Dubai: Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone held bilateral meetings with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and the Ruler of Dubai on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2025, held in Dubai, UAE, from February 11-13, 2025.
According to Lao News Agency, during the meeting, PM Sonexay expressed his gratitude for the warm invitation and hospitality extended to him, as well as for the arrangements made for his participation in the summit. Both sides appreciated the strengthening and expanding cooperative relations between the Lao PDR and the UAE since the establishment of diplomatic relations on October 15, 1996.
The leaders acknowledged that 2026 will mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, a milestone recognized during their meeting at the World Governments Summit 2025. It was noted that several UAE businesses have invested in the dry port at the Savan-Seno Special Economic Zone, while Lao businesses have been importing goods from the UAE. Both sides agreed to promote business and investment exchanges, encouraging investors to explore opportunities in Laos, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, industry, tourism, energy, and mining.
On this occasion, PM Sonexay invited His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to visit Laos at a convenient time as part of the activities commemorating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2026. Additionally, on February 11, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone to discuss cooperation in promoting trade and investment, leveraging the potential of both countries.
