President Prabowo Discusses Efforts to Improve Trade Sector with Laos PM PDR Siphandone

Kuala Lumpur: On the sidelines of the 46th ASEAN Summit (KTT), the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto held a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister (PM) of Laos, Sonexay Siphandone. The meeting between the two leaders took place in the Meeting Room, Kuala Lumpur Convention Center (KLCC), Malaysia, on Monday, May 26, 2025.

This meeting was an important moment for the two leaders in strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation in various strategic fields. President Prabowo began the meeting by expressing his appreciation for the opportunity given to meet again with PM Siphandone.

"Your Excellency may still remember my last visit to Laos. At that time I was not yet President, but as President-elect. I am very grateful for the various excellent things at that time," said the President, quoted from Setkab.go.id, May 27, 2025.

On that occasion, the President expressed his appreciation for Laos' success in leading ASEAN in the previous period. The President also emphasized Indonesia's commitment to continue working together within the framework of ASEAN under the chairmanship of Malaysia.

"I would like to congratulate Laos on its success in leading ASEAN and continuing to work together as part of ASEAN, and support Malaysia's leadership," said the President.

President Prabowo emphasized that bilateral relations between Indonesia and Laos have been very good. However, the Head of State assessed the need for further efforts to increase the volume of trade between the two countries.

"Our relations have actually been very good for many years. But we must admit that our trade volume is still low. Let's find ways to strengthen and increase this trade," he said.

The President also conveyed Indonesia's readiness to cooperate in various potential sectors, including minerals, agriculture, and fertilizers. Meanwhile, on the issue of regional security, the President highlighted the importance of cooperation in combating transnational crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and online fraud and gambling.

"I think if we work together, I am sure this will be very beneficial for both countries," said President Prabowo.

The meeting took place in a friendly and constructive atmosphere. As ASEAN member countries, Indonesia and the Lao DPR have a shared vision towards a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous region.

At this bilateral meeting, the President was accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono, Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman, Minister of Trade Budi Santoso, Minister of Investment and Downstream/Head of BKPM Rosan Roeslani, and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.