Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra welcomed Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone for an official visit to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations. Their discussions centered on border security, economic cooperation, and tackling transnational crime, with Thailand urging Laos to designate a lead agency for security coordination.

During bilateral talks at Government House, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to three key areas: strengthening border security to combat transnational crime, boosting economic collaboration to enhance livelihoods, and fostering closer people-to-people ties. Sonexay emphasized the deep cultural and linguistic bonds between the two nations, describing the visit as a significant milestone in their diplomatic history.

The meeting also addressed concerns over call center scams and drug trafficking, with Thailand commending Laos for its efforts to crack down on criminal networks. Both sides agreed to enhance law enforcement cooperation to curb illicit activities. Regarding cross-border haze pollution, Laos acknowledged Thailand’s support in providing technology and equipment to monitor wildfire hotspots, resulting in a decline in heat points. Thailand proposed expanding cooperation through a joint wildfire and haze monitoring lab, data-sharing, and utilizing the expertise of Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) for air quality monitoring.

Following the discussions, the two leaders witnessed the signing of four bilateral agreements covering legal cooperation, railway transport, academic collaboration, and private-sector trade:

A Plan of Action (2025–2027) on justice and legal affairs cooperation between the justice ministries of both countries.
A Technical Arrangement on Rail Passenger Transport between the State Railway of Thailand and the Lao National Railway State Enterprise.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Academic Cooperation between Mae Fah Luang University (Thailand) and Souphanouvong University (Laos).

An MoU between Thailand’s Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB) and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI). Both leaders reiterated their commitment to economic growth, security collaboration, and cultural exchanges, underscoring that the Thai-Lao partnership remains vital for regional stability and prosperity.

Source: NBT World, Thailand