Vietnam discusses parliamentary cooperation with Laos and Cambodia

On November 14, while attending the 15th dialogue between ASEAN leaders and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly in Manila, Philippines, Vice Chairman of Vietnam’s National Assembly Nguyễn Doãn Anh met separately with Lao National Assembly Vice Chairwoman Sounthone Xayachack and First Vice Chairman of Cambodia’s National Assembly Cheam Yeap to discuss parliamentary cooperation.

Vietnam and Laos agreed to increase exchanges between delegations and parliamentary bodies at all levels, share experience in local governance and parliamentary digital transformation, and coordinate oversight of key cooperation projects. They will consider updating the cooperation agreement signed by their national assemblies in May 2022, with a view to signing it in 2027. The Lao side also proposed stronger cooperation in training newly elected lawmakers and expressed a wish to advance key cooperation projects in transport and agriculture.

In talks with Cambodia, the two sides agreed to maintain contacts at all levels, seek the early signing of a new cooperation agreement between their national assemblies, and continue coordinating within the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, the Inter-Parliamentary Union and other forums. The Cambodian side proposed sharing more experience in legislation, budget oversight and building an electronic parliament, promoting trade, investment and the cross border movement of goods, and cooperating to combat transnational crime and protect the Mekong River’s water resources.

The two sides also discussed a new mechanism for Vietnam–Cambodia economic cooperation, set a goal of raising bilateral trade to US$20 billion, and discussed advancing connections along the Ho Chi Minh City–Phnom Penh expressway route. Vietnam and Laos, and Vietnam and Cambodia, respectively agreed to coordinate commemorative activities in 2027 marking the 65th and 60th anniversaries of diplomatic relations.

Source: VietVance