Vientiane: The Kingdom of Cambodia and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen cooperation across various sectors, pledging to fortify their longstanding relationship for the mutual benefit of both nations and their peoples.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the renewed commitment was made during separate courtesy meetings held in Vientiane between Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, and H.E. Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith, President of Lao PDR, as well as Lao Prime Minister H.E. Sonexay Siphandone.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet led a high-level delegation on a day-long visit to Vientiane to pay respects to the late H.E. Gen. Khamtay Siphandone, former Chairman of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee, former President of Lao PDR, and father of Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.

On behalf of His Majesty the King, the Royal Government, and the people of Cambodia, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet conveyed his deepest condolences to Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, his family, and the government and people of Lao PDR. He commended H.E. Gen. Khamtay Siphandone as a national hero and leader who devoted his life to the liberation, development, and progress of Lao PDR, as well as to fostering Cambodian-Lao relations.

The Lao President and Prime Minister expressed their gratitude to Cambodia’s leadership for their messages of sympathy and support following the passing of H.E. Gen. Khamtay Siphandone. They also expressed appreciation for the presence of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet and the Cambodian delegation, viewing it as a testament to the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries.

H.E. Gen. Khamtay Siphandone passed away on April 2, 2025, at the age of 102 due to natural causes.