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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH, Lao reaffirm security, economic ties at bilateral meet

PH, Lao reaffirm security, economic ties at bilateral meet

Published Aug 14, 2025 09:59 am
The Philippines and the Lao PDR reaffirmed their “shared commitment” to deepen cooperation in defense, security, trade, and economic relations during their bilateral meeting earlier this week.

DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Lao PDR Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane shake hands during a bilateral meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. (DFA Photo)
DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Lao PDR Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane shake hands during a bilateral meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. (DFA Photo)
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Lao PDR Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane concluded the 3rd Philippines–Lao PDR Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Manila on Aug. 13.

“Highlighting a common vision for a stronger, more resilient, and forward-looking Southeast Asian region, they discussed a wide range of collaborative areas,” the DFA said.

“Central to their dialogue was the mutual goal of boosting trade and economic ties while jointly addressing pressing regional security challenges,” it added.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Lazaro shared about being “honored” with co-charing the joint commission with Thongsavanh.

“Our shared commitment to deepen our cooperation across the full spectrum of our bilateral engagements sets the tone for our relations in the years ahead,” she wrote.

The Philippines, a “long-standing development partner of Lao PDR,” also reiterated its commitment to support the country’s national development priorities, including continued cooperation in human resource development, promotion of gender equality and women empowerment, and the enhancement of trade and investment relations.

Lao PDR, for its part, said it will work closely with the Philippines in combating transnational crimes and addressing the alarming rise in human trafficking across the region.

The meeting also delved into discussion on energy, agriculture, information and communications technology, and education.

During the meeting, the two officials also led the launching of a commemorative logo to mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Lao PDR.

Their diplomatic relations were established on Jan. 14, 1955.

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