Abstract of the doctoral dissertation by Nguyen Phuong Le

VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF HANOI

UNIVERSITY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

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NGUYEN PHUONG LE

 

 

 

VIETNAM-LAOS COOPERATION

IN THE FIELD OF CADRE TRAINING (2001-2015)

 

 

Major: International Relations

Code: 62 31 02 06

 

 

 

ABSTRACT OF THE DOCTORAL THESIS IN INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

 

 

 

 

Hanoi - 2020

 

 

The project was completed at:

University of Social Sciences and Humanities

Vietnam National University, Hanoi

 

 

 

Scientific supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Duy Dung

 

 

 

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The dissertation will be defended before the ………… Doctoral Dissertation Examination Board meeting at: Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi at …… o'clock on ….. day of ….. month of 2020.

 

 

The thesis can be found at:

- National Library of Vietnam

- Information and Library Center, Vietnam National University, Hanoi

 

LIST OF SCIENTIFIC WORKS

AUTHOR'S CONTRIBUTIONS RELATED TO THE THESIS

1. Nguyen Phuong Le (2012), "Training of Lao officials in Vietnam in the current period",Journal of Educational Theory, No. 4, pp. 65-68.
2. Nguyen Phuong Le (2018), 'Looking back at 50 years of Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of training and fostering cadres (1958 - 2018)'.Journal of Southeast Asian Studies,No. 3, pp. 53-59.
3. Nguyen Phuong Le (2019), “Cooperation in training cadres between Vietnam and Laos: Achievements and challenges”.Journal of Southeast Asian StudiesNo. 5, pp. 64-70.

 

INTRODUCTION

1. Reasons for choosing the topic

The Vietnam-Laos relationship is a traditional, friendly, and neighborly relationship, bound together by geographical conditions and the historical development of both nations. The traditional friendship between Vietnam and Laos, founded by President Ho Chi Minh and President Kaysone Phomvihane, has been diligently nurtured by the Parties, Governments, and peoples of both countries, continuously bearing fruit. Since the founding of the Indochinese Communist Party, leading the revolutionary cause of both countries, Vietnam and Laos have built a special bond of solidarity and friendship. Currently, the relationship between Vietnam and Laos is constantly strengthened and nurtured, developing deeply and broadly in all fields, from politics, economics, foreign relations, security and defense, health, culture, science and technology, to training and human resource development.

Human resource training for Laos is a traditional area of ​​cooperation with a long history between the two countries. Cooperation in training and developing cadres between the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam has strategic importance for the success of each period in the revolutionary history of both countries, contributing to preserving, consolidating, nurturing, and deepening the special friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos.

The unique aspect of cooperation in training and developing cadres, especially leaders and managers, is that it fosters a strong connection between leaders and managers and the political, ideological, cultural, and social aspects of both nations. This connection then expands and influences the sentiments of people in both countries, having a ripple effect on bilateral cooperation in many fields such as economics, culture, and society. This prioritized political task stems from the long-term national and ethnic interests of both countries.

Cooperation between Vietnam and Laos in training and developing experienced, high-quality cadres for the Lao Party and State is essential. In the context of globalization, international integration, and the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution, Laos, like many other countries, increasingly needs a workforce of capable, experienced, and diverse professionals to meet both quantitative and qualitative requirements at the central and local levels. Compared to Laos, Vietnam has strengths and experience in training cadres to assist Laos in this area. Furthermore, developing effective cooperation in cadre training benefits both sides, both in the past, present, and future.

Both sides continue to highly agree on supporting education in general, and cadre training in particular, for the goal of peace, cooperation, and development. With the guiding principle that helping the people of Laos is helping ourselves, and that helping train cadres is the most fundamental aspect of the Lao revolution, Vietnam is always ready to meet Laos's cadre training needs. In fact, the Lao cadres trained in Vietnam over the years, currently holding many important positions in the Lao political system and economic establishments, have demonstrated their capabilities, building a stronger and more progressive Lao People's Democratic Republic, and contributing to the preservation and development of Laos-Vietnam relations.

In recent times, although this field has achieved many great results, it has also revealed limitations that need to be analyzed to clarify the causes and find solutions to enhance the effectiveness of cooperation in the future. Most of the key leaders of the two Parties and States, especially on the Lao side, belong to the generation born and raised during the war; many experienced the period of national liberation struggle and deeply understand the vital importance of Vietnam-Laos and Laos-Vietnam solidarity to the revolutionary causes of both countries. The reality is that this generation of leaders from both countries will no longer hold key leadership positions in the future. They are being replaced by younger leaders, born in peacetime, with undergraduate or postgraduate education in various countries such as the US, China, Western Europe, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, possessing open political thinking and a broad perspective on economic issues and international relations... How will this affect the Vietnam-Laos relationship?

In the current trend of cooperation, major and developed countries are increasingly strengthening cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, especially the Greater Mekong Subregion countries, contributing to a new face for the region. From a relatively isolated country due to its landlocked status, Laos is gradually becoming a transit point and an important stepping stone for mainland Southeast Asia, where major countries and neighboring countries (including China) are seeking to increase their political and economic influence, especially in education and training, in order to implement their long-term development strategies. This further places the special relationship between Vietnam and Laos, and Laos and Vietnam, before enormous challenges.

Given the new international and regional context, as well as the many changes occurring in both Vietnam and Laos, timely adjustments in all areas of cooperation, especially in the training of officials for Laos, are essential and require more serious and thorough research.

Although many studies have been conducted in Vietnam on Vietnam-Laos relations in general and cooperation in personnel training in particular, there has yet to be a comprehensive and in-depth study on this issue from an international relations perspective. For these reasons, I have chosen this topic."Vietnam-Laos Cooperation in the Field of Cadre Training (2001-2015)"This is my doctoral dissertation topic, specializing in international relations.

2. Research Objectives and Tasks

2.1. Purpose

This dissertation analyzes and clarifies the theoretical basis and current state of Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of cadre training (2001-2015), thereby drawing conclusions, assessments, and proposing solutions and recommendations for developing this cooperation in the future.

2.2. Tasks

- A comprehensive study of the theoretical and practical basis of cooperation in personnel training between Vietnam and Laos.

- Analyze the current situation and evaluate the results of the cooperation process, including the main achievements and limitations in Vietnam-Laos cadre training cooperation from 2001 to 2015.

- Propose solutions and recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of cooperation in training cadres, especially leaders and managers, for the Lao People's Democratic Republic, a factor contributing to ensuring the continued sustainable development of the special friendship and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries in the future.

3. Research Subjects and Scope

3.1. Research Subjects

Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of personnel training, specifically Vietnam's training of personnel to assist Laos (2001-2015), especially in training leadership and management personnel...

3.2. Scope of research

In terms of spaceFocus on conducting research at Party organizations, ministries, departments at the central and local levels; political and social organizations; and other educational institutions in Vietnam that have been and are cooperating in training cadres for Laos.

