Minister of Foreign Affairs Parnpree Bahiddha-nukara, his Laotian counterpart Saleumxay Kommasith, and Robyn Mudie, the Director of Southeast Asia at the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, participated in the 30th-anniversary celebrations of the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge No. 1 on Apr 21. The event, which took place at the Highway District 1 Office in Nong Khai province, was attended by diplomats from ASEAN countries, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, and residents from the two nations.
In his address, Nong Khai Governor Sompop Samitasiri emphasized the bridge’s role in facilitating vital economic, cultural, and social exchanges between Thailand and Laos. Since opening on April 25, 1994, with a contribution of 42 million Australian dollars, the bridge has symbolized the strong ties between the two countries.
The celebration, extending through the end of April, features a variety of activities aimed at deepening the economic and cultural links between the two nations. The lineup includes merit-making ceremonies, a drone light show, a music festival along the Mekong River, and a business forum exploring trade and investment opportunities within special economic zones. An OTOP (One Tambon One Product) event themed “Love Each Other, Strong Core, Trade Together” is also part of the anniversary festivities.
The year 2024 has been declared the Year of Celebration for the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge No. 1, commemorating three decades of bridging the communities and economies across the Mekong River. (NNT)
