Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Gen. Phan Văn Giang (left) had talks with the Lao counterpart Gen. Khamlieng Outhakaysone in Vientiane on October 8. — VNA/VNS Photo

VIENTIANE — Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Gen. Phan Văn Giang held a meeting with his Lao counterpart Gen. Khamlieng Outhakaysone in Vientiane on Thursday.

During the meeting, part of PM Lê Minh Hưng’s official visit to Laos, Giang stressed that the visit marks PM Hưng's first official overseas visit since taking office, demonstrating the highest priority Việt Nam gives to its relations with Laos.

He expressed his belief that bilateral defence ties will continue to develop with greater “strategic cohesion”.

The Vietnamese and Lao officials spoke highly of the results of the 2026 cooperation plan implemented by agencies and units of the two defence ministries, particularly the tasks assigned by the high-ranking leaders of the two countries.

They agreed to step up the implementation of the agreed areas of cooperation. In particular, the two sides will continue coordinating with and supporting each other at regional and international multilateral forums, as well as events hosted by either side, and finalise the 2027 cooperation plan, focusing on training and military medicine.

They will also work together to build plans for activities marking the 65th founding anniversary of Việt Nam–Laos diplomatic relations (September 5, 1962–2027) and the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Việt Nam–Laos Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation (July 18, 1977–2027).

Minister Giang expressed his pleasure at welcoming his host to Việt Nam for an official visit, the annual meeting of the defence ministers of Việt Nam, Cambodia and Laos, and the joint civil defence exercise involving the three countries' militaries in response to super typhoon from October 12 to 15. — VNA/VNS