Regarding timeFrom 2001 to 2015, this was the period during which the Governments of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Lao People's Democratic Republic completed the implementation of the 10-year long-term cooperation strategy agreement (2001-2010), and the 5-year medium-term cooperation agreements (2001-2005), (2005-2010), and (2010-2015) that had been signed.

Regarding the content:This dissertation examines the cooperative relationship in the field of personnel training, specifically Vietnam's assistance in training leaders, managers at all levels, and political cadres for the Lao Party and State.

4.Theoretical basis, research methods, and sources of information.

4.1. Theoretical basis

This dissertation approaches the topic from the perspective of international relations, drawing upon fundamental theories (Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, Marxism-Leninism), while also relying on the methodology of Marxism-Leninism, Ho Chi Minh Thought, Kaysone Phomvihane Thought, and the viewpoints, guidelines, and foreign policy principles of the two Parties and States regarding the development of the special traditional friendship between Vietnam and Laos in general, and the field of cadre training cooperation in particular, in the process of national construction and defense.

4.2. Research Methodology

Common research methods in the field of social sciences:Methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison, evaluation, logic, political science...

The pSpecific methods in international relations researchThe analytical methods are based on different levels (individual, national, international, and global), historical methods, policy analysis, content analysis through observation, document research, and the application of theories of international relations (cooperation and integration, perspectives on the balance of power, soft power, actors and interests in international relations, etc.) to analyze and evaluate the issue.

4.3. Sources of materials

This dissertation references and utilizes the following original sources and monographs:

Party documents include Resolutions of the National Party Congresses, Directives and Resolutions of the Central Committee, Politburo, and Secretariat of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) and the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP). Also included are agreements signed between the two governments, inter-ministerial circulars, and protocols of various ministries and agencies.

The dissertation utilizes official documents from Party committees, mass organizations, ministries, local authorities, and training institutions in Vietnam and Laos (documents, summary reports, statistics, etc.). In addition, the dissertation references materials and data from the Vietnamese Embassy in Laos, the Lao Embassy in Hanoi, and reports from international organizations. Scientific conference papers, articles published in domestic and international newspapers and magazines, speeches and writings by current and former leaders of the Party and State of Vietnam and Laos, and doctoral dissertations of Vietnamese and Lao students on bilateral relations in general and education and training in particular are also valuable sources of reference for the dissertation.

5. Contributions of the thesis

- This dissertation is the first research work to approach the issue from an international relations perspective, applying fundamental theories to shed more light on Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of personnel training (2001-2015), thereby helping to understand the relationship between the two countries during that period.

- Through an analysis of the current state of cooperation between Vietnam and Laos in personnel training, this thesis provides an assessment of achievements and limitations, in order to better identify this important area of ​​cooperation.

- Based on the practical experience of cooperation in cadre training during the period 2001-2015, the thesis proposes solutions to strengthen cooperation in the future.

- This dissertation is an essential reference document for teaching, research, and for agencies of both countries in cooperating on personnel training, contributing to strengthening the special friendship between Vietnam and Laos.

6. Structure of the thesis

Besides the Introduction, Conclusion, Bibliography, and Appendix, the thesis consists of four chapters with the following structure:Cscent 1Overview of the research situation;Chapter 2Theoretical and practical basis for cooperation in personnel training between Vietnam and Laos;Chapter 3Current status of Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of personnel training (2001-2015);Chapter 4Orientation of solutions to strengthen Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of personnel training.

CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF THE RESEARCH SITUATION

1.1. Research works related to the dissertation

1.1.1. Research works on Laos and Vietnam-Laos relations

1.1.1.1. Research studies on Laos

There are quite a few research works on Laos by various authors that have been published.[1]Through interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research methods and approaches from various fields, many works provide readers with information about the Lao People's Democratic Republic, such as the achievements of reform and opening up in Laos, Laos' foreign policy, Laos' geostrategic position in regional and international integration, and a better understanding of Laos in its relations with major powers, ASEAN, and neighboring countries.

1.1.1.2. Research studies on Vietnam-Laos bilateral relations

Works, topics, dissertations, and research journals by numerous authors and scientists, both domestic and foreign.[2]With varying levels, approaches, and research methods, many works have contributed to preserving historical values ​​and fostering the special relationship and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.

1.1.1.3. Research studies on multilateral relations, including Vietnam-Laos cooperation.

Research on multilateral relations, including Vietnam-Laos cooperation, is primarily approached from an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary perspective within the social sciences. Studies examine and analyze the issue at both the multilateral and regional levels, emphasizing the need for sub-regional cooperation and strengthening linkages within ASEAN. Promoting intra-ASEAN and external linkages is crucial, especially for Vietnam and Laos.

1.1.2Research studies related to collaborative training of personnel.

1.1.2.1. Vietnamese Authors:

Nguyen Si Tuan (2004), Nguyen Thi Phuong Nam (2005), Pham Van Vang (editor) (2009), Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics and Public Administration (2009), Tran Quang Quy (2012), Le Quang Manh (2017)...;

1.1.2.2.Foreign author:

Nich Kham (2003), Bulma Ketkesone (2003), Khamphan Vongphachan (2009), Touxiong Bouasytongsue (2013) mention Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of training, and there are also a number of articles in several journals and other published works.

1.2. Comments and evaluation of the research situation and issues related to the thesis.

1.2.1. Achievements

The firstThis affirms that the origins of the bilateral cooperation between Vietnam and Laos stem from the special wartime political cooperation between the two countries, which differs significantly from cooperative relations with other countries in the region and around the world. Strengthening and developing this strategic relationship has always been a common endeavor of the two Parties, the two States, and the people of both countries.

MondayThe roles of President Ho Chi Minh, Kaysone Phomvihane, and the leaders of the two Parties and two States are vividly reflected in the process of building the solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and Laos.

TuesdayVietnam and Laos are two neighboring countries with extremely close relations, serving as a solid support for each other as both countries pursue reforms, opening up, and integration. Cooperation between Vietnam and Laos in general, and in the field of personnel training in particular, has achieved outstanding results. However, in the new, complex, and unpredictable context, new challenges are emerging that require adjustments and the implementation of solutions to further enhance the effectiveness of cooperation, especially in personnel training.

WednesdayCooperation in education and training with countries in the region is in line with the general trend, creating advantages for countries to develop their internal strengths, strengthening dialogue, and promoting bilateral cooperation in all fields, bringing great benefits in politics, economics, culture, and education, consistent with the foreign policy of multilateralism and diversification of international relations.

1.3. NIssues that the thesis needs to further clarify.

Issues in research studiesNot yet clarified:

The firstHowever, there are still no studies approaching the issue from an international relations perspective to conduct in-depth, comprehensive, insightful, and up-to-date research, directly addressing the cooperation in personnel training between the two countries at the national and international levels over a long period (2001-2015). This truly represents a gap in research on the special relationship between Vietnam and Laos in general, and the field of personnel training in particular.

