The relationship between Vietnam and Laos is a great and enduring friendship, one that has been fostered, built upon, and developed by successive generations of leaders and the people of both nations. It is a precious asset for both Vietnam and Laos. In the context of an increasingly complex international environment, marked by diverse and interconnected interests, the Vietnam-Laos relationship remains highly valued, sustained, and developed firmly into the future. The nations share a common ideological foundation, unified goals, and aligned interests, ensuring the continuity and strength of their bond.

A Shared Ideological Foundation

Their joint struggles against French colonialism and later U.S. imperialism solidified the historical alliance between Vietnam and Laos. This shared resistance laid the foundation for their close relationship. Following their victory in these struggles, both countries entered a new era, aiming to heal the scars of war, rebuild their nations, and pursue paths of development. Since 1986, Vietnam and Laos have continued to build upon their strong ideological ties, both nations committed to socialist ideals and national development. Both countries have embarked on similar paths, guided by Marxist-Leninist ideologies and led by their respective Communist parties, which trace their roots to the Indochinese Communist Party. The historical alignment of their political ideologies and goals has continued to shape their enduring partnership.

Despite changes in the internal situation of each country or the international context, the bond between Vietnam and Laos has been unshakable. The leaders of both nations, recognizing the importance of their unique relationship, have made efforts to uphold and strengthen it. This relationship remains deeply rooted in shared ideals and missions, focusing on mutual development and national defense. The two countries' frequent collaboration on a wide range of issues, from national defense to economic cooperation, exemplifies their special relationship, always prioritizing each other's wellbeing.

Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone welcomes Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính on an official visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic, January 2023. Photo: VGP.

Historical Foundations of the Alliance

The shared history of Vietnam and Laos is characterized by a common goal of achieving independence from colonial and imperialist forces and advancing socialism. This united vision has served as the basis for their close cooperation, particularly in the face of external threats and challenges. Generations of leaders have continuously nurtured the relationship, understanding the importance of maintaining solidarity between the two nations. President Ho Chi Minh was a key figure in this alliance, emphasizing that helping the Laotian people was, in essence, helping the Vietnamese people themselves. This idea underscored the depth of the relationship, which was viewed as mutually beneficial and essential for the survival of both countries.

On October 30, 1945, shortly after Vietnam declared its independence, Ho Chi Minh and Prince Souphanouvong agreed to form the Laos-Vietnam Allied Forces to resist French colonial forces. Prince Souphanouvong became the commander-in-chief of these forces, which aimed to build up resistance against colonial oppression. In early 1946, when Vietnam was still grappling with its own post-colonial struggles, Ho Chi Minh sent advisors to assist Laos in its revolution. Notably, Lê Thiệu Huy was appointed as a close aide to Prince Souphanouvong, helping to build and organize resistance efforts. This early collaboration laid the groundwork for the long-standing solidarity between the two nations.

His leadership within the Vietnamese Communist Party also reflected President Ho Chi Minh's commitment to supporting Laos. In 1952, during the third meeting of the Vietnamese Workers' Party Central Committee, Ho Chi Minh emphasized the importance of Vietnam's support for the revolutionary efforts in Laos and Cambodia, characterizing the relationship between the three countries as a delicate one. He believed that the complete liberation of Laos and Cambodia was critical for Vietnam’s own revolutionary success, thus making the support of these countries an international duty for Vietnam.

The deep friendship between the two nations continued to develop as both countries faced external and internal challenges. In 1963, during a formal banquet with King Savang Vatthana of Laos, President Ho Chi Minh reaffirmed the solidarity between the two nations, emphasizing that the Vietnamese and Laotian people had always supported each other in times of difficulty. This close bond, he said, would continue as both countries worked towards building new lives for their people. The special relationship between Vietnam and Laos, he noted, was one that would never fade.

From the Laotian side, both President Souphanouvong and General Secretary Kaysone Phomvihane held a deep respect for President Ho Chi Minh and the Vietnamese people. President Souphanouvong expressed his gratitude for Vietnam’s support during Laos’ revolutionary struggles. In a 1971 visit to Vietnam, he declared that the Vietnam-Laos friendship was "greater than mountains, longer than rivers, and more fragrant than the sweetest flower," a testament to the strength of their alliance. General Secretary Kaysone Phomvihane, speaking at the 4th Congress of the Vietnamese Communist Party in 1976, highlighted the special nature of the relationship, describing it as an unprecedented bond of international solidarity that had endured for over 30 years. He emphasized that this relationship was based on mutual trust and loyalty and that the Laotian leadership remained committed to strengthening it.

