Increasing cooperation between Ho Chi Minh city and Laos’ Xiangkhouang province

Chairman Phong confirmed during the reception that the Lao delegation’s visit to Ho Chi Minh city was of great significance as the two countries were celebrating the 55^th year since the establishment of diplomatic ties (September 5^th) and the 40^th year since the signing of the Vietnam - Laos Friendship and Cooperation Agreement (July 18^th).

He appreciated Xiangkhouang province’s socio-economic achievement, with average income per capita of USD1,500 per year - nearly doubling compared to 2012, adding that the two sides had not yet had specific cooperation projects to match the potential.

He suggested that Somkot Mangnomek make favourable conditions for increasing cooperation by exchanging delegations; facilitating investment cooperation in infrastructure building, agriculture, tourism and trade; sharing experience in high quality animal breeding models and supporting business in agricultural exploitation. 

Governor Somkot Mangnomek thanked Vietnamese localities, including Ho Chi Minh city, for making remarkable contributions to the development of Xiangkhouang province, appreciating Ho Chi Minh city's support for the Lao province in building the provincial library; providing 30-40 tons of seedling maize, as well as cows and goats each year; and granting scholarships for Lao students.

After the reception, the two sides signed a memorandum of understanding on increasing cooperation in library and museum work between the Ho Chi Minh city Department of Culture and Sports and the Xiangkhouang provincial Department of Information, Culture and Tourism./.