KPL
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone held talks with Japanese Prime Minister, Ms. Sanae Takaichi during his participation in the 31st International Conference on the Future of Asia, held under the theme “Working Together for a More Resilient and Prosperous Asia” in Tokyo, Japan, from 10–11 June 2026.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Takaichi warmly welcomed Prime Minister Sonexay and congratulated him on his re-election as Prime Minister of the Lao PDR for another term in March 2026.
She also expressed appreciation to the Lao Government and people for their warm hospitality during the official visit to Laos by Her Imperial Highness Princess Aiko of Japan in November 2025, which was her first official overseas visit.
The Japanese Prime Minister also praised the success of the Lao Festival 2026 held in Tokyo at the end of May 2026, which was attended by Princess Aiko of Japan and Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR.
Prime Minister Sonexay expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome and congratulated Prime Minister Takaichi on her re-election as Japan’s Prime Minister in February 2026. He also praised the successful organisation of the AZEC Plus Summit on energy security held in April 2026 and supported the POWER Asia cooperation framework proposed by Japan.
Prime Minister Sonexay reaffirmed Laos’ commitment to further strengthening the long-standing bilateral relations and cooperation with Japan, as well as cooperation under the ASEAN–Japan framework.
He expressed gratitude to Japan for its continued support and assistance to Laos, particularly in human resource development, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and forestry, as well as through the dispatch of JICA experts and volunteers working in various sectors across the country.
He also highlighted Japan’s humanitarian support for the clearance of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remaining in Laos.
Both sides agreed to further enhance Laos–Japan relations as a comprehensive strategic partnership, particularly by promoting economic cooperation, trade and investment in areas including agriculture, modern processing industries, clean and alternative energy, mining, tourism, and technology.
During his visit to Japan, Prime Minister Sonexay also met with the Japan–Laos Parliamentary Friendship Association, the Foundation for International Exchange (FEC), Japanese business representatives, and participated in a business exchange meeting between Lao and Japanese companies.
KPL
