The special relationship between Vietnam and Laos, which has experienced many challenges and continuously developed over the years, is a priceless asset and a resource for the two countries’ development.

National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong made these remarks while receiving a delegation from Laos ’s National Assembly led by Vice Chairwoman Pany Yathotu in Hanoi on September 7.

“Therefore, preserving and fostering these special ties is a responsibility of both countries,” the top Vietnamese legislator stressed.

NA Chairman Trong expressed his wish that the two parliaments would further strengthen their coordination at regional and international inter-parliamentary forums, especially within the framework of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA).

He also said he hoped that the Lao NA will provide active support for Vietnam to help it fulfil its role as the AIPA Chair in the 2009-2010 term.

For her part, the Lao NA Vice Chairwoman said her visit aims to further strengthen exchange and cooperation between the two parliaments, helping foster and develop the special solidarity and traditional friendship between the two nations.

She thanked the Vietnamese NA for its practical and effective assistance to the Lao NA, especially in human resource training, infrastructure improvement and the provision of equipment.

She also emphasised the important role of the two parliaments in boosting bilateral ties, particularly in economics, trade and investment.

On the same day, the Lao NA delegation held talks with a Vietnamese NA delegation led by Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong.

The two sides agreed to increase the exchange of delegations, information and experiences between the two parliaments as well as between their agencies in order to strengthen the capacity of the two countries’ legislative bodies and NA deputies.

They also agreed to continue their mutual coordination and assistance at regional and international inter-parliamentary forums, especially within the framework of the AIPA.

The Lao NA delegation was also received by President of the Vietnam Women’s Union (VWU) Central Committee Nguyen Thi Thanh Hoa, who suggested NA Vice Chairwoman Pany Yathotu and other female Lao officials pay more attention to the women’s movements in the two countries and strengthen sharing of experience and mutual cooperation for peace and the advancement of women.

The Lao legislator recognised the VWU’s assistance and cooperation for Lao women, especially financial support and the exchange of experience and information.

She said she wished that in the coming time, Vietnamese and Lao women might continue strengthening cooperation to protect women’s interests as well as affirm their position in the society and their contributions to each country’s development.

During their stay in Vietnam from Sept. 6-12, the Lao NA delegation will visit the northern port city of Hai Phong./.