Lao, Malaysian leaders call for stronger Asean ties amid ongoing border tension
VIENTIANE: Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone held a telephone conversation with his Malaysian counterpart Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on July 25 to exchange views on pressing regional developments, particularly the Thai-Cambodian border tension.
The two leaders also discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties and enhance cooperation within the Asean framework.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, whose country is the current Chair of Asean for 2025, briefed his Lao counterpart on the outcome of a special meeting held between Cambodia and Thailand in Putrajaya, Malaysia, on July 28.
The meeting was initiated and facilitated by Malaysia in its capacity as Asean Chair, with the aim of easing tensions and encouraging dialogue between the two neighbouring countries regarding their border dispute.
Prime Minister Sonexay expressed appreciation for Malaysia's timely and constructive diplomatic efforts in convening the meeting. He praised Prime Minister Anwar's leadership in fostering dialogue and peaceful engagement, which he described as being in line with the core principles of Asean.
He stressed that Laos, as a neighbouring country with close ties to both Cambodia and Thailand, is deeply concerned about the situation and supports all peaceful efforts to resolve the issue.
The prime minister emphasised the importance of all parties exercising maximum restraint, avoiding the use of force, and working together through appropriate diplomatic and regional channels.
He underscored the need to preserve peace and stability, not only between Cambodia and Thailand, but also within the broader Asean region.
In addition to regional security issues, the two prime ministers discussed relations between Laos and Malaysia. The two sides acknowledged the positive momentum in their cooperation across various fields and agreed to further promote collaboration, particularly in trade, investment and customs facilitation.
They also exchanged views on broader regional and international issues of mutual interest, recognising the need for greater economic integration and policy coordination among Asean member states.
Prime Minister Sonexay reaffirmed Laos' commitment to supporting Malaysia's Asean chairmanship and expressed confidence that under Malaysia's leadership, Asean would continue to advance its goals of regional peace, unity, and sustainable development.
He said Laos stands ready to work closely with Malaysia and all Asean partners to strengthen the Asean Community and uphold the region's shared commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect.
The telephone conversation reflects the two countries' shared desire to maintain close contact concerning regional affairs and demonstrates their ongoing efforts to support Asean's role as a platform for peace and cooperation in South-East Asia. - Vientiane Times/ANN
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