The agreement was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Lao Minister of Agriculture and Environment Linkham Douangsavanh and Russian Minister of Agriculture Oksana Nikolaevna in Moscow. The talks took place while the Lao minister accompanied the Prime Minister of the Lao PDR on an official working visit to the Russian Federation.

Both sides described the meeting as an important step toward reinforcing the long-standing friendship between the two countries and expanding collaboration in agriculture, environmental protection, research, education, and investment.

Minister Linkham praised Russia’s expertise in agricultural technology, particularly in irrigation systems, crop breeding, fertilizer production, and veterinary science, noting that these areas offer valuable experience for enhancing Laos’ agricultural productivity and policy development.

Looking ahead, the two ministries agreed to promote agricultural trade and establish closer cooperation on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures to improve the quality and competitiveness of Lao agricultural products. They also discussed encouraging investment in agro-processing industries to create greater value-added opportunities.

The two countries plan to expand cooperation through technology transfer, exchanges of experts, researchers, and students, and joint initiatives in rice breeding, livestock development, fisheries, and sustainable forest resource management.

As part of the next steps, Laos and Russia agreed to appoint focal points to prepare a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will provide a long-term framework for bilateral cooperation. The proposed agreement is expected to support innovation, investment, and climate-resilient agricultural development while delivering tangible benefits to both nations.

KPL