Vientiane, 1 April 2026 – Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), Ambassador Kairat Sarybay concluded his first-ever visit to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic – CICA Observer State since 2017. In Vientiane, Secretary General was received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos H.E. Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane.
Ambassador Sarybay detailed the ongoing institutional development of CICA officially initiated at the Astana Summit in 2022 and underscored the priorities of the Azerbaijani Chairmanship determined to implement numerous initiatives across economic, environmental, and human dimensions. He emphasized that Baku’s efforts are designed to ensure continuity and synergy by building upon the collective progress and institutional legacy of the previous Chairmanships.
Secretary General further highlighted that CICA’s focus on connectivity, digitalization, and sustainable growth provides a unique platform for Lao PDR to unlock the potential of practical cooperation across the economic and environmental dimensions. Special emphasis was placed on CICA’s role and its mechanisms to promote connectivity with key subregions and trade partners, financial dialogue, as well as tourist and cultural exchanges.
Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane reconfirmed Laos’ strong commitment to multilateralism and sincerely welcomed the increased interaction between CICA and ASEAN Secretariats.
Preparations for the 7th CICA Summit and regional agenda were also discussed.
Ambassador Sarybay announced celebrations to mark the 20th Anniversary of CICA Secretariat and invited the Lao side to visit the premises of the new Headquarters in Astana.