MondayCooperation in personnel training is an urgent and top priority in the relationship between Vietnam and Laos. However, research on this area of ​​cooperation has only been mentioned in a few journal articles, conferences, or dissertations, and remains scattered and superficial, only partially outlining the necessity of cooperation in education and human resource development, especially during the period 2001-2015.

Based on the selective inheritance of related research results, this thesis attempts to...focus on clarifyingand resolve thosemissionafter:

First,This reaffirms the significance and importance of cooperation in training cadres to assist Laos, a crucial strategic political task that contributes to fostering the special traditional friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos.

Second: A more thorough and in-depth analysis of the practical aspects of bilateral cooperation in training and developing cadres for the Lao Party and State, from ministries, departments, central-level political training schools and other training institutions, friendship schools, Party school systems, provinces, cities, and localities from 2001-2015.

Third isTo objectively identify and assess problems, and propose comprehensive and integrated solutions for all stakeholders to overcome existing limitations and improve the quality and effectiveness of cooperation in training and developing Lao officials in the future.

CSCENT 2THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONAND THE PRACTICE OF COOPERATION IN PERSONNEL TRAINING BETWEEN VIETNAM AND LAOS

2.1. Theoretical basis

2.1.1. International Relations Theories Related to the Topic

2.1.1.1. Realism

According to Realist interpretation, cooperation in education and training helps countries form alliances and partnerships, creating soft power and increasing leverage in negotiations to achieve their goals in international relations. Vietnam and Laos are two entities in international relations, two neighboring countries with a particularly close and enduring relationship throughout history. Cooperation in personnel training between the two countries is a voluntary act of cooperation at the national level between the two governments, aimed at maintaining security and political stability, continuing to build trust, and creating important synergy to counter the peaceful evolution plot and the influence-seeking activities of neighboring countries and the West in Laos. Cooperation in personnel training contributes to consolidating the integration and sustainable development of each country, strengthening the bond and deepening understanding between the two Parties, the two States, and the people of the two countries.

2.1.1.2.Liberalism

From a liberal perspective, countries are more concerned with long-term interests, cooperating to maximize benefits. Vietnam and Laos are two independent and sovereign nations. Throughout history, the Vietnam-Laos relationship has been closely intertwined due to the vital interests of both countries. Training cadres to assist Laos is a traditional and long-standing area of ​​cooperation between the two countries. While each country may have its own foreign policy in the future, both countries are more aware of their common interests and will continue to share and cooperate with each other. In the process of integration, even as the foreign policies of both countries change to suit the regional context and the realities of each country, and despite changes in leadership over different periods, the friendly cooperative relationship between Vietnam and Laos remains crucial to protecting sovereignty and interests, as well as ensuring the long-term survival of both nations. Cooperation in personnel training helps Laos contribute to ensuring benefits, spreading influence, and creating soft power that harmoniously impacts other areas of cooperation… for the common good as well as the interests of each side, contributing to the development of sustainable relations, fostering peace, stability and security in the region in general and neighboring countries in particular.

2.1.1.3. Constructivism

From the perspective of Constructivism, the Vietnam-Laos relationship is a special one, characterized by extremely close cooperation for strategic purposes, transcending ordinary partnerships aimed at common strategic goals. This relationship is essentially forged in the course of history, through the close intertwining of destinies between the two nations, the reunification of the country in the past and the current development and prosperity; it is also built upon the understanding and leadership perspectives of the two Parties, the two States, and the people of the two countries… creating a common consensus for the development goals of both nations and peoples.

From a Constructivist perspective, Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of cadre training prioritizes human resources, focusing on training a class of people with awareness and a voice in society. This helps the two countries enhance mutual understanding, contributing to the development of each country as well as the stability and peace of the region and the international community. Throughout history, the trained cadres will develop a strong emotional attachment to Vietnam, serving as a solid bridge connecting the comradely, neighborly, and fraternal relationship. According to Constructivism, cooperation in training Lao cadres contributes to the formation of shared values, norms, and identities between the two countries, further strengthening the special Vietnam-Laos relationship, which shares a common origin, and bearing fruit.

2.1.1.4Marxism-Leninism

Marxism-Leninism provides the theoretical basis for the necessity of strengthening solidarity, voluntary mutual assistance, and cooperation in the spirit of brotherhood and comradeship between Vietnam and Laos. Cooperation between the two countries in the field of cadre training demonstrates the close-knit solidarity and mutual assistance in the spirit of proletarian internationalism. This is also a creative application of Marxism-Leninism, making a significant contribution to stabilizing and maintaining political security, protecting national independence and sovereignty, building a peaceful, cooperative, and mutually trusting international environment; and creating important external resources to accelerate the industrialization and modernization of each country.

2.1.2. Concepts related to cooperation in training cadres for Laos

2.1.2.1. ConceptCcourt

This dissertation presents the concept of cadres as defined by the classical thinkers Marx, Engels, Lenin, President Ho Chi Minh, and President Kaysone Phomvihane, from the concept of Lao cadres emerging in the liberated areas of the Lao Patriotic Front, to the concept of cadres today, as well as in the context of cooperative training between Vietnam and Laos. It creates consistency regarding the role of cadres and the importance of cadre training cooperation in each specific historical context.

The term "cadre" mentioned in this dissertation today is understood to be synonymous with civil servants and officials. These are individuals selected, appointed, or assigned regular duties in ministries, central and local agencies, or in the representative offices of the Lao People's Democratic Republic abroad; who receive salaries and allowances from the State budget; and who are sent for training and professional development at colleges and universities, Master's (MSc) and Doctoral (NCS) programs; or for short-term advanced training at educational institutions within the Vietnamese national education system. The dissertation also clarifies the categories of cadres under agreements, those outside of agreements, those self-funded, and those receiving full or partial scholarships.

2.1.2.2. ConceptCooperation in international relations

"International cooperation is the peaceful coordination between actors in international relations to achieve common goals.” [173, p.14]. International solidarity for peace, cooperation and development is an important characteristic in Ho Chi Minh's thought. After the country was unified and declared independence and sovereignty, in the Appeal to the United Nations, Ho Chi Minh clearly stated the foreign policy of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (December 1946): “For democratic countries, Vietnam is ready to implement an open-door policy and cooperate in all fields.” [165, p. 470].

2.2.Practical basis   

2.2.1. TheFactors that create cooperation in personnel trainingbetweenVietnam - Laos

2.2.1.1.Factors shaping the Vietnam-Laos relationship

The special traditional solidarity between Vietnam and Laos stems from the geostrategic, geohistorical, geopolitical, geocultural, and geoeconomic factors of both countries. A full understanding of the position and role of these factors, cooperation in personnel training, and strengthening each country's internal capabilities are issues of immense strategic importance. Focusing on cooperation in training cadres for the Lao Party and State, actively leveraging the advantages of these factors, enhancing information exchange, and supporting each other in resolving international and regional issues are solutions to continue maintaining, consolidating, and fostering this ever-growing special relationship.

