India, Laos Seek Stronger Ties in Trade and Technology

India and Laos have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, with a renewed focus on trade, investment, technology and development partnerships that can support growth and create new opportunities for both countries. The discussion took place when Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Thongsavan Phomvihane called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday during his first official visit to India. The meeting comes as the two nations celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, a milestone that reflects decades of friendship and cooperation built on shared cultural and historical connections.

Shared Heritage Continues to Strengthen Relations

Welcoming the Lao leader, President Murmu highlighted the deep civilisational links between India and Laos, noting that the relationship is rooted in common cultural traditions, including Buddhism and the Ramayana. She said these enduring connections have helped shape a strong and friendly partnership that continues to evolve with changing global and regional priorities.

The President also recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Laos in October 2024 for ASEAN-related summits, describing it as an important moment that injected fresh momentum into bilateral cooperation through the signing of several agreements. Officials from both countries view these engagements as valuable platforms for expanding collaboration across multiple sectors.

Focus on Trade, Investment and Emerging Sectors

President Murmu noted that trade between India and Laos has shown positive growth in recent years, though considerable untapped potential remains. She encouraged greater cooperation in trade and investment, saying stronger economic engagement could deliver significant benefits for businesses and communities in both countries.

India expressed its readiness to expand collaboration in a wide range of sectors, including information and communication technology, healthcare, medicine, agriculture, irrigation, manufacturing, renewable energy and electricity. The President also highlighted India's willingness to share its experiences in innovation, digital transformation and the development of a knowledge-based economy, areas that are becoming increasingly important for sustainable growth.

Development Partnership Supports Lao Aspirations

The leaders also discussed the growing development partnership between the two countries, which has become an important component of bilateral relations. President Murmu said India’s development initiatives in Laos are aligned with the country's socio-economic priorities and the aspirations of its younger generation. The two sides acknowledged that cooperation in education, skills development and technology can help create new opportunities for young people while supporting long-term national development goals.

Both leaders agreed that closer collaboration across economic, technological and developmental sectors would strengthen ties further and deliver tangible benefits to the people of India and Laos. As the two countries mark seven decades of diplomatic relations, officials believe the partnership is well positioned to expand into new areas while continuing to build on the strong cultural bonds that have connected the two nations for generations.