7-12-2023 (HANOI) Despite significant strides in the development of the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam (CLV) Development Triangle Area, there is a consensus among top Lao legislators, including President Dr. Xaysomphone Phomvihane, that further efforts are essential to meet the high demand for continued development in the region.
The sentiments were expressed during a press conference following the conclusion of the first Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Parliamentary Summit on Wednesday (Dec 7). Dr. Xaysomphone stressed the necessity for increased cooperation to accelerate infrastructure development, enhance security along shared borders, and reinforce collaboration in education, health, and job creation for local communities.
Acknowledging accomplishments to date, he urged the National Assemblies of the three countries to collaborate closely with their respective governments to seek ways to expedite development in the CLV Development Triangle Area, especially in the face of limited funding.
The legislators of Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam agreed to intensify monitoring and advocacy for the fulfillment of cooperation agreements, action programs, and projects previously endorsed by the governments of the three nations. Dr. Xaysomphone emphasized the need for legislators to play a more active role in monitoring and promoting the implementation of cooperation programs, particularly in areas such as connectivity, security, safety, economic development, sustainable practices, and socio-cultural collaboration.
The successful development of the CLV Development Triangle Area holds significant importance in realizing the objectives of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025. The parliamentary summit, held under the theme ‘Strengthening the Role of Parliaments in Promoting Comprehensive Cooperation among Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam,’ resulted in a joint statement showcasing the political commitments of the three countries to expand their legislative partnership.
Led by the President of Cambodia’s National Assembly, Khuon Sudary, and Vietnam’s National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue, the summit focused on fostering collaboration in politics and foreign affairs, economic matters, socio-cultural affairs, and national defense and security for the mutual benefit of those residing in the Development Triangle Area.
Key agreements include addressing issues like illegal migration, illegal marriage, and resettlement in the CLV Development Triangle Area. The legislators also committed to promoting peace, security, and development in the region. Economic and socio-cultural cooperation will see a push for enhanced infrastructure connectivity, economic collaboration, and people-to-people exchanges.
The legislators emphasized the importance of securing additional funding for the CLV area, tapping into government budgets and development partners. Vietnam’s National Assembly is set to host the second Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Parliamentary Summit in 2025, signaling a commitment to sustained collaboration and development in the region.
