General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, To Lam.

To Lam’s state visit signals new boost for Laos-Vietnam ties

The state visit to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic by the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, To Lam, and his wife, on February 5-6 is a diplomatic milestone that reaffirms the enduring special relationship between the two countries.
The Vietnamese Party General Secretary is visiting Laos at the invitation of the Secretary General of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and President of Laos, Thongloun Sisoulith. This will be To Lam’s first foreign visit in 2026 and his first to another country following his re-election as General Secretary of the CPV at its 14th National Congress on January 23.
The visit reflects Vietnam’s prioritisation of the great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic partnership with Laos. Notably, To Lam will be the first dignitary to pay a state visit to Laos since the LPRP’s 12th National Congress last month.
Reciprocal high-level visits strengthen trust
To Lam’s visit follows closely after Thongloun Sisoulith’s state visit to Vietnam on January 26-27, his first foreign trip after being re-elected as LPRP Secretary General. Accompanied by his wife and a high-ranking delegation, Laos’ Party General Secretary held extensive talks with General Secretary To Lam, during which the two leaders reviewed aspects of their cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global developments.
The two leaders congratulated one another on the success of their respective Party congresses and expressed satisfaction with the deepening of Laos-Vietnam relations in political, diplomatic, defence, security, economic, and socio-cultural spheres.
Political relations remain characterised by a high level of mutual trust, while cooperation in defence and security continues to serve as a firm foundation of the relationship. Trade and investment ties have also shown positive momentum, with major cooperation projects being effectively implemented through late 2025 and early 2026.
Economic cooperation gains new strength
The value of trade between Laos and Vietnam rose to nearly US$3 billion in 2025, with the two countries aiming to achieve a two-way trade value of US$5 billion in the near future. Vietnam remains one of Laos’ leading investors, contributing significantly to socio-economic development and cross-border connectivity.
The two sides welcomed the outcomes of the 2026 Politburo meeting and the 48th meeting of the Laos-Vietnam Intergovernmental Committee, which have injected fresh momentum into shared developments in economic, cultural, scientific, and technical fields.
Key infrastructure projects, including the Vientiane-Hanoi expressway and the Vientiane-Vung Ang railway, are expected to play a transformative role in enhancing regional connectivity and supporting Laos’ vision to become a “land-linked” nation.
Shared vision for long-term development
During his visit to Hanoi, Party Secretary General Thongloun briefed Vietnamese leaders on the key outcomes of the 12th National Congress of the LPRP, which outlined long-term development plans, including the 10th five-year National Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2026-2030, a 10-year development strategy, and the Vision to 2055.
Vietnamese leaders welcomed these plans and objectives and reaffirmed their readiness to continue close cooperation with Laos in economic development, capacity building, and socio-economic management, noting that effective coordination would contribute to stability and growth in both countries.
A bond forged in history, sustained for the future
Speaking on the occasion of important national milestones, General Secretary To Lam praised Laos’ resilience and achievements over the past 50 years, highlighting the historic bonds forged during the revolutionary struggle and the shared sacrifices of both peoples.
The two countries share deep historical roots, originating from the Indochinese Communist Party and guided by the legacies of President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane, and President Souphanouvong. This unbreakable bond has enabled both nations to overcome adversity and pursue development while safeguarding independence and sovereignty.
The two leaders have underscored the importance of educating younger generations about the historical foundations and enduring value of the Laos-Vietnam special relationship, ensuring this bond is nurtured and preserved in the years to come.
Looking ahead
General Secretary To Lam’s state visit is expected to further consolidate political trust, promote strategic cohesion, and open new avenues for cooperation in infrastructure, trade, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
Amid complex regional and global developments, the visit stands as a powerful symbol of unity and determination, reaffirming that the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Laos and Vietnam will continue to flourish, bringing tangible benefits to the peoples of both nations.
Laos and Vietnam share a 2,069-kilometre long border. They also share a political vision, a historical journey and a profound commitment to safeguarding independence and advancing national development together.

By Khonesavanh Latsaphao
(Latest Update February 5, 2026)