Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (right) holds talks with VAST President Châu Văn Minh in Vientiane. VNA/VNS Photo

VIENTIANE – Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has hailed the collaboration between the Việt Nam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) and the Lao ministries and agencies, especially the Lao Ministry of Technology and Communications.

During a reception in Vientiane on Wednesday for VAST President Châu Văn Minh, Siphandone underscored the Lao Government’s commitment to advancing sci-tech capabilities.

He suggested ongoing cooperation in quality human resources training and sharing sci-tech expertise, with a focus on dispatching VAST experts to Laos to support areas of mutual interest.

Minh briefed the PM on the outcomes of his working session with the Lao Ministry of Technology and Communications. Key achievements included the third bilateral meeting, which concentrated on the two initiatives endorsed by both governments during the 46th meeting of the Việt Nam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee for Bilateral Cooperation. These initiatives encompass the development of a big data centre to facilitate digital transformation and the fourth industrial revolution, as well as the establishment of a disaster and earthquake warning centre in Laos.

He also sought the Lao PM's continued support to bolster cooperation between VAST and Lao research and training units.

Additionally, the VAST delegation and the Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce explored the scientific foundation and development potential of several key areas, including the establishment of a food safety lab in Laos, the development of pharmaceutical products, renewable energy, bio-products, and bio-chemicals in agriculture and healthcare. The discussions also delved into the potential of geological and mineral resources and mining projects. VNS