On Thursday, the Indian diaspora and the Laotian community greeted PM Narendra Modi with immense enthusiasm as he touched down in Vientiane for a significant two-day diplomatic mission.
Upon arriving at his hotel, PM Modi met with a heartfelt welcome. The crowd gathered to recite the Gayatri Mantra, showcasing the blend of Indian spirituality and Laotian hospitality.
Attendees enthusiastically chanted, “Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi Ji, aapka Laos mei hardik swagat hai,” warmly welcoming him to their country.
The visit featured vibrant cultural displays, including a captivating Bihu dance performance by local artists, symbolizing the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Laos.
In a poignant ceremony, PM Modi met with prominent Buddhist monks, emphasizing the historic links forged between India and Laos through Buddhism over two millennia.
The ceremony echoed the rich folklore surrounding the relics of Gautama Buddha, believed to have brought to Laos and enshrined at the revered Pha That Luang stupa.
A highlight of the visit was an exhibition showcasing the restoration efforts of the Vat Phou temple complex, conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
This initiative underscores India’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage in the region.
The Prime Minister also enjoyed a mesmerizing performance of the Lao Ramayana, known locally as Phalak Phalam, presented by the Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang. The performance however illustrated the intertwined cultural narratives of both nations.
Before his arrival in Vientiane, PM Modi was honored with a ceremonial Guard of Honour, with Laos’ Minister of Home Affairs, Vilayvong Bouddakham, personally welcoming him at the airport.
Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Landed in Lao PDR. Looking forward to the deliberations with various world leaders, signaling the importance of this trip.
This visit aligns with PM Modi’s participation in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit, following an invitation from Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, the current ASEAN Chair.
Ahead of the summit, PM Modi emphasized the critical nature of the East Asia Summit as a platform to address pressing issues related to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
He further remarked, “This year marks a decade of our Act East Policy. I will join ASEAN leaders to review progress in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and chart the future direction of our cooperation.”
Throughout his trip, PM Modi is likely to engage with Laotian leaders to enhance bilateral relations, citing the shared heritage of Buddhism and the Ramayana as foundational elements of their connection.
PM Modi further asserted, “I am confident that this visit will further deepen our engagement with ASEAN countries.”
The Prime Minister’s schedule includes several bilateral meetings during the ASEAN and East Asia Summits.
India’s strong relations with ASEAN are a cornerstone of its Act East policy and the broader Indo-Pacific Vision, reinforced by the Prime Minister’s Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the significance of ASEAN-India relations, indicating that the upcoming summit would assess progress under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and discuss avenues for future cooperation.
The East Asia Summit is recognized as an essential platform for fostering strategic dialogue among leaders, providing an opportunity for India and other participating countries to share perspectives on regional dynamics.
Over the past decade, PM Modi’s unwavering support for ASEAN centrality has played a vital role in enhancing India’s relations within the region, positioning ASEAN as a pivotal player in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific.
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