(Photo: VNA)

(VOVworld) – A meeting was held in the northern province of Son La on Sunday to mark the 50^th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam-Lao diplomatic ties and the 35^th anniversary of the signing of bilateral friendship and cooperation treaty. National Assembly Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong and Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Somphon Sychalon  and representatives from Lao’s 8 northern provinces were among attendees. Khamhung Huongvongsi, Party Secretary of Laos’ Hua Van province, reiterated the close relationship between the two countries in general and the two provinces of particular. Over the recent past, Hua Phan and other northern provinces of Laos have received selfless assistance from Vietnam’s provinces, including Son La in human resources and infrastructure development: “On this occasion, on behalf of the people in Laos’ northern provinces in general and in Hua Van in particular, I extend my sincere and deep gratitude to the Vietnamese Party, State and people and sister provinces, especially Son La for your great and effective assistance for Hua Phan and other northern provinces of Laos over the past years.”

At the meeting, the Vietnamese President conferred the Independence Order, first and second classes to Laos’ northern provinces. The Lao President also conferred Freedom Order, first and second classes to leaders of Son La province.

Meanwhile, around 150 stands representing local businesses in Vietnam's Son La province and northern provinces in Laos are on display at a trade exhibition in Son La until August 25. The expo is divided into two sections, one showcasing images and items illustrating the special solidarity, friendship and traditional cooperation between Son La and northern provinces in Laos. The second section features industrial, forestry and agricultural products from the two countries, as well as traditional handicrafts such as rattan and bamboo products, and brocades.