Phnom penh: Cambodia and Laos reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation in science, technology and innovation (STI), and micro, small and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) development. The commitment was underscored during a courtesy meeting between H.E. HEM Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, and H.E. Sonexay Vannaxay, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Lao People's Democratic Republic to Cambodia.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the two sides discussed closer collaboration on STI policy, research, national quality infrastructure, and human resource capacity building. They also explored ways to strengthen regional connectivity, with the Ambassador highlighting the potential of the Lao-China Railway and improved cross-border transport links to facilitate trade, shorten logistics routes for agricultural exports, and boost tourism and people-to-people exchanges among Cambodia, Laos, and China.

"Science, technology and innovation are no longer optional for smaller economies. By working more closely together, sharing knowledge, and strengthening our research, standards and innovation ecosystems, Cambodia and Laos can better support MSMEs, improve competitiveness, and create new opportunities for our people," Minister HEM Vanndy said.

Ambassador Vannaxay expressed his commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation during his tenure, stating, "I will do my utmost to serve as a bridge to strengthen this relationship. Through close collaboration, we can help bring the benefits of scientific and technological progress to the people of both our countries."

Both sides also agreed to promote exchanges between researchers and technical experts, encourage joint training and knowledge sharing, and strengthen cooperation under ASEAN and other regional initiatives.