The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) on Wednesday reaffirmed their strategic partnership and commitment to defense cooperation during an official visit by Col. Somchay Xaichaleun, the newly appointed Lao defense attaché to the Philippines.
AFP deputy chief Lt. Gen. Rommel Roldan welcomed the visiting Lao official at the AFP general headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, where both sides reiterated mutual intent to enhance bilateral cooperation, advance defense diplomacy, and promote regional solidarity across Southeast Asia.
“The engagement underscored the mutual commitment of the Philippines and Lao PDR, both member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).” The AFP said.
The engagement also marked the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries— a milestone that underscores their long-standing friendship and strategic partnership between the two ASEAN brothers.
