The delegation was led by Mr. Kikuchi Yasushi, outgoing Chief Representative of JETRO Laos, and Mr. Kawano Mitsuhiro, the incoming Chief Representative, together with other officials.
During the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister congratulated Mr. Kikuchi on the successful completion of his five-year tenure (2021–2026) and commended his contributions, as well as those of JETRO Laos, to strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the Lao PDR and Japan under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He noted JETRO’s important role in promoting bilateral trade and investment and supporting closer economic ties between the two countries.
The Deputy Prime Minister also welcomed Mr. Kawano on his appointment as the new Chief Representative of JETRO Laos and expressed confidence that cooperation between the Lao Government and JETRO would continue to expand. He reaffirmed the readiness of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant agencies to work closely with JETRO to further advance trade, investment, and development cooperation in the years ahead.

For their part, the JETRO delegation expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reiterated the organization’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Lao PDR. The delegation pledged to continue supporting initiatives that promote bilateral trade, investment, and broader economic cooperation while contributing to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
Established under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) is responsible for promoting trade and investment between Japan and the international community. JETRO Laos, established in April 2014, has played a key role in facilitating business exchanges and providing information and advisory services to Japanese companies interested in opportunities in the Lao PDR.
Over the past decade, JETRO Laos has assisted approximately 10,000 Japanese business visitors and supported cooperation across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, and other priority industries. In recognition of its contributions to the socio-economic development of the Lao PDR and its role in strengthening bilateral relations, the Lao Government awarded JETRO Laos the Friendship Medal in 2025, coinciding with milestones marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between Laos and Japan, the 60th anniversary of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) volunteer activities in Laos, and the 10th anniversary of JETRO Laos.