President Truong Tan Sang hosted a reception in Ha Noi on September 16 for Lao Defence Minister Sengnoune Sayalath, who is on his first working visit to Viet Nam since taking office earlier this year.

President Truong Tan Sang (R) meets Lao Defence Minister Sengnoune Sayalath. Photo: VNA

Sayalath briefed his host on the outcomes of the talks with his Vietnamese counterpart, General Phung Quang Thanh, including the exchange of experience in strengthening their respective countries’ military capacities.

He praised the modernisation efforts of the Viet Nam People’s Army and its contributions to safeguarding national sovereignty.

The Lao defence leader thanked Viet Nam for supporting his country during its struggle for independence and the ongoing process of nation-building. He pledged to do his utmost to preserve and promote the friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Viet Nam and Laos.

Speaking highly of the cooperation between the two defence ministries, President Sang urged both sides to seek effective measures to implement agreements reached.

Both sides should increase the frequency of high-level delegation exchanges, which contribute to the strengthening of the comprehensive ties between the two countries, he added.

In the context of a rapidly changing world, Viet Nam and Laos should promote their solidarity and mutual support, bringing progress and prosperity to both countries and the region, he stressed.

(Source: VNA)