Japan-Laos Relations
Japan-Laos Foreign Ministers' Meeting
On July 26, commencing at 7:35 a.m. local time (9:35 a.m. Japan time) for approximately 35 minutes, Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who made an official visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Saleumxay KOMMASITH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in advance of attending ASEAN-related Foreign Ministers’ Meetings. The overview of the meeting is as follows:
1. Introduction
Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay expressed gratitude for Japan’s cooperation with Laos as ASEAN Chair and his desire to further develop bilateral relations, taking the opportunity of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos next year. Minister Kamikawa expressed her respect for Laos' efforts as ASEAN Chair and stated that Japan will spare no effort to support Laos' success as ASEAN Chair. The two Ministers agreed to implement a range of cooperation, including political, economic, and cultural cooperation on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and also talked about the logo mark for the anniversary.
2. Bilateral Relations
- Minister Kamikawa stated her desire to work together to further elevate the "Strategic Partnership" between the two countries to new heights. She also stated that Japan would like to continue supporting Laos' economic and social development, including realizing quality economic growth, as well as cooperating to improve Laos' investment environment.
- Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay expressed his gratitude for Japan's support in various areas of economic and social development and stated his desire to expand cooperation with Japan in a wide range of fields. The two Ministers shared their views to continue cooperation.
3. Japan-ASEAN Cooperation, Regional and International Affairs
- Minister Kamikawa stated that Japan intends to continue strengthening connectivity across a wide range of fields under the "Japan-ASEAN Comprehensive Connectivity Initiative". In response, Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay appreciate and strong support for Japan's initiative.
- Minister Kamikawa welcomed Laos becoming a full member of CEAPAD (Conference on cooperation among East Asian countries for Palestinian Development). Minister Kamikawa and Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay also exchanged views on regional and international affairs including situation in Myanmar, the Middle East, East and South China Sea, North Korea, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and concurred on the importance of a free and open international order based on the rule of law.