Vientiane – Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Saleumxay Kommasith, has confirmed that Laos is primed to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2024. Addressing both domestic and international media at a press conference, Kommasith, who also serves as the deputy head of the National Steering Committee on the Preparation and Implementation of ASEAN Chairmanship of Laos 2024, indicated that preparations are nearly complete, with only a few tasks related to accommodations and meeting facilities for delegates remaining.
According to Vietnam News Agency, Laos commenced preparations in 2021 by establishing 14 sub-committees. With prior experience from holding the ASEAN chairmanship twice, Laos is well-prepared and equipped with valuable lessons to organize events and successfully assume the chairmanship for the third time. The focus for the ASEAN Chairmanship Year will be on promoting Community building and enhancing a connected and resilient ASEAN community. The theme for Laos’ 2024 ASEAN Chairmanship Year is ‘ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience.’ This chairmanship presents an opportunity for Laos to showcase its foreign policies and bolster socio-economic cooperation with countries globally. Additionally, coinciding with the ‘Visit Laos Year’ in 2024, the ASEAN Chairmanship is viewed as an excellent chance for Laos to enhance its international image and attract tourism.