The official visit of Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Chí Dũng to Laos has once again reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of both governments to transform opportunities into concrete realities. More than a diplomatic gesture, the visit represented a powerful signal that Vietnam and Laos are determined to strengthen their already exceptional partnership and bring it to new heights.

At the heart of the visit was a call to action: Vietnamese enterprises were encouraged to study the Lao market more deeply, to understand its unique strengths and challenges, and to put forward tangible projects that could soon materialize into mutually beneficial cooperation.

A Dialogue for Shared Progress

The highlight of the trip was the Vietnam–Laos Government–Business Dialogue, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Chí Dũng and his Lao counterpart, Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith. The dialogue gathered leaders and enterprises from both countries in a spirit of openness, collaboration, and shared vision. Together, they reviewed progress made so far, addressed challenges that continue to hinder business expansion, and sketched out new pathways for boosting bilateral trade and investment.

The atmosphere was one of pragmatism but also optimism. Both governments made it clear that while obstacles remain, the strategic direction is unmistakable: Vietnam and Laos must work hand in hand to unlock new opportunities for growth.

Speaking at the dialogue, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Chí Dũng underscored Vietnam’s remarkable economic trajectory. The country has risen to the 32nd largest economy in the world, ranking among the top 20 globally in trade scale and FDI attraction. With a per capita GDP surpassing 4,700 USD in 2024, Vietnam is edging ever closer to joining the ranks of high-middle-income economies.

Looking forward, Vietnam has set ambitious milestones: at least 8% growth by 2025, followed by double-digit expansion between 2026 and 2030. By 2030, Vietnam aspires to firmly stand among high-middle-income nations, and by 2045, to secure a place among the world’s high-income economies.

Yet, these aspirations will only be realized through comprehensive reforms at home and deeper cooperation abroad. Laos, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Chí Dũng stressed, is not just a neighbor but a strategic partner of the highest priority in Vietnam’s long-term vision.

To illustrate Vietnam’s determination, he pointed to ongoing administrative reforms. Since July 2024, 34 provinces and cities have adopted a streamlined two-tier governance system—a major leap toward building a leaner, more efficient state apparatus capable of serving citizens and investors alike.

The Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister also commended Laos for its reform momentum and the concrete steps it has already taken. In particular, he praised the creation of the Investment Promotion Committee, which has emerged as a vital channel for supporting investors and resolving bottlenecks. This move, he observed, reflects the Lao Government’s genuine determination to improve its business environment and send a clear message of welcome to international partners.

Laos, he emphasized, is a land of opportunities. With its vast reserves of renewable energy, mining resources, fertile agricultural land, and tourism potential, the country is poised to become a magnet for investment. Rubber production and agri-tech innovations, in particular, were highlighted as promising sectors for Vietnamese enterprises seeking to expand their regional presence.

However, Nguyễn Chí Dũng also called on the Lao Government to continue offering the most favorable conditions for Vietnamese companies. A business-friendly environment, he argued, will not only attract more Vietnamese investment but also help Laos accelerate its economic modernization and deliver prosperity to its people.

The dialogue also gave the floor to enterprises—those directly engaged in turning government vision into practical outcomes.

• Mr. Trần Công Kha, Chairman of the Vietnam Rubber Group, put forward a proposal to expand rubber plantations in Laos, coupled with the application of high-tech cultivation methods to improve efficiency and sustainability.
• Mr. Đào Ngọc Cường, Deputy General Director of the Vietnam National Chemical Group, emphasized the need for streamlined approval processes, especially regarding feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments. He also urged improvements in land clearance compensation and the recruitment of local workers—issues critical for project success.

These interventions reflected the deep commitment of Vietnamese enterprises to Laos. Yet, they also underlined the fact that procedural and structural hurdles remain a challenge—hurdles that, if removed, could unlock far greater levels of cooperation.

The Lao Perspective: A Shared Vision of Trust

For his part, Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith conveyed Laos’ readiness to partner with Vietnam more closely than ever. He reassured businesses that the Lao Government is cutting red tape, simplifying administrative procedures, and strengthening mechanisms to attract and retain investors.

He acknowledged the persistence and goodwill of Vietnamese enterprises, stressing that when difficulties arise, companies should proactively engage with the Investment Promotion Committee and relevant ministries for timely solutions.

Most importantly, he reminded participants that all cooperation must be grounded in the unique Vietnam–Laos friendship—a bond forged through history, nurtured by generations, and unmatched elsewhere in the region. He expressed optimism that bilateral trade will soon reach 5 billion USD, while encouraging Vietnamese investors to pursue projects not only in greater quantity but also in higher quality.

In his concluding remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Chí Dũng delivered a message of responsibility and trust. He urged Vietnamese enterprises to live up to their commitments, respect local laws and customs, and conduct their business sustainably. By doing so, they will not only contribute to Laos’ progress but also deepen the very foundations of the Vietnam–Laos partnership.

The visit of Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Chí Dũng has reaffirmed what many already knew: the Vietnam–Laos relationship is not just about economics, but about trust, solidarity, and a shared destiny. Both nations are entering a new phase, where opportunities are vast, challenges are real, but the determination to succeed is stronger than ever.

With visionary leadership, proactive businesses, and supportive policies, Vietnam and Laos are well on their way to transforming potential into lasting achievements—building not only a prosperous future for themselves but also a powerful model of regional cooperation.