The visit was made at the invitation of Communist Party General Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trọng and State President Trần Đại Quang. This is the first overseas trip by Bounnhang Volachith since becoming General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and President of Laos for the 2016-2020 period. General Secretary Trọng and General Secretary Volachit discussed a range of issues.
General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong highly valued the visit, especially following the success of the two countries’ party congresses. Trong stated that the visit underlined how much Lao prioritised the relationship between the two countries. He also believed that the visit would be successful and contribute to enhancing ties.
Lao General Secretary and President Volachith also appreciated the warm welcome. He believed that Vietnam would continue to record new achievements, successfully implement the resolution of the 12th National Party Congress and enhance Vietnam’s position in the world economy.
General Secretary Trong stressed that Vietnam would strongly support Laos in its development. The two leaders also agreed that in coming time, the two nations would face many challenges and obstacles. The two sides agreed to enhance exchange activities, especially between the youth of both countries.
Laos and Vietnam will also co-operate in dealing with regional and international issues; contribute to building the ASEAN Community; co-ordinate with other countries and organisations in management and effective use Mekong River water resource; and effectively implement co-operation projects in the Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam triangle. Vietnam will also actively support Laos in its chairmanship of ASEAN this year.
The two sides also expressed concern over East Sea tensions, emphasised the need to maintain peace, stability, security and safety in the East Sea, and agreed that disputes should be resolved peacefully based on international laws. General Secretary Volachith invited General Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trọng to visit Laos. General Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trong happily received the invitation.
