Mr. Lavrov will attend a 10th summit of the ASEAN, Association of South East Asian Nations, due in the Laotian capital tomorrow, November 29.
The present visit is regarded as a spectacular part of Russo-Laotian relations. It testifies to reciprocal goodwill to carry on fruitful contacts on all matters of shared interest, says the Foreign Ministry press and information department.
Trade and other economic ties will be prominent on the visit agenda. In particular, the Parties will sum up the implementation of previous understandings, and blueprint further bilateral efforts to step up economic partnership. The negotiators will pay major attention to cooperated mineral prospecting and mining, and progress of Laotian hydropower industry, transport and communications.
There are other promising fields of partnership, too. Thus, Russia intends to increase aircraft, car and lorry, and spare part exports to Laos. The two countries' Chambers of Commerce and Industry will promote contacts between business communities.
Moscow-Vientiane links are getting closer. Laos will celebrate Moscow Days next year. Blueprints are made to establish trolley bus lines in the Laotian capital with Moscow contributing.
The two governments expect to sign an agreement during Mr. Lavrov's visit to simplify reciprocal private trips.
Moscow points out close Russian and Laotian stances on international issues.
Sergei Lavrov's participation in Monday's ASEAN summitry promises to make a stride in promoting Russian political and economic interests in the Asian-Pacific region, and stepping up the Russia-ASEAN dialogue.
