On 19 December 2024, H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, held a bilateral meeting with H.E. Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), on the margins of the Six-Country Informal Consultation, in Bangkok.

Both Ministers expressed appreciation that they met in person for the first time on the anniversary of Thai-Lao diplomatic relations (19 December), following their introductory telephone conversation last month. They also highlighted the long-standing ties between the two countries and discussed plans to organize joint activities to commemorate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations next year. Both sides looked forward to enhancing high-level exchanges, including an official visit to Thailand by the Prime Minister of Lao PDR early next year.

Foreign Minister Maris congratulated Lao PDR on its successful ASEAN Chairmanship this year and thanked Foreign Minister Thongsavanh for participating in this Informal Consultation. He also expressed his readiness to fully support Foreign Minister Thongsavanh in chairing the Extended Informal Consultation within the ASEAN framework on 20 December 2024 in Bangkok. In addition, the two sides also exchanged views on advancing cooperation in areas such as cross-border trade, connectivity, energy, and logistics, particularly by engaging the two countries’ businesses and private sectors.