AKP Phnom Penh, May 08, 2025—

The Parliamentary Friendship Groups of Cambodia and Laos have reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening and expanding bilateral cooperation between their respective legislative bodies.

This commitment was made during a meeting at the National Assembly of Cambodia on May 7 between H.E. Dr. Loy Sophat, Chairman of the Cambodia-Laos Parliamentary Friendship Group, and H.E. General Vongsack Phanthavong, Chairman of the Laos-Cambodia Parliamentary Friendship Group, who is part of the visiting Lao parliamentary delegation (May 6-11, 2025).

During their discussions, both sides underscored the importance of ongoing exchanges of views and experiences built on mutual respect and trust to deepen their traditional friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation.

They lauded the progress of the strategic partnership across party, state, and legislative levels, emphasising its role in guiding bilateral relations toward greater stability and development.

Both parties firmly committed to implementing existing agreements, including those established during Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet's visit to Laos in March 2024, which encompassed cooperation in energy, trade, education, tourism, security, national defense, and combating cross-border trafficking.

General Vongsack Phanthavong briefed the Cambodian side on the Lao National Assembly’s reforms and requested continued support in implementing the 2022 bilateral records and the 2023 border demarcation treaty, aiming to create a border of peace, stability, and sustainable development. He also commended Cambodia’s development and the strong bilateral ties, advocating for enhanced people-to-people connections, especially in border communities.

He extended an invitation to H.E. Dr. Loy Sophat for a reciprocal visit to Laos.

In response, Dr. Loy Sophat expressed his appreciation and acknowledged Laos’ achievements, expressing confidence in its continued success under its current leadership.

By K. Rithy Reak