Lao PM arrives in Hanoi for official visit

Sonexay Siphandone was received by Chinh at a welcome ceremony and then held talks with the Vietnamese PM. They will co-chair the 46th meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Inter-Governmental Committee on Jan. 6 and 7.

The visit, Siphandone's first to Vietnam as Lao PM, happens as the countries have enhanced cooperation in various fields, including in fighting against drug and human trafficking, and repatriating remains of Vietnamese soldiers in Laos.

The countries have signed an MoU for developing commercial infrastructure at their border, and amended trade agreements to further facilitate trade operations between businesses and individuals of both sides.

Vietnam is investing in 241 projects in Laos, with pledges worth US$5.47 billion, making it the third biggest investor in Laos, after China and Thailand.

The two countries' bilateral trade was worth $1.5 billion in the first 11 months of 2023.