Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. - Photo: Xinhua file
VIENTIANE: Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has urged Lao people to actively support the country's role as host of the 44th and 45th Asean Summits and related meetings as well as Laos' Asean chairmanship in 2024.
Sonexay made the remarks on Thursday, inviting all ethnic groups in Laos to contribute to the country's Asean chairmanship in 2024, Lao News Agency reported on Friday (Sept 6).
Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Sonexay emphasised that 2024 is a crucial year for Laos, citing the Visit Laos Year 2024 event and the nation's ASEAN chairmanship.
He highlighted the importance of Asean chairmanship in raising Laos' profile and showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage. It also serves as a platform to attract support, and promote collaboration in trade, investment, tourism, and human resource development with Asean and external partners, according to him.
Under the theme of "Asean: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience," Laos' Asean chairmanship in 2024 aligns with the country's strategic goal of transforming from a landlocked nation into a regional connectivity hub.
The theme also reflects Asean's broader mission of strengthening integration and addressing emerging challenges effectively.
Laos' Asean chairmanship has seen significant progress in the past eight months, with various ministries and sectors hosting and presiding over Asean meetings.
Sonexay urged the Lao people to take pride in their country's achievements and to continue supporting Laos' Asean chairmanship, as it will contribute to the nation's long-term development and growing role on the global stage. - Xinhua
