Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on 9 May in Moscow during his visit to Russia from 7 to 11 May. The leaders praised the strong and growing relationship between their countries and reaffirmed their commitment to enhance cooperation, particularly in trade, defense, and cultural exchange.
President Thongloun highlighted the successful implementation of the Treaty on Amity signed three decades ago, stating that the current period favors the further development of bilateral relations and friendship. He proposed continued cooperation and the implementation of various proposals to deepen ties.
Putin acknowledged the recent 12-percent growth in two-way trade and economic relations. He also mentioned the expansion of defense and security cooperation and expressed gratitude for Laos’ support of Russian language studies.
During his visit, Thongloun also attended the Victory Day parade in Moscow, marking the 79th anniversary of the Great Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The Russian president thanked Laos for providing T-34 tanks to Russia, which he described as symbols of victory.
Putin emphasized that fostering a strategic partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a key foreign policy priority for Russia.
In addition to meeting with Vladimir Putin, President Thongloun held talks with Dmitry Medvedev, Chairman of the United Russia Political Party to further strengthen ties between the two countries.
The meeting between the two presidents marks a significant milestone in the 30-year friendship between Laos and Russia. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of their relationship and the continued growth of cooperation in various fields.
