Lao president in capital for talks, SEA Games opening
LAO President Thongloun Sisoulith will pay a three-day state visit to Cambodia from May 4-6 for meetings on various issues while also witnessing the opening of the 32nd SEA Games, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The visit follows an invitation of King Norodom Sihamoni.
“Beside a royal audience with the King, [Thongloun] will meet with Senate President Say Chhum and National Assembly President Heng Samrin.
“He will also hold bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Hun Sen. The two leaders will discuss measures to deepen cooperation and address regional and international issues of common concern,” the ministry said in a press release.
It said Thongloun will attend the May 5 opening ceremony of the 32nd SEA Games at Morodok Techo National Stadium.
“[Thongloun’s] state visit will further strengthen the existing good relations and fraternity between the peoples of both countries. It will build on their comprehensive, long-term strategic partnership for the benefit of both peoples,” it said.
Royal Academy of Cambodia secretary-general Yang Peou noted that the leaders of Cambodia and Laos have visited one another on a regular basis.
“This visit demonstrates the strengthening of cooperation between the two countries in the frameworks of border security and the economy. It will
strengthen the ties between them in terms of cooperation. In the current geopolitical climate, it is very important for neighbouring nations to work closely together,” he said.
The first meeting of the two countries’ Commissions for Security Cooperation along the Cambodia-Laos border
took place in Champasak province in Laos on May 2.
According to the Ministry of National Defence, the Cambodian delegation was led by commission chairman General Ith Sarath, deputy commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF). The Laos side
were led the chairman of their commission, Vanthong Bouttavong, deputy chief of staff of the Lao People’s Army.
“This was the first time we have met. It was an excellent opportunity for us to exchange opinions and express views with each other directly,” said Sarath.