VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – A high-ranking military delegation from the U.S. Department of Defense visited the Lao PDR from January 16-18, 2019. The military delegation met with counterparts in the Lao military and government, highlighted the growing U.S.-Lao bilateral defense relationship, and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific region.
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Dr. Joe Felter held meetings with Deputy Minister of National Defense, H.E. Major General Onesy Senesouk and other high ranking officials in the Ministry of National Defense, as well as Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Sengphet Houngboungnuang. Dr. Felter took the opportunity to congratulate the Lao People’s Army on its 70th anniversary and discussed ways to deepen military-to-military relations and build on the U.S.-Lao Comprehensive Partnership.
“The visit of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense is a testament to the level of commitment to the Comprehensive Partnership between the U.S. and Lao PDR,” said Chargé d’Affaires Colin Crosby.
Dr. Felter’s schedule also included a site visit to a US-supported program working to clear unexploded ordinance (UXO) in Laos, as well as interactions with local business leaders. The visit further demonstrates America’s commitment to ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific region.
