Malaysia ready to assist Laos as 2024 Asean Chairmanship - Zambry

VIENTIANE Laos - Malaysia is ready to assist Laos in preparing the country to take over the Chairmanship of ASEAN next year.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said the pledge was made to Laos Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith in a bilateral meeting held in the Laos Foreign Affairs Ministry, today.

"Malaysia and Laos share many similar interests, especially in the context of Asean cooperation.

"We also have the chance to hold discussions on bilateral issues, among others on economic, trade tourism and education matters,” he told Malaysian media here today.

The one-hour meeting was held in conjunction with the two-day official visit of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to Laos starting today.

Zambry said in the meeting, he also expressed the Foreign Ministry’s commitment to cooperate with his counterpart to boost bilateral ties and two-way cooperation between the two countries.

Apart from that, he also expressed his appreciation of Kommasith, over the excellent reception and facilities accorded to the delegation in conjunction with the visit. The Prime Minister is expected to arrive at the capital of Laos this evening accompanied by his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

In the maiden visit, Anwar among others will hold meetings with several top leaders of Laos including President Dr Thongloun Sisoulith and Prime Minister Dr Sonexay Siphandone.