The event was attended by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong, President Tran Dai Quang, Chairwoman of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, and former Party and State leaders. The Lao delegation included Permanent Member of the Lao Revolutionary People’s Party’s Central Committee Secretariat and Vice President Phankham Viphavanh and Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Thongsavanh Phomvihane.

Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong addresses the Vietnam-Laos anniversary in Hanoi, July 18, 2017.

Participants highlighted the special solidarity and friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos. Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong said: "Both countries should be proud to see the development of the special solidarity over the last 55 years.  Our relations have developed sustainably from long traditional relations. Our peoples have always supported each other, united to fight common enemies, and built an equal, friendly, win-win cooperation."

Mr. Trong urged the two countries to continue to enhance their comprehensive partnership, which is a foundation for a sustainable development and successful international integration.

Mr. Viphavanh said Laos will do its utmost to protect its special friendship with Vietnam, adding that the friendship will stay strong no matter what happens. He said this special solidarity and comprehensive partnership between the two countries will be enhanced from generation to generation and contribute to the world’s peace and prosperity.