Vientiane (VNA) – Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane has lauded Vietnam’s remarkable journey of nation-building, socio-economic development, and international integration under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV).

In a recent interview with the Vietnam News Agency on the threshold of the 80th anniversary of the National Day (September 2), the diplomat emphasised Vietnam’s transformation from the war-torn and impoverished country into a modern one with political stability and social safety and order, crediting the visionary leadership of the CPV and the effective governance of the Government for the dramatic progress.

Vietnam’s economic growth has been nothing short of impressive, now ranking as the world’s 33rd largest economy and among the fastest-growing nations globally, he said, adding the country eyes 8% GDP growth in 2025, with aspirations to achieve double-digit expansion from 2026 onward. The 17 free trade agreements signed with trading partners will facilitate the country’s trade promotion and international integration.

The quality of life has improved, with per capita income surging from 498 USD in 2000 to over 4,000 USD in 2024 – clear evidence of sustainable development in the country.

On the diplomatic front, Vietnam has established diplomatic relations with 194 countries and elevated ties to Strategic Comprehensive Partnerships with all five permanent members of the UN Security Council. The country has actively contributed to global peace, stability, and sustainable development, he said.

Minister Thongsavanh emphasised that the historical achievements serve as tremendous encouragement and motivation for Laos, fueling its national development efforts. He expressed his hope that Vietnam will deliver on the targets by 2045.

Highlighting the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, whose foundation was laid by President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane, and President Souphanouvong, he said the two countries stood shoulder to shoulder in their struggles for national liberation with a complete victory in 1975. Since then, the bilateral relations have been continuously consolidated and developed across all fields.

Both nations boast strong political trust, maintaining regular meetings at all levels. In defence, security, and foreign affairs, they have coordinated closely in border protection, prevention of transnational crime and drug trafficking, and peace maintenance. Meanwhile, two-way trade has grown annually, with revenue in the first half of this year reaching nearly 2 billion USD, establishing a foundation to achieve the 5 billion USD target. Vietnam has been one of the top three foreign investors in Laos. Socio-cultural cooperation has resulted in numerous exchange activities and educational partnerships.

Thongsavanh said the two sides will continue to bring into full play the agreements reached by high-ranking leaders, focusing on strengthening political cooperation and defence-security partnerships – the pillars of the bilateral relations. Besides, they will step up communications work to raise the youths’ awareness of the Vietnam – Laos special relations while bolstering economic collaboration, working together to improve human resource quality, and coordinating at international forums and within ASEAN./.