This marks Party chief To Lam’s first overseas trip in 2026 and also his first international engagement following the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

The visit follows shortly after the state visit to Vietnam by Lao General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith and his spouse, which took place from January 26 to 27.

During official talks and meetings held in an atmosphere of warmth and mutual celebration over the recent successes of the 14th Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the 12th Congress of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, the two leaders shared updates on the political and economic landscape of their respective countries and the key outcomes of their Party Congresses.

They also held in-depth discussions on major policy directions set out in each Party’s resolutions, domestic developments, and the shifting global and regional context. Both sides explored new pathways to further advance their “great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation,” now entering a new strategic phase.

In a joint assessment, the two leaders acknowledged the growing importance of enhanced political trust and close coordination between Vietnam and Laos amid increasingly complex and unpredictable international developments.

They reaffirmed that incorporating the concept of “strategic linkage” into the bilateral framework of great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation by 2025 would mark a major step forward. This strategic addition is expected to serve as a solid political foundation for deepening and sustaining the partnership, bringing about long-term stability, development, and enhanced standing for both nations.

Tran Thuong