Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly received upon his arrival in Vientiane, Laos, where he interacted with the Indian diaspora and was greeted by an excited crowd outside his hotel. Several high-ranking officials, including Laos’ Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Education and Sports, the Governor of the Bank of Laos, and the Mayor of Vientiane, were present to welcome him. PM Modi’s visit is part of a two-day trip to Laos, where he will participate in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit.
Cultural Performances and Blessings by Buddhist Monks
Upon arriving at Hotel Double Tree in Vientiane, PM Modi engaged with the Indian community, receiving a warm reception. A traditional Bihu dance performance was held in his honor, which the Prime Minister praised for its cultural richness and enthusiasm.
During his visit, PM Modi also participated in a prayer ceremony led by senior Buddhist monks from the Central Buddhist Fellowship Organization of Laos, including Mahaveth Masenai, the abbot of Si Saket temple. The monks offered their blessings to the Prime Minister, symbolizing the strong civilizational bonds between India and Laos, rooted in their shared Buddhist heritage.
Preserving Heritage: India’s Conservation Efforts in Laos
PM Modi visited the conservation projects undertaken by India in Laos, focusing on the preservation of historic temples. The Archaeological Survey of India, in collaboration with the Government of Laos, is actively working to preserve significant cultural landmarks, including the Vat Phou temple complex. This effort highlights the deep cultural and historical connections between the two nations.
In addition to the preservation efforts, PM Modi witnessed a performance of the Lao Ramayana, known locally as “Phalak Phalam,” staged by the prestigious Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang. The continued celebration of the Ramayana in Laos, along with other Indian cultural traditions, underscores the enduring cultural ties between the two countries.
During his visit, PM Modi is also expected to discuss ongoing developmental projects between India and Laos. The two countries share a history of cooperation, including the Lao-India Entrepreneurship Development Centre (LIEDC), which was established in 2004 to train Lao entrepreneurs. Other key collaborations include Quick Impact Projects and lines of credit amounting to over USD 230 million, with bilateral trade exceeding USD 100 million.
India’s ties with Laos are further strengthened by the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation, a crucial aspect of India’s Act East Policy, which celebrates a decade this year. PM Modi’s vision of “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR) is being actively pursued, with Laos playing an essential role in regional stability and growth.
PM Modi’s visit to Laos is a reflection of the strong historical, cultural, and economic ties between the two nations. His participation in the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits will further bolster India’s relationship with Southeast Asia, aligning with the country’s broader strategic vision for the region.