Bilateral relations between Lithuania and Laos are entering a new qualitative level: an agreement on regular political consultations has been signed

On 27 April, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos Thongsavanhu Phomvihane during the EU-ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Brunei.

The Foreign Ministers of Lithuania and Laos signed a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding on the holding of regular political consultations, which will open up new opportunities for cooperation.

"Today, Lithuania's diplomatic relations with Laos are entering a new qualitative level. We are interested in developing cooperation with Laos and other Southeast Asian countries. We are two regional blocs with the same interests and challenges. Therefore, building new bridges, both between our countries and between regions, will only strengthen us further," said the Minister.

According to Budrys, Lithuania is ready to contribute to the implementation of secure and resilient digital government systems in Laos and share its accumulated experience in the development of information and communication technologies and the strengthening of cybersecurity. The Minister mentioned that Lithuanian companies had already successfully implemented e-government projects in Laos, including the introduction of an electronic business registration system.

Lithuania's head of diplomacy also offered country's expertise in contributing to the ASEAN Power Grid initiative and the development of renewable energy in Southeast Asia.

The meeting also discussed consular and visa issues, as well as the accreditation of the Lao Embassy to Lithuania, global security, preservation of the system based on international law, and support for Ukraine.