Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính leaves for a working trip to Laos on January 9 morning. VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI - Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation left Hà Nội on January 9 morning to visit Laos and co-chair the 47th meeting of the Việt Nam-Laos Inter-Governmental Committee.

The two-day trip is made at an invitation of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.

Chinh is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bùi Thanh Sơn; Minister of Planning and Investment, Chairman of the Việt Nam - Laos Cooperation Committee Nguyễn Chí Dũng; Minister, Head of the Government Office Trần Văn Sơn; Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyễn Hồng Diên; Minister of Education and Training Nguyễn Kim Sơn; and Minister of Health Đào Hồng Lan, among others.

This is the first overseas trip by a key Vietnamese leader in 2025 and the first such visit that Laos will host this year, underscoring the special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

The visit reaffirms the top priority Việt Nam gives to the enhancement of relations with Laos in the new context, deepening the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyễn Minh Tâm stated.

Economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Việt Nam and Laos has shown positive developments. Bilateral trade was estimated to reach US$2 billion in 2024, up approximately 28% compared to 2023. Việt Nam currently has 241 active investment projects in Laos, with a total registered capital of around $5.5 billion, maintaining its position as the third-largest investor in Laos after China and Thailand.

The two sides have closely coordinated in the implementation of Việt Nam's ODA projects for Laos. Collaboration in culture, education, and training continues to be promoted. Both countries are strengthening mutual support at regional and international forums, especially within ASEAN, the United Nations, and cooperation in Mekong sub-regional mechanisms.

PM Chính’s visit is expected to reaffirm Việt Nam's consistent policy of prioritising its great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation with Laos. It aims to further strengthen the trust and bond between the two countries' high-ranking leaders; enhance the fine cooperation between the two governments; and implement the foreign relations tasks outlined at the 13th National Party Congress. VNS