Vietnam–Laos ties continue to deepen, with energy cooperation being a key area. Vietnam is Laos’ second-largest investor, with major hydropower, renewable energy and cross-border power transmission projects helping unlock Laos’ energy potential and strengthen connectivity.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has ordered law enforcement agencies to step up efforts against illegal mining and smuggling, particularly in tin-rich regions.
Vietnam’s trade with Cambodia has grown consistently. In 2024, land border trade reached 7.26 billion USD, up 18.2% year-on-year. In the first seven months of 2025, it stood at 5.17 billion USD, rising 16.9%.
Lao Deputy PM Saleumxay Kommasith affirmed the Lao Government’s strong support for the Vinachem potash project and instructed the Laos–Vietnam Cooperation Committee to coordinate with relevant ministries in addressing outstanding matters.
The Party chief stated that Vietnam wants to invest in oil fields in Azerbaijan and continue importing petroleum products for its refineries, and liquefied gas for its power plants.
The two sides agreed on the need to continue regular exchanges of delegations, especially at the high level and through various channels and fields, to create a foundation and momentum for strong and sustainable cooperation in other areas.
Governor of Chile's Antofagasta region Ricardo Heriberto Díaz Cortés proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Antofagasta and a Vietnamese locality to promote bilateral cooperation.
Representatives from ASEAN member states and China reviewed mining collaboration and set future priorities at the 14th Liaison Officials' Meeting of the China (Guangxi) - ASEAN Mining Cooperation Conference.
Beyond traditional sectors, Saskatchewan is eager to expand ties with Vietnam in renewable energy, mineral extraction and processing, and innovation, Kaeding noted.
The People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City and the Lao Consulate General in the city on December 27 oganised a Vietnam-Laos trade and investment promotion forum which aimed to boost connections between the two countries’ businesses and investors.
Australia’s Queensland values its relations with Vietnam and considers the nation a priority market in the Southeast Asia and one of the top five international trade partners of the state, said Trade and Investment Queensland Chief Executive Officer Justin McGowan.
