Vientiane, Laos: On Thursday morning, February 6, 2025, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia and the Cambodian People's Party, engaged in talks with Dr. Xaysomphone Phomvihane, President of the National Assembly of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. The high-level meeting took place at the Lao National Assembly Palace.
Dr. Phomvihane extended a warm welcome to Samdech Techo and his delegation, who are on an official visit to Laos at the invitation of the Lao National Assembly. He congratulated Samdech Techo on his election as President of the Senate, recognizing it as a testament to the trust and support from the Cambodian people and the ruling party for his seasoned leadership.
Highlighting the importance of the visit, Dr. Phomvihane stressed the need for fostering peace and friendship between neighboring countries, aiming to strengthen the traditional ties and advance the comprehensive strategic partnership between Cambodia and Laos. He also conveyed greetings to Khuon Sudary, the Grand National Assembly Chairman and President of the National Assembly of Cambodia.
In response, Dr. Phomvihane thanked Samdech Techo for his positive assessment of the relations between the two countries and shared insights on Cambodia's situation. He praised Cambodia's significant success in national development, commending the leadership of the Cambodian People's Party for enhancing Cambodia's prestige and role both regionally and internationally.
He informed Samdech Techo about the current situation in Laos, stating that under the leadership of the Laos Party and State, the country has enjoyed peace and stability, achieving an economic growth rate of 4.6% in 2024. The Lao government seeks to transform Laos from a landlocked to a land-linked country through enhanced railway connections with neighboring nations, facilitating the movement of goods and boosting tourism.
Dr. Phomvihane emphasized the deep-rooted friendship between Laos and Cambodia, noting the continued cooperation that characterizes their relationship. He highlighted ongoing exchanges of high-level delegations and expertise, as both legislative bodies work together to support each other in regional and international forums. The Lao National Assembly President expressed hope that the continued implementation of memorandums of understanding and agreements, particularly in the energy sector and railway construction linking the two nations, would further strengthen bilateral relations and trade.
During the meeting, Samdech Techo and Dr. Phomvihane discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest requiring increased monitoring and attention.
In turn, Samdech Techo expressed his gratitude for the invitation and generous hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He wished Dr. Phomvihane and the Lao people good health and prosperity in celebration of the New Year 2025, expressing his pleasure at reconnecting following their previous meeting in February 2023 during his official visit as Prime Minister.
Samdech Techo congratulated the Lao leadership for their successful roles during the 45th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) and in hosting the 10th ACMECS Summit, commending the warm reception given during the parliamentary assembly.
Addressing socio-economic advancements in Laos, Samdech Techo acknowledged the Lao government’s efforts to enhance the livelihoods of its citizens, expressing confidence that under their leadership, Laos would navigate challenges and achieve further accomplishments.
During the dialogue, Samdech Techo shared insights on Cambodia's recent developments, particularly regarding the Cambodian People’s Party's successful generational leadership transition. He asserted that this transfer of power is vital for maintaining peace and stability, detailing Cambodia's goal to transition from a least developed country to an upper-middle-income nation by 2030.
Samdech Techo outlined key priorities for the 5th Senate, focusing on enhancing parliamentary diplomacy in a complex global landscape and ensuring accountability to the electorate.
Reaffirming the long-standing friendship between Cambodia and Laos, which was formalized as a comprehensive and long-term strategic partnership in 2019, he described the relationship as a pathway for ongoing collaboration. He highlighted that the bond has remained robust over the past 46 years, during which he has held various leadership roles.
The Cambodian Senate President called for increased cooperation across various sectors, including security, trade, investment, and energy, emphasizing the legislative body's role in supporting government initiatives. He extended an invitation on behalf of Khuon Sudary for Dr. Phomvihane to visit Cambodia at a mutually convenient date in the future.