2.2.1.2.President Ho Chi Minh laid the foundation for the special relationship between Vietnam and Laos and for the training of Lao cadres.

Nguyen Ai Quoc laid the foundation for the Vietnam-Laos relationship to transform from a traditional one into a special one. He proactively founded the Communist Party of Vietnam, the predecessor of the Indochinese Communist Party, and led the Indochinese revolution for national liberation. The declaration of independence and the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945, and the Itxala (Free Laos) government on October 12, 1945, were the first major achievements in the special Vietnam-Laos relationship.

Nguyen Ai Quoc - Ho Chi Minh paid great attention to the training and development of Party cadres. He also conducted training courses for cadres in Guangzhou (China), and sent Lao cadres to study at the Eastern University of the Communist International in the Soviet Union. In mid-1948, President Ho Chi Minh assigned Comrade Vo Nguyen Giap to meet Comrade Kaysone Phomvihane to share experiences in cadre training, mass mobilization, and building political bases [103, p. 341]. Throughout the two resistance wars against France and the United States, President Ho Chi Minh always paid attention to building the strength of the Lao revolution. He also frequently met and worked directly with Lao revolutionary leaders (such as Souphanouvong, Kaysone Phomvihane...) to implement the task of training cadres and building revolutionary bases.

2.2.1.3.Vietnam-Laos foreign policy regarding bilateral relations.

The relationship between Vietnam and Laos is a traditional friendship and special solidarity, spanning the history of the struggle for national independence in the past as well as in the building and protection of the socialist homeland today. Strengthening Vietnam-Laos cooperation is a self-driven need and a voluntary spirit of the two nations, cooperating for national development. The leaders of the two Parties and States of Vietnam and Laos have always affirmed their determination to continue to preserve, protect, and develop the special friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, two States, and the peoples of the two countries. This is further demonstrated by the consistent and long-term viewpoint of the two Parties, as well as in the Party documents from previous Congresses, and most recently in the documents of the 12th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the 10th Congress of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party.

The 21st century continues to witness many complex and unpredictable changes in the world. Globalization continues to develop profoundly and impact all countries. Peace, cooperation, and development remain the dominant trends, and both Vietnam and Laos are not outside this trend. As members of ASEAN, the two countries are actively and proactively integrating into the international community, cooperating well on regional issues, and promoting bilateral cooperation within the ASEAN framework and at international forums such as ASEAN +3, AIPA, the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, the East-West Economic Corridor, the Vietnam-Laos-Cambodia Development Triangle, and the Mekong Subregion. Despite the changing global situation, the foreign policy of the two Parties and States of Vietnam and Laos remains consistent. The two countries continue to stand shoulder to shoulder, jointly cultivating and developing their friendship and solidarity to a new level in all fields and organizations, from the Party and State levels to the grassroots.

2.2.2.Perspectives on cooperation in training cadres for the Lao Party and State.

In the current process of national renewal, in order to integrate and develop, continuing the ideology of Ho Chi Minh and Kaysone Phomvihane, the two countries focus on cooperation in training cadres, so that the Lao cadres have sufficient capacity to lead the country, achieve the goals of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, build a peaceful, independent, democratic, and prosperous Laos, capable of international integration and competition, creating the strength to further consolidate and cultivate the special friendship between Vietnam and Laos, and gradually affirm the position of the two countries in the region and the world.

The Communist Party of Vietnam has always maintained the view that training cadres to assist Laos is a special international task with historical significance, and also an important task of its own. Throughout history, prioritizing the training of Lao cadres has been a strategically important task, contributing to the cultivation of the special solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and Laos in the past, present, and future.

2.2.3. Current situation of Lao officials and the need for official training in Laos.

In reality, Laos' human resources are currently lacking in quantity, weak in quality, inadequate in structure, and their actual competence level does not match their qualifications. There is a severe shortage of experts in macro-policy planning, and the age and gender structure is not reasonable, failing to meet the requirements of the country's socio-economic development [250]. These shortcomings necessitate the urgent need to research and innovate personnel work for the Lao People's Revolutionary Party in the current period. Effective solutions are needed to build a strong, professional team of cadres to meet the requirements of building and developing the country of Laos.

The need for cooperation between Vietnam and Laos in the field of training cadres for the Lao Party and State is immense. Since Laos joined the World Trade Organization (WTO), changing the training objectives for civil servants, especially leaders, managers, political cadres, and economic managers, has become more necessary than ever. In the coming period, Laos needs to focus on training and improving the quality of its cadres and high-tech human resources to seize the opportunities brought about by international economic integration.

Chapter 2 Summary:

Cooperation in personnel training between Vietnam and Laos has been formed and developed on the foundation of the traditional friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries. This stems from shared interests, ideological similarities, and geostrategic, political, historical, economic, and cultural factors, laid the groundwork by President Ho Chi Minh and diligently nurtured by President Kaysone Phomvihane and successive generations of leaders from both countries. The four theories of international relations discussed contribute to clarifying aspects of the bilateral relationship and deepening the nature of Vietnam-Laos cooperation in personnel training. While the international context and the circumstances in each country are changing, cooperation in personnel training between Vietnam and Laos continues to be a strategic political task, meeting Laos's personnel training needs and contributing to the further development of the special friendship between the two countries.

CHAPTER 3: THE CURRENT STATE OF VIETNAM-LAOS COOPERATION

IN THE FIELD OF CADRE TRAINING (2001-2015)

3.1.Looking back at the processVietnamcooperateTraining cadres to assist Laos before 2001.

3.1.1. The period 1954-1975

Following the 1954 Geneva Accords, both Vietnam and Laos embarked on national revolutions to gain independence and freedom. The Vietnam Workers' Party made efforts to train political cadres for Laos, meeting both quantitative and qualitative needs. Cadres of the Central Committee, Party Committees, and Provincial and Regional Commands all received short-term training in Marxist theory.ButLenin's work in propaganda and mass mobilization. The first Lao cadres, soldiers, and some young Lao people were sent to Vietnam to study at Dong Hy, Thai Nguyen. Cooperation in training political theory cadres and political lecturers between the two countries began with the activities of the Central Western Party School, later becoming the Nguyen Ai Quoc School X... Through various forms of training and education, thousands of Lao cadres were equipped with basic political and professional knowledge, promptly supplementing the core cadre force, mostly key and senior cadres, contributing significantly to creating a source of leadership cadres, meeting the urgent needs of the Lao revolution, and leading the Lao revolution to success.

3.1.2. The period 1975-2000

Following the victories of April 30, 1975 in Vietnam and December 2, 1975 in Laos, the revolutions in both countries entered a phase of national construction and defense. The need for cadre training became more urgent than ever.Fromyear1975-1990, the Communist Party of Vietnam has helped Laos train 15,127 Party, mass organization, and public cadres, security and defense cadres, and science and technology cadres [20].From year 1991-1995Vietnam trained 1,540 Lao students [93, p.192].From year 1996-2000,Vietnam trained 2,256 Lao students [225, p.15].From year 1991-2000Vietnam has trained 3,642 Lao students at university and postgraduate levels.[225, p. 15].

