President calls for closer cooperation to address global challenges

President Thongloun Sisoulith has called on the international community, especially Asia’s key states, to work more closely in addressing the challenges facing the world, ranging from economic woes to conflicts between nations.
Mr Thongloun gave the advice when addressing Nikkei’s 27th International Conference on the Future of Asia, in which he took part online from Laos.
The conference took the theme “Redefining Asia’s role in a divided world” and was attended by senior leaders, business executives, the media, and academics from around the region.

The President said Asian nations should play a greater role in international affairs. This would foster international peace and security, create mutual trust and respect, and improve conditions for development, economic integration and connectivity within Asia.
“Asian nations need to join forces and broaden their collaboration to ensure international peace and stability, addressing conflicts through negotiation, constructive dialogue and other peaceful means based on mutual respect and mutual assistance,” he said.
The President also urged the international community to work together towards economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mr Thongloun thanked friendly countries, international organisations and development partners, particularly the government and people of Japan, for assisting the socio-economic development of Laos over the past years.
Mr Thongloun has attended Nikkei’s International Conference on the Future of Asia six times since he was appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, before becoming the President of Laos.
His participation in the conference enabled Laos to further develop and deepen its relations with friendly nations and development partners, particularly Japan.
Asia is a dynamic region with massive promise, as it is home to more than half of the global population. China is the second largest economy in the world and the largest manufacturing economy and exporter of goods, and the fastest growing consumer market.
Meanwhile, India is one of the world’s fastest growing economies and home to a fifth of the world’s young population. Japan is a major advanced economy and has been a key contributor to economic growth in Asia, while Asean, including Laos, plays a significant role in the regional architecture.
The Conference on the Future of Asia was initiated in 1995. It is one of the most prestigious annual forums in Asia, hosted by the Nikkei Group of Japan.
The conference captures the attention of numerous senior leaders, politicians, scholars, and businesses in Asia, as well as representatives of major economic groups globally. Over the years, the Conference on the Future of Asia has become a forum to help provide open, multi-dimensional, diverse and integrated perspectives on many important issues in the region. This year’s edition featured notable leaders from Laos, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Bangladesh and Vietnam.

By Somsack Pongkhao
 (Latest Update May 31, 2022)