On the afternoon of January 13, 2026, continuing their field trip journey, a group of students from the International Relations major, class QH22-24, visited the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in Hanoi. Here, the students attended a thematic seminar on: “The great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic bond between Vietnam and Laos.”
Opening the meeting, Master Huynh Ho Dai Nghia shared his heartfelt thoughts, affirming that today was an “incredibly precious practical experience” as students had the opportunity to directly engage in dialogue with a foreign diplomatic mission.
MA. Huynh Ho Dai Nghia speaking during the exchange - Photos taken and compiled by the Faculty Communications Team
A touching highlight of the program was the introduction of Mr. Kimo Xaiyasith - a friend of the lecturer and also an excellent alumnus of the Faculty currently working at the Embassy. The lecturer emphasized that Kimo's presence is not only proof of open employment opportunities but also a symbol of people-to-people diplomacy. It is this sincere connection between people, and between generations of students like him, that serves as the strongest bond nurturing the Vietnam-Laos friendship. Through this, he hopes that students will have more motivation to pursue a career in foreign affairs, continuing the mission of being a cultural bridge like the generations before them.
Mr. Kimo Xaiyasith - a faculty alumnus currently working at the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic - Photos taken and compiled by the Faculty Communications Team
On the side of the host country, Ms. Latana Siharaj - Deputy Ambassador, recounted golden milestones, from the signing of the Treaty of Friendship to the establishment of diplomatic relations. She also emphasized the “16 golden words” that serve as the guiding principle for the relationship: “Great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic bond.”
Ms. Latana Siharaj - Deputy Ambassador of Laos - Photos taken and compiled by the Faculty Communications Team
Delving into the strategic essence, the Deputy Ambassador emphasized the exceptionally high level of political trust between the two Parties and affirmed that the defense relationship between the two countries has reached the highest level. Alongside the good news that the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos was recognized as a National Heritage in August 2025, Ms. Latana Siharaj shared a message that moved the entire room:
“The Vietnam-Laos relationship is one where two nations help each other without seeking benefits. We share the same path, staying side-by-side to protect and develop together. Whether in times of hardship or happiness, the two countries are committed to cooperating in all circumstances and will never abandon each other.”
She also reminded the students: “You should visit Laos to see how lovable, honest, and affectionate the Lao people are towards the Vietnamese people.”
Sharing the same sentiment, Colonel Sulaxay - Deputy Defense Attaché of Laos, expressed that the Vietnam-Laos relationship is one of brothers, closely bound together. Colonel Sulaxay believes that because they have gone through war together, sharing sweetness and bitterness, the good relationship in the past has become even stronger in peacetime.
More than just a visit, today left deep impressions on every member. After an afternoon immersed in the atmosphere of friendship, each student had new reflections.
Sharing about the change in mindset after the trip, Ngoc Khoi - a second-year International Relations student, expressed his surprise when realizing that the Vietnam-Laos relationship has transcended all conventional theories of alliances or national interests that they had learned. According to him, it is brotherhood, the determination to support each other’s growth without seeking selfish interests.
Ngoc Khoi sharing his feelings about the exchange - Photos taken and compiled by the Faculty Communications Team
In another emotional note, Minh Phuong made a poetic analogy, comparing the Vietnam-Laos brotherhood to a resilient palm tree growing in the middle of tough soil. To her, it is the most beautiful metaphor for loyalty and steadfastness; despite all the harsh fluctuations of time, that bond remains tall, green, and enduring.
The visit to the Lao Embassy has concluded, but the echoes of sincerity and hospitality remain in the hearts of every member. The QH22-24 student cohort would like to send their deepest gratitude to the Embassy for welcoming us like family members. The lessons of today will be precious luggage for us - future diplomats - to continue the mission of nurturing this special friendship forever.
Deputy Ambassador Latana and Colonel Sulaxay posing with MA. Huynh Ho Dai Nghia and MA. Kieu Diep Phuong Quynh - Photos taken and compiled by the Faculty Communications Team
Concluding this meaningful afternoon, the greatest lesson that the IR-ers learned did not lie in diplomatic documents, but in sincerity. Today’s young generation not only has the responsibility to preserve but must also continue to nurture so that the “friendship deeper than the Red and Mekong Rivers” remains forever green and enduring through the ages.
Group photo of the field trip delegation at the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic - Photos taken and compiled by the Faculty Communications Team
Executed by: Faculty Communications Team
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“FOLLOWING THE NORTHWARD PATH” is a series of articles updating information and photos regarding the 2026 Domestic Field Trip for students of class QH22-24, International Relations major, Faculty of History and International Relations, executed by the Faculty Communications Team. |
