Ambassador Jones congratulated Mr Kikeo on his recent appointment and thanked him for his leadership in his previous role as President of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women and Children. She shared that Australia had recently released its national budget which demonstrated a continued commitment to supporting a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo‑Pacific and signalled Australia’s intent to remain a reliable partner in an evolving global environment.

Mr Kikeo welcomed Australia’s support and outlined the important role the Lao Front plays in contributing Lao’s national priorities. He highlighted the Lao Front’s work across its nationwide network in engaging communities and supporting the needs of the Lao people, particularly women and children.

The Ambassador and Mr Kikeo discussed Australia’s cooperation with Lao’s mass organisations, including programs supporting positive parenting through the Lao Women’s Union in collaboration with the Lao Front, which have reached many communities at the village level. They also noted strong collaboration in health and education, including support for nutrition, immunisation and language and literacy in rural areas. Mr Kikeo also welcomed the strong contribution of Lao alumni of Australian scholarships and training programs to the development of Laos.

Ambassador Jones highlighted Australia’s growing economic engagement in Laos, including private sector investment that contributes to job creation, skills development and inclusive employment, particularly for women and youth.

Both sides agreed to explore opportunities to further people‑to‑people links, including academic exchanges, training opportunities and dialogue on regional and global developments. Mr Kikeo welcomed continued engagement between the Lao Front and the Australian Embassy.

KPL