Prime Minister Modi’s Visit to Laos
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Laos, where he is participating in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. This visit is significant as it marks a decade of India’s Act East Policy.
Warm Welcome in Vientiane
Upon his arrival in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by senior ministers of the Laos government, including the Minister of Home Affairs, Vilayvong Bouddakham. He received a ceremonial Guard of Honour and a special welcome at his hotel, where the Laos and Indian communities sang the Gayatri Mantra and performed the Bihu dance.
Cultural Connections
PM Modi participated in a blessing ceremony with senior Buddhist monks, highlighting the deep connection between India and Laos through Buddhism. He also witnessed a performance of the Lao Ramayana, showcasing the cultural ties between the two nations.
Further Engagements
Later, PM Modi will attend the ASEAN-India Summit and hold bilateral meetings, including one with the newly appointed Prime Minister of Japan. He shared his experiences on social media, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome and the cultural connections between India and Laos.
Historical Ties
India and Laos share historical and civilizational links, reflected in their common heritage of Buddhism and the Ramayana. Bilateral relations were established in 1956 and continue to be friendly.
Doubts Revealed
Laos -: Laos is a country in Southeast Asia, known for its mountainous terrain and rich cultural heritage. It shares borders with countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and China.
ASEAN -: ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a group of countries in Southeast Asia that work together to promote economic growth and peace in the region.
East Asia Summit -: The East Asia Summit is a meeting of leaders from countries in East Asia and nearby regions to discuss important issues like trade, security, and the environment.
Act East Policy -: India’s Act East Policy is a strategy to improve relations with countries in Southeast Asia and East Asia, focusing on trade, culture, and security.
Vientiane -: Vientiane is the capital city of Laos, known for its beautiful temples and as a center of Laotian culture and history.
Buddhist monks -: Buddhist monks are religious people who follow Buddhism, a religion that teaches peace, kindness, and understanding. They often live in temples and wear simple robes.
Ramayana -: The Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic story about the prince Rama, his wife Sita, and his loyal companion Hanuman. It is an important cultural story in many Asian countries, including India and Laos.