3.2.FrameLegal framework for cooperation in training Vietnamese and Lao officials (2001-2015)

Over the 15-year period from 2001 to 2015, Vietnam and Laos issued numerous documents related to cooperation in training Lao officials. Based on high-level agreements between the two Parties and States, the Vietnamese and Lao governments signed annual cooperation plans as well as medium-term and long-term cooperation programs. The two sides successively signed agreements on five-year cooperation in economics, culture, and science and technology (2001-2005, 2006-2010, 2011-2015, 2016-2020), a ten-year strategy for economic, cultural, and scientific and technological cooperation (2001-2010, 2011-2020), and a series of other agreements, protocols, and cooperation arrangements.

Besides the Strategic Cooperation Agreements, Agreements, and Protocols between the two Parties, two States, and two Governments, various ministries, departments, many provinces and cities, political and social organizations, and training institutions have signed memoranda of understanding, agreements, plans, and commitments within the framework of cooperation to directly train or receive Lao trainees on a self-funded basis. Provinces along the border between the two countries have also established sister-province relationships, signed documents, and cooperated in many fields, helping to train human resources for their neighboring provinces.

3.3. Standardsfor Lao studies officers in Vietnam

3.3.1. General standards for Vietnamese Lao studies officers

Lao officials coming to Vietnam for training must meet criteria regarding educational qualifications, professional expertise, Vietnamese language proficiency, health, age, etc.

3.3.2. Specific Standardsfor Lao officials learn dumbbellHo Chi Minh National Academy of Politics

Lao officials studying at the Ho Chi Minh National Political Academy, in addition to meeting the general standards for Lao officials studying in Vietnam, also have specific regulations for each training program (professional training, advanced political theory (or advanced political-administrative theory), postgraduate studies, doctoral candidates, etc.).

3.4. Training of cadres for the Lao Party and State in Vietnam

3.4.1. At some central government ministries and agencies

To date, many ministries and agencies have implemented the task of training cadres to assist Laos, with the Ministry of Education and Training as the managing agency and several other ministries and agencies such as the Ministry of National Defence, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Planning and Investment, etc.

3.4.2. At the Party School System

Training and developing leadership and management cadres for the Lao People's Revolutionary Party is an important task assigned to the Ho Chi Minh National Political Academy by the Politburo and the Central Secretariat of the Communist Party of Vietnam. Over the years, the Ho Chi Minh National Political Academy, the leading political cadre training center and the highest-level institution of the Communist Party of Vietnam, has regularly received, trained, and developed political cadres, especially leadership and management cadres, for the Lao People's Democratic Republic in accordance with the training agreement between the parties.

The Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics offers various training programs for Lao cadres: from intermediate and advanced political theory courses, university-level political science courses, completion of university-level political science knowledge courses and other specialized courses at affiliated academies, postgraduate training, doctoral programs, training of cadres in foreign affairs, inspection, organization, propaganda, foreign relations, journalism, publishing, training of political theory lecturers, especially teaching staff of the Lao National Academy of Politics and Administration and provincial and city political schools of Laos... In addition to long-term, full-time doctoral training, the Academy has also provided part-time doctoral training for high-ranking cadres of the Lao Party and State, and a completion of university-level political science knowledge courses for Lao cadres who had previously studied at the Nguyen Ai Quoc High-Level Party School, Nguyen Ai Quoc School X, and Nguyen Ai Quoc Special School in the past.

3.4.3. At central-level organizations' schools and Friendship Schools

3.4.3.1. At central-level organizations' schools

Central-level training schools (assigned by socio-political organizations to their respective training institutions) participated in training for Laos, including: the Vietnam Trade Union University (under the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor), the Vietnam Women's Academy (under the Vietnam Women's Union), and the Vietnam Youth Academy (under the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union). Participants in these courses were Lao-level and provincial-level officials from various organizations. As a result, thousands of Lao-level officials from all levels of these organizations were trained and educated.

3.4.3.1. At Friendship Schools

Friendship School T78often referred to as the "Lao school".The main purpose is to provide Vietnamese language training in Vietnam for key Lao officials to continue their education.Students studied at the Party School system (now the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics), universities, colleges, and other vocational schools. Besides those under the Agreement, the school also accepted students through cooperation and partnerships between Vietnamese sectors and localities twinned with Laos, with a small number being self-funded.

Friendship School 80Formerly known as Friendship School 80, it provides Vietnamese language training and preparatory university courses for Lao students who have graduated from high school, enabling them to qualify for the first year of university studies in Vietnam. The majority are children of high-ranking Lao Party and State leaders, and some are students with excellent academic results. Friendship School 80 also offers postgraduate Vietnamese language training for Lao students and provides 2-3 month professional training for teachers from Lao provinces.

3.4.4. In provinces, cities and localities

Several provinces and cities have proactively cooperated in training for Lao localities, including formal education, short-term training courses, Vietnamese language training, university and postgraduate education; college, vocational high school, and vocational training, according to the capabilities and strengths of each locality and the needs of Laos. The target groups include officials working in agencies, departments, and provinces/cities of Laos, and high school graduates, either self-funded or with assistance from international organizations for Laos.

Many provinces, cities, and localities in Vietnam, mainly border provinces, have established sister-city relationships with localities in Laos and implemented effective cooperation in cadre training with Lao localities such as: Dien Bien, Son La, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, Vinh Phuc, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Thua Thien Hue, Quang Nam, Da Nang, Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Binh Dinh, Dak Lak, and Ho Chi Minh City.

3.5. Current status of cooperation in training Lao officials in Vietnam (2001-2015)

3.5.1. Period 2001-2005

From 2001-2005, Vietnam trained 3,360 Lao cadres, including 2,434 long-term and 926 short-term programs, an increase of 12.94% compared to the signed Agreement [94, p.193]. Both sides continued to improve the quality and expand Lao training at the university and postgraduate levels, fostering political cadres, leaders, and managers at all levels, and cadres working in programs and projects, focusing on prioritizing the training and fostering of political cadres, leaders, and managers, increasing from 130 people in 2001 to 225 people in 2005 [26, p.57]. In 5 years, thousands of cadres graduated from universities and colleges. Vietnam trained and fostered 586 Lao political cadres, including 40 senior cadres and 105 cadres at the departmental level and equivalent. 215 Master's and Doctoral graduates, and 1008 Bachelor's graduates in economics, culture, science and technology, security, and national defense have been trained. [94, p. 193]

The policy during this period was implemented according to Circular 91/2001/TTLB-TC-KHĐT dated November 9, 2001, issued jointly by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Planning and Investment, guiding the policy for Lao and Cambodian students studying in Vietnam. This represents an increase compared to the 1996-2000 period, as stipulated in Joint Circular No. 68/TTLB-TC-KH dated November 4, 1996, issued jointly by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Planning and Investment: 20% for undergraduate programs, 35% for postgraduate programs, and 61% for short-term training courses. The training cost allocation was primarily adjusted to cover the living expenses enjoyed by Lao officials. The proportion of expenditure and benefits received by Lao officials accounted for 47.6% of the annual training allowance.

