Vientiane (VNA) – From the early days of the resistance war to today’s digital media era, the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) has been a constant companion to the nation, contributing to its glorious history while nurturing the steadfast and loyal friendship between Vietnam and Laos, Lao senior officials told VNA correspondents in Vientiane on the occasion of the agency’s 80th founding anniversary.
Over its 80 years of development (September 15, 1945 – 2025), the agency has firmly established itself as a leading media organisation, serving as the official voice of the Party and State and representing the aspirations of the Vietnamese people, they affirmed.
Prof. Dr. Boviengkham Vongdara, Lao Minister of Technology and Communications and Chairman of the Lao-Vietnam Friendship Association, praised VNA’s role and the work of its correspondents in Laos. He highlighted that VNA, founded during Vietnam’s fight for independence, has a proud legacy. During the struggles against French and American forces, VNA reporters documented invaluable images and stories, informing the Vietnamese public and international audiences alike, he noted.
Today, VNA continues to evolve, embracing innovation in the era of modern media and digital transformation. VNA now delivers news across multiple platforms, including social media, allowing the public to access information about the country and the world quickly, accurately, and in real-time.
The Chairman of the Lao-Vietnam Friendship Association emphasised that, amidst the complex regional and global landscape, VNA journalists maintain professionalism, integrity, and objectivity.
VNA’s role as an "information bridge" has helped showcase Laos’ socio-economic progress to Vietnamese audiences and international friends, fostering mutual understanding and trust between the two nations. Vongdara expressed sincere gratitude to VNA for its ongoing contribution to strengthening the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Laos and Vietnam.
On the occasion of VNA’s 80th anniversary, the minister extended thanks to its reporters in Laos and all VNA staff, editors, and journalists for their dedication in nurturing the special relationship between the two nations.
From a diplomatic perspective, Lao Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane also highlighted VNA’s significant role as a respected media agency. Over its history, VNA has been instrumental in shaping public opinion, serving as the official voice of the Party and State, and representing the hopes and aspirations of the Vietnamese people. The official affirmed that VNA is a media voice with substantial influence in Vietnam’s political and social life.
Minister Phomvihane stressed the special relationship between Laos and Vietnam, forged during their joint struggle against a common enemy. VNA has been a steadfast "historical witness," faithfully accompanying both nations in their revolutionary journey.
He further emphasised VNA’s crucial role in promoting and deepening public awareness of the Laos-Vietnam special relationship, one of the most unique in the world. This bond, formed through shared struggles, remains unbreakable. Looking ahead, the minister expressed his expectation that VNA will continue to highlight the significance of the Vietnam-Laos special relationship, particularly as regional and global challenges evolve. He urged VNA to continue educating younger generations to preserve and enhance this historic relationship, which serves as a legacy for future generations.
The recognition and gratitude from the senior Lao leaders underscore that VNA is not only Vietnam’s national news agency but also a trusted bridge, strengthening the enduring Vietnam-Laos friendship. After 80 years, VNA remains a steadfast companion to the nation, contributing to the growth of this unique and unbreakable relationship between the two brotherly nations./.
