Philippines, Lao PDR Mark 70 Years of Ties with Renewed Commitments at JCBC

MANILA 13 August 2025 – Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro and Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen cooperation in defense, security, trade, and economic relations during their meeting in Manila on 13 August 2025 for the 3rd Philippines–Lao PDR Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC).  Highlighting a common vision for a stronger, more resilient, and forward-looking Southeast Asian region, they discussed a wide range of collaborative areas. Central to their dialogue was the mutual goal of boosting trade and economic ties while jointly addressing pressing regional security challenges.

As a long-standing development partner of Lao PDR, the Philippines reiterated its commitment to support the country's national development priorities. This includes continued cooperation in human resource development, promotion of gender equality and women empowerment, and the enhancement of trade and investment relations. For its part, Lao PDR pledged closer collaboration with the Philippines in combating transnational crimes and addressing the alarming rise in human trafficking across the region. The agenda of the meeting also included discussions on cooperation in energy, agriculture, ICT and education.

The meeting concluded with the launching of a commemorative logo marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Lao PDR which was established on 14 January 1955. END