News - Lao President calls for a new 'strong combatant' generation of Lao diplomats - The Star | Malaysia

VIENTIANE: President Thongloun Sisoulith has called on the Lao diplomatic corps to steadfastly uphold their role as members of a trusted and strategic advisory body to the Lao People's Revolutionary Party and State, guiding the nation’s engagement with the international community. Reaffirming the core principles of Lao foreign policy, the President emphasised the enduring values of peace, friendship, mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and mutual benefit—principles that continue to serve as the moral compass of Laos’ diplomatic endeavours in an ever-changing global landscape. His remarks were delivered during a ceremony held on Friday morning (Oct 10) at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane to mark the 80th anniversary of Lao Diplomacy Day on October 12. The commemorative event was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and attended by members of the Politburo, the Party Central Committee Secretariat, former senior Party and government leaders, National Assembly members, senior revolutionary cadres, civil servants, military and police officers, diplomats, foreign affairs officials and invited guests. Shortly after Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane highlighted the past eight decades’ achievements of Lao diplomacy, President Thongloun highlighted the diplomatic sector’s critical role in supporting the nation’s revolutionary struggle, defence, development and modernisation. He urged continued efforts to strengthen relationships with friendly nations, socialist allies, neighbouring countries, strategic partners and development supporters. The President emphasised the importance of linking political diplomacy with economic diplomacy, and of formulating a robust framework for independent and self-reliant economic diplomacy, seen as key to achieving the nation’s goal to graduate from Least Developed Country status in 2026. He went on to describe the ideal qualities of modern Lao diplomats, saying they must be resilient, well-informed and capable of responding swiftly and wisely to today’s complex global challenges. Diplomats, he said, must serve as insightful, flexible advisers to the Party and government, guided by clear and unwavering principles. Quoting mottos popular among the revolutionary generation, he said “The more difficult, the more patient; the more complex, the more resilient; the more arduous and challenging, the more wisdom is created.” As part of the celebratory activities, participants were invited to view an exhibition of photographs and a documentary film celebrating the successes of Lao diplomacy over the past 80 years. The highlight of the ceremony was the launch of a book titled “80 Years of Lao Diplomacy”, unveiled by President Thongloun Sisoulith alongside current and former leaders of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In his address, Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane, a member of the Party Central Committee, reflected on the historical significance of October 12, 1945, the date officially designated as Lao Diplomacy Day. He recalled the declaration of Laos’ independence, achieved through the armed and political struggle of the multi-ethnic Lao people under the leadership of revolutionary figures such as President Kaysone Phomvihane and President Souphanouvong, marking the inception of the country’s diplomatic journey. Over the past eight decades, Thongsavanh noted that the foreign affairs sector has steadily grown in both scope and effectiveness under the leadership of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party. Guided by the principles of peace, independence, friendship, and cooperation, and adhering to the policy of “making more friends and fewer enemies”, Laos has steadily enhanced its global engagement and strengthened its international partnerships. Laos currently enjoys diplomatic relations with 151 countries, engages with 145 political parties across 82 countries, and cooperates with numerous international and regional political organisations. The country has 41 diplomatic missions abroad, including 27 embassies, three permanent missions, 10 consulates general, and one consular office. Laos is also represented by 24 honorary consuls in 18 countries, while 18 foreign honorary consuls serve in Laos. Laos maintains trade relations with more than 60 countries and operates 34 international border checkpoints. Border demarcation has been completed with China, Vietnam and Myanmar, and ongoing efforts are in progress with Thailand and Cambodia. In terms of international law, Laos is a party to more than 1,500 international conventions, including over 900 multilateral agreements. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also enacted five foreign affairs laws and developed or revised seven sub-legal instruments. On the afternoon of the same day, the ministry inaugurated its historical visitor venue. The event was attended by Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane, senior ministry officials, and members of the Ministry’s Party Committee. The 80th anniversary celebration served not only as a tribute to past diplomatic achievements but also as a renewed call to action, ensuring Lao diplomacy continues to thrive and adapt amid the challenges and opportunities of the global landscape. - Vientiane Times/ANN