Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnamese enterprises operating in Laos have voiced strong confidence in the proactive role of Vietnam’s political system ahead of the elections for the 16th National Assembly and People’s Councils at all levels for the 2026–2031 tenure.
Pham Thi Minh Huong, Standing Committee member of the General Association of Vietnamese in Laos, Vice President of the Business Association of Overseas Vietnamese (BAOOV), and Chairwoman and CEO of the Gold Phuc Company, said the Vietnamese business community in Laos closely follows major political developments at home while contributing to socio-economic development and social welfare activities in Laos, particularly support for disadvantaged and disabled groups.
Speaking to Vietnam News Agency correspondents in Laos, Huong described the upcoming elections as a significant political event shaping Vietnam’s development in the coming years. She noted that the 15th National Assembly operated under exceptionally complex global and regional conditions, including increasing strategic competition among major powers, slower global economic growth, conflicts, natural disasters, climate change and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside rapid technological advances and global supply chain shifts, which deeply affected the country’s socio-economic situation.
Despite these challenges, the legislature demonstrated its role as the highest representative body through timely policies supporting socio-economic recovery, institutional reform and resource mobilisation, while ensuring national defence and security. The term also saw administrative streamlining, nationwide implementation of a two-tier local government model, and stronger digital transformation in state governance and public services, helping strengthen public trust.
Huong said overseas Vietnamese in Laos highly appreciate these achievements and take pride in Vietnam’s continued stability and rising international standing. In the context of new development goals set by the 14th National Party Congress, she stressed that deputies of the next National Assembly and People’s Councils must possess firm political resolve, innovative thinking, long-term vision and the ability to grasp emerging trends in economics, science, technology and international integration.
She emphasised that elected representatives should remain close to voters, accurately reflect public aspirations and enhance the effectiveness of legislative and supervisory activities so that policies are grounded in reality and capable of unlocking development resources.
According to Huong, the early organisation of the elections demonstrates the political system’s proactive approach in consolidating leadership structures, ensuring continuity and stability in national governance. Early personnel consolidation will help accelerate the implementation of strategic orientations and development goals, supporting Vietnam’s path toward rapid and sustainable growth.
Amid rapidly evolving global political and economic dynamics, she also highlighted the growing importance of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering dialogue, building trust and promoting international cooperation. Vietnam’s National Assembly, she said, should continue playing an active role in regional and global parliamentary forums to enhance the country’s voice in global issues while promoting legal cooperation and institutional experience sharing.
With an increasingly proactive approach to international integration, Huong and the Vietnamese community in Laos expressed confidence that Vietnam’s parliamentary diplomacy will continue contributing to peace, cooperation and sustainable development in the region and the world./.
See more
PM orders no shortages of electricity, fuel under any circumstances
Prime Minister Le Minh Hung commended the sector’s efforts in overcoming difficulties and achieving important results, particularly in proposing breakthrough policies on fuel supply amid challenging conditions.
At least 2% of state budget earmarked for cultural development
The resolution stipulates that cultural development funding will include a minimum of 2% of total annual state budget expenditure, alongside mobilised social resources.
Hanoi officials pay tribute to Lenin on his 156th birthday
The officials expressed their deep gratitude for the immense contributions by Lenin, an outstanding political theorist and eminent leader of the working class and working people worldwide, to the global revolutionary cause.
Top Vietnamese leader’s state visit to China propels bilateral ties to higher stage: Chinese diplomat
Addressing a press briefing in Hanoi on April 21, the ambassador said To Lam’s first visit to China after Vietnam consolidated its top leadership yielded significant outcomes, reinforcing political trust, deepening cooperation, and injecting fresh momentum into regional peace and stability.
NA to discuss proposal to establish centrally-run Dong Nai city
According to a Government report, Dong Nai has effectively leveraged its strategic location, historical traditions, and strengths in national defence, security, culture, and society to emerge as one of the country’s leading economic localities. The province serves as a key hub linking major development corridors and Ho Chi Minh City with the Central Highlands, the south-central coastal region, and the Mekong Delta region.
