On the morning of December 3 in Vientiane, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Lao counterpart Sonexay Siphandone co-chaired the 48th meeting of the Vietnam–Laos Intergovernmental Committee on Bilateral Cooperation.

The session aimed to review progress in implementing cooperation plans under the 2021–2025 agreement, assess outcomes in 2025, and establish key directions for the next phase: 2026–2030.

Despite global challenges, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh highlighted that both sides have seriously and effectively implemented high-level agreements, achieving significant and wide-ranging successes.

Pillars of cooperation: Politics, defense, trade, education

The Prime Minister noted that political ties remain at the highest level, while defense and security cooperation continues to serve as the backbone. Economic and trade relations have shown remarkable growth, and breakthroughs have been made in financial cooperation and energy development.

Progress has also been recorded in aid effectiveness, expert exchanges, and cultural–educational programs. Notably, obstacles in several joint projects have been addressed.

The two prime ministers affirmed that strategic trust and close ties form the core orientation for bilateral relations. They agreed on a new approach, with fresh determination, energy, and momentum to build an exemplary international partnership.

They pledged to immediately deepen the essence of Vietnam–Laos relations, guided by the spirit of “great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic linkage,” where:

Political ties are vital
Defense–security and economic cooperation are key pillars
Science, technology, and education–training are breakthrough areas
Business and people-to-people ties form the foundation
Local cooperation serves as a catalyst for progress

Expanding Vietnamese investment and connectivity in Laos

PM Sonexay Siphandone emphasized Laos’ commitment to supporting large-scale Vietnamese investments, particularly in clean agriculture, high-value sectors, and technological innovation.

He welcomed plans to expand transportation and energy infrastructure, including the Vientiane–Hanoi expressway, and pledged continued assistance for the potash salt mining project and other key ventures.

Laos also aims to boost vocational education, border-area schools, and has fully endorsed the plan to build the Lao–Vietnam University.

Strategic breakthroughs in economy, energy, education

Both leaders agreed to elevate strategic trust to new heights and deepen defense and security ties. They committed to driving transformational change in trade, investment, and infrastructure  -  particularly by enhancing economic and logistical connectivity, while ensuring national energy and economic security.

They also vowed to intensify political and diplomatic relations, ensuring high-level effectiveness and coordination. Border areas will be developed into zones of peace, stability, and comprehensive cooperation.

Vietnam commits scholarships, Laos pledges reform and incentives

Both sides agreed to organize regular business dialogues, monitor key investment projects, and explore initiatives like a Vietnam–Laos Exhibition Center and further educational infrastructure.

Laos will offer incentives and favorable conditions for major Vietnamese investment projects, including adjusting timelines for hydropower and mining ventures to align with current needs.

The two nations aim to boost bilateral trade by 10–15% in 2026, targeting $5 billion in trade volume, with a long-term goal of reaching $10 billion annually.

Vietnam will provide 1,300 scholarships for Lao students and officials, while continuing to send teachers to teach Vietnamese in Laos.

Tran Thuong