In a significant show of regional solidarity, the leaders of Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos gathered in Ho Chi Minh City on February 22 to reinforce their longstanding ties and chart a path for future collaboration. The high-level meeting brought together Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee Tô Lâm, and Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, alongside their respective prime ministers. The discussions focused on strengthening political, economic, and security cooperation amid an increasingly complex global and regional landscape.
The leaders emphasized the interconnectedness of their nations’ stability, security, and development, reaffirming their commitment to prioritizing the traditional friendship that has bound their countries for decades. They expressed satisfaction with the progress made in trilateral cooperation, particularly in areas such as defense, trade, and cultural exchange. Political relations remain the foundation of their partnership, with the three ruling parties playing a central role in guiding overall ties.
Strengthening Security and Economic Integration
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was an agreement to deepen defense and security cooperation to address both traditional and non-traditional challenges. The leaders pledged to enhance information sharing, consultation, and coordination to protect their shared interests and respond to emerging threats. This move comes as the region faces growing uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions and climate-related risks.
On the economic front, the leaders highlighted the need to accelerate integration, particularly in transport, trade, and tourism. They agreed to create breakthroughs in economic collaboration, leveraging each country’s unique strengths to boost growth and development. Additionally, they stressed the importance of expanding cooperation in culture, education, and scientific research to foster innovation and strengthen people-to-people ties.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The meeting also underscored the importance of preserving the longstanding solidarity among the three nations, which the leaders described as an “invaluable asset” and a prerequisite for peace and development. They agreed to enhance communication efforts to educate younger generations about the history and significance of their shared ties.
Looking ahead, the leaders committed to improving the effectiveness of existing cooperation mechanisms and exploring new approaches to enhance the quality of their partnership. They emphasized that their collaboration not only serves the interests of their peoples but also contributes to regional and global stability.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Hun Sen and Thongloun Sisoulith congratulated Vietnam on its upcoming milestones in 2025, including the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the south and national reunification, the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day, and the 135th birthday of President Hồ Chí Minh.
The gathering in Ho Chi Minh City marks a pivotal moment in the trilateral relationship, signaling a renewed commitment to cooperation as the three nations navigate a rapidly changing world. By deepening their ties, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia aim to build a more resilient and prosperous future for the region.
