PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc greets Lao counterpart on sidelines of WEF ASEAN

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc welcomed his Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith in Hanoi on September 13 on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum on ASEAN 2018 (WEF ASEAN).

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and his Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith (Photo: VNA)
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and his Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith (Photo: VNA)

PM Phuc spoke highly of the Lao delegation and PM Thongloun Sisoulith for their attendance and positive contributions to the WEF ASEAN.

The two governments should work to effectively implement agreements on labour cooperation, settlement of free migration and undocumented marriage, as well as review the “One Door, One stop” programme at the Lao Bao-Densavan border gate.

At the meeting, the two leaders expressed their delight at recent developments in the traditional friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos over the past few years.

In the first half of this year, two-way trade grew 15 percent compared to the same time last year. A variety of Vietnamese projects received investment licences in Laos, while important works, such as the Lao National Assembly house, and schools in Bolikhamsai and Sekong provinces met their targeted progress.

The two leaders agreed to join hands in carrying out high-level agreements, seeking measures to remove bottlenecks, and ensuring that investment projects are effectively carried out and meet quality requirements. They said that they will coordinate to make careful preparations for the 41st meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee.

Additionally, the two leaders reached a consensus on enhancing information exchange and collaboration at regional and international forums like the UN, ASEAN; at sub-regional cooperation mechanisms; and on strategic issues including those on the East Sea. The move will contribute to maintaining regional and global peace, stability, and development.

Thongloun Sisoulith took the occasion to thank the Vietnamese Party, Government and people for supporting Laos in recovering from the consequences of the dam collapse in the southern province of Attapeu in July.