Thailand and Laos reaffirmed their close bilateral relations during a courtesy call by Lao Ambassador to Thailand Sisavath Inphachanh on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at Government House on December 23, marking the formal start of the ambassador’s tenure in Thailand.

Prime Minister Anutin welcomed Ambassador Sisavath and expressed confidence that the ambassador’s experience and familiarity with Thailand would contribute to further strengthening cooperation between the two neighboring countries, which share long-standing cultural, social, and economic ties.

Ambassador Sisavath conveyed condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother and expressed sympathy over the recent flooding in southern Thailand. He noted that the Lao government had extended financial assistance of 200,000 US dollars to support recovery efforts. The prime minister thanked Laos for its support and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation, particularly in trade and economic development.

Both sides reviewed the state of bilateral relations as Thailand and Laos mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year. They welcomed ongoing high-level exchanges and discussed plans to convene the Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in 2026, with Laos offering to host the meeting.

The discussion also covered connectivity and regional issues, including the scheduled opening of the fifth Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge linking Bueng Kan and Bolikhamxay on December 25. The bridge is expected to enhance transport, trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Prime Minister Anutin also clarified Thailand’s position on the Thailand–Cambodia border situation, noting that related measures are temporary and bilateral and will not affect fuel exports to Laos.

Source: NBT WORLD