Thanh Hoa also pledges to create favourable conditions for the two countries’ people to intensify economic ties and cultural exchanges to build a border line of peace and friendship.

Over the past few years, the two provinces have maintained regular visits of all-level delegations. Earlier this year, they signed a cooperation agreement in socio-economic and security fields during a working visit to to Houaphanh by Thanh Hoa’s leaders.

Thanh Hoa has stepped up their economic partnership with Houaphanh. At present, 16 local enterprises are exporting their products to the Lao province. Local investors’ operations have also proved effective, contributing to the Lao province’s economic growth.

Last year, the two police forces coordinated in detecting 25 drug smuggling cases involving over 40 people.

They also worked together in the fight against the trading of counterfeit money and weapons, human trafficking, and in the prevention of illegal religious activities.