Manila: Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is scheduled to visit the Philippines from August 12 to 14 at the invitation of Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro. The visit aims to enhance the bilateral relations between the two nations.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced that the two ministers will co-chair the third meeting of the Philippines-Lao PDR Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation on August 13. This meeting is part of efforts to strengthen ties between the Southeast Asian countries. Notably, Foreign Minister Thongsavanh will be the first Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign minister to be hosted by Lazaro since she took office on July 1.
The visit is particularly significant as it coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Lao PDR. These relations were established on January 14, 1955. Currently, approximately 5,000 Filipinos reside in the Lao PDR, contributing to various sectors including education, hotel services, engineering, and infrastructure development. Their efforts are acknowledged for aiding the country's progress.
