On 7‑8 October 2025, Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith travelled to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea at the invitation of Chairman Kim Jong Un. The two leaders met in Pyongyang, marking a series of significant anniversaries for both parties.
The delegation was received with a formal ceremony, including a 21‑gun salute and a guard of honour of more than a thousand officials, party members, military personnel and citizens at the Pyongyang City Sports Stadium.
Following the welcome, President Sisoulith and Chairman Kim held bilateral talks at the headquarters of the Workers’ Party of Korea. Both sides reiterated their commitment to deepen the historic partnership between the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and the Workers’ Party of Korea.
Kim described the visit as a “profound historic milestone” and expressed confidence that the meeting would further strengthen traditional ties. He also conveyed best wishes for Laos’ upcoming 12th National Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party in 2026.
Sisoulith thanked the DPRK for its hospitality, congratulated the Workers’ Party on its 80th anniversary, and recalled the long‑standing support that North Korea provided during Laos’ revolutionary struggle and its ongoing development.
The two parties agreed to expand cooperation in education, cultural exchange, and party‑building activities, while maintaining regular high‑level contacts. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern.
The timing of the visit coincided with several diplomatic milestones: the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, the 60th anniversary of the first meeting between Lao revolutionary leader Kaysone Phomvihane and Kim Il‑Sung, and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of formal Lao‑North Korean diplomatic relations in 1974.
After the talks, President Kim hosted a state banquet for the Lao delegation and arranged visits to notable Pyongyang landmarks, further fostering cultural understanding.
The visit occurs amid heightened international attention on the DPRK, which is preparing for a major military parade scheduled for 10 October. South Korean sources suggest the parade may be held at night and involve a large display of troops and equipment.
Other foreign officials are expected to attend the celebrations, including Russian Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev. Reports also indicate that Vietnamese Communist Party chief To Lam may travel to Pyongyang later this month, potentially marking the first Vietnamese state visit in nearly two decades.
In a period when North Korea remains largely isolated, President Sisoulith’s visit offers a rare glimpse into Pyongyang’s efforts to maintain ties with its longest‑standing allies, while highlighting Laos’ consistent and balanced foreign‑policy approach.
Source: www.tourismlaos.org
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