Hun Sen returns after fruitful visit to Laos

PRIME Minister of Cambodia Samdech Techo Hun Sen returned home after concluding a two-day official visit to neighbouring Laos, with fruitful outcomes.

According to a statement released by Cambodia’s foreign ministry, during the visit, Hun Sen and his Laotian counterpart Sonexay Siphandone signed two historically significant documents, namely the Treaty on Delimitation of the State Border, and the Action Plan for the Comprehensive and Long-Lasting Strategic Partnership between the two countries for 2023-2027.

Prior to the signing ceremony, the two prime ministers had an in-depth discussion on bilateral relations and on further strengthening the bonds of traditional friendship and close relations, as well as cooperation in many areas, including political security, defence, border affairs, trade and investment, air connectivity, tourism, energy and education.

Both sides noted with satisfaction that the two-way trade between Cambodia and Laos has gained a positive momentum, rising from US$160mil (RM700mil) in 2021 to US$210mil (RM920mil) in 2022, the statement said.

The two prime ministers emphasised the importance of tourism. Both sides welcomed the resumption of flights from Luang Prabang-Pakse-Siem Reap by Lao Airlines.

Hun Sen also encouraged the resumption of direct flights between Phnom Penh and Vientiane as both countries have fully reopened, it added. — Xinhua