In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR), during his visit to Vientiane today. The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of regional summits, was a vital step in strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and Laos.
Key Highlights of the Meeting
- Congratulatory Message:
Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Sisoulith on Laos’s successful hosting of the ASEAN Summit and the East Asia Summit. These summits are pivotal platforms for addressing regional security, economic cooperation, and sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. India’s active participation in these summits underscores its commitment to the “Act East” policy, aiming to bolster ties with Southeast Asian nations. - Strengthening Bilateral Relations:
During the talks, both leaders reiterated their commitment to enhancing India-Laos bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange. India has been a long-standing development partner of Laos, providing technical assistance, capacity-building programs, and economic aid through various initiatives. This meeting provided an opportunity to review ongoing projects and explore new areas of collaboration. - Regional and Global Issues:
Prime Minister Modi and President Sisoulith exchanged views on key regional and global issues. They discussed the importance of a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing the need for maintaining peace and cooperation among nations. The leaders also touched upon shared concerns such as climate change, regional security, and the importance of connectivity in promoting economic growth. - Cultural and Historical Ties:
The conversation between the two leaders also reflected on the deep cultural and historical ties between India and Laos, rooted in their shared heritage of Buddhism. India’s soft power, particularly in cultural exchanges, continues to play a significant role in fostering goodwill between the two countries.
Conclusion
This meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Thongloun Sisoulith signifies India’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Laos and other Southeast Asian nations. As Laos emerges as a key player in regional diplomacy, especially with its leadership in hosting the ASEAN and East Asia Summits, India’s engagement with the country becomes even more vital in the context of its broader regional strategy.
India and Laos are poised to deepen their partnership, focusing on mutual growth, regional stability, and shared prosperity in the coming years.
