The Vietnam-Laos relationship is an invaluable asset of the two nations which should be kept, upheld and passed to future generations.

Party Secretary General Nguyen Phu Trong made this statement at a reception to Lao National Assembly Chairwoman Pany Yathotou in Hanoi on April 25, on the occasion of her attendance at a conference on the relationship between the Vietnam and Laos National Assemblies in Vietnam .

Secretary General Trong affirmed that the conference is one of the important events of the Vietnam-Laos Friendship Year 2012 and a vivid manifestation of the special solidarity between the two countries.

He said he believes that the Lao people will continue to gain greater achievements in the renewal process and successfully implement the Resolution of the ninth Party Congress and its five-year socio-economic development plan.

Trong also said he expects the two legislative bodies of Vietnam and Laos will continue to work closely, increase information and experience sharing as well as organising the activities of the Vietnam-Laos, Laos-Vietnam Solidarity and Friendship Year”, contributing to deepening the two countries’ traditional friendship and special solidarity.

Lao NA Chairwoman Yathotou affirmed that the Lao Party, Government and National Assembly will make all efforts to foster the Vietnam-Laos relationship forever.

She also said the Lao NA will work closely with its Vietnamese counterpart in implementing the signed agreements.

The same day, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung met with NA Chairwoman Pany Yathotou, during which he said Vietnam and Laos should further strengthen comprehensive cooperation, especially in economics, investment, education and training to usher in new development steps in the relationship between the two countries.

Pany Yathotu said the recent cooperation between the two countries continues to see positive results, especially in economic fields.

Pany Yathotu noted that Vietnamese enterprises operating in Laos have contributed to the country’s economic growth and social security.

She stressed the Lao Government will create the best conditions for Vietnamese enterprises to invest in and do business in the country, for the benefit and development of both nations.

The Lao guest also recommended the two Governments promote people-to-people exchange and cooperation between border localities of Vietnam and Laos .

She said she hopes Vietnam will share experiences in socio-economic development with Laos , especially in economic management, poverty reduction, foreign investment attraction and infrastructure development.-VNA