Antony J. Blinken 71st U.S. Secretary of State | Official Website
Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Lao People’s Democratic Republic Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith met on July 27, 2024, to discuss various bilateral issues and regional partnerships.
Foreign Minister Saleumxay expressed his gratitude for the meeting, stating, "I’m glad that you could make it, so (inaudible) on the schedule so that we can fit in (inaudible) as well as the Mekong-U.S. Partnership (inaudible), because that’s really important to our bilateral relations (inaudible), and we are aware that next year we’re going to (inaudible), we look forward to that." He further added, "Now, so I look forward to working very closely with you and to chair ASEAN this year (inaudible) U.S., our bilateral (inaudible) 70 years anniversary of our diplomatic relations tell us only how extensive our bilateral relations (inaudible). (Inaudible) welcome to you (inaudible.)"
Secretary Blinken reciprocated the sentiments by highlighting the United States' support for Laos' chairmanship of ASEAN. "Thank you so much. It’s – really, it’s wonderful to be in Laos. We strongly support your chairmanship of ASEAN. We do want to make sure that we do everything we can to ensure a very successful leaders’ meeting," he said.
He emphasized the longstanding partnership between the United States and ASEAN, noting, "I have to say for us, the United States, we’re committed to ASEAN’s centrality. We’ve been, I think, a good partner to ASEAN for 50 years now. We want to make sure that the comprehensive strategic partnership that we have with ASEAN really fully takes flight, and we’re working very hard on that."
Blinken also acknowledged the significance of U.S.-Laos relations: "But also couldn’t be more pleased to be here in Laos in terms of our own partnership and bilateral relationship. And as you said, we very much look forward to continuing to deepen it and to strengthen it and to work with you." He concluded by thanking Laos for its contributions: "And I also want to thank you for the work that Laos has done on the Mekong-U.S. (inaudible) partnership."
The dialogue between both leaders underscored their commitment towards enhancing bilateral ties and regional cooperation.
