MOIT VIETNAM | Vietnam and Laos Enhance Cooperation in Home Affairs

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Vietnam and Laos Enhance Cooperation in Home Affairs

23rd May 2023 post by MOIT Vietnam

A significant turning point in the development of the distinctive relationship and comprehensive partnership between the two countries occurred on May 23, 2023, when the Vietnamese Ministry of Home Affairs welcomed a high-level delegation from the Lao Ministry of Home Affairs. Under the leadership of Lao Minister Thongchanh Manixay, the group held discussions to further strengthen the practical partnership that has produced notable outcomes so far.

Bộ Nội vụ

As part of their high-level cooperation, the two ministries have worked together on a number of projects, such as exchanging knowledge on administrative reform, improving the efficiency of government operations, and helping to create the National Archives Center in Laos. We have prioritized the training and development of administrative officials, created chances for Lao students to attend higher education institutions, and provided help in the writing of civil service law. A wealth of knowledge has been shared via workshops on state administration and internal affairs.

Pham Thi Thanh Tra, the Vietnamese Minister of Home Affairs, revealed the evolution of the ministry since the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam. Restructuring the organization, reforming the administration, and improving local governance have all been priorities for the ministry as it works to follow national instructions. The ministry drafted and passed a number of resolutions, directives, and circulars in an effort to streamline governmental procedures, and as a result, two laws.

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One notable accomplishment is the decrease of administrative units, which has resulted to a smaller government structure. This, in turn, has made administration more efficient and saved money. Civil servant and public employee numbers have been reduced in tandem with the downsizing, which has resulted in an 8-district and 563-community reduction, a 10% drop in administrative organizations, and a 13.5% reduction in public service units.

Thanking everyone for the kind welcome, Lao Minister Thongchanh Manixay praised the fruitful partnership between the two countries. He expressed his satisfaction and pride in Vietnam's accomplishments, which were a cause for celebration in Laos. Since the Lao Ministry of Home Affairs was just formed in 2011, there is a strong desire to gain knowledge about local administration from Vietnam, especially regarding the commune level, which is a new administrative level for Laos.

Chú thích ảnh

The reform of the Lao government's machinery, which Minister Thongchanh praised, has included the establishment of one-stop service centers to streamline administrative processes. The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic has meant that certain programs are still unfinished, despite the excellent consequences. The ministries have established a joint plan for the years 2023–2026, with an emphasis on yearly evaluations, specialist training, digital transformation initiatives, and frequent high-level interactions.

In order to assist Laos with policy research, the construction of a legislative framework, and short-term training programs for Lao authorities, Vietnam has promised to send lecturers and specialists with relevant expertise.

At the conclusion of the conference, Ministers Pham Thi Thanh Tra and Thongchanh Manixay signed a memorandum of agreement for collaboration from 2023 to 2026. The leaders of the two countries have spoken highly of their desire to see the friendship and relationship between their countries grow, as well as the cooperation and cooperation between their ministries of foreign affairs.