Insight: Laotian diplomacy to focus on Cambodia

A 13-member politburo is elected at the 12th National Congress of Lao People’s Revolutionary Party.

The congress reaffirmed Laos' foreign policy of “peace, independence, friendship, and cooperation," emphasizing the pursuit of diverse and multi-tiered international cooperation while safeguarding national sovereignty.

While underscoring the importance of strengthening ties with neighboring countries such as Vietnam, China, and Russia, the congress highlighted the need to deepen traditional relations with Cambodia in the future. This signals Laos' reevaluation of its diplomatic landscape in the region.

Thongloun Sisoulith (right) is reelected as general secretary of the Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party.

Over the years, numerous disagreements have arisen between Laos and Cambodia over the development of the Mekong River, and affected by external pressures, the Laos-Cambodia cooperative projects have been delayed in implementation.

These delays have significantly hindered Laos’ strategy of transforming from a "land-locked country into a land-linked country." Hence, Cambodia is set to become a key focus of Laos' future diplomatic efforts.

Source: Mekong News Network, YICC; Trans-editing by Wang Shixue