Thai state visit continues in Laos

The Thai King and Queen were hosted by the Laotian President and First Lady on Tuesday.

Following their famous arrival in Laos yesterday, they flew themselves, King Rama X (Vajiralongkorn) and Queen Suthida spent the night at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Vientiane. Their state visit comes as Thailand and the Lao PDR celebrated the 75th anniversary of the establishment of Diplomatic Relations. This is the first state visit to Laos by a Thai monarch in 32 years.

On Tuesday morning, the King and Queen arrived at the Presidential Palace (Hor Kham) and were received with full honours by the President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, H.E. Thongloun Sisoulith, his wife, Mrs Naly Sisoulith, and a Guard of Honour. Schoolchildren were also in attendance to greet Their Majesties with bouquets of flowers.

On the dais, King Vajiralongkorn joined President Sisoulith for the playing of the respective national anthems, then the two inspected the Guard of Honour.

The King and Queen then attended bilateral talks with the Presidential Couple in the audience chamber. The discussions varied in topic and underscored the enduring friendship and close cooperation between the respective countries, promising to continue to advance their strategic partnership aimed at promoting sustainable growth for both peoples.

The President noted that the state visit was a significant milestone in their shared history and determination in their longstanding ties. President Sisoulith also conveyed his and the people of Laos’ condolences following the passing of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, who died last October and said she was a deeply respected figure not only in Thailand but in Laos as well. He also thanked the King for the royal family’s involvement in royal development initiatives.

The King, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality shown by the people of Laos. King Rama X also reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to the bonds and friendship of the Lao PDR.

The Presidential Couple then hosted Their Majesties at the Lao Traditional Silk Centre. The party were greeted by the Founding Chairperson of the Centre, Mrs Suvita Pasert, and the Honorary Chair of the Lao Handicraft Association, Mrs Chanthao Pathammavong, who also briefed those in attendance on the history of the Centre.

The King and Queen viewed traditional Laotian silk mills at work and how the materials are used in garments. Previous awards from the late Queen Sirikit were also on display. Their Majesties signed the commemorative guest book and received a wall piece and scarf as gifts from the Lao Traditional Silk Centre.

A state banquet is scheduled for later in the day in connection with the three-day state visit to Laos.