Representatives from both countries cut the ribbon to inaugurate the project to restore and renovate the Hồ Chí Minh historical site in Savannakhet province. — VNA/VNS Photo Xuân Tú

VIENTIANE — A ceremony was held on Thursday in Savannakhet Province, central Laos, to inaugurate and hand over the restoration and renovation project of the President Hồ Chí Minh Historical Site in Savannakhet.

The event was jointly organised by the Hồ Chí Minh City People’s Committee and the Savannakhet provincial administration.

Speaking at the ceremony, Nguyễn Lộc Hà, Standing Vice Chairman of the HCM City People’s Committee said that building on cooperation activities between HCM City and Savannakhet, the restoration project holds special political, cultural and social significance, serving as a symbol of the special solidarity and friendship between the two localities.

The project is a key initiative under the 2022–25 cooperation memorandum between the two sides and was presented by HCMCity as a commemorative gift marking the Việt Nam–Laos Friendship and Solidarity Year 2022.

On behalf of HCM City’s leadership, Hà expressed appreciation to authorities and residents of Savannakhet for their strong support and favourable conditions that enabled the project to be completed on schedule and in line with quality standards.

Thongsay Xayavongkhamdi, Vice Chairman of the Savannakhet provincial administration, emphasised that the project carries profound significance, strengthening the great friendship and special solidarity between Việt Nam and Laos, as well as ties between Savannakhet province and HCM City.

To honour President Hồ Chí Minh, whose contributions to revolutionary cause and heartfelt support for the Lao Party, State and people remain deeply respected, the Lao Government and people established the historical site in Savannakhet, officially inaugurating it in 2013.

After more than a decade of operation, several facilities had deteriorated and required renovation. Following agreement between both sides, the HCM City People’s Committee approved the restoration project on August 29, 2023, with a total budget of 66 billion VNĐ (US$2.5 million) funded by the city.

The project further reinforces the faithful and enduring special relationship between the Vietnamese and Lao peoples. The historical site not only preserves important memories of President Hồ Chí Minh but also serves as a “red address” for revolutionary tradition education and a lasting symbol of the great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation and strategic bond between Việt Nam and Laos. — VNS