(KPL) Laos and Japan have agreed to further elevate their partnership from a strategic partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

In response to an official invitation from Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, along with a delegation, visited the Lao PDR from October 10-11, 2024, to participate in the 27th ASEAN-Japan Summit and related meetings.

The visit aimed to further strengthen the friendly relationship and cooperation between Laos and Japan under their strategic partnership.

An official reception ceremony was held on October 11 at the Prime Minister's Office in Vientiane. Following the ceremony, Prime Minister Sonexay and Prime Minister Ishiba, along with their delegations, held formal talks. The Lao side congratulated Prime Minister Ishiba on his recent appointment as Japan's new leader, following his election as chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party on October 1, 2024. Both leaders hailed the visit as a key moment in enhancing their strategic partnership.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to maintain regular exchanges and high-level meetings, continuing the implementation of agreements already signed. They also committed to upgrading their relationship from a strategic partnership to a "comprehensive strategic partnership." In celebration of the upcoming 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025, the two countries agreed on a commemorative logo featuring an elephant and cherry blossom.

Prime Minister Sonexay accepted an invitation to visit Japan in early 2025 to kick off celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of Lao-Japan diplomatic ties, the 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership, and the 60th anniversary of Japan’s volunteer program in Laos.

Japan also pledged to continue supporting Laos in addressing its economic and financial challenges, focusing on regional connectivity projects that are crucial for Laos’ development. Both sides emphasized Japan's role in helping Laos achieve its goal of graduating from least developed country status.

In addition to bilateral cooperation, the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating in regional and international forums, including the ASEAN-Japan framework, Mekong-Japan cooperation, and the United Nations. The Lao side appreciated Japan’s leadership in hosting the 2nd Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Summit during the ASEAN Summit in Laos, highlighting energy cooperation as a key area for future engagement.

Prime Minister Sonexay expressed Laos' gratitude for Japan’s long-standing support, particularly in human resource development, infrastructure projects, public health, agriculture, UXO clearance, and Japan’s technical assistance through JICA. Notable contributions include the improvement of King Anuvong Stadium, Wattay International Airport, and Japan’s backing of Laos' ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.

KPL