Japan-Laos Summit Meeting (Summary)

On December 16, commencing at 1:55 p.m. for approximately 25 minutes, Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, held a summit meeting with H.E. Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic during his visit to Japan. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
 
1. Introduction
Prime Minister Kishida welcomed Prime Minister Sonexay's visit to Japan and expressed his desire to strengthen cooperation with ASEAN, including Laos, to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law and to ensure a world where human dignity is protected. He also expressed his hope that the Chao Anouvong stadium, which was decided to be reconstructed by Japan’s ODA last November will be utilized for a long time as a symbol of friendship between the two countries.
In response, Prime Minister Sonexay expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome and support provided by Japan.
 
2. Bilateral relations
Prime Minister Kishida stated that Japan has been cooperating in the development of Laos in a wide range of fields, including human resource development, financial stabilization, and infrastructure development, mentioning that 16 senior leaders of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party visited Japan this week to learn about Japan's experience in economic and social development. He expressed his desire to strengthen cooperation in energy transition and decarbonization based on the outcome of the Asian Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Summit.
In response, Prime Minister Sonexay expressed his gratitude for Japan's continued support in various fields that the Lao government attaches importance to and expressed his desire to continue to strengthen cooperation with Japan, an important partner for Laos, including on new issues.
 
3. Regional and international affairs
Prime Minister Kishida stated that he will continue his support toward the success of the ASEAN Presidency next year and that he would like to work with Laos and other countries and continue to support ASEAN’s effort including “Five-Point Consensus” concerning the situation in Myanmar. Prime Minister Sonexay, in turn, confirmed that he would continue to work with Japan on these issues. In addition, both sides exchanged views on China, the response to North Korea, including the nuclear and missile issues and the abductions issue, Russia's aggression in Ukraine, situation in Israel and Gaza, and other issues.