Thailand hosted the 16th Joint Commission (JC) on Cooperation meeting between Thailand and Lao People's Democratic Republic on 15 October 2010 at Dusit Thani Hotel. The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Kasit Piromya, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Dr.Thongloun Sisoulith, Vice Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lao PDR. The objectives of the meeting are (1) to review the ongoing cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR in various fields (2) to lay down the future direction for bilateral cooperation between the two countries. After the meeting, Dr. Thongloun and his delegates paid a courtesy call on Mr.Apisit Vejjajiva at the Government House.
At the joint-press conference of the 16th JC Thailand — Lao PDR, Mr.Kasit Piromya and Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith, expressed their satisfaction of the outcome of the meeting, especially the progress of the survey and demarcation along Thai — Laos borders. In this regards, Foreign Minister Kasit reaffirmed that the 9th Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting will be held in Thailand in early 2011. Moreover, the meeting also agreed to establish a research team to study the three main issues of common interests namely rules and regulations of border trade, contract farming, and the development of Thai — Laos twin towns along the borders.
Dr. Thongloun expressed his appreciation for the Thai government’s support in assisting the Lao PDR’s development in various areas. Thus, the cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR will surely be continued in all dimensions.
Later, Foreign Minister Kasit and Dr. Thongloun presided over the grand opening of the symbol to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Thailand — Lao PDR diplomatic relationship. The symbol reflects close tie between the two countries through national sacred icons and the national flowers of Thailand and Laos. On this occasion, the project to improve roadway and water system in Vientiane was also launched as well. The project has been supported financially by the Thai government as a present to celebrate the 450th birthday of the Laos’ capital.
For further information, please contact the Press Division, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tel.02-6435170, Fax.02-6435169, E-mail: div0704@mfa.go.th