Vientiane (VNA)𒁏 – Sixty-three years have passed since the establishment of Vietnam – Laos diplomatic ties (September 5, 1962), the Laos – Vietnam Combatant Alliance Museum in Dong village, Sepon district, the Lao province of Savannakhet, stands as a powerful reminder of the two nations’ enduring solidarity.

Officially opened on December 12, 2012, the museum spans over three hectares and serves as a dynamic cultural and historical space. It houses hundreds of artefacts and photographs related to the Route 9 – Southern Laos Campaign, images of the allied forces transporting supplies and weapons, and scenes illustrating the deep attachment between the peoples and armed forces of the two countries. Talking to the Vietnam News Agency, Lieutenant Colonel Houmphanh Chansanga, Director of the museum, said the exhibitions, both indoors and outdoors, are designed to provide a complete and appealing narrative. The indoor section is divided into six themes, covering the Lao people’s uprisings, resistance strategies, the organisation of forces, the victories of the Lao and Vietnamese armies, and the solidarity, friendship and comprehensive cooperation between the two nations. The outdoor displays vividly recreate the atmosphere of the resistance years, with many valuable artefacts, he noted. Houmphanh said that in addition to welcoming domestic and international delegations, the museum regularly organises programmes for pupils and young people to study and experience history, thus fostering a sense of gratitude and responsibility to preserve and promote the traditions. The museum serves not only as a repository of artefacts but also as a bridge between history and the present, thus inspiring patriotism and national pride, he went on. To enrich its collection, the museum has also closely collaborated with local communities to gather and add new exhibits. According to Houmphanh, staff have actively visited villages to collect wartime items for display. The museum has also encouraged localities to organise study visits and contribute historical information, especially concerning the Lam Son 719 Campaign, which took place in the area. The museum’s significance is further highlighted through extracurricular visits by schools. Khomchay Sithisone, Vice Principal of the Dongsavanh School in Sepon district, described the museum as a valuable opportunity for students to learn history in a vivid and direct manner. Students’ joy and pride were evident as they explored the exhibits and deepened their understanding of the special Vietnam – Laos relationship. Teacher Phonmouny Phachansisoula of the Dongsavanh School stressed that the museum’s main purpose is to help students appreciate the sacrifices by past generations of Lao and Vietnamese fighters, thereby understanding the inseparable bond between the two nations and strengthening the foundation for future solidarity. Over more than six decades, the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos have become invaluable assets of both nations. The Laos – Vietnam Combatant Alliance Museum stands as a lasting testament to the enduring value of this unique relationship./.