Laos, Russia ink agreements to strengthen ties in pivotal areas of development

The foreign ministers of Laos and Russia last week signed three agreements aimed at deepening cooperation in crucial areas such as information security, foreign ministry consultations, and education.

Mr Saleumxay Kommasith (right) and Mr Sergey Lavrov shake hands after signing a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in various areas of development.

The documents were signed during a meeting between Laos’ Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith and Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Sergey Lavrov, on July 25 during the 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Vientiane.
The first of these was an agreement on cooperation in information security and communications technology, to enhance the development frameworks in these sectors.
The second document signed was a consultation plan between the two Ministries of Foreign Affairs for the years 2024-2026. This strategic plan will guide consultations and collaborative efforts between the Lao and Russian foreign ministers over the next three years.
The third agreement related to the study and teaching of the Russian language in Lao secondary schools and enhancing cultural and educational ties between the two countries.
The two ministers underscored the robust cooperation between Laos and Russia, rooted in a long-standing tradition of mutual understanding, assistance, and friendship.
They expressed their commitment to enhancing this relationship through various avenues, particularly in economic and trade cooperation, investment, energy, education, military links, culture, and tourism.
The meeting builds on the outcomes of the May 2024 summit between Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The agreements signify a strengthened partnership and a shared vision for future cooperation, promising mutual benefits for both nations.
Highlighting the continuing dialogue between the two countries, Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay expressed gratitude for Russia’s invitation to the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting last month.
Additionally, Minister Lavrov extended invitations to Laos for the upcoming BRICS Summit and the Far East Economic Conference, scheduled to take place in Vladivostok later this year.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update July 31, 2024)