Lao, Filipino leaders agree to strengthen ties as trade sours

Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (right) meeting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr in Kuala Lumpur. - VT
VIENTIANE: Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and Filipino President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. have agreed to work together to deepen cooperation between the two countries in vital areas such as trade, education, defence, and digital innovation.
The pledge comes as the two nations celebrate 70 years of formal diplomatic relations, marking a milestone in their longstanding partnership.
Their commitment to this relationship was reiterated and enhanced when the two leaders met in Kuala Lumpur on May 26 on the sidelines of the 46th Asean Summit.
'In commemoration of the 70th year of Philippines–Laos relations, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and I agreed to further strengthen cooperation in trade, education, and security—and to unite for peace and development in the region,' President Marcos was quoted as saying by the Philippine News Agency.
The two countries identified strategic sectors for deeper collaboration—including agriculture, skills development, tourism, and emerging areas like artificial intelligence and digital technology.
President Marcos also highlighted the potential for expanded trade ties, noting Laos' rapid economic growth.
Trade between Laos and the Philippines has nearly doubled over five years, increasing from US$7 million in 2019 to around US$13.72 million in 2024.
'We would like to strengthen all our relations - trade, defence, and security, and even people-to-people exchanges,' President Marcos said.
Prime Minister Sonexay expressed his deep appreciation for the longstanding friendly relations and good cooperation between Laos and the Philippines, including mutual support in regional and international forums, according to the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Lao PM also expressed his gratitude to the government and people of the Philippines for their continued support to Laos, especially in the development of Laos' human resources through short-term training scholarships and long-term scholarships.
He confirmed Laos' support for the Philippines' ASEAN chairmanship next year, aiming to build a stronger ASEAN community and benefit the ASEAN family.
The two leaders also agreed to promote cooperation in fields where both countries have potential, such as agriculture, tourism, and clean energy, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. - Vientiane Times/ANN

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