North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui met with Laotian Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane in Pyongyang to discuss strengthening bilateral relations.
The Rodong Sinmun, North Korea’s state-run newspaper, reported on Thursday that the meeting between Choe, Foreign Minister of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, and Phomvihane, Foreign Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, took place on Wednesday at the Mansudae Assembly Hall.
The meeting was attended by North Korean officials, including Vice Minister Park Sang-gil, as well as a delegation from the Laotian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to the newspaper, the two sides exchanged views and reached a consensus on implementing agreements made by their leaders last October. They also discussed ways to strengthen the traditional friendship between North Korea and Laos, as well as enhance mutual support and cooperation in international forums.
Following the talks, the North Korean Foreign Ministry hosted a reception on Wednesday evening to welcome the Laotian delegation. The newspaper noted that the event was held in a cordial atmosphere.
Laos has maintained diplomatic ties with North Korea since 1974, fostering friendly relations at both party and state levels. In October, Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith visited North Korea to mark the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party of Korea, holding talks with General Secretary Kim Jong Un.
While North Korea continues to maintain close relationships with Russia and China, it is also expanding diplomatic engagement with its traditional socialist allies.