Message from the Ambassador of the Lao PDR to Japan

It gives me a great pleasure to address all distinguished friends and supporters of the ASEAN-Japan Centre. Since its establishment in 1981, the ASEAN-Japan Centre has been serving as a bridge between ASEAN and Japan. The Centre has been performing its duties and services to enhance and promote the economic relations such as trade, investment and tourism between ASEAN and Japan.

The Centre has also implemented very successful programmes for Laos such as Lao investment, trade and tourism promotion missions in Japan. Nowadays more Japanese visitors make their journey to Laos on holidays. More Lao products are imported to Japan. Japanese investments are increasing in Laos.

The Embassy has a great pleasure and privilege to work closely with the Centre. In the fiscal year 2008, Laos was a chair of the ASEAN-Japan Centre’s Council. It was my honour and pleasure to represent ASEAN Ambassadors to Japan to deliver speeches at the New DVD for ASEAN Tourism Promotion’s Launching Ceremony in Tokyo and at the ASEAN Tourism Fair Opening Ceremony in Fukuoka.

In this regard, I would like to extend my cordial invitation to all of you to visit my country Laos/Jewel of the Mekong. Laos is a country of ancient civilization and is rich in diverse culture, historical heritage and charming untouched nature.

On this occasion, I would like to express my deep gratitude to the People and Government of Japan for the great assistance, solidarity and support.

Lastly, I wish also to reiterate my deep thanks to the prestigious ASEAN-Japan Centre for its kind cooperation and generous support extended to the Embassy. I would also like to offer my best wishes to the ASEAN-Japan Centre for continuing prosperity and further success in its noble task.

June 2009