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In response to an invitation from New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters, Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane made an official visit to New Zealand on May 14-15.
The two sides said the visit aims to strengthen more than six decades of diplomatic relations, which began on Feb. 17, 1963.
During a meeting at New Zealand's Parliament on May 14, the two ministers praised the steady development of bilateral ties, marked by regular high-level exchanges and successful cooperation.
They discussed expanding cooperation in several areas, including human resource development, unexploded ordnance clearance, energy, environmental protection, the economy, and tourism.
Thongsavanh thanked New Zealand for its continued support, including assistance during Laos' ASEAN chairmanship in 2024. He also invited Peters to visit Laos and attend the Third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which Laos will host in September 2026.
Peters said the visit was an important step in further strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to supporting Laos' socio-economic development.
Thongsavanh also met with New Zealand Minister Nicola Grigg, who oversees trade, environment, and women’s issues, to discuss boosting cooperation in those sectors.
During the trip, he visited the Parliament, a film studio exhibition, and the national museum. He also met with Lao expatriates and students studying in New Zealand under the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship program.
The Lao deputy prime minister’s visit was warmly received by New Zealand officials, reflecting growing ties between the two nations.
KPL