President Ho Chi Minh (R) receives head of the LPRP delegation Kaysone Phomvihane in 1966 (File photo: VNA)

Shared National Goals and Development Objectives

Since 1986, both Vietnam and Laos have embarked on a period of economic reform known as "Đổi mới," with the shared goal of industrializing and modernizing their countries. These reforms have involved transitioning from centrally planned economies to socialist-oriented market economies, aimed at fostering economic growth and improving living standards. Both nations are committed to building socialist states governed by the rule of law, where the government serves the people and is accountable to them. This alignment in their development strategies has been a key factor in their continued cooperation.

The political systems of Vietnam and Laos are highly similar, with both countries led by a single Communist party that plays a central role in shaping national policies. This shared political structure has facilitated close cooperation between the two countries in a range of areas, including economic development, national defense, and diplomacy. The alliance between Vietnam and Laos is based on a high degree of agreement in terms of political ideology and strategic objectives. This alignment has enabled the two countries to coordinate effectively in addressing common challenges and pursuing their respective development goals.

A key element of the Vietnam-Laos relationship has been their commitment to mutual support and cooperation in times of need. Both countries have provided each other with vital assistance, particularly in areas such as leadership training, national defense, and economic development. Many of Laos' senior political leaders have received training in Vietnam, and the two countries continue to exchange knowledge and expertise in key areas of governance and development. This collaboration has been instrumental in helping both nations navigate the challenges of economic reform and modernization.

In recent years, Vietnam and Laos have deepened their cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and infrastructure development. Laos, being a landlocked country, relies heavily on Vietnam's seaports for access to global markets. The development of key transportation routes, such as the East-West Economic Corridor, has further enhanced the economic ties between the two countries, enabling greater trade and investment flows. Vietnam has played a crucial role in helping Laos expand its economic connectivity, both within the region and beyond.

Geopolitical and Economic Importance

Laos cannot overstate the geographical and strategic importance of Vietnam. Being a landlocked country, Laos has historically depended on Vietnam for access to the sea and global trade routes. During the 1970s and 1980s, Laos primarily relied on Vietnam’s Da Nang port to facilitate its trade with socialist countries. In the era of economic reform, Laos’ access to the global market has expanded with the development of additional seaports in Vietnam, such as Cua Lo, Vung Ang, and Da Nang. The proximity of these ports to Laos’ capital, Vientiane, makes them a vital conduit for Laotian exports, allowing the country to engage more effectively in global trade.

Although Laos has diversified its trade routes, including through Thailand, Vietnam remains a critical partner due to its strategic position along the East Sea (South China Sea). Their joint efforts to develop key infrastructure projects, like the Vung Ang port, which both countries jointly finance, reflect the close geographical and economic ties between the two nations. These projects provide Laos with a competitive advantage in accessing international markets and underscore the continued importance of Vietnam as a gateway for Laotian trade.

From Vietnam's perspective, Laos' strategic position along Vietnam’s western border holds significant geopolitical importance. By maintaining strong ties with Laos, Vietnam has been able to secure its western frontier and prevent external threats from infiltrating its territory. Throughout the late 20th century, various hostile forces sought to exploit Laos' mountainous terrain as a base for launching attacks on Vietnam. Cooperation between the two countries in national defense has been essential in addressing these security challenges and ensuring the stability of both nations.

Furthermore, Laos' location along the Mekong River, one of Southeast Asia's most important waterways, adds another layer of strategic significance to the Vietnam-Laos relationship. The Mekong River provides critical resources for both countries, supporting agriculture, fisheries, and hydropower. However, the construction of upstream dams has raised concerns about the environmental and economic impact on downstream regions, particularly in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. As a result, Vietnam and Laos have prioritized cooperation on environmental issues and water resource management, recognizing the need for a joint approach to protect their shared natural resources.

Conclusion

Shared history, ideology, and national interests form the foundation of the special relationship between Vietnam and Laos. Over decades, both countries have nurtured this unique bond, which has evolved to meet their changing needs while remaining rooted in mutual respect and solidarity. The Vietnam-Laos relationship is not only a testament to the strength of their historical alliance but also a key factor in their continued success in national development and regional cooperation.

As both nations look to the future, they remain committed to strengthening their partnership in areas such as economic development, national defense, and environmental protection. The great friendship between Vietnam and Laos will continue to be a cornerstone of their shared journey towards prosperity and peace.