3.5.2. Period 2006-2010

Continuing to strengthen comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos to a new level, in the period 2006-2010. Responding to Laos' economic and social development needs, and at their request, Vietnam has increased the number of scholarships for Laos annually, exceeding the agreed-upon quota for long-term undergraduate and postgraduate training, full-time, in-service, and short-term training (in economics, culture, education, science and technology, defense, security, mass organizations, and socio-political fields...).

During the period 2006-2010, Vietnam granted 3,518 new scholarships to Lao officials. The average number of Lao officials studying in Vietnam under the Agreement was 2,398 per year, an increase of 27.2% compared to 2001-2005. Over the five years (2006-2010), Vietnam received 973 Lao officials for study and research in political theory and management. Compared to the previous five years, the number of Lao officials increased 1.78 times, and the capital allocated for training increased 2.31 times. According to statistics from the Ministry of Planning and Investment, of the non-refundable aid funds assisting Laos in implementing targeted programs, 62.1% of the capital was invested in education and training of Lao officials in Vietnam (43.17% for training Lao officials in Vietnam, and 18.9% for building training facilities in Laos).

Regarding the policy on cooperation in training Lao officials during the 2006-2010 period: In 2006, Circular No. 16/2006/TT-BTC dated March 7, 2006, issued by the Ministry of Finance, replaced Circular 91. This circular stipulated the expenditure regime for training Lao officials studying in Vietnam, with the scholarship portion received directly by the trainees (including food, clothing, and pocket money). According to Circular No. 16, Lao officials under the Agreement were entitled to preferential policies and benefits such as scholarships, living expenses, dormitory accommodation, initial provision of materials, and textbooks as prescribed; They receive healthcare, health insurance, transportation support, travel expenses during summer holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year), assistance with temporary residence and immigration procedures, etc. Scholarships have increased by approximately 160% compared to before, and the living and learning conditions of Lao officials in Vietnam are gradually improving.

However, the implementation of Circular 16 still has many shortcomings, failing to fully meet the funding needs for study and living expenses at training facilities of the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security. In particular, the food allowance for Lao trainees is lower than that for Vietnamese trainees, significantly affecting the quality of training for Lao security officers. After two years of implementing Circular 16, the Ministry of Finance has initially adjusted the food allowance for Lao trainees in Vietnam according to Circular No. 41/2008/TT-BTC dated May 22, 2008, providing an additional 50% compared to the regulations in Circular No. 16.

3.5.3. Period 2011-2015

According to statistics from the Ministry of Education and Training, during the period 2011-2015, the number of Lao officials trained under the Agreement was 2,606. Each year, Vietnam increased the number of scholarships by 10% or more, with some targets in the field of national security and defense maintained until 2020, including short-term training for officials of Party committees, mass organizations, socio-political organizations, security, defense, ministries, and local departments; and doctoral, master's, and bachelor's degree training.

During the 5-year period (2011-2015), the number of trained and retrained cadres increased quite rapidly. By the end of 2011, Vietnam had 127 training institutions for Laos with 5,507 people [206] (nearly 4000 trainees outside the Agreement), by the beginning of 2015, there were 150 training institutions with 9,295 people, including: 3,780 people under the Agreement, 3,090 people under cooperation between localities and ministries, 20 people under international organizations' sponsorship, 110 people under enterprise sponsorship; and 2,295 people under self-funded sponsorship.

The policy for training Lao officials during the 2011-2015 period continues to apply the Circular in effect from 2006-2010 until the issuance of the new Circular, Circular 120/2012/TT-BTC dated July 24, 2012, of the Ministry of Finance on the training allowance regime for Lao and Cambodian students (under the Agreement) studying in Vietnam. In addition to the scholarship received directly (including food, clothing, and pocket money), allowances for holidays, initial allowances, actual expenses, thesis/dissertation costs, hospitality expenses, travel allowances, sports and cultural activities, etc., are provided according to established norms, ensuring adequate living and learning conditions in Vietnam. On September 24, 2014, the Ministry of Finance issued Circular No. 140/2014/TT-BTC, amending several articles of Circular No. 120, which came into effect on December 1, 2015, increasing scholarships for Lao students by 25%.

3.6. Evaluation of the results of cooperation in training Vietnamese and Lao officials (2001-2015)

3.6.1. Achievements 

Over the years, cooperation in education and training has been one of the most effective areas of cooperation between the two countries. Looking back at the process of training cadres for Laos, in the spirit of the special solidarity between Vietnam and Laos, from 2001 to 2015, cooperation in training cadres for the Lao People's Democratic Republic achieved significant results: the scale of cooperation has grown, the forms have become more diverse, the scope of cooperation has expanded, the number of Lao cadres trained has increased, and the types of cooperation have become more varied.

Vietnam has proactively and progressively addressed shortcomings to improve the quality of cooperation in training Lao officials. With the efforts of both sides, and in the spirit of the special relationship, cooperation in education and training between the two countries has seen many positive changes. During implementation, the quality of training has gradually improved, specifically: The selection of officials under the Agreement has improved. The issue of ensuring the quality of Vietnamese language training for Lao students has also been emphasized, with adjustments to the curriculum and training methods to better suit the practical conditions of both countries. The organization and management of Lao training have become more rigorous. Facilities, equipment, and teaching and learning resources have been upgraded. Ideological, moral, and traditional education has been prioritized. Despite many difficulties, Lao training institutions in Vietnam have strived to gradually improve living and learning conditions, facilities, and the well-being of Lao officials is receiving increasing attention. Every year, Lao officials are given the opportunity to visit and go on excursions, attend festivals and holidays; participate in cultural and artistic exchanges, sports activities, and entertainment, in order to increase their understanding of the traditions of Vietnam and its people, as well as the special relationship between the two countries.

Vietnam has continuously increased its aid for training cadres in Laos. Besides support from the state budget through government-level cooperation agreements, many provinces, cities, and universities and colleges in Vietnam have signed cooperation projects for training and professional development with ministries and agencies, twinning programs, direct training with Lao partners, and have accepted Lao cadres through other funding sources on a self-funded basis. Most provinces, cities, and localities in Vietnam that have twinning or bilateral cooperation agreements with Lao localities allocate funds for scholarships to train Lao cadres.

