President Truong Tan Sang met with Lao Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong and Lao National Assembly Chairwoman Pany Yathotu on Feb. 9, as part of his official visit to Laos .

The Lao PM appreciated the visit of the Vietnamese delegation, describing it as an important political event to further deepen the friendly relations between Vietnam and Laos .

Thongsing Thammavong expressed his hope that the two countries will cooperate comprehensively in a range of areas and educate younger generations about the traditional friendship and bilateral cooperation between Vietnam and Laos .

At the talks with the Lao NA Chairwoman, President Sang said he believes that with the great achievements and experiences gained through 25 years of renovation, the Lao Party, State and people will successfully implement the 9th Party Congress’ Resolution on socio-economic development to build a socialist nation of peace, democracy, unity and prosperity.

President Sang also attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the headquarters of the General Federation of the Vietnamese people in Laos .

The two-storey building with an area of 870 square metres will be a place of exchange for the organisation’s 30,000 members.

President Sang also attended the opening of a branch for the Vietnam Joint Stock Bank for Industry and Trade (VietinBank) in Laos. /.