Luang Prabang (VNA) – The 32nd annualmeeting between Vietnamese and Lao border delegations was held in the Lao cityof Luang Prabang from December 19-20.
The Vietnamese delegationwas led by Standing Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Vu while the Laodelegation was led by Lao Deputy Foreign Minister Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune.
The two sides reviewed the implementation of the2016 Agreement on Border Management Regulations, the minutes of their 31st meeting and set out future cooperation orientations.
They shared a view that despite uncertain andcomplicated developments in the region and the world, the two nations havemaintained a common borderline of peace and stability, facilitating socio-economicdevelopment and ensuring national defence-security.
Over the past year, borderagencies of the two countries have worked closely together to conduct nine fieldsurveys to remove difficulties and obstacles for localities and businesses, and stepup energy and transport connectivity projects. They advised the two Governmentsto resume export-import, entry-exit at major and auxiliary border gates, thusfacilitating travelling and trade after COVID-19 was basically put under control.
The two sides alsosuccessfully held a conference to disseminate border polices and laws foroutstanding village chiefs of border areas, contributing to the Vietnam-Laos,Laos-Vietnam Solidarity and Friendship Year 2022.
Officials highlighted a needto continue bilateral cooperation at both local and central level to ensurefull and effective implementation of the 2016 Agreementon Border Management Regulations, speed up research and launch of win-wincooperation models, and effectively embark on orientations for Vietnam-Laosborder gate development planning for the 2021-2030 period with a vision to2050.
They also vowed to continue disseminatingborder-related laws in various forms for officials, soldiers and residents of the twocountries.
ꦓ Concluding the event, they agreed that the 33rd meeting will be held in the fourth quarter next year in Vietnam./.
Winners of an online quiz on the history of the special Vietnam-Laos and Laos-Vietnam relations were awarded at a ceremony held in Hanoi on December 12.
Lao Deputy Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on December 13 said that the Lao Government will further support Vietnamese investors and expects more investing in Laos to increase the effectiveness of the two country’s economic cooperation.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Lao and Cambodian counterparts Phankham Viphavanh and Samdech Techo Hun Sen had a breakfast meeting in Belgium on December 14, the first of the trio after the COVID-19 pandemic was put under control.
Vice Chairman of the General Department of Politics at the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) Lt. Gen. Trinh Van Quyet received a delegation of the School of Political Theory of the Lao People's Army (LPA) led by its political commissar Major Gen. Khamhay Saphangneua in Hanoi on December 15.
The trip will be made at the invitations of Chinese Premier Li Qiang and WEF President and CEO Børge Brende, according to an announcement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Long spoke highly of the dynamic, positive, and comprehensive development of Vietnam – Russia relations in recent years. He affirmed that the Vietnamese Party and State place great importance on further strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia in a substantive and effective manner, in line with the development needs of both nations.
At the conference, participants reported that the Government has so far issued 28 decrees on the delegation of responsibilities and powers between the central Government and two-tier local administrations. Several localities have already piloted the new governance model.
Reality is the ultimate benchmark for success, he said, urging drafting agencies to work out policies that foster development, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and respect practical conditions.
Under the official dispatch signed on June 20, ministers, heads of ministerial-level agencies, and chairpersons of provincial and municipal People’s Committees are requested to concentrate efforts on implementing core measures to ensure the smooth operations of the new administrative framework.
The Party chief underscored the need for the press to innovate relentlessly, evolve to keep pace with the country's development, transform into a truly professional, humanistic, and modern sector that serves the cause of the Party, the State, and the people on the path to national construction and development.
The UN Secretary-General praised Vietnam’s remarkable achievements in socio-economic development and international integration in recent years, noting that the country has emerged as a model in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting international peace and security, and engaging in key UN processes.
Nghia affirmed that this is a milestone of special significance, affirming and honouring the the Vietnamese revolutionary press’s glorious tradition of 100 years of serving the revolutionary cause of the Party, serving the Fatherland, and serving the people.
The Party and State of Vietnam always attach great importance to and give top priority to the development of Vietnam–China relations. Vietnam is ready to work with the Chinese Party and State to further deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership and promote the building of the Vietnam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.
Under the leadership of President Ho Chi Minh and the CPV, President Cuong said, the press has been a steadfast force on the ideological and cultural front, rallying the masses to pursue national aspirations.
NA Chairman Tran Thanh Man stressed the need to accelerate the application of artificial intelligence and smart teaching equipment, innovate teaching and assessment methods, and further improve the quality of formal education.
He also pledged that the NA will promote its ongoing supervision, making sure that every promise must lead to results, and every commitment must bring about real changes.
Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien welcomed the proposals put forward by the US side and reiterated Vietnam’s request for consideration of key areas of interest, including reciprocal tariff policies and access for Vietnamese key export products to the US market.
Deputy PM Le Thanh Long proposed countries promote shared values, including building trust, sincerity, and solidarity among nations and peoples; fostering cooperation spirit and responsible behaviour as well as upholding international law and the UN Charter; and placing people at the centre and as the goal, the key player, and the driving force of all policies.
The show, together with a grand parade to be held silmutaneously at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution, the National Day, and the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA).
In particular, in April 2023, the two sides successfully carried out a joint operation that dismantled a major organised, transnational drug trafficking ring involving both Vietnamese and Cambodian suspects.
The Vietnamese Embassy in Israel is closely coordinating with relevant local agencies to stay informed and provide the utmost support possible for Vietnamese nationals.
The launch of Thanh Nien (Young People) newspaper in 1925, even before the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam, is considered a testament to President Ho Chi Minh’s strategic foresight and strong belief in the guiding power of the revolutionary media.
At the meeting (Photo: VNA) 
