This is the first time the two government leaders have acted as coordinators in ties between the two countries and underlines their determination to further boost the relationship between the two countries.
Last November, as part of Communist Party of Vietnam Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trọng's visit to Laos, the Ministry of Transport and Lao Ministry of Public Works and Transport signed an agreement on the construction of the Hanoi - Vientiane Expressway. Once completed, this route will connect the Lao capital with Vietnam's coastal economic zones and seaports. Following agreements between the two countries, more than 400 Vietnamese projects have been carried out in the last year valued at 3.7 billion USD in Laos. Many of the investments are said to be laying the foundation for further co-operation in the coming 39th intergovernmental meeting.
“The two sides will review the strengths and weaknesses of each other as well as what we have achieved and what we need to improve. This will deepen bilateral co-operation and enhance the effectiveness of joint projects”, said the Lao Minister of Planning & Investment Souphanh Keomixay.
Meanwhile, the Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Planning & Investment Nguyen The Phuong pointed out that this meeting plays a decisive role in determining specific contents of the bilateral partnership in 2017 and is the basis for authorities of all levels and businesses to implement joint statements and agreements.
During the meeting, the two governments will discuss and sign some important agreements, including accelerating the Hanoi - Vientiane Expressway project, enhancing the efficiency of the Vietnam - Lao Vung Ang Port JSC and giving Lao partners more access to Vietnam's Vung Ang Port.
