Indonesia-Laos Boosts Economic and Regional Security Cooperation

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sugiono, received a working visit from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Thongsavan Phomvihane, in Jakarta on Monday, May 4, 2026, aimed at strengthening bilateral partnership between the two countries. The meeting focused on enhancing Indonesia–Laos relations ahead of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2027.

“This momentum must be utilized to strengthen the partnership between the two countries in the fields of politics, economy, as well as people-to-people contact,” Sugiono said.

Both sides also emphasized the importance of reactivating the Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) as the main platform to encourage more concrete implementation of cooperation.

In the political and security sector, Indonesia and Laos highlighted the increasing prevalence of transnational crimes such as online fraud and human trafficking, which have involved Indonesian citizens. The Indonesian government stressed the importance of effectively implementing existing cooperation frameworks to maintain regional security stability.

In addition, the two ministers discussed efforts to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, and tourism as key drivers of economic growth.

Indonesia also encouraged strengthening strategic cooperation in the potash sector as a raw material for fertilizers, which has the potential to become a flagship project in supporting national and regional food security. At the same time, Indonesia expressed its support for Laos in strengthening sustainable and inclusive economic development.

In terms of people-to-people relations, both countries agreed to enhance cooperation through education, youth exchanges, and culture, leveraging shared values and cultural heritage to strengthen ties between their peoples.

Regarding regional and global issues, both ministers reaffirmed the importance of maintaining ASEAN unity and centrality amid geopolitical dynamics. They also emphasized strengthening cooperation among ASEAN member states through dialogue, mutual respect, and trust to maintain peace and regional stability.

This visit marked the first visit by Laos’ Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister to a Southeast Asian country since the formation of the new Lao government in March, reflecting Indonesia’s active efforts to strengthen relations with countries in the region.