BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow attended the 23rd Session of the Thailand–Lao PDR Joint Commission on 2 October 2026, highlighting progress in discussions on a wide range of bilateral cooperation. Following the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister described the outcomes as fruitful, noting that the Joint Commission serves as an important platform for reviewing cooperation and advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Thailand and Lao PDR.
He highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral ties to promote common security, development and a shared future with neighboring countries. Enhanced cooperation will help safeguard peace and address cross-border challenges, particularly drug trafficking and online scams. It will also support more effective progress in the demarcation of land and maritime boundaries, which is currently 98 percent complete.
Both countries will also continue to enhance physical connectivity, particularly through bridges and roads, with the aim of promoting economic development. The two sides are also exploring ways to streamline customs procedures through the establishment of joint checkpoints. Digital connectivity will likewise be strengthened to facilitate smoother trade and investment. On energy cooperation, Lao PDR’s significant hydropower resources play an important role in regional energy connectivity, with electricity transmitted through the ASEAN Power Grid to Thailand and Singapore. Recognizing the potential for further cooperation in connectivity and energy, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister said Thailand and Lao PDR aim to establish working committees to advance these areas in the future. (NNT)
