The remarkable relationship between the two nations remains robust and thriving, as stated by Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Khamphao Ernthavanh, with President Lương Cường of Vietnam preparing for his inaugural state visit to Laos from April 24-25 at the invitation of President Thongloun Sisoulith and the General Secretary of the Lao Party.

In a unique interview with People's Army Newspaper, Ambassador Khamphao articulated the importance of this connection and the favorable progression of bilateral collaboration before this significant diplomatic engagement.

Unmatched Collaboration in Global Diplomacy
Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh asserts that the Vietnam–Laos–Vietnam cooperation remains a paradigm of international relations. “This is not mere rhetoric,” she asserted, “but a public recognition of a longstanding relationship fortified by shared interests, sacrifice, and mutual commitment.”

This distinctive alliance was founded by Presidents Hồ Chí Minh, Kaysone Phomvihane, and Souphanouvong, rooted in revolutionary resistance and national liberation. It was constructed by the sacrifices of the Pathet Lao and Vietnamese volunteer forces, and it has been sustained and safeguarded by the leaders and citizens of both nations throughout history.

The ambassador emphasized that this cooperation transcends a mere political coalition, possessing a substantial historical and moral legacy. This unique collaboration has become fundamental to the revolutionary trajectory and national development of each country.

Ongoing Expansion In the Face of Global Uncertainty
The relationship between Vietnam and Laos is strengthening and expanding, despite the rising uncertainty of global and regional events. Ambassador Khamphao commended the efforts of both Parties and States to maintain this positive trajectory through robust institutional protocols, regular high-level visits, and close collaboration.

The political trust between the two nations has been preserved and even reinforced by bilateral engagements at all leadership tiers. The national security aims, party-building ideologies, and policies of the two groupings are aligned, and both are dedicated to promoting mutual growth goals and deriving insights from each other's experiences in these domains.

The two nations are collaboratively enhancing their defense, security, and diplomatic resilience; cultivating autonomous economies; and augmenting their global connection.

The Basis of Economic Collaboration
The economic collaboration is a prominent achievement of Vietnam-Laos relations. The partnership's tangible impact and sustainability are evidenced by the significant increase in trade and investment flows.

Significant milestones were assessed and commemorated during the 47th session of the Vietnam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee, held in January 2025. In 2024, bilateral trade volume reached a new record high, over USD 2 billion. Notably, trading had exceeded USD 1 billion throughout the initial quarter of 2025.

The two nations have established an ambitious yet feasible objective of augmenting their bilateral commerce to $5 billion by 2025. The relationship has evolved from mutual assistance in adversity to one of shared benefit and prosperity, and this commitment is indicative of that transformation.

Ambassador Khamphao asserts that the bilateral economic connection is strong and transformative. It fosters national development, encourages peace and security in the region, and offers tangible benefits to both populations.

An Extremely Significant Visit
President Lương Cường's forthcoming state visit signifies a pivotal moment in the bilateral relations between the two nations. The President's inaugural official visit to Laos as president-elect underscores the significance both nations attribute to preserving their "great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation."

The visit occurs at a critical juncture for both nations, as they endeavor to execute the resolutions established during their respective Party Congresses—the 13th Party Congress in Vietnam and the 11th Party Congress in Laos. The recent summits and governmental cooperation treaties between the two nations are being implemented, yielding benefits across several industries.

The visit coincides with the eve of a momentous year: In 2025, both nations will commemorate several notable national anniversaries, including:

·  70th anniversary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (March 22, 1955 – March 22, 2025)

·  95th anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (February 3, 1930 – February 3, 2025)

·  50th National Day of Laos (December 2, 1975 – December 2, 2025)

·  80th National Day of Vietnam (September 2, 1945 – September 2, 2025)

·  105th birth anniversary of President Kaysone Phomvihane (December 13, 1920 – December 13, 2025)

·  135th birth anniversary of President Hồ Chí Minh (May 19, 1890 – May 19, 2025)

·  50 years of Vietnam’s Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025)

During his visit, President Lương Cường is set to confer with senior Lao authorities, engage in comprehensive discussions with Lao Party General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith, and address pertinent internal and regional issues of shared interest. He will additionally confer with other high-ranking Lao officials.

The two parties will evaluate the implementation of prior cooperation agreements and identify prospective new areas for expansion to ensure the continual enhancement of their strategic relationship.

Ambassador Khamphao expressed her steadfast belief in the outcomes of the visit, reiterating her conviction that the relationship between Vietnam and Laos, founded on common values, mutual sacrifices, and shared aspirations, will endure and thrive despite global developments.

The speaker underscored the significance of sustaining and transmitting the relationship of friendship, solidarity, and collaboration among all parties to future generations, deeming it a treasure that requires stewardship and preservation.

In commemorating their common history and strategizing for the future, the two nations engage not merely as neighbors or commercial partners, but as allies and co-architects of wealth and stability.

Their collaboration exemplifies to the global community the potential outcomes when nations set aside their disparities and collaborate in a climate of mutual respect and trust: they can overcome any challenge, thrive, and contribute positively to regional and global stability.