Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Le Thanh Hai has proposed the Lao Government create more favourable conditions for businesses from Vietnam and the southern city in particular to invest in Laos by speeding up legal and administrative procedures, especially for investment licences and land use.

Meeting Lao Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong in Vientiane on April 8, the city leader suggested that both sides roll out timely measures to remove difficulties for Vietnamese and Ho Chi Minh City firms during the implementation of projects in Laos .

He congratulated Laos on its stable economy with more than 7.5 percent annual growth and its rising global position. He affirmed that Vietnam will support Laos in executing the role of ASEAN Chair in 2016, the first year of the ASEAN Community’s operation.

The Lao PM lauded Ho Chi Minh City and Vientiane’s active delegation exchanges to increase mutual understanding and bilateral cooperation.

PM Thammavong spoke highly of Ho Chi Minh City’s regular sending of delegations to Lao localities to help them develop infrastructure and production.

The Lao leader thanked the Party, State, Government and people of Vietnam, as well as Ho Chi Minh City, for their great assistance to his country.

He pledged to do his utmost to work with Vietnam to promote the growing comprehensive partnership between the two countries.

Earlier the same day, the Ho Chi Minh City leader was also received by Lao Vice President Bounnhang Volachit who expressed his delight at the close ties between the two Parties and Governments.

The Lao leader said he hopes the two sides will further expand their partnership.

Hai briefed his host on the outcomes of cooperation between the city and Vientiane , affirming that he will work to promote collaboration between the city and Lao localities across sectors while enhancing the effectiveness of ongoing joint projects.

On the occasion of the Lao traditional New Year Bun Pi May, Hai extended his wish for prosperity and happiness for the Lao people. He also wished the special ties between Vietnam and Los would further flourish.

During his stay, Hai and the city’s delegation paid a New Year visit to Lao Party General Secretary and President Chummaly Sayasone, Deputy National Assembly Chairman Saysomphon Phomvihane, former Prime Minister Sisavat Keobounphan and former National Assembly Chairman Saman Vinhaket.-VNA