Lithuania and Laos agree to hold regular political consultations

Lithuania and Laos will establish regular political consultations after signing a bilateral memorandum of understanding on Monday, the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry announced.

The agreement was signed in Brunei by Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys and Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Thongsavanhu Phomvihane during the EU-ASEAN ministerial meeting. The ministry stated the memorandum would open new opportunities for cooperation between the two countries.

Budrys described the move as a step toward a “new qualitative level” in diplomatic relations, emphasizing shared interests between Lithuania and Southeast Asian nations. “We are two regional blocs facing the same challenges,” he said, adding that stronger ties would benefit both sides.

Lithuania has offered to assist Laos in implementing secure digital governance systems, sharing expertise in IT development and cybersecurity. The ministry noted that Lithuanian companies have already successfully executed e-governance projects in Laos, including an electronic business registration system.

The talks also covered consular and visa issues, the potential accreditation of a Lao embassy in Lithuania, global security, and support for Ukraine. Budrys additionally met with Brunei’s Foreign Minister Dato Erywan, marking the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Brunei. The ministers discussed bilateral ties, EU-ASEAN cooperation, energy sector collaboration, and international security.

Budrys highlighted the interconnectedness of global security, citing Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz as examples of how regional instability affects all nations. He urged Brunei to support Ukraine in UN General Assembly votes and to join Lithuania’s initiative for responsible artificial intelligence use under the Vilnius Convention.