientiane have expanded their collaboration through numerous joint initiatives in economic development, education, culture, and development assistance, Thanh said.
He noted that these efforts are key to advancing both cities and contributing to regional stability. He also extended his best wishes to Vientiane as it prepares to host the ASEAN Capitals Mayors’ Meeting and the ASEAN Mayors’ Forum 2024, which will be instrumental during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship year.
Secretary Anouphap echoed these sentiments, commending the Hanoi delegation’s participation in the ASEAN Capitals Mayors’ Meeting. He acknowledged the progress made under the Hanoi-Vientiane cooperation agreement, highlighting its role in reinforcing the special ties between both capitals and the broader Vietnam-Laos partnership.
Looking ahead, Thanh and Anouphap reaffirmed their commitment to fully executing the 2022-2025 agreement, with a strong focus on developing high-quality human resources.
They also underscored the need for a more open and proactive cooperation framework, extending beyond government agencies to include businesses and citizens.
This approach, they agreed, would ensure that the partnership continues to grow in line with the broader significance of the Vietnam-Laos relationship.
Huy Anh