A delegation from Vietnam’s Ministry of Defence led by Deputy Minister Nguyen Chi Vinh visited the Lao Embassy in Hanoi on July 13 to mark the 2012 Vietnam-Laos Friendship and Solidarity Year.

The visit also aimed to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Vietnam-Laos Amity and Cooperation Treaty and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam-Laos diplomatic relations.

At his meeting, Vinh highlighted the special friendship between the two countries, stressing that both countries’ armies and people are always united in their efforts to defeat common enemies for independence and freedom of both countries.

He said both should continue to join hands to maintain and develop ties, contributing to driving the Vietnam-Laos special relationship to a higher level.

Lao Ambassador Somphone Sichaleune praised the level of cooperation on defence between the two countries in recent years.

He stated that the Lao Party, Government and people are always grateful for the support provided by Vietnam’s Party, Government and Army, to the country in its past struggle for national liberation as well as during national construction at present.-VNA