60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Between the United States and Laos

Statement

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I extend my best wishes to the Lao People's Democratic Republic as we celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations between our two nations.

The United States and Laos have cooperated to foster healthy communities, promote economic growth, develop the rule of law and safeguard the environment. With the assistance of the Lao government and the people of Laos, we continue to account for our POW/MIAs and make real our pledge to help clear Laos of unexploded ordnance.

The partnership between the United States and Laos also strengthens the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). I want to reaffirm the United States' strong commitment to supporting Laos as it assumes the Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2016. I wish you great success in the coming year.

On August 10, as we commemorate six decades of understanding and collaboration, we look forward to even deeper ties between our two countries as we build a peaceful and prosperous future.

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