Laos, Switzerland strengthen ties at political consultation

Laos and Switzerland have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation during the 4th Political Consultation, held in Vientiane on February 14.

Mr Maithong Thammavongsa (right) and Mr Heinrich Schellenberg pose for a photo during the 4th Political Consultation in Vientiane.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Maithong Thammavongsa, co-chaired the meeting with the Assistant State Secretary for Asia and the Pacific, Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Heinrich Schellenberg. Officials from both sides attended the discussions.
The meeting, which takes place every two years, serves as a key platform for reviewing bilateral cooperation and setting future priorities.
The two sides discussed political, economic, trade, investment, education, cultural, and development cooperation, identifying areas of mutual interest and potential growth.
They reviewed progress since the 3rd Political Consultation held in 2022 in Bern, Switzerland, and agreed on strategic directions for enhancing collaboration.
The two leaders said they greatly valued the countries’ 60 years of diplomatic ties, highlighting the regular reciprocal high-level visits and continued engagement within bilateral and multilateral frameworks.
Mr Maithong thanked Switzerland for its financial and technical support, which he said has contributed to Laos’ socio-economic development. Switzerland’s assistance has played an important role in Laos’ efforts to graduate from Least Developed Country status and improve national development planning.
The meeting reaffirmed the two governments’ commitment to strengthening their long-standing friendship, deepening cooperation in key sectors, and facilitating future high-level exchanges to promote mutual benefits and prosperity.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update February 17, 2025)