On 19 July 2023, Mr. Sarun Charoensuwan, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, had a bilateral meeting with H.E. Mr. Thongphane Savanphet, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR, on the occasion of the latter’s visit to Thailand. The meeting was also attended by H.E. Ms. Morakot Sriswasdi, Ambassador of Thailand to the Lao PDR, and H.E. Mr. Khamphan Anlavan, Ambassador of the Lao PDR to Thailand.

Both sides emphasized the importance of the longstanding friendship and close neighborliness between the two countries in advancing their shared interests. They also discussed ways to further strengthen Thailand-Lao PDR relations, following the elevation of their bilateral ties to a “Strategic Partnership for Growth and Sustainable Development” last year.

Both sides agreed to maintain regular high-level engagements and work even closer in areas that bring tangible benefits to their peoples, including security in border areas, anti-drug trafficking, transportation connectivity, and the development of cross-border road and rail infrastructures.

Both sides also exchanged views on regional issues and agreed to coordinate their positions and work even more closely in navigating through the rapidly changing regional and international landscapes. Taking this opportunity, the Thai side expressed its full support for the Lao PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.