August 1, 2024
VIENTIANE – Laos and the United States have reaffirmed and agreed to expand their cooperation in fields such as public health, education, and UXO clearance.
The reiteration of shared cooperation came during a bilateral meeting on Saturday between Laos’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Saleumxay Kommasith, and the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, as part of the 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meetings.
The meeting highlighted 69 years of diplomatic relations between Laos and the United States, in particular the elevation of the relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership, encompassing cooperation in fields such as health, education, trade and investment, law enforcement, drug prevention, and UXO clearance.
The two sides recognised the importance of ongoing efforts such as the search for the remains of American service personnel who went missing during the Indochina War in the 1960s and 1970s.
Looking ahead, the meeting underscored future cooperation opportunities. The two countries agreed to strengthen joint initiatives in UXO clearance and expand educational and health programmes.
Talks also included regional issues, particularly the role of ASEAN, with the United States expressing strong support for Laos’ chairmanship of ASEAN this year and the strategic partnership between ASEAN and the United States.
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to ASEAN’s central role in the Asia-Pacific region and pledged continued support for Laos’ leadership.
The discussions were marked by mutual understanding and a shared vision for deeper cooperation, reflecting the robust and evolving relationship between Laos and the United States.