3.6.2. Existing limitations

3.6.2.1. Regarding the coordination mechanism between the two sides

The coordination mechanism between the two sides is not yet tight and synchronized in implementing the Protocol, commitments, agreements, regulations, and training rules. For twinning cooperation programs between localities, some cooperation contents are based on subjective wishes from the Lao side, exceeding the commitments between the two governments and the capabilities of the ministries, sectors, and localities on each side. When selecting officials for training, sometimes the Lao side has not properly implemented the regulations and conditions for each level of study, and postgraduate students have been selected for unsuitable specializations. Coordination between different levels and functional sectors, as well as the agencies managing Lao trainees in both countries, has not been frequent or synchronized, especially for self-funded trainees.

3.6.2.2. Regardingctraining management

The management of training for Lao officials is still not rigorous. Locally, there is a lack of unified management regarding the plan, content, and duration of training and professional development for Lao officials. The management and care for the material and spiritual well-being of Lao officials are sometimes inadequate. There are also no specific regulations for rewarding Lao officials who achieve high performance during training...

3.6.2.3. Regarding cadmissions

The admissions process is still not rigorous enough, the quality is not high, and Vietnamese language proficiency is limited. In the scholarship program, sometimes candidates are not properly categorized and screened based on their actual abilities and academic potential. Applications sent to Vietnam are also delayed, causing difficulties in the admissions, training, management, and diploma issuance processes.

3.6.2.4. Regarding cquality of training

The quality of training still has some issues that need to be addressed: regarding training programs, curricula, learning materials, teaching staff, Vietnamese language training, facilities, and the organization of practical research...

3.6.2.5.Aboutcpolicy regime

Cpolicy regimeThere are still many shortcomings that need improvement. Funding for practical research is limited.Lao language interpreting services face difficulties in both manpower and remuneration, affecting the quality of training. The allocation of funds between training institutions and individual trainees is unclear and inconsistent, making implementation difficult. On the Lao side, the incentives for Lao officials studying in Vietnam are still limited.

Summary of Chapter 3

Continuing the work of training cadres to assist Laos before 2001, and in accordance with the Party and State's policies and cooperation strategies, agreements, and treaties between Vietnam and Laos, from 2001 to 2015, despite many difficulties, the Government, ministries, central and local agencies, and organizations continued to prioritize cooperation in cadre training with Laos. Recognizing that training Lao cadres is an important political task, depending on their nature, functions, duties, and capabilities, ministries, agencies, provinces, cities, localities, and training institutions have all strived to contribute to the training of cadres to assist Laos, consolidating and developing the special, long-standing neighborly friendship and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.

Through the implementation of strategies, cooperation agreements signed between the two governments, and annual cooperation plans in various fields, Vietnam-Laos cooperation in training cadres has achieved many significant accomplishments, meeting the essential needs for cadres for the Lao Party and State. Although Vietnam has made many efforts to improve the quality and effectiveness of training to suit the reality, cooperation in training cadres for Laos during the period 2001-2015 still has limitations that need to be addressed and lessons learned for the future.

CHAPTER 4: ORIENTATION OF SOLUTIONS TO STRENGTHEN VIETNAM-LAOS COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF PERSONNEL TRAINING

4.1. Objectives, directions, and prospects for cooperation in training Lao officials.

4.1.1. Objectives

We reaffirm that cooperation in training and developing cadres for the Lao People's Democratic Republic is a special political task of the Party and State. This is the core element contributing to consolidating and developing the traditional friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation, ensuring the continued sustainable development of the Vietnam-Laos relationship between the two Parties, two States, and the peoples of the two countries in the future.

4.1.2. Direction

In the coming years, both Vietnam and Laos need a shared long-term vision, a strategic vision built and implemented within the context of a region and each country facing intertwined advantages and challenges, along with very rapid changes. Vietnam and Laos are striving to elevate their friendship to a new level, focusing on quality and effectiveness, especially in the field of personnel training.

Strengthen the Party's leadership and the State's management in reforming cadre training for Laos. Continue to thoroughly understand and concretize the fundamental and comprehensive viewpoints, goals, and tasks of cadre training in Laos within the political system, in the field of education and training, and throughout society.

Strengthen cooperation in training Party and State officials. Focus on cultivating and training mid-level and senior leadership and management officials in the political system, and key State leaders. Prioritize the selection of key leaders and potential leaders in the Lao political system, paying attention to training the children of senior officials, families with meritorious contributions to the revolution, and outstanding students and young people in their studies and work to train as potential leaders in Vietnam. Focus on training young generations of officials to prepare them well for the future transfer of power, considering this one of the most important policies to continue building cooperation in training officials to help Laos, in order to consolidate and promote the special relationship between the two countries.

Continuously raise awareness among all levels and sectors about the role, position, and particularly important significance of cooperation in cadre training within the special Vietnam-Laos relationship for the security and politics of each country. Preserve, develop, and further deepen this rare and special political relationship, not only at the high leadership level but also permeating all strata of the population, especially the younger generation.

In the coming period, there should be innovation in information and communication work to unify understanding and create consensus on the training and development of Lao trainees. Emphasis should be placed on political and ideological education in the training of Lao cadres.

4.1.3. Prospects

Cooperation in education and training will remain a priority area in Vietnam-Laos relations in the coming period, aiming to strengthen solidarity, enhance and continuously consolidate and develop bilateral relations between the two countries in both breadth and depth.

Opportunities for training are promising: Laos has a need and desire for Vietnamese support, and Vietnam is qualified and ready to meet their requirements. Experience gained from the training process will provide valuable lessons for further improvement, enhancing quality, increasing quantity, diversifying training types, and improving management. However, numerous challenges remain, requiring efforts from both sides: economic difficulties (affecting funding for training), selecting personnel and training methods suitable for the new phase, competition, and unfavorable international factors... all of which will negatively impact the strengthening of cooperation in general, and in the field of personnel training in particular, between Vietnam and Laos.

4.2. Solutions to strengthen cooperation in training Vietnamese and Lao officials

In order to improve the effectiveness of cooperation in training Vietnamese and Lao officials, the issue...

Improving the quality of cadre training for Laos is one of the key areas to focus on, with the following overall solutions:

4.2.1. Muscle stimulationA collaborative approach from both sides in training cooperation.

The two Parties, the two States, and relevant agencies need to coordinate closely in implementing cooperation in training cadres for Laos, ensuring it aligns with Laos' cadre planning and training plans. Both sides need to cooperate effectively from the planning stage to expanding the scale of training.,To effectively manage and handle issues arising in the training of Lao officials and trainees, it is necessary to strengthen close coordination between the relevant ministries, training institutions, and the Lao Embassy in Vietnam to effectively manage the personnel assisting Laos in the future.

4.2.2. EnhancementManagement of cooperation in training Lao officials

- Strengthen supervision, inspection, and evaluation of training cooperation management. A comprehensive review and assessment of the results of national-level training cooperation for leaders and managers across all sectors and levels is necessary.

- Continue to innovate in management practices and regularly pay attention to and support Lao officials.

4.2.3. Improving the quality of cadre training for Laos

4.2.3.1. Continuously expanding the scale and types of training for Lao officials.

4.2.3.2. Diversifying the target groups and methods of cooperation in personnel training.

4.2.3.3. Improving the quality of program and curriculum content.

4.2.3.4. Emphasize Vietnamese language training for Lao students.

4.2.3.5.Promoting scientific research activities.

