(KPL) President Thongloun Sisoulith led a high-level delegation from Laos to participate in the 19th Francophonie Summit, held from October 4-5, 2024, in Paris, France, at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron.

During the summit, President Thongloun emphasized the importance of the event, which focused on the theme “creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship in French,” highlighting its relevance in today’s global context.

He stressed the need to promote cooperation for sustainable development, eliminate poverty, inequality, and developmental disparities, and address climate change challenges while advancing digital transformation.

He underscored the importance of promoting the use of the French language at regional and global levels.

The President also highlighted Laos' commitment to implementing policies aimed at green growth and sustainable development, protecting natural resources, and improving the quality of life for the Lao people. 

He expressed his support for enhancing cooperation with member countries of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) in education, cultural exchange, technology, innovation, clean energy, trade, investment, and tourism.

He advocated for increased knowledge-sharing, technology transfer, and job creation for young people, as well as broader use of the French language in business communications.

President Thongloun reiterated Laos’ dedication to promoting French language education and usage within the country, urging the OIF to continue supporting member states including Laos in expanding French language education and fostering unity and cooperation among Francophonie nations.

The President's participation at the summit further strengthened Laos' ties with the Francophonie community, promoting the country's green development initiatives and enhancing collaboration in various sectors. 

The President also held bilateral meetings with the President of France to promote cooperation between Laos and France, and with the President of Vietnam to strengthen bilateral cooperation. President Thongloun also welcomed a courtesy visit from Mr. Luc Rémont, Chairman and CEO of Electricité de France (EDF), to discuss cooperation in clean energy.

The President also met with members of the Lao community residing in France.

KPL