Vietnam is placing significant emphasis on strengthening its diplomatic ties with neighboring countries, particularly China and Laos. During recent engagements, Vietnamese officials expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation and celebrate historical milestones marking their longstanding relations.
At the forefront of these diplomatic efforts, Deputy Prime Minister Lê Thành Long met with He Wei, the Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam, on Wednesday. The meeting, held in Hà Nội, was steeped in discussions highlighting the importance of the friendly neighborliness and comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership Vietnam maintains with China.
Long noted, “This is not only an objective requirement but also a strategic choice, top priority within Vietnam's foreign policy,” underscoring the nation’s aim for independence alongside the diversification of external relations. Both entities agreed on the need for improved collaboration between relevant authorities to implement high-level agreements effectively and maintain mutual contact between leaders across various levels.
Looking forward, Long stated the necessity of initiating healthcare and education projects, particularly targeting northern mountainous areas of Việt Nam, as part of broader socio-economic development, which the two nations desperately seek. He emphasized how enhancing people-to-people exchanges is instrumental in creating momentum for the Vietnam-China relationship.
On the other hand, the Chinese ambassador voiced his commitment to promoting bilateral relations, indicating readiness to work closely with Vietnamese ministries. He reaffirmed their goal of organizing the Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Exchange 2025, intended to commemorate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties. He Wei also emphasized the importance of boosting economic and cultural cooperation, paving the way for more meaningful exchanges between the citizens of the two countries.
Meanwhile, southwards, the Vietnamese Embassy held another notable event in Vientiane, Laos, where Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyễn Minh Tâm awarded various orders and medals to members of the Lao Presidential Office. The ceremony recognized the contributions made to the enduring friendship and special solidarity between both nations.
Ambassador Tâm, during his address, reflected on the strong historical connections established by revered leaders, including Hồ Chí Minh from Việt Nam and Kaysone Phomvihane from Laos. He praised the collaborative spirit between the two Presidential Offices, particularly the effective exchange of information and coordinated efforts which have yielded tangible benefits for citizens over the years.
The honorees of the ceremony included the Lao Presidential Office which received the first-class Independence Order for its collective efforts. This recognition extended to former chairpersons, vice chairs, and other department-level leaders who have been pivotal to nurturing the bilateral relationship through various cooperative methods.
Khemmani Phonsena, the head of the Lao Presidential Office, expressed gratitude for the honors bestowed upon her team. She remarked, “This recognition serves as significant encouragement and motivation for all officials and Party members of the office,” highlighting the importance of acknowledgment as they continue their work to strengthen the partnership.
The enduring ties between Vietnam and Laos were acknowledged by all participants, reinforcing the commitment to fostering unity and collaboration between the two peoples. Phonsena assured continued joint efforts to implement the cooperation agreements signed previously and to maintain the Great Friendship at all levels.
Both sets of diplomatic engagements exhibit Vietnam's strategic approach toward fostering relations not just through governmental collaboration but encouraging exchanges at social and cultural levels too. Vietnam aims not only to celebrate its historical moments but also to create meaningful, sustainable partnerships going forward.
With events commemorative of key anniversaries and significant recognition for partnerships, Vietnam is poised to reinforce its diplomatic strategies with both Laos and China alike, aiming for practical outcomes to benefit all parties involved.
