3rd Foreign Office Consultations held between India and Lao PDR

New Delhi: India and Lao PDR held the 3rd round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The two sides were led by Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs and Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune, Deputy Foreign Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lao PDR, respectively.

Relations between the two countries are historical and cordial. Both sides comprehensively reviewed the spectrum of bilateral relations, and discussed ways to enhance cooperation in development partnership, economic and tradeties, agriculture, health, education, defence and heritage conservation. The two sides also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, as well as cooperation in multilateral fora such as the United Nations, ASEAN and Mekong Ganga Cooperation.

The Indian side expressed its appreciation for the cooperation extended by Lao PDR as Country Coordinator for the Mekong Ganga Cooperation. The Indian side also reiterated its support to Lao PDR as it prepares to Chair ASEAN in 2024.

Five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for implementation of five Quick Impact Projects (QIPs), in the fields of education, health, water facility and IT were also signed.

Secretary (East) paid a courtesy call on Saleumxay Kommasith, the Deputy Primer Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Both sides agreed to hold the next round of Foreign Office Consultations at mutually convenient dates in New Delhi.