(KPL) The Embassy of India in Vientiane on Monday organised a Manipuri classical dance to celebrate the 60^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and India at the National Culture Hall in Vientiane.

Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Prof. Dr Bosengkham Vongdara, Indian Ambassador to Laos, Mr Ravi Shankar Aisola, representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, government officers, diplomatic corps, members of the Indian community and local residents joined the event.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Aisola said that India and Laos have traditionally enjoyed excellent relations. “Today we celebrate the 60^th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the Lao PDR.  India has enjoyed longstanding, friendly and mutually supportive relations with the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.”

“This relationship is based upon profound historical and civilization foundations. Our two countries diplomatic relation, between the Government of India and the Government of Laos were established in February 1956, and this year is indeed significant in our mutual ties.”

He continued that Indian and Lao cooperation is strengthened annually with visits of high ranking official of both countries, and in both socio-economic cooperation including business and trade, and importantly India has supported Laos in terms of human resource development.

These are only a few of our notable accomplishments. I believe the cooperation between India and Lao PDR will be greater developed and enhanced to a higher level in the future, the ambassador added.

The Manipur Classical Dance was performed by Ms. Nandita Devi Soibam, an accomplished senior dancer in the field of Manipuri dance.

Nandita stood first at her graduation from Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy. Starting off as a leading dancer with various groups, Nandita is now an eminent soloist in her own rights.

Nandita has performed all over India and various part of the world including Australia, Italy and Thailand.

KPL