Hanoi (VNA) - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son had online talks with Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane on November 27.

Thongsavanh thanked Son for being the first foreign minister to send congratulatory messages and hold online discussions upon his appointment as Lao Foreign Minister, showing the close-knit and special relationship between the two foreign ministries and the two nations as a whole.

Son conveyed greetings from Vietnam's leaders to their Lao counterparts on the occasions of Laos’ 49th National Day and the 104th birth anniversary of President Kaysone Phomvihane.

On behalf of the Lao Party, State, and people, Thongsavanh expressed deep gratitude for Vietnam’s valuable and effective support, particularly during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.

The two sides shared the delight at the growing Vietnam-Laos great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation. They also commended the close and effective collaboration between the two foreign ministries in recent times.

Regarding future orientations, they agreed to continue making thorough preparations for the upcoming meeting of the Party leaders of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, the 47th meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee and the 11th Vietnam-Laos political consultation at the foreign minister level.

Son suggested that the two sides continue to collaborate with relevant ministries to clear obstacles to key joint projects and enhance the effectiveness of bilateral economic cooperation, while effectively implementing the Action Programme on Economic Diplomacy Cooperation between the two foreign ministries in the 2020–2025 period.

Both sides pledged to effectively implement legal agreements on border and related international treaties, prioritising the upgrading and opening of border gates to strengthen connectivity. They also committed to collaborating on consular and citizen protection work, and enhancing information sharing and exchanges between relevant units. Vietnam will continue provision of training courses on foreign affairs for Lao officials.

Son proposed that the two sides maintain close coordination and mutual support at international and regional forums. He called for enhanced sharing of viewpoints on issues of mutual interest.

Thongsavanh expressed his hope to soon welcome Deputy Prime Minister Son to Vientiane for a visit and co-chairing the 11th ministerial-level ꧒political consultation./.