(KPL) Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone chaired the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with the Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) today, with National Assembly President Xaysomphone Phomvihane leading the AIPA delegation in his role as President of the 45th AIPA.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Sonexay provided AIPA with an update on recent developments within ASEAN, highlighting progress on the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and ASEAN’s priorities for 2024, under the Lao PDR’s Chairmanship. The theme for Laos’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2024, “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” reflects a commitment to fostering greater regional connectivity and building resilience to address challenges and seize opportunities in an increasingly complex global and regional landscape.

The Prime Minister also discussed the ongoing development of Strategic Plans for realizing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, a 20-year plan focused on creating a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN.

AIPA President Xaysomphone Phomvihane briefed ASEAN leaders on the progress of parliamentary initiatives within AIPA, introducing recommendations aimed at promoting regional cooperation. These recommendations include enhancing ASEAN connectivity and resilience, narrowing development gaps, improving infrastructure, boosting trade, investment, and tourism, and reinforcing ASEAN Centrality in collaboration with external partners. These proposals align with the priorities set by Lao PDR for its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.

ASEAN leaders expressed their appreciation for AIPA's contributions to the ASEAN Community-building process and welcomed its continued support. They emphasized the importance of AIPA's role in advancing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025, the outcomes of previous and current ASEAN Summits, and the forthcoming ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which is set to be adopted in 2025.

KPL