Vientiane (Laos): On Saturday, Jyly 27, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar met with Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone to discuss various aspects of bilateral cooperation and the pressing issue of Indian nationals being trafficked through cyber scam centers in Laos. Jaishankar's visit to the capital of the Laos People's Democratic Republic was part of his participation in the meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

During the meeting, Jaishankar conveyed greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed enhancing cooperation in defense, heritage conservation, energy, digital technology, and capacity building. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of the strong historical and cultural ties between India and Laos and appreciated Siphandone's guidance on strengthening these bilateral relations.

One critical topic Jaishankar addressed was the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centers in Laos. He thanked the Laos government for their ongoing cooperation in rescuing and assisting Indian citizens who have fallen victim to these scams. The Indian embassy in Laos has successfully rescued 518 Indians to date, with 13 recently returned home. The embassy continues to caution Indians against fake job offers that lure them into such scams.

In addition to his meeting with Prime Minister Siphandone, Jaishankar also engaged with other ASEAN foreign ministers, including those from Cambodia and Thailand, to discuss regional cooperation and the trafficking issue.

Jaishankar expressed India's full support for Laos's Chairship of the ASEAN and East Asia Summit. He also had a productive meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith, where they exchanged Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on 10 Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) under the Mekong Ganga Cooperation. These projects include the sharing of successful digital solutions.

Moreover, Jaishankar and Kommasith launched a special stamp set celebrating the shared cultural heritage of Ramayana and Buddhism, further highlighting the deep-rooted cultural connections between the two nations.

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