Deputy PM meets people of Lao origin in Thailand

Deputy PM meets people of Lao origin in Thailand

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Thongloun Sisoulith on April 14 met people of Lao origin living in Bhotharam district, Ratchaburi province, Thailand.

Dr Thongloun Sisoulith is welcomed by people of Lao descent living in Thailand.

Dr Thongloun reminded the community that Laos and Thailand are neighbours, speak similar languages and most importantly the people of the two countries enjoy mutual affection as they are relatives. They also enjoy cooperative relations and mutual visits.

“Past events include our migration to each other's land, creating our own shared history. Nowadays Laos and Thailand are geographically demarcated, but the two countries should not create a border of minds,” he said.

Dr Thongloun called on the community to maintain their relations and spirit of mutual assistance with the people of Laos.

He expressed the hope that the Ratchaburi provincial authorities, especially Bhotharam district, would consider a mechanism to create links with a district in Laos to boost exchange visits, in the hope that the younger generation can learn more about Laos and its traditions and culture.

Dr Thongloun said the Lao PDR is only 36 years old and is considered a very young country. The country's development has just begun, so assistance from the neighbouring country is still needed.

The Lao government tries to maintain security and social order while encouraging all sectors of society to take part in national development.

As a good neighbour, Thailand has assisted Laos in a number of projects including the construction of friendship bridges across the Mekong River.

Meanwhile, Laos supplies electricity to Thailand and imports goods from its neighbour.

Dr Thongloun called for people of Lao origin living in Bhotharam district to continue to wear their traditional dress, speak their language and maintain other traditions.

During his visit, Dr Thongloun presented some Lao language handbooks to teachers at Vat Bot Primary School for learning and teaching purposes.

Dr Thongloun was warmly welcomed by the authorities and people in Ratchaburi province.

His visit to the province was part of his itinerary during a Pi Mai Lao visit to the Lao Embassy in Bangkok.

The Pi Mai Lao celebrations at the embassy were also attended by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand.

By Times Reporters (Latest Update April 21 , 2012)