Se Kong, Quang Tri strengthen cooperation

A meeting and exchange conference between the leaders of Sekong Province (Laos) and Quang Tri Province (Vietnam) took place in Sekong on May 6. The event was co-chaired by Leklay Sivilay, Member of the Central Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Governor of Sekong Province, and Nguyen Long Hai, Alternate Member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam and Secretary of the Quang Tri Provincial Party Committee.

At the meeting, Secretary and Governor Leklay Sivilay warmly welcomed Secretary Nguyen Long Hai and the high-level delegation from Quang Tri Province. The two sides discussed the progress made in implementing the memorandum of understanding between the two provinces, as well as other recent areas of mutual interest. The Governor of Sekong also shared recent achievements in the province’s development in 2024, including effective investment by Vietnamese enterprises and Quang Tri-based companies in Sekong. He expressed hope for continued and enhanced cooperation between the two localities in the future.

Overview of the meeting. Photo: T.H

Secretary Nguyen Long Hai sincerely thanked the leadership of Sekong Province for their warm and respectful reception of the delegation.

In recent years, the special friendship and solidarity between Vietnam and Laos have been continuously reinforced and developed. In this spirit, even though Quang Tri and Sekong do not share a direct border, both provinces have maintained close ties and mutual support. Since the high-level talks and signing of the cooperation agreement in August 2023, the two provinces have actively conducted delegation exchanges, investment promotion efforts, and information sharing on socio-economic development and other areas of mutual concern. The contents of the cooperation agreement have been seriously implemented by relevant departments and agencies, producing initial tangible results.

Strengthening cooperation between Quang Tri and Sekong is particularly important in the current context, aiming to further socio-economic development and reinforce national defense and security in each province, while also contributing to the broader Vietnam–Laos friendship.

In 2024, Sekong Province achieved several positive results in socio-economic development, with its GRDP increasing by 6 percent. Infrastructure connecting the province to key economic zones has improved significantly. In particular, the Kaleum coal mine has been efficiently exploited, with large reserves providing critical resources for industrial development, exports, and fiscal revenues. These achievements not only demonstrate the sustainable development of Sekong but also create practical cooperation opportunities with Quang Tri Province, especially in the areas of transportation, logistics, trade, and mining.

Signing ceremony of cooperation agreements between the two sides. Photo: T.H

Quang Tri is currently accelerating key strategic projects. The My Thuy Port Complex is under construction, including breakwaters and piers, with a target of two piers operational by the end of 2025. Quang Tri Airport has begun essential work in preparation for the construction of its main infrastructure.

Several major transportation projects are also underway, including the Van Ninh–Cam Lo Expressway, the coastal road connecting the East–West Economic Corridor, the route linking the two branches of the Ho Chi Minh Road, and the 500kV Quang Tri Substation and transmission line. These are strategic infrastructure projects expected to drive regional development, attract investment, and leverage the province’s trade and service potential, with the goal of becoming a regional connectivity hub along the East–West Corridor connecting Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar.

Quang Tri identifies Sekong as a strategic partner in inter-regional development linking Southern Laos, Central Vietnam, and Northeastern Thailand, particularly in the areas of trade and logistics, tourism, education and training, and people-to-people exchanges. Secretary Nguyen Long Hai emphasized that the two provinces are facing numerous opportunities for comprehensive cooperation. To promote this partnership, based on the signed cooperation plans and agreed areas of interest, Quang Tri’s leadership will continue close coordination with Sekong’s leaders to instruct relevant departments and localities to effectively implement the outcomes of the 2023 high-level dialogue and the working contents of the high-level delegations. He also stressed the importance of regular information exchange, particularly regarding difficulties encountered during implementation, to ensure timely resolution.

Secretary of Quang Tri Party Committee Nguyen Long Hai presents Se Kong province with VND200 million (US$8,000) to support social welfare activities. Photo: T.H

Secretary Nguyen Long Hai further noted that Quang Tri and Sekong have great potential for economic cooperation, with a focus on coal exploitation and export via the La Lay International Border Gate.

He therefore proposed that Secretary and Governor Leklay Sivilay direct Sekong’s departments and local authorities to advise the Lao Government to consider approving a policy for establishing a coal conveyor system from the Kaleum mine to the Vietnam–Laos border. He also suggested issuing guidelines for Vietnamese (or Lao) investors to prepare proposals and invest in the Lao segment of the coal conveyor system. It is essential to create favorable conditions for investors to implement the project swiftly and in compliance with the laws of both countries.

On this occasion, the high-level delegation of Quang Tri Province presented Sekong Province with VND200 million (US$8,000) to support social welfare activities.

Ta Hung - Ngoc Mai