Vientiane: Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam Nguyen Chi Dung, at the invitation of Lao Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, paid an official visit to the Lao PDR from July 9-11, 2025, aimed at deepening the longstanding cooperation between the two nations.According to Lao News Agency, on July 9, DPM Saleumxay Kommasith held bilateral talks with his Vietnamese counterpart in Vientiane, with relevant delegations from both countries in attendance. DPM Saleumxay extended a warm welcome and congratulated Mr. Nguyen Chi Dung on his recent appointment as Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister, acknowledging the trust placed in him by the Vietnamese Party, State, and people.Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the special solidarity, friendship, and comprehensive cooperation between Laos and Vietnam. They shared updates on their respective socio-economic development, notably highlighting progress in structural reforms and digital transformation across key sectors.The Deputy Prime Ministers reviewed the implementation of the 2025 Laos-Vietnam Cooperation Agreement during the first half of the year. They noted progress in several areas, including political and foreign affairs, national defense and security, education and human resource development, trade, investment, and Vietnam's grant aid projects in Laos.Looking ahead, the two leaders agreed on priorities for the remaining half of 2025. These include accelerating key projects such as the Vientiane-Hanoi expressway, drafting the 2026-2030 bilateral cooperation agreement, and preparing for the 48th bilateral cooperation meeting scheduled for 2026.On behalf of the Lao Party, State, and people, DPM Saleumxay expressed gratitude to Vietnam for its continued support throughout Laos' national liberation, reconstruction, and current development efforts.In response, DPM Nguyen Chi Dung thanked the Lao side for the hospitality and pledged continued cooperation in implementing high-level agreements to achieve outcomes that will further strengthen bilateral ties.The visit concluded with a business forum between Lao and Vietnamese entrepreneurs and the signing of a revised protocol on electricity and coal trade between the two countries.