(KPL) On Feb 12, 2025, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone held bilateral meetings with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and the Ruler of Dubai on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2025, held in Dubai, UAE, from Feb 11-13, 2025.

During the meeting, PM Sonexay expressed his gratitude for the warm invitation and hospitality extended to him, as well as for the excellent arrangements made for his participation in this significant summit.

Both sides highly appreciated and expressed their delight in the fact that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Lao PDR and the United Arab Emirates on October 15, 1996, the UAE has consistently prioritized strengthening and expanding cooperative relations with Laos.

Notably, 2026 will mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, a significant milestone that the two leaders acknowledged during their meeting at the World Governments Summit 2025. 

It was also noted that several UAE businesses have invested in the dry port at the Savan-Seno Special Economic Zone, while Lao businesses have been importing goods from the UAE.

Both sides agreed to further promote business and investment exchanges, encouraging investors to explore opportunities in Laos, particularly in high-potential sectors such as agriculture, industry, tourism, energy, mining, and others.

On this occasion, PM Sonexay invited His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, to visit Laos at a convenient time as part of the activities commemorating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2026.

Additionally, on Feb 11, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone to discuss cooperation in promoting trade and investment, leveraging the potential of both countries.

KPL