Vietnam, Laos promote defense cooperation in comprehensive, in-depth, substantive manner

General Phan Van Giang welcomes Sr. Lt. Gen. Khamliang Outhakaysone.

During the meeting, the Vietnamese Defense Minister extended his congratulations to Sr. Lt. Gen. Khamliang Outhakaysone and all officers and soldiers of the Lao People’s Army on the occasion of the 77th anniversary of the foundation day of the Lao People’s Army (January 20, 1949 – 2026). On this occasion, General Giang also congratulated the Lao side on the success of the 12th National Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party for the 2026-2030 term, and Sr. Lt. Gen. Khamliang Outhakaysone on having been elected to the Politburo of the Party Central Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party for its 12th tenure. 

The Vietnamese defense leader took the occasion to inform the Lao guest of several key outcomes of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam. He said that the congress was a great success. With the guiding motto “Solidarity – Democracy – Discipline – Breakthrough – Development,” the congress was a major political event of decisive significance for Vietnam’s future development in the new era.

Overview of the meeting

General Giang thanked Laos for its long-standing solidarity with Vietnam. He noted that bilateral defense cooperation remains a practical pillar, with both militaries leading the implementation of high-level agreements to ensure national stability and loyalty to their respective Parties and peoples.

The Vietnamese Defense Minister exchanges views with Sr. Lt. Gen. Khamliang Outhakaysone.

Sr. Lt. Gen. Khamliang Outhakaysone congratulates the Ministry of National Defense of Vietnam on the success of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party.

The Defense Minister expressed his hope that General Khamliang Outhakaysone ensure the defense cooperation plan is implemented effectively, strengthening bilateral ties. General Khamliang, affirming the Vietnam-Laos strategic bond, congratulated the Communist Party of Vietnam on its 14th National Congress and General Phan Van Giang on his re-election to the Politburo.

Delegates pose for a group photo.

The Lao Defense Minister pledged to order subordinate units to cooperate with Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defense to effectively implement the 2026 cooperation plan, further strengthening bilateral ties. Additionally, Sr. Lt. Gen. Khamliang Outhakaysone congratulated the newly elected members of the Politburo and the 14th Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

Translated by Tran Hoai