Cambodia, Laos vow deeper cooperation on trade, infrastructure and energy

PHNOM PENH, July 8, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia and Laos pledged Wednesday to intensify cooperation in trade, infrastructure, logistics, energy and tourism, aiming to bolster economic integration and regional connectivity within ASEAN, officials said.

Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, met Sonexay Vannaxay, the newly appointed Lao ambassador to Phnom Penh, to discuss expanding collaboration across key sectors that support sustainable growth and closer people‑to‑people ties.

Chanthol voiced confidence the envoy’s mission would help elevate bilateral relations, while Sonexay reaffirmed Laos’ commitment to strengthening cooperation, describing the two neighbors as bound by shared history, culture and traditions.

The ambassador praised Cambodia’s rapid socio‑economic progress, citing modern transport infrastructure and an expanding road network. Recalling a recent drive from Phnom Penh to Stung Treng and onward to Siem Reap, he commended the quality and efficiency of Cambodia’s roads as evidence of tangible development.

Both sides agreed to explore ways to enhance infrastructure and logistics connectivity — including roads, railways and waterways — to ease cross‑border transport, cut costs and improve the movement of goods, tourists and people. They also discussed simplifying transport procedures to boost trade and reinforce ASEAN connectivity.

Trade and investment promotion featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides expressing their determination to create more opportunities for businesses and investors by improving the investment environment and facilitating stronger partnerships between Cambodian and Lao enterprises.

The two sides also exchanged views on expanding cooperation in the energy sector, particularly through the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) initiative, which aims to enhance regional energy connectivity, strengthen energy security and facilitate the distribution of renewable electricity among ASEAN member states.

Cambodia reiterated its support for the strategic regional energy framework as part of broader efforts to promote sustainable development and regional integration.