During the meeting, the Prime Minister welcomed the Ambassador and praised the strong and longstanding cooperation between Laos and Japan, including the implementation of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

Prime Minister Sonexay expressed appreciation for Japan’s continued support and assistance to the Lao PDR, which has contributed to socio-economic development in areas including human resource development, infrastructure, public health, agriculture and forestry, as well as through the deployment of Japanese experts and volunteers.

He also highlighted Japan’s important support in addressing unexploded ordnance (UXO) issues in Laos and reaffirmed the Lao Government’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation with Japan, including promoting people-to-people exchanges and implementing the bilateral air services agreement signed in 2015.

The Prime Minister also conveyed greetings to the Japanese Prime Minister and extended an invitation to visit the Lao PDR at a suitable time.

Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu thanked the Prime Minister for the warm welcome and shared updates on preparations for the 31st International Conference on the Future of Asia, progress on the renovation of Chao Anouvong Stadium, and improvements to Wattay International Airport.

The two sides also exchanged views on socio-economic development, as well as opportunities and challenges for future cooperation between Laos and Japan.

KPL