Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (L) shake hands with  Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chinh in Vientiane on Jan 9, 2025.

(KPL) The 47th Meeting of the Laos-Vietnam Intergovernmental Committee on Bilateral Cooperation was held in Vientiane, co-chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and his Vietnamese counterpart Phạm Minh Chinh. 
High-ranking officials from both nations, including Party and state leaders, ministers, and deputy ministers, gathered in Vientiane on Jan 9 to review the achievements of their 2024 cooperation and discuss strategic plans for 2025.
The two PMs commended the successful implementation of the 2024 cooperation agreements, highlighting significant progress in political and diplomatic relations, defense and security collaboration, and economic growth. 

Bilateral trade reached over USD 2 billion, marking a 34% increase from 2023 and exceeding projections. Vietnamese investments in Laos saw substantial growth, with major energy projects like wind power initiatives in Xekong and Savannakhet contributing to a registered capital of USD 191.1 million in 2024—a 61.1% increase from the previous year.
In education and human resource development, Vietnam allocated 1,160 scholarships for Lao students and officials for 2025, reinforcing the partnership's focus on mutual capacity building.
The meeting culminated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the 47th session, the 2025 cooperation plan, and several bilateral agreements. These milestones underscore the enduring solidarity and strategic partnership between Laos and Vietnam, emphasizing their shared commitment to mutual prosperity and regional stability.
The event further cements the comprehensive cooperation and unique friendship between the two countries, setting a strong foundation for continued collaboration in the years ahead.

KPL