(KPL) Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR Saleumxay Kommasith received a courtesy visit from the Swiss State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Alexandre Fasel, in Vientiane on February 26.

Mr. Alexandre Fasel is visiting Laos to attend the 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting being held in Vientiane.

During the amicable talks, both sides reviewed bilateral cooperation over the past period and followed up on the results of the Swiss official visit by the Deputy Prime Minister in late February 2024. Both parties valued the strong friendship and good cooperation between Laos and Switzerland over the past 60 years. The Swiss side expressed appreciation for Laos' ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.

On this occasion, Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith, on behalf of the Lao government and people, expressed sincere gratitude to the Swiss government and people for their past support and their commitment to continue assisting the Lao PDR in its socio-economic development in the years to come.

Furthermore, the Swiss side confirmed their support for the second phase of the Lao vocational training project. The Deputy Prime Minister also encouraged increased cooperation in trade and investment and urged the Swiss side to support Laos in technical and scientific fields, particularly agricultural technology.

Both sides emphasized the similarities between the two countries, particularly their landlocked status and their strengths in water resource management for electricity production. Switzerland, with its advanced water management expertise, can share experiences and lessons with Laos. Additionally, Mr. Saleumxay asked the Swiss Deputy Minister to convey greetings to Swiss Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, who warmly welcomed him during his official visit to Switzerland in February 2024.

KPL