Visit comes as India and Laos mark 70 years of diplomatic relations. Talks will focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation across key sectors….reports Asian Lite News Desk
Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Thongsavan Phomvihane arrived in India on Monday to co chair the 10th India–Lao PDR Joint Commission Meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit, Phomvihane’s first to India, comes as the two countries celebrate 70 years of diplomatic ties and is expected to provide fresh momentum to their longstanding partnership.
In a post on X, the MEA said the visit would help deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest and strengthen bilateral relations.
India and Laos have maintained close engagement in recent years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone in Vientiane in October 2024, where the two leaders reviewed bilateral ties and regional cooperation.
During that meeting, Siphandone thanked India for its flood relief assistance following the devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi. The leaders also highlighted India’s role in the restoration and conservation of Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through the Archaeological Survey of India.
Several agreements covering defence, broadcasting and customs cooperation were exchanged during the 2024 meeting, alongside three Quick Impact Projects under the Mekong–Ganga Cooperation initiative focused on preserving Lao cultural heritage linked to the Ramayana.
The previous India–Lao Joint Commission Meeting was held in Vientiane in November 2018.
