On 7 April 2025, H.E. Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, as the representative of the Royal Thai Government, attended the State Cremation Ceremony of H.E. General Khamtay Siphandone, Former President of the Lao PDR at That Luang Square in Vientiane.

The Deputy Prime Minister signed the condolence book on General Khamtay’s passing and attended the State Cremation Ceremony, as well as conveyed words of condolences on behalf of the Prime Minister and the Royal Thai Government to H.E. Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao PDR.

In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister also had a discussion with H.E. Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith, Deputy Prime Minister of the Lao PDR, to express the gratitude of the Government and the people of the Lao PDR. Both sides discussed on focusing to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in enhancing rail and road connectivity between the two countries.

H.E. General Khamtay Siphandone played a pivotal role in advancing Thailand - Lao PDR relations. As the first Prime Minister of the Lao PDR to pay an official visit to Thailand in 1992, he laid the groundwork for enduring friendship and cooperation between the two countries, which has continued to bring tangible benefits to their peoples.