Lang Son (VNA) – Representatives from departments and agencies of the northern border province of Lang Son and China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region held talks on July 17 to review and promote cooperation in key areas, particularly trade, border management, and cultural exchange.
The meeting served as a mid-term review of the implementation of common perception as well as outcomes of the 2025 spring meeting and the 16th Joint Working Committee meeting held earlier this year.
Speaking at the event, Trinh Tuyet Mai, Director of Lang Son’s Department of Foreign Affairs, noted that 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of Vietnam–China diplomatic relations. The year has been designated by both countries as the “Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Exchange”, offering favourable conditions to deepen ties at all levels and bring tangible benefits to border communities.
Since the 2025 spring meeting, Lang Son has implemented cooperation agreements with Guangxi. They have maintained high-level exchanges and mutual visits between the corresponding departments and agencies of both sides.
Regarding economic and trade cooperation, Lang Son authorities have directed relevant agencies to strengthen coordination mechanisms, promote the pilot rollout of the smart border gate model, and restore and enhance border trade. These efforts have contributed to smooth and efficient customs clearance across the province’s border gates. In the first six months of 2025, Lang Son’s total trade turnover exceeded 41.7 billion USD, up 39% year-on-year.
The two sides have also seen positive results in people-to-people exchanges, education, health care, tourism, sports, and labour cooperation. In the sphere of border management and security, both sides have maintained peace and stability, prevented cross-border crimes, and handled arising issues based on signed agreements.
During the talks, delegates discussed ways to accelerate joint projects and agreements and expand the list of Vietnam’s exports to China. They also proposed boosting cooperation in vocational training, especially in high-tech industries and sustainable agriculture, to meet the development needs of both sides.
Wei Ran, Director General of the Foreign Affairs Office of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, said the talks offered an important platform to enhance mutual understanding and practical cooperation. He noted that key proposals relating to smart border gate development, border infrastructure projects, trade facilitation, and educational partnerships will be reported to higher authorities for further action./.
