(KPL) The Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic has conferred the Friendship Medal on Mr Vladimir Kalinin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Laos, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to strengthening bilateral relations during his six-year diplomatic mission.

The medal was presented by Mr Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Minister of Foreign Affairs, during a farewell ceremony held on 6 November 2025 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Vientiane.

On the occasion, Mr Thongsavanh congratulated Ambassador Kalinin on the successful completion of his mission, noting his efforts in enhancing cooperation between Laos and Russia across multiple sectors. The Minister highlighted the Ambassador’s role in facilitating high-level visits, expanding political and security cooperation, and supporting development projects in education, public health, economic growth, and human resource development.

He also commended the Ambassador’s contribution to humanitarian assistance, including support for unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance, and the provision of essential materials and equipment. At the multilateral level, Mr Thongsavanh underlined Mr Kalinin’s active involvement in promoting collaboration within regional and international frameworks, particularly ASEAN-Russia cooperation, during Laos’s chairmanship of ASEAN.

In recognition of these achievements, the Lao Government awarded the Friendship Medal as a token of appreciation for the Ambassador’s dedication to fostering the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

In his response, Ambassador Kalinin expressed his sincere gratitude to the Lao Government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the people of Laos for their support and hospitality throughout his tenure. He affirmed his commitment to continue serving as a bridge to further strengthen and expand the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Laos and Russia in the years ahead.

KPL