BANGKOK, Thailand – Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand will embark on an official visit to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (LPRD) from March 16–18, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Friday.
The visit, at the invitation of Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, marks the first official visit to Laos by a Thai monarch in 32 years. The last royal visit took place in April 1994 by Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.
The schedule includes an official welcome ceremony at Ho Kham (Presidential Palace), where Their Majesties will meet with President Thongloun and his wife. The King and Queen will also grant audiences to Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and National Assembly President Xaysomphone Phomvihane. The President will host an official state dinner in their honor.
During the mission, Their Majesties will visit the Houay Xone – Houay Xua Agricultural Development and Service Center in Vientiane, the first Royal Development Project established in Laos by His Majesty King Bhumibol. They will also pay respects at the Pha That Luang stupa and visit the Lao Ancient Silk House. The visit coincides with celebrations for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two neighbors, established in 1948, and aims to further strengthen bilateral ties and people-to-people connections. (TNA)
