The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand held a telephone call with H.E. Mr. Phankham Viphavanh, the newly appointed Prime Minister of the Lao PDR, and congratulated him on the assumption of office. Both sides agreed to further promote close cooperation and coordination in all mutually beneficial areas, especially in the promotion of bilateral trade and investment, sustainable development, and border security.

On 8 April 2021, General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Thailand, held a telephone call with H.E. Mr. Phankham Viphavanh, Prime Minister of the Lao PDR. The Prime Minister congratulated Prime Minister Phankham on his appointment as the new Prime Minister of the Lao PDR and reaffirmed the strong friendship and cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

The Thai Prime Minister extended his condolences, on behalf of the Government and the people of Thailand, on the loss of lives from the Nam Ngum Lake incident on 4 April 2021, which included family members of Lieutenant General Choummaly Sayasone, former President of the Lao PDR.

During their discussion, the two Prime Ministers agreed that Thailand and the Lao PDR should work hand-in-hand to further promote close cooperation and coordination in all mutually beneficial areas, especially in the promotion of bilateral trade and investment, sustainable development, and border security. Both leaders agreed that the two countries should explore ways to further facilitate cross-border economic activities at the local-to-local level. The two countries would also explore the possibility of mutual recognition arrangement of vaccine certificates in order to facilitate people-to-people movement and economic recovery.

In view of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between Thailand and the Lao PDR, both leaders gave their support to activities that are being planned to mark the occasion. They agreed to maintain regular high-level dialogue, including high-level visits in the future when the situation permits.

The Thai Prime Minister also conveyed his best wishes on the occasion of the upcoming Thai and Lao New Year to Prime Minister Phankham and the people of the Lao PDR.