PH, Lao PDR discuss cooperation in defense, economy, education

KUALA LUMPUR - President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Monday tackled defense, economic, and education cooperation with Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR) Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.

The two leaders had a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 46th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Malaysia, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a briefing before the Philippine media delegation. 

They also discussed the contribution of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Lao PDR, particularly in the field of architecture and language training.

''Sa kanilang pananaw ay naging kaagapay nila ang mga Pilipino sa nation building. Nagpasalamat din ang bansang Laos for language trainings and scholarships for Laos ministries,'' Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said. (For them, Filipinos have helped them in nation building. They also thanked the Philippines for language training and scholarships for Lao ministries.) 

Marcos also discussed with Lao PDR the possible negative impacts of new technologies.

She said ''both leaders reaffirmed their commitments to further advance bilateral relations.''

Meanwhile, Castro mentioned that Marcos also had a bilateral talk with Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra wherein they talked about trade and economic ties, agricultural cooperation, and combating transnational crimes. 

Castro said this was Marcos' first meeting with Thailand's leader. —RF, GMA Integrated News