Post by : Rameen Ariff

Vientiane, Laos – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has embarked on his first official overseas visit since assuming office, choosing Laos as his inaugural destination to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Thai–Lao diplomatic relations. The visit reflects Thailand’s commitment to deepening ties with its closest neighbour through cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared development goals.

Arriving at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane on Thursday morning (October 16) alongside his wife, Thananon Niramit, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was warmly received by Lao Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office Buakhong Nammavong, as well as senior officials including the deputy foreign minister and deputy governor of Vientiane. The arrival ceremony marked the start of a day filled with high-level meetings and cultural engagements aimed at strengthening the Thai–Lao relationship.

During the official ceremony at the Lao Prime Minister’s Office, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with his counterpart, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, to reaffirm both nations’ shared vision for regional growth and stability. The two leaders presided over the signing of several memorandums of understanding and witnessed the handover of Thai assistance to Laos. These agreements are expected to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, infrastructure, education, and public health — key priorities in the enduring Thai–Lao partnership.

Following the formal talks, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul paid a courtesy visit to Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, further highlighting the mutual respect and goodwill between the two nations. In his remarks, Anutin emphasized Thailand’s dedication to supporting Laos in areas such as cross-border trade, tourism, and connectivity, which he described as essential pillars for long-term prosperity. The two sides also discussed collaborative efforts to tackle transnational challenges like online fraud, human trafficking, and drug suppression — issues that have demanded growing regional cooperation.

In the afternoon, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with members of Team Thailand and representatives from the Thai private sector operating in Laos. He also visited the Lao National Museum and paid respects at the revered Pha That Luang, underscoring the cultural and spiritual bonds that have long united the two nations. Later in the evening, the Lao Prime Minister and his wife hosted a dinner in honour of Anutin and his spouse, a gesture symbolizing the deep friendship and mutual trust between Thailand and Laos.

The discussions during Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s visit to Laos focused on shared priorities such as healthcare collaboration, labour mobility, education exchange, and strengthening people-to-people relations. Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability along their shared border while promoting sustainable economic development.

Accompanying Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on this historic visit to Laos were key members of the Thai Cabinet, including Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon, Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, Deputy Defence Minister Lt Gen Adul Boonthamcharoen, Deputy Interior Minister Songsak Thongsri, and Prime Minister’s Secretary-General Traisuree Taisaranakul.

As Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul continues his first overseas mission, the visit to Laos marks a defining moment in the 75-year journey of Thai–Lao relations — one built on friendship, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a stronger, more connected Southeast Asia.

#Asia News