VIENTIANE (Laotian Times): Laos and Japan have upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking 70 years of diplomatic ties and paving the way for closer collaboration in trade, travel, and regional cooperation.
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru recently signed a joint declaration on upgrading to a comprehensive strategic partnership as part of Lao PM’s official visit to Japan from 20 to 23 January.
On the same day, the two leaders discussed strategies to strengthen trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
Among the key announcements was Laos’ plan to extend visa-free stays for Japanese citizens from 15 to 30 days, as well as efforts to encourage the launch of direct flights between the two countries to boost economic and tourism ties.
The summit also underscored Japan’s longstanding role in Laos’ development. Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone expressed gratitude for Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA), which averages USD 90 to 100 million annually, and has supported key sectors such as education, infrastructure, and unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance.
The leaders also reflected on economic cooperation. Since Laos opened to foreign investment in 1989, Japan has invested in 93 projects with a total value exceeding USD 157 million, ranking as the 14th largest investor in Laos.
In 2024 alone, trade exceeded USD 255 million, marking a 10.4 percent increase compared to 2023. Major traded products include clothing, electrical equipment, land vehicles, and synthetic fibers.
As part of the visit, the two leaders witnessed the signing of a grant aid agreement for the Provincial Teacher Development Center Improvement Project, which aims to bolster Laos’ human resource development. - Laotian Times
