Tô Lâm makes official state visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic

Thongloun Sisoulith and Tô Lâm on December 1 -- image via X

Various Sources

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Tô Lâm made his first official visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic in his current role, highlighting the strong and longstanding ties between Vietnam and the fellow socialist country.

Tô Lâm, arrived in Vientiane accompanied by his spouse and a senior Party and State delegation, for a two-day official visit that started Monday, December 1, 2025. The visit coincides with the 50th Anniversary of Laos’ National Day and the 105th birth anniversary of President Kaysone Phomvihane, events that add significant diplomatic and symbolic weight to the occasion.

Upon arrival at Wattay International Airport, he was welcomed by senior Lao officials, including Bounthong Chitmany, Vice President of Laos, and other politburo members of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP). He later co-chaired a high-level meeting between the leadership of the CPV and the LPRP). As part of the visit he also attended ceremonies marking the 50th Anniversary of Laos’ National Day and met with Laotian Party General Secretary & President Thongloun Sisoulith.

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The state visit also provided opportunities to highlight military and medical cooperation, such as the 20-year collaboration between the central military hospitals of Laos and Vietnam.

The visit aims to advance cooperation agreements recently signed between the Parties and the two states. It holds deep political and historical significance, reaffirming the enduring friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between them.

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The visit also aims to strengthen public understanding, especially among younger generations, about the importance of the Laos–Vietnam special relationship. It occurs at a pivotal period as both countries prepare for their 2026 National Congresses, which will define long-term political and development strategies.

The visit reinforces Vietnam’s commitment to its neighbor, expressing a high diplomatic priority for Laos and continuing the tradition of solidarity forged through mutual historical struggles and ongoing developmental collaboration.

At the end of the visit a joint statement was issued that can be read about here: Viet Nam, Laos issue joint statement on occasion of Party chief's Laos visit | Nhan Dan Online