VIENTIANE: Laos and Thailand have reaffirmed their longstanding friendship and commitment to stronger cooperation during a state visit to Laos by Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana.
The visit, which is taking place from March 16-18 at the invitation of President Thongloun Sisoulith and his wife, highlights the shared vision of both nations to deepen ties based on good neighbourliness and a strategic partnership for sustainable growth and development.
An official welcome ceremony was held at the Presidential Palace on Tuesday (March 17), when the Lao leadership extended a warm and dignified reception to the Royal Thai delegation.
Following the ceremony, President Thongloun met for talks with His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen, alongside senior officials from both countries.
President Thongloun expressed deep appreciation for the significance of the visit, describing it as a historic milestone that reflected the common aspirations of the Lao and Thai peoples to further strengthen cooperation in the years ahead.
On behalf of the government and people of Laos, the President conveyed heartfelt condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother last year, praising her as a deeply respected figure whose contributions extended beyond Thailand and benefitted the Lao people.
The President further expressed gratitude for numerous initiatives undertaken in Laos by members of the Thai Royal Family, particularly in education, agriculture, and public health, which have served to strengthen Laos’ socio-economic development.
The two sides noted with satisfaction the steady progress of bilateral relations over the past 76 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties on December 19, 1950.
Cooperation has expanded across multiple sectors, delivering tangible benefits to both nations.
His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the Lao government and people and reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to maintaining a stable and enduring partnership with Laos.
President Thongloun and his wife accompanied the Royal Thai delegation on a visit to the Traditional Lao Silk Residence, where they were welcomed by Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith and other senior officials. The visit served to showcase Laos’ rich weaving tradition and high quality craftsmanship.
In the evening, Their Majesties were scheduled to attend a traditional Baci ceremony followed by a state banquet hosted in their honour at the Presidential Palace.
The state visit marks another significant step in reinforcing the close ties between Laos and Thailand, further advancing cooperation for mutual prosperity and regional stability. - Vientiane Times/ANN
