Da Nang, Champasak sign cooperation agreement to boost tourism and investment links

During the talks, both sides agreed to sign a new-phase Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), continuing to consolidate their traditional friendship while promoting comprehensive cooperation across key areas including economy, trade, tourism, education and training, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges.

Addressing the meeting, Secretary of the Da Nang Party Committee Le Ngoc Quang highlighted Champasak’s strong development potential, particularly in tourism, thanks to its rich and distinctive resources.

He noted that Da Nang is making efforts to implement a project to upgrade National Highway 14D, connecting the city with the Nam Giang - Dak Ta Ooc border gate, with a total investment of around US$ 200 million and a targeted completion time of two years.

The route is expected to expand development space and facilitate the flow of goods between Da Nang, central Vietnam, and central and southern Laos, including Champasak.

Emphasizing the importance of education and training, Secretary Quang described this as a key area for continued attention. Da Nang is ready to receive students and officials from Champasak for study, research, and exchange programs, as well as continue support for Vietnamese language centers serving Lao students and the Vietnamese community in the province.

He informed that, from the 2025 - 2026 academic year, the city will increase scholarships to 100% and consider expanding the number of beneficiaries based on actual demand.

The city Party chief also proposed establishing a Da Nang - Champasak Business Association and stepping up the organization of trade and tourism promotion forums and fairs to better connect stakeholders and realize cooperation initiatives.

In tourism, both sides agreed to study the development of a travel route linking Da Nang - Sekong - Champasak for domestic and international visitors, as well as the possibility of launching a direct flight between Pakse and Da Nang to enhance connectivity.

Also, cooperation in healthcare, culture, and people-to-people exchanges will also be further strengthened, contributing to closer ties and mutual understanding between the two localities.

The Party Secretary affirmed that, under any circumstances, the steadfast and trusted relationship between Vietnam and Laos in general, and between Da Nang and Champasak in particular, will remain unchanged.

He also extended New Year greetings on the occasion of Bunpimay to the Party organization, authorities, and people of Champasak, wishing them continued success in socio-economic development.

On the occasion, Da Nang donated VND 500 million to the Champasak provincial authorities to support social welfare programs.