Bac Ninh and Xay Som Bun provinces: Friendship through local diplomacy

BAC NINH - October 12 is recognized as the traditional day of the diplomatic sector of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (1945 - 2025). Along with the two Parties, two States, and the two peoples, the cooperative relationship between Bac Ninh province (Vietnam) and Xay Som Boon province (Laos) has also become a vivid symbol of the strength of local diplomacy.

From the very first steps, over the past 80 years, Lao diplomacy has played a central role in protecting national sovereignty and independence; while promoting cooperative relations with international friends to serve the country's development.

Comrade Mai Son, Permanent Vice Chairman of Bac Ninh Provincial People's Committee worked with the Xay Som Bun Provincial Delegation visiting and working in Bac Ninh province.

Through many challenging historical periods, Laos's diplomacy has continuously grown and innovated. From establishing diplomatic relations with countries in the region and the world, to participating in important international organizations such as the United Nations, ASEAN, APEC and other multilateral forums. Through that, Laos has successfully built its position as a responsible country, with a voice in regional and global issues, while making an important contribution to promoting peace , stability and sustainable development in the Southeast Asian region.

In particular, in the current context of deep international integration, Lao diplomacy always focuses on consolidating and developing traditional relations with neighboring countries, especially Vietnam - a strategic partner with a long-standing relationship based on special friendship and mutual support.

In addition to national diplomacy, local diplomacy has increasingly demonstrated its important role in strengthening friendly relations and promoting diverse and extensive cooperation between provinces and cities of the two countries. Bac Giang province (now Bac Ninh province) and Xay Som Bun province are typical examples of this form of diplomacy when the twinning relationship does not only stop at written agreements but is also realized through practical cooperation programs, bringing specific benefits to the people.

Delegation of farmers from Xay Som Bun province visited and learned about custard apple growing experience in Bac Ninh province.

The relationship between Bac Ninh province and Xay Som Bun province has transcended administrative boundaries, a typical example of effective cooperation between the two localities of Vietnam and Laos, contributing to enriching the ASEAN "big family" and the Vietnam - Laos cooperative relationship in all fields.

Bac Ninh province stands out with its diverse economic development, modern infrastructure and rich culture. Meanwhile, Xay Som Bun province is one of the key provinces of Laos, with an important strategic position in terms of economy and politics. The twinning relationship between the two provinces was established in 2021 to enhance understanding, exchange and cooperation in many fields such as: Health, culture, sports, education, agriculture, security...

Through many years of coordinating exchange programs, sharing experiences, and supporting development, the relationship between the two provinces has been increasingly consolidated and developed. Exchange activities of delegations of agricultural, medical, tourism, student, art and sports officials have contributed to deepening the friendship and raising awareness of each side's culture and traditions.

Lao officials and students visit Bo Da pagoda relic, Bac Ninh province.

A highlight in the cooperation between the two provinces is the implementation of agricultural development projects, the transfer of advanced farming technology, helping to improve the productivity and quality of crops and livestock, contributing to improving the lives of the people of Xay Som Bun province. This is also a clear manifestation of the spirit of cooperation and local diplomacy that the two provinces always aim for.

The 80th anniversary of Lao Diplomacy Day is an opportunity to look back on the proud development journey of Lao diplomacy, emphasizing the important role of diplomacy in building a peaceful, stable and prosperous country. In that picture, the twinning relationship between Bac Ninh province and Xay Som Bun province is considered a bright spot in local diplomacy, contributing to fostering friendship, strengthening cooperation and promoting sustainable development.

Article and photos: Thu Phong

Source: https://baobacninhtv.vn/hai-tinh-bac-ninh-va-xay-som-bun-tinh-huu-nghi-qua-ngoai-giao-dia-phuong-postid428569.bbg