Phnom penh: Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of Cambodia, recently paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party and President of Laos, in Vientiane. This visit was part of a high-level Cambodian delegation's attendance at the funeral of the late H.E. Dr. Xaysomphone Phomvihane, President of the National Assembly of Laos.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, President Thongloun Sisoulith expressed gratitude to the Cambodian delegation for their presence at the funeral, acknowledging the personal condolences extended by Samdech Techo Hun Sen. The passing of Dr. Xaysomphone was noted as a significant loss for the Lao Party, State, and people. Samdech Khuon Sudary, in turn, appreciated the Lao leadership's hospitality and conveyed condolences from Cambodian leaders, emphasizing that the loss impacts both nations.
During the meeting, Samdech Khuon Sudary highlighted the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between Cambodia and Laos. She recalled President Thongloun's metaphor of Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam as the three legs of a tripod, symbolizing their interdependent relationship. She underscored the necessity of maintaining a strong trilateral partnership built on trust and solidarity.
President Thongloun responded by extending his regards to Cambodian royalty and leadership, reiterating the strength of the trilateral relationship. He emphasized that cooperation among parties, governments, and parliaments is crucial for fortifying these bonds and thanked Cambodia for its ongoing friendship.
The conversation also touched on Laos' future under President Thongloun's leadership, with Samdech Khuon Sudary expressing confidence in Laos' developmental goals towards becoming a high-income country by 2055. She lauded the country's direction under the vision of strengthening Party leadership and advancing toward socialism.
Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to preserving the historical ties between Cambodia and Laos, honoring Dr. Xaysomphone's legacy, and enhancing cooperation for mutual benefit.