Dien Bien (VNA) – Minister of National Defence Gen. Phan Van Giang hosted a reception in the northwestern mountainous province of Dien Bien on May 6 for Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Gen. Chansamone Chanyalath, who is here to attend the upcoming 70th anniversary of Dien Bien Phu Victory (May 7).
Minister Giang thanked the Lao Party, Government and State for sending a high-ranking delegation to the ceremony marking the anniversary, affirming that the gesture is a significant source of encouragement and contribution to the overall success of the event.
He hailed the Dien Bien Phu Victory as one of the historic events of great significance for the Vietnamese people and peace lovers worldwide, a vivid symbol of great solidarity and combat alliance between the armies and people of Vietnam and Laos in particular. He said it laid a foundation for the Vietnamese and Lao people to break free from the yoke of colonialism, regain independence and freedom for their nations.
Giang said he is moved to learn that on this day, the Lao Party, Government and State also held a national-level meeting to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory.
Affirming that this activity holds profound political significance, he said it provides an opportunity for both countries to raise public awareness of the special and great relationship between Vietnam and Laos, especially among young generations.
On the occasion, he expressed gratitude and conveyed regards to the Lao veteran soldiers who had stood shoulder to shoulder with the Vietnamese army during various periods of resistance, especially during the struggle against French colonialism and in the Dien Bien Phu campaign.
Host and guest agreed to continue to effectively carry out the signed documents and agreements, with a particular emphasis on reviewing the Protocol on Vietnam-Laos Defence Cooperation for the 2020-2024 period, thereby building and signing a new Protocol for the 2025-2029 period with practical cooperation contents.
Vietnam supports Laos in successfully assuming the role of ASEAN Chair in 2024, Giang said. He also vowed to send delegations to all defence and security-related meetings during Laos's tenure as ASEAN Chair 2024.
Giang also wished to welcome his guest and other high-ranking Lao leaders to ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army, the 35th anniversary of the All-People’s Defence Festival, and the Vietnam International Defence Expo 2024 slated for December 19-22./.
