Source: VNA / Photo: VNA 

Collaboration opportunities between Vietnam and Laos remain huge for bringing mutual benefits to their farmers, said Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan at his talks with Lao Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Phet Phomphiphak on December 6 regarding bilateral engagements in agro-forestry and rural development.

As heard at the function, in May 2017, the two ministries signed a pact on cooperation in agro-forestry-fishery and rural development. The sides have regularly exchanged high-level delegations, experts and technicians to enhance join works and experience sharing in agro-forerstry, irrigation and food safety, and in forming investment partnerships.

In animal husbandry and veterinary medicine, the two sides have shared information regarding animal diseases, disease control measures, and monitoring of the transport of animals and animal products between the two countries.

They signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on collaboration in forest protection, forestry law enforcement, and the control and prevention of illegal trade and transportation of timber, forest products, and wildlife. They have also coordinated in the implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

In irrigation, the sides have cooperated in many fields, including the implementation of Vietnamese-funded irrigation projects, supporting Laos in making irrigation planning, and human resources training.

The Lao minister hoped that the two will continue to work together in the implementation of their signed projects and increase their bilateral exchanges, especially on animal and plant control, so that Vietnamese and Lao products can be better traded.

Minister Hoan said Vietnam – Laos agricultural cooperation not only brings about economic benefits but also creates space for peace and growth.

He added that the sides need to pay more attention to the economic space in the Mekong sub-region. International organisations are looking forward to choosing a number of research and cooperation sites in the Mekong region, making it an opportunity for countries to take advantage of technical consultation support. Therefore, in addition to bilateral cooperation, the two countries' agricultural sectors can shake hands with third parties who are international donors.

At the talks, the two ministers witnessed a ceremony to hand over and put into operation two irrigation works in the Lao capital of Vientiane. The projects cost over 68 billion VND (2.95 million USD), of which more than 61 billion VND came from non-refundable aid from the Vietnamese Government.