Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith discussed on COVID-19 pandemic and measures to foster multi-faceted cooperation between the two countries during their face-to-face talks in Da Nang City on Sunday. 

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (right) and Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith
shake hands before their face-to-face talks in Da Nang City on July 5, 2020. Photo: VGP

This is the first high-level visit of a foreign leader to Viet Nam since the outbreak of the COVID-19 and it takes place in the context that both countries have put the pandemic under control.

PM Phuc congratulated on the neighboring country’s recent achievements, especially its efforts in curbing the pandemic, expressing his wish that Laos will soon overcome the consequences of the pandemic, translate their set goals into reality, and successfully organize the national party congress next year.

PM Sisoulith highly valued Viet Nam’s achievements in national development and international integration process, particularly its effective efforts in pursuing the dual goal of COVID-19 combat and economic recovery.

Sisoulith extended thanks to Viet Nam for having offered medical supplies and sent experts to help his country fight the pandemic.

He also thanked the Vietnamese Government for opening borders to more than 2,000 Lao students to return to Viet Nam, expressing his hope that the rest could return soon to resume their studies here in Viet Nam.

Sisoulith also took the occasion to convey greetings of Lao Party General Secretary and President Bounnhang Vorachit and Chairwoman of the Lao National Assembly Chairwoman Pany Yathotou respectively to Vietnamese Party General Secretary and State President Nguyen Phu Trong and National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan.

Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh
is also present at the talks. Photo: VGP

Regarding ways to beef up economic recovery in each country, the two leaders underlined the necessity to accelerate trade exchanges in post-pandemic period.

The pair agreed to consider resumption of air transportation as soon as possible, enhance the exchanges of information and experience related to socio-economic development, and step up the implementation of the signed agreements and the outcomes of the 42nd meeting of the Inter-governmental Committee held last January.

They agreed to continue strengthening cooperation in defense, security, economy, trade, finance, and investment while ensuring the progress and quality of Viet Nam-funded projects in Laos.

On multilateral aspect, the two PMs agreed to continue close coordination at regional forums like ASEAN, Sub-regional mechanisms and the United Nations.

PM Sisoulith congratulated Viet Nam on successful organization of the 36th ASEAN Summit as well as its efforts in promoting the ASEAN Chair’ role in maintaining cooperation and in coordinating ASEAN-led mechanisms in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sisoulith pledged to continue supporting Viet Nam to successfully undertake its ASEAN Chair role.

PM Phuc appreciated Laos’ contributions to the common efforts in building a strong, cohesive and responsive ASEAN Community.

Both sides highlighted the significance of sustaining peace, stability, and rule of law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

During his two-day visit to Viet Nam at the invitation of PM Phuc, the Lao PM also planned to tour production and tourism establishments in Viet Nam./.