☀️ Morning digest on April 22
Party General Secretary and State President To Lam's working session with the standing board of the Ha Tinh Party Committee, President of the RoK Lee Jae Myung's beginning of a state visit to Vietnam, and 84% of Vietnam’s small businesses reporting growth last year are among news highlights on April 21 evening.
Foreign Minister hosts outgoing Mongolian Ambassador
Affirming Vietnam’s high regard for Mongolia and their longstanding friendship, Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Hoai Trung called for closer coordination to further develop the Comprehensive Partnership.
Vietnam, Ireland seek ways to step up bilateral cooperation
Hang proposed the two sides further strengthen political trust, increase high-level and all-level exchanges, and organise youth, student and cultural activities to mark the upcoming anniversary. The Deputy Minister also called on Ireland to soon ratify the EU–Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), which would create fresh momentum for economic cooperation.
ASEAN Secretary-General affirms support for Vietnam in cooperation activities
The ASEAN Secretary-General expressed confidence that Vietnam’s impressive economic achievements and consistent foreign policy will enable it to continue making active and effective contributions to regional integration and strengthening the ASEAN Community.
Foreign policy drives Vietnam’s development momentum in new era: Diplomat
The ambassador highlighted that after four decades of Doi Moi, Vietnam now ranks among the world’s 35 fastest-growing economies. The country has signed and implemented 17 free trade agreements, positioning itself as an important economic hub in the Asia-Pacific, while attracting 38.42 billion USD in registered foreign direct investment.
Korean President arrives in Hanoi, beginning state visit to Vietnam
The visit is expected to become a special milestone in the 34-year history of diplomatic relations between the two countries, marking the starting point for a strategic leap forward in the bilateral ties amid evolving global dynamics, according to Korean Ambassador to Vietnam Choi Young Sam.
Vietnam pushes people-centred priorities for Asia-Pacific at UNESCAP
Vietnam remains firmly committed to multilateralism and the United Nations’ central role in global governance. It appreciates UNESCAP’s role in translating global commitments into concrete regional action and cooperation, sharing best practices, supporting evidence-based policymaking and tackling emerging challenges.
Vietnam seeks to deepen ties with South Pacific partners
The diplomat voiced his confidence that with joint efforts, bilateral relations will continue to grow, particularly in areas of shared interest and strength. He also underscored the importance of enhancing coordination and mutual support at regional and international multilateral forums.
Ha Tinh must leverage advantages, ignite growth aspiration: Top leader
During a local working session with the standing board of the provincial Party Committee on April 21, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam urged Ha Tinh to fully recognise both the responsibility and honour of a land rich in tradition, thereby fueling an even stronger development drive.
National Assembly extends first session by half a day
A total of 462 out of 466 deputies present voted in favour, equivalent to 99.14%.
☕ Afternoon briefing on April 21
The following is a brief review of the day’s events as reported by the Vietnam News Agency.
Top leader attends 120th birth anniversary of late Party General Secretary Ha Huy Tap
Late Party General Secrectary Ha Huy Tap’s revolutionary life stands as a noble symbol of a patriotic intellectual who early embraced the proletarian ideal and the path to national salvation charted by leader Nguyen Ai Quoc (President Ho Chi Minh).
NA deputies propose higher base salary to boost public-sector motivation
A deputy of Vinh Long province stressed that adjusting the base salary is not merely a technical step but a decisive factor affecting income, motivation and the overall quality of the public workforce.
Top leader pays tribute to late Party General Secretary Ha Huy Tap in Ha Tinh province
Late Party General Secretary Ha Huy Tap's legacy continues to stand as a shining example of unwavering commitment, intellectual leadership, and selfless dedication to the cause of national liberation and the happiness and prosperity of the Vietnamese people.
Vietnam attends defence services, security exhibitions in Malaysia
This year’s exhibitions feature 15 thematic categories, highlighting modern military products such as aircraft, warships, armoured vehicles, man-portable low-range missile systems, anti-aircraft gun systems, laser weapons, as well as various types of ammunition, military uniforms, and logistics equipment serving defence purposes.