(KPL) On April 6, a total of 119 Japanese citizens and their families boarded a special flight operated by Lao Airlines and have now arrived safely in Japan.

Due to recent travel restrictions and cancellation of international flights caused by the spread of COVID-19, there were many Japanese, both residents and tourists, who could not leave the Lao PDR and was seeking assistance in returning to Japan.

Responding to the request by the Japanese Embassy in Vientiane, Lao Airlines graciously agreed to operate the special direct flight to Narita Airport (Chiba Prefecture) in Japan departing Vientiane before dawn on Monday.

On departure, all passengers were greatly appreciative of the generous support by Lao Airlines and authorities concerned. They renewed their willingness to come back to this beautiful country once the situation calms down. The Japanese embassy staff assisted the passengers at the airport for the smooth boarding while the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Public Security facilitated this special flight operation.

Mr. Takewaka Keizo, Japanese Ambassador in Vientiane welcomed the crew of the returning flight with Mr. Bounma Chanthavongsa, President of Lao Airlines at Wattay International Airport in the afternoon of Monday. The Ambassador expressed his sincere gratitude to the crew and staff of Lao Airlines whose hard work round the clock enabled this special flight to take place.

This year marks the 65^th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between Japan and the Lao PDR. The bilateral collaboration on this unanticipated flight is truly a symbol of the friendship between our two countries and has demonstrated our firm determination to jointly fight against the COVID-19.

KPL