Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue receives his Lao counterpart Saysomphone Phomvihane (Photo: Doan Tan/VNA)

This is the first foreign visit by Mr. Saysomphone Phomvihane in his new position as Chairman of the Lao National Assembly in the 2021-2026 tenure.

Close bond between Vietnamese, Lao legislatures

The rare, faithful Vietnam-Laos relationship is a role model of international relations. Over the years, the two countries’ legislatures have worked to make their cooperation stronger and more effective. They have regularly exchanged delegations and organized seminars and workshops to share experience in law building and assisting and overseeing the two governments in signing agreements, treaties, and projects. They co-hosted celebrations of the Vietnam-Laos Friendship Year in 2012 and 2017. The two legislatures have worked closely and supported each other at regional and global forums.

They have maintained their close cooperation despite the COVID-19 pandemic. The Vietnamese National Assembly helped Laos build the Lao Parliament House as a gift from the Vietnamese Party, State, and people to their Lao friends contributing more than 111 million USD. The Lao Parliament House is a reflection of the special friendship between Vietnamese and Lao Parties, governments, legislatures, and peoples.

Effective cooperation agreements

During Chairman Saysomphone Phomvihane’s visit to Vietnam, the two sides will discuss ways to boost bilateral cooperation and share experience in legislating and overseeing and deciding major national issues.

During his visit, Laos’s top legislator will meet NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue, pay courtesy visits, and meet with other Vietnamese Party, State, and government leaders to exchange views on ways to enhance bilateral ties.