The Lao delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Chansamone Chanyalath. The welcome ceremony was chaired by Vietnamese Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang.

The exchange is being held from October 22-23 in Moc Chau district (Son La province) and Sop Bao district (Houaphanh province). This is an important defence diplomacy activity for the two Ministries of National Defence in 2024, stemming from the directives of both Parties and States to build a shared border of peace, friendship, stability, and cooperation for mutual development.

This is also an opportunity for the two countries to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, which has been identified as a key pillar of the Vietnam-Laos great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation.

It is expected to contribute to reinforcing the close-knit relationship between the two countries, particularly among local Party committees and authorities, and border residents. At the same time, it emphasises the responsibility of both countries’ border guards to work closely and effectively together in managing and safeguarding the border and markers, combating crimes, supporting poverty alleviation, and building a border of peace, friendship, stability, and cooperation for mutual development.