Prime Minister Narendra Modi Arrives in Laos for ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits

Vientiane, Laos, October 10: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Laos on a two-day visit to participate in the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi received a grand welcome, with people chanting the Gayatri Mantra and performing the traditional Bihu dance.

In a post on the social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi expressed his gratitude, saying, "The welcome in Lao PDR was memorable. The Indian community is clearly very connected to its roots. It was heartwarming to see people performing the Bihu dance and speaking Hindi. I have arrived in Lao PDR and look forward to engaging with various world leaders."

In a video shared on X, Prime Minister Modi is seen signing autographs for children and affectionately patting them on the head. The Prime Minister is in Laos at the invitation of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic’s Prime Minister, Sonexay Siphandone, for a two-day official visit. Laos is currently the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will participate in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit.

At the DoubleTree Hotel in Laos, locals welcomed Prime Minister Modi in Hindi. The Indian diaspora and the local Lao community chanted the Gayatri Mantra as part of the reception. Later, Prime Minister Modi participated in a blessing ceremony with senior Buddhist monks from Laos.

Before his departure from New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi posted on X, stating, "Departing for Laos to attend the 21st ASEAN-India and 19th East Asia Summits. This is a special year as we celebrate a decade of our Act East Policy, which has greatly benefited our nation. During this trip, there will be multiple bilateral meetings and discussions with various world leaders."