4.2.3.6. Strengthening the education of learning and training awareness for Lao students.

4.2.4.Nimprove qualityteamofficials,lecturer

4.2.5. Upgrading the technical infrastructure of training facilities.

4.2.6. Increase funding for cooperation in training Lao officials.

4.3RecommendationRegarding cooperation in training officials for Laos.

4.3.1. For Vietnam

4.3.1.1. With the Party and the State

The Central Organizing Committee needs to play a leading role, taking responsibility for exchanging and agreeing with the Central Organizing Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party on cooperation policies, plans, and targets for training and fostering political cadres to assist Laos. At the same time, it should direct relevant ministries, departments, and localities to adjust funding, facilities, and policies to suit the actual situation.

4.3.1.2. For the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics

Continue to innovate in training: scale, content, forms and facilities, management staff, interpreters... in order to improve training quality; Expand the scale and types of training for political cadres, strengthen short-term knowledge update courses, and continue to implement the policy of training and fostering political teachers for provincial and city political and administrative schools to assist our partners.

4.3.1.3. For Ministries, sectors, and localities

Proposing recommendations to the Ministry of Education and Training, the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the Ministry of Finance, and local authorities to enhance the effectiveness of cooperation in training Lao officials.

 4.3.2. For the Lao People's Democratic Republic

- There is a need to innovate cooperation in training leadership and management personnel, starting from the planning stage, with an overall strategic training orientation appropriate for each stage.

- Laos needs to review and select the right candidates for training programs for key officials at the central and local levels. They should nurture young talents and proactively create a pool of students to study in Vietnam to meet the immediate and long-term needs of each official.

- You should pay due attention to and rigorously implement the admissions process, ensuring quality in accordance with the agreed-upon commitments regarding diplomas and certificates, in order to meet the standards for each training program.

- Training and developing a team of cadres to assist Laos must stem from the political requirements and tasks of the Lao Party and State, paying attention to all three generations (old, middle-aged, and young). Continue training highly qualified experts and reserve forces, ensuring a balanced generational structure.

Summary of Chapter 4

To further build upon the achievements already made, it is necessary to forecast the goals, directions, and prospects for cooperation in training and developing cadres for Laos, drawing lessons learned and refining the most comprehensive and fundamental solutions so that the proposed solutions and recommendations are feasible. Seriously implementing measures to improve the quality of cadre training for Laos is a top priority and of paramount importance to Lao cadre training institutions. To date, Vietnam continues to make every effort to improve the quality and effectiveness of the cooperation process. Cadre training for Laos remains a priority, and the results of cooperation in this field will contribute positively to consolidating and developing the special friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, two States, and peoples of Vietnam and Laos.

CONCLUDE

The Vietnam-Laos relationship is a special friendship and solidarity, forged and affirmed in practice and nurtured by the blood of our compatriots and soldiers, by the sacrifices and struggles of many generations of Vietnamese and Lao people. It has become an exemplary, loyal, and pure relationship, an invaluable asset of the two Parties and two nations, and one of the factors ensuring the success of the revolutionary cause of each country. Consolidating and strengthening the special friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos is a strategic policy of the Vietnamese Party and State.

Cooperation in training and developing cadres for Laos is a necessary and urgent task, of paramount importance to each period of the revolutionary history of each country, as well as in the current cause of national construction and defense. In times of peace and national revival, the issue of human resources plays a decisive role in the breakthrough and development of each country. The consistent viewpoint of the Lao Party and Government is to rely on Vietnam's traditional assistance to train leading, managerial, and professional cadres in each stage of Laos's development, together advancing along the socialist path. The training and development of leading and managerial cadres for Laos holds a particularly important position, serving as concrete evidence of the solidarity and friendship between the two countries, and one of the foundations ensuring the increasingly close and sustainable development of the special Vietnam-Laos relationship. Over the years, Vietnam has actively trained and developed cadres for Laos, achieving many important accomplishments and earning the trust and high regard of its Lao counterparts.

Continuing the tradition of training cadres to assist Laos, at their request, from 2001 to 2015, Vietnam trained and nurtured cadres for the Lao Party and State through various rich and practical programs. Despite many difficulties, the Vietnamese Party, Government, and State always showed sincere and goodwill and provided the best possible learning conditions for Laos.

Over the years, Vietnam has essentially fulfilled its important tasks and special international mission, contributing to the development of a politically sound and professionally competent cadre, meeting the requirements of Laos's reform policies and successfully building a peaceful, independent, democratic, unified, and prosperous Laos. This is an opportunity to uphold the spirit of self-reliance in combating the "peaceful evolution" plot, aiming to firmly preserve and protect the revolutionary achievements that both countries have painstakingly built. This is also an opportunity for cadres, especially the younger generation of Lao cadres, to be educated and trained to clearly understand, continue to protect, and build the special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, two States, and peoples of the two countries, making it even stronger and deeper.

However, in the context of globalization and international integration, the Lao People's Democratic Republic is pursuing a multilateral and diversified foreign policy. Vietnam is accepting competition in human resource training with countries seeking to influence Laos (especially China), requiring coordination among ministries, departments, and provinces and cities from the central to local levels. Each training institution must undergo significant innovation to train Lao officials appropriately.

This study on Vietnam-Laos cooperation in the field of cadre training (2001-2015) for the Lao Party and State, based on the viewpoints, guidelines, policies, and practical implementation of the Party, points out the main achievements and existing limitations, and proposes recommendations and solutions to strengthen cooperation in cadre training for Laos in the future.

To fulfill long-term strategic international tasks, coordination among ministries, departments, and functional agencies of both countries is necessary, as well as the efforts of trained Lao officials. However, the fundamental solution to improving the quality of Lao official training still lies with the training institutions themselves. For Lao official training to be highly effective, the role of Lao trainees is also extremely important. The great efforts of the trainees themselves, and the learning outcomes of Lao officials trained in Vietnam, contribute significantly to the effectiveness of cooperation between Vietnam and Laos in this traditional field.

The prospects for Vietnam-Laos cooperation in general, and cooperation in the field of training and developing cadres in particular, are very promising. Building on the tradition of solidarity and mutual assistance in the past, as well as the potential strengths of each country in the current cause of national construction and defense, with the efforts of both sides, we are confident that cooperation in training and developing cadres for Laos in Vietnam will be strengthened and developed.

Vietnam not only considers the training of cadres to assist Laos as a responsibility and obligation to build Vietnam-Laos solidarity, but also as a loyal and steadfast expression of affection and loyalty to the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Vietnam is wholeheartedly dedicating its intellect and strength to the leadership and training of cadres for the Lao revolution, serving the fundamental and long-term interests of the people of both countries, and contributing to consolidating peace, stability, friendship, cooperation, and development in Southeast Asia and the world.