October 22, 2026
VIENTIANE – Laos has officially become the 29th member of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). President Thongloun Sisoulith attended the 7th CICA Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, on October 15, where this milestone was announced following a unanimous resolution.
During the summit, which focused on “A Strong CICA: Connectivity, Digitalisation and Sustainable Growth in Asia,” President Thongloun emphasized Laos’ commitment to peace, mutual respect, and dialogue as the cornerstones for regional stability and development.
He stated that Laos’ membership in CICA is aligned with the country’s long-standing foreign policy centered on peace, independence, and cooperation. “The Lao PDR stands ready to work closely with CICA member states and observers to make a constructive contribution to the common goal of strengthening mutual trust and confidence, and of safeguarding and promoting peace and security for sustainable development in the Asian region,” President Thongloun noted.
With Laos’ inclusion, CICA now encompasses approximately 90 percent of Asia’s territory and population. The membership is expected to enhance opportunities for Laos to collaborate with other nations on regional connectivity, trade, economic growth, digital transformation, and sustainable development.
Laos aims to leverage this membership to engage in discussions on regional security challenges, strengthen partnerships, and contribute to a more resilient Asian community. The summit included discussions among leaders on regional and international developments and future cooperation priorities.
Laos has been involved with CICA for over a decade, participating as a guest in the 4th summit in 2014 and becoming an observer state in 2017. This recent membership marks a significant step in Laos’ diplomatic and cooperative efforts within the region.
On the sidelines of the summit, President Thongloun engaged in talks with Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The leaders explored ways to enhance bilateral relations, particularly in view of the upcoming 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Laos and Uzbekistan in 2027.
Additionally, President Thongloun discussed his visit and participation in the summit during an interview with journalist Mikhail Gusman on the television program “Formula of Power.”
