(KPL) From August 31 to September 1, 2025, Mr. Thongloun Sisoulith, President of the Lao PDR, led a high-level delegation to attend the 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China.

At the opening ceremony, Mr. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, delivered a keynote speech under the theme “Implementing Multilateralism, Ensuring Regional Security and Promoting Sustainable Development.” He welcomed leaders from SCO member states, dialogue partners, observer countries, guest nations, and international organizations. In his address, Mr. Xi highlighted the importance of the SCO as a platform for regional security, economic growth, and cultural exchange. He emphasized that in a time of global instability and unpredictability, the SCO must assume greater responsibility in safeguarding peace, promoting prosperity, and strengthening solidarity based on mutual trust and win-win cooperation.

During the SCO Plus Member States’ Meeting, the Lao PDR was unanimously approved as the 15th official Dialogue Partner of the organization. On this historic occasion, President Thongloun expressed gratitude on behalf of the government and people of Laos for the trust and support of SCO members. He reaffirmed that the Lao PDR upholds the organization’s principles, which align with the country’s consistent foreign policy of peace, independence, friendship, and mutually beneficial cooperation. He stressed that Laos is ready to contribute actively to promoting regional peace, security, and sustainable development.

On the sidelines of the summit, President Thongloun held bilateral talks with leaders of friendly countries. He received a courtesy visit from Mr. Pham Minh Trinh, Politburo Member and Prime Minister of Vietnam; held discussions with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission and Acting President of Myanmar; and welcomed courtesy visits from Mr. K.P. Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal, and Mr. Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia. The meetings focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing shared interests.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization, founded in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, has grown into a key regional mechanism for peace, security, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. Today, the SCO comprises 10 member countries, 2 observer countries, and 15 dialogue partners, including the Lao PDR.

The Lao PDR’s first-ever participation at the SCO Summit marks a milestone in the nation’s diplomatic engagement. It not only elevates Laos’ role in regional affairs but also expands cooperation with Eurasian partners, fostering deeper mutual understanding and stronger ties with SCO members and partners

KPL