In a significant step towards enhancing diplomatic and economic relations between India and Laos, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Laotian counterpart, Sonexay Siphandone, engaged in comprehensive bilateral talks on Friday in Vientiane.
The discussions culminated in the signing of agreements spanning defense, media collaboration, and customs cooperation. The talks, which took place amidst growing regional cooperation, touched on several key areas.
Both leaders underscored the importance of expanding ties in disaster management, renewable energy, economic cooperation, capacity building, and defense.
Additionally, the two countries emphasized the importance of deepening cultural and historical connections, reflecting on the civilizational links between India and Laos.
One of the focal points of the discussions was the ongoing restoration of Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, supported by India through the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
The leaders highlighted how the restoration project underscores the long-standing cultural ties between the two nations, and adds a special cultural dimension to the bilateral relationship.
Prime Minister Modi praised Laos for its successful hosting of the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit, expressing his commitment to continued cooperation within the regional framework.
Siphandone, in turn, thanked India for its prompt assistance in the wake of Typhoon Yagi, particularly India’s efforts in providing flood relief.
The meeting also saw the exchange of agreements for three Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation initiative.
These projects, each with a grant of around $50,000, aim to preserve Laotian cultural heritage through initiatives such as the restoration of the Wat Pakea Buddhist temple and support for shadow puppetry theater in Champasak Province, a traditional art form inspired by the Ramayana.
Additionally, India pledged $1 million in grant assistance to boost nutrition security in Laos.
On the sidelines of the East Asia Summit, Prime Minister Modi also held a meeting with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, marking the first high-level interaction between the two leaders.
Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation within the ASEAN framework.
In his address at the 19th East Asia Summit, PM Modi reiterated the central role of ASEAN in the Indo-Pacific region and reaffirmed India’s commitment to its ‘Act East’ policy.
The Summit highlighted the importance of ASEAN as a strategic partner in the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific.
The agreements and discussions underscore the shared vision of India and Laos in bolstering regional cooperation, fostering cultural ties, and addressing common challenges such as disaster management and food security.
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