India and Lao PDR to enhance cooperation in development partnership

India and Lao PDR considered different ways to enhance cooperation in development partnership as well as in economic and trade ties during the third round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between India and Lao PDR held on July 27, 2023.

According to information provided by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the two sides also discussed closer collaboration in agriculture, health, education, defence, heritage conservation, and capacity building.

Additionally, they discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest, such as the UN, ASEAN, and Mekong-Ganga Cooperation.

The meeting, held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, was co-chaired by Secretary (East) Ministry of External Affairs Saurabh Kumarand and Deputy Foreign Minister of the Lao PDR Ministry of Foreign Affairs Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune.

India expressed appreciation for Lao PDR in its role as Country Coordinator for the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation, and reiterated its support for Lao PDR as Chair of ASEAN in 2024. During the meeting, the two signed new Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) regarding five Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in the fields of education, health, water facility, and IT.

Both sides decided to hold the next round of FOCs in New Delhi.

While in Lao, the Secretary (East) also paid a courtesy call on Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith.