Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc hosted a reception in Hanoi on May 19 for former Lao Prime Minister Sisavath Keobounphan during his visit to Vietnam.

The Vietnamese official said his country treasures its time-honoured relations and comprehensive cooperation with Laos.

He voiced his belief that under the leadership of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the country’s people would build a nation of peace, independence, democracy and prosperity.

General Sisavath Keobounphan said he expects substantial strides in Vietnam’s national development under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

He suggested both countries increase senior leader visits and exchanges of Party building experience.

Their localities need to bolster cooperation in defence, security, economics, education and culture while continuing to implement agreements between the two Parties and Governments in a results-oriented manner, he noted.-VNA