Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov (right) welcomes Mr Thongsavanh Phomvihane and his delegation.

Laos, Russia pledge to deepen ties as countries mark 65 years of diplomatic relations

Laos and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in trade, investment, energy, education, defence, culture, and tourism, as the two nations celebrate 65 years of diplomatic ties.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Thongsavanh Phomvihane reached the agreement with his Russian counterpart Mr Sergey Lavrov during bilateral talks held on June 26 in Moscow, the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press statement.
The meeting took place as part of Mr Thongsavanh’s official visit to Russia from June 24-27, made in response to an invitation from Mr Lavrov. It marked Mr Thongsavanh’s first official visit to Russia in his capacity as foreign minister.

During their talks, the two ministers agreed to expand cooperation in the key areas of mutual interest, building on the long-standing relationship between the two countries. They pledged to deepen collaboration based on shared interests and a foundation of mutual respect and support.
Marking 65 years of diplomatic relations this October, the two countries continue to enhance their strategic partnership, founded on the 1994 Treaty on Friendly Relations and the 2011 Declaration on Strategic Partnership in the Asia-Pacific Region.
Both ministers praised the progress made in bilateral and multilateral cooperation, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two countries. They noted that ties have continued to strengthen over time, underpinned by frequent exchanges and a spirit of mutual assistance.
High-level political dialogue has gained momentum in recent years, including meetings between President Vladimir Putin and Lao President and Party Secretary General, Mr Thongloun Sisoulith, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Economic ties have also grown steadily. Trade volume between the two nations rose by 65 percent in 2024 to reach US$23.8 million.
Cooperation in the fields of defence, education, culture, and law enforcement continues to expand. Since 2018, Russian military engineers have supported unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance efforts in Laos, clearing more than 200 hectares of land and training 164 Lao personnel.
People-to-people exchanges remain a vital part of the relationship. More than 150 Lao nationals are currently studying in Russia, while cultural diplomacy initiatives—including Russian film events and cultural days held in Vientiane and Moscow—have helped to foster greater understanding between the peoples of both countries.
In the multilateral arena, the two ministers expressed appreciation for the contributions made by both nations to promoting global peace and stability.
On behalf of the Lao government, Mr Thongsavanh extended congratulations to Russia on the successful celebration of the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, commemorating the Soviet Union’s triumph in the Great Patriotic War.
To mark this significant year, Laos and Russia will continue to organise joint events to celebrate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Lao-Russian Friendship Association.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update June 30, 2025)