Lao Ambassador to Malaysia, Sengmanee, emphasized that over the 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Laos has always regarded Malaysia as its closest and most cherished partner.
He pointed out that Malaysia has made significant contributions to Laos, especially in the areas of human capital development as well as social and economic development.
He hopes there is still broad room for future economic cooperation between the two countries, in line with their good bilateral political relations. Currently, Malaysia is the fifth-largest foreign investor in Laos, after China, Thailand, Vietnam, and South Korea.
He said that in the past nearly two years, he has focused on strengthening bilateral trade. Last year, bilateral trade was about USD 50 million, and he believes this amount provides a solid foundation for both sides to expand economic cooperation and create more trade and investment opportunities.
He made these remarks in an interview with Bernama in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Laos and Malaysia, held at his office.
Additionally, Sengmanee mentioned that his country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Saleumxay Kommasith, is planning to make an official visit to Malaysia next month to strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote new cooperation initiatives.
He said the country also plans to hold the fourth Laos-Malaysia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting at the end of this year, and welcomes the Malaysian delegation to visit Vientiane.
He stated that high-level mutual visits and institutionalized mechanisms will serve as important pillars guiding bilateral relations in the coming decades.