General Vong Pisen (left) meets Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on October 3. RCAF
Cambodia and Laos have expressed their commitment to bolstering military cooperation, with the goal of enhancing regional peace, stability and the well-being of their citizens.
The pledge was solidified during a meeting in Vientiane, Laos, between General Vong Pisen, commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), and Khamliang Outhakaysone, deputy minister of national defence and chief of the general staff of the Lao People’s Army.
The two nations described their achievements in previous military collaborations, including the exchange of delegations and protocols.
“This activity demonstrates our dedication to reinforcing the bonds of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between the two armies to ensure regional peace, stability and the prosperity of our people,” said an October 2 social media post from RCAF headquarters.
Pisen extended his gratitude to Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone for giving him the opportunity to discuss Cambodia’s situation in a subsequent meeting. He emphasised the Kingdom’s achievements in establishing lasting peace, combating the Covid-19 pandemic and conducting general elections.
Siphandone expressed support for Pisen’s commitment to deepening their traditional ties and cooperation. He also thanked the Cambodian government for its assistance during the pandemic, particularly through the donation of funds, medical equipment and Covid-19 vaccines.
Yang Peou, secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, highlighted the importance of military cooperation between the two countries, given their shared border of over 500km.
“Military cooperation between Cambodia and Laos is essential, given their sovereignty. This collaboration has enabled discussions on border security, especially with regard to past confrontations and misunderstandings in the O’Alay area,” he added.
He also noted that such cooperation promotes understanding, curbs cross-border crime and fosters diplomatic and political relations.
The Cambodian delegation’s trip to Laos spanned four days, from October 1-4.
