(KPL) On 25 February 2026, at the Prime Minister's Office, Mr Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao PDR, held a telephone conversation with Mr Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia, with senior officials from both sides in attendance.

During the call, both leaders highly valued the long-standing friendly relations and excellent cooperation between Laos and Australia over the past 74 years. This relationship has seen continuous development, notably being elevated to a Comprehensive Partnership in 2024, covering various sectors such as trade, investment, education, and human resource development. Both sides agreed to further promote cooperation in other sectors where both nations have potential.

To prepare for the 75th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations in 2027, both parties agreed to continue exchanging high-level visits and organising activities to showcase the deep bond and fruitful cooperation shared over the last seven decades.

The leaders also discussed the deaths of two Australian tourists in late 2024. The Australian side expressed gratitude to the Lao government for its attentiveness and cooperation in handling the case.

Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone expressed sincere condolences to the Australian government, its people, and the families of the victims.

He reaffirmed that the Lao government is actively and responsibly conducting a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice under the Lao legal system. He emphasised Laos’ readiness to continue working closely with Australia to ensure the matter is resolved swiftly, transparently, and fairly.

KPL