PM Narendra Modi reaches Laos to participate in ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits in Vientiane

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reached Vientiane in Lao PDR this afternoon on a two-day visit. This visit of the Prime Minister will further boost the country’s relations with the ASEAN nations. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was welcomed by the Minister of Home Affairs of Lao PDR Vilayvong Bouddakham.

The Indian diaspora welcomed Mr. Modi at the hotel. Later, Mr. Modi witnessed the Laotian Ramayan performance Phalak-Phalam or Phra Lak Phra Ram. This is the Lao adaptation of the ancient epic Ramayana, as it is popularly known in South East Asia. During the first day of his visit today, the Prime Minister will participate in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit. He will also hold bilateral meetings with member countries and participating nations. He is also scheduled to attend the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane during his visit. Earlier, in his departure statement, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of India’s Act East Policy. He said he will join the ASEAN leaders to review progress in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and chart the future direction of cooperation. He said the East Asia Summit will provide an opportunity to deliberate on the challenges to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. 

Prime Minister said India shares close cultural and civilisational ties with the region, including with Lao PDR, which are enriched by the shared heritage of Buddhism and Ramayana. He said he is looking forward to his meetings with the Lao PDR leadership to further strengthen the bilateral ties. Mr. Modi expressed confidence that the visit will further deepen the engagement with ASEAN countries.

Akashvani correspondent reports that the ASEAN-India Summit will review progress of India-ASEAN relations through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and chart the future direction of cooperation. The East Asia Summit, a premier leaders-led forum that contributes to building an environment of strategic trust in the region, provides an opportunity for leaders of the participating countries, including India, to exchange views on issues of regional importance.