Vietnam Cambodia Laos Cooperation: PMs Forge Strategic Ties
The Prime Ministers of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos convened in Phnom Penh on February 6, marking a pivotal moment for Vietnam Cambodia Laos cooperation. In a high-level working session, PM Pham Minh Chinh, PM Hun Manet, and PM Sonexay Siphandone agreed to shift their focus from mere scale expansion to high-quality, win-win economic efficiency.
An overview of the meeting (Photo: VNA)
Strengthening Political Trust and Traditional Ties
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized that Vietnam’s 14th National Congress prioritizes maintaining a peaceful and stable environment. He reaffirmed that Vietnam values its “close and time-honoured ties” with its neighbors.
The leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made since February 2025. This trilateral bond is not just diplomatic but strategic, aimed at deepening the traditional friendship and special solidarity that defines Vietnam Cambodia Laos cooperation in the modern era.
Five Breakthrough Areas for Future Growth
To modernize their partnership, the three leaders identified five key sectors for breakthrough development:
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Transport & Logistics: Enhancing border gate infrastructure.
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Energy: Developing sustainable and shared energy grids.
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Education: Focusing on high-quality human resource training.
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Tourism: Promoting the “One Journey, Three Destinations” initiative.
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Youth Connectivity: Raising awareness of historical ties among younger generations.
“The three economies must leverage their comparative advantages to create a unified value chain,” the leaders noted during the economic collaboration session.
Security and Border Management
A cornerstone of the Vietnam Cambodia Laos cooperation remains national security. The PMs reiterated a strict principle: no individual or force shall be allowed to use one country’s territory to harm another’s security. They pledged to tighten coordination in fighting transnational crimes, including:
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Drug and human trafficking.
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Money laundering.
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Cybersecurity threats.
A United Vision for the Mekong and ASEAN
Beyond their borders, the three nations are committed to a resilient ASEAN Community. By sharing information and supporting each other at international forums, they aim to address non-traditional challenges and maintain the central role of ASEAN in regional stability.
This meeting serves as a precursor to several upcoming milestones, including the 70th anniversary of Cambodia-Laos relations and the 60th anniversary of Vietnam-Cambodia relations in 2027.