Five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between India & LAO PDR for the implementation of five Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in the fields of education, health, water facility and IT. The MOUs were signed during the 3rd round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held between India and Lao PDR in Vientiane. Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune, Deputy Foreign Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lao PDR led their side and Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs led the Indian side, respectively.
India & LAO PDR share profound religious, cultural, and people-to-people connections stretching far back into history. The countries also share excellent political relations, which is why Lao PDR has been supportive of regional & international concerns about India, including our claim of permanent membership of the UNSC.
After conducting a comprehensive review of the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, both sides discussed ways to bolster cooperation in various domains, including agriculture, health, education, defence, heritage conservation, development partnership, economic and trade ties. Moreover, they also exchanged their perspectives on regional & global issues of shared interest while reaffirming their commitment to collaboration within multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, ASEAN, and Mekong Ganga Cooperation.
The Indian side expressed gratitude for the cooperation provided by LAO PDR in its role as the Country Coordinator for Mekong Ganga Cooperation. Additionally, the Indian side reiterated its unwavering support for LAO PDR as the country prepares to assume the Chairmanship of ASEAN in the upcoming year.
Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs paid a courtesy call to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lao, PDR Saleumxay Kommasith.
India’s historical and cultural links with the Lao PDR have strengthened with time as both countries share convergent views on many issues of mutual interest in international forums.
India is committed to continuing its development partnership with Lao PDR, a valued partner in India’s extended neighborhood. The next round of Foreign Office Consultations will be held in New Delhi.
