Thai and Lao prime ministers witnessed today the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the mutual multi-dimensional cooperation as both countries celebrated 75 years of close diplomatic relations this year.
The signing was held as Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul paid an official visit to Laos, the first since he took the premiership earlier last month at the invitation of his Laotian counterpart; Sonexay Siphandone.
Both leaders witnessed the signing of MoU between the Export-Import Bank of Thailand (EXIM Bank) and the Agricultural Promotion Bank of the Laos.
Thailand also supported financial assistance of Bt10 million to a Thai-Lao cooperation project to prevent precursor chemicals used in drug production.
Chulawat Narintrangkura, director general of the International Cooperation Department represented Thailand on donating anti-venom serums, valued at Bt875,000 and handing over equipment to support vocational training and labour development in Laos, worth about Bt1.4 million.
Moreover Vientiane was also given technical assistance for detailed design work, valued about Bt30 million, for Phase 2 of a water supply development project in Laos.
Photo: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's wife, Thananon Niramit, receives a bouquet of flowers upon arrival at Lao International Airport today.
Thai government spokesman Siriphong Angkasakulkiat said the signing of this MoU and the aid handover ceremonies reflect the deep and comprehensive cooperation between Thailand and Laos.
It underscores both governments’ commitment to improving the quality of life for their peoples, strengthening economic security, and promoting sustainable social development.
All reflected the long-standing friendship, trust, and mutual understanding over more than 75 years of diplomatic relations, the spokesman said.
Thailand and Laos hold a discussion during an official visit of the Thai prime minister to boost relationship and strengthen cooperation in Vientiane today.
Anutin also paid a courtesy call on Laos’ president Thongloun Sisoulith, during which Anutin expressed his appreciation for Laos’s important role as a "true friend of Thailand".
Photo: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul shakes hands with Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith
He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing and strengthening bilateral cooperation to achieve concrete outcomes for the mutual benefit of the people of both countries.
Both sides exchanged views on security matters and agreed to jointly address cross-border issues, particularly drug trafficking, online fraud, transboundary haze pollution, and water resource management.
Thailand expressed readiness to provide financial support to enhance the capacity of Lao officials and advance the strategy of transforming Laos from a "land-locked" to a "land-linked" country.
Thongloun also emphasized the importance of clean energy collaboration to attract investment in green industries in both countries moving forward.
