During a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 15 December, Phongsamouth Anlavan, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, received Jirasaya Peeranont, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of Thailand to Laos.

Ms Phongsamouth expressed sympathy over the floods that struck nine provinces in southern Thailand in late November, causing widespread damage to lives and property. She said Laos, as a close neighbour and strategic partner, had provided US$200,000 in assistance to the Thai government to support affected families.

The contribution was formally handed over by the Lao side during the meeting, along with messages of condolence addressed to Thailand’s leadership.

The two sides also discussed preparations for the official opening of the 5th Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, scheduled for 25 December 2025. The bridge links Borikhamxay Province in Laos with Bung Kan Province in Thailand and coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Officials said the bridge would improve cross-border travel, strengthen regional connectivity along the East–West Economic Corridor, and promote trade and tourism between the two nations.

Ms Jirasaya thanked the Lao government and people for their support, saying the funds would be used to help flood victims recover their livelihoods and return to normal life as soon as possible.

KPL