Thongloun Sisoulith Reelected as Laos President: Xi Jinping Sends Congratulations

March 23, 2026 Lucas Fernandez – World Editor World

Beijing and Vientiane reaffirmed their “comrades plus brothers” relationship on Saturday as Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Thongloun Sisoulith on his re-election as President of Laos.

The congratulatory message, delivered on March 23, 2026, underscored the “profound friendship” between the two socialist nations, according to China’s state-run Xinhua News Agency. Xi emphasized the consistent mutual support demonstrated by both countries on issues of core interests and major concerns. He likewise noted that 2026 marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Laos, designated as the “China-Laos Friendship Year,” with a series of celebratory events planned to strengthen people-to-people ties.

Xi highlighted the significance of 2026 as the inaugural year of both China’s “15th Five-Year Plan” and Laos’ “Ninth National Socio-Economic Development Plan,” stating that both nations are at a “critical stage of development and revitalization.” He expressed his willingness to function with President Thongloun to formulate a new blueprint for comprehensive strategic cooperation and advance the construction of a China-Laos community with a shared future, benefiting both populations and contributing to regional peace and development.

In a separate message, Chinese Premier Li Qiang congratulated Sonexay Siphandone on his re-election as Prime Minister of Laos. Li stated his intention to collaborate with Sonexay to guide relevant departments and localities in strengthening exchanges and cooperation, furthering the progress of the China-Laos community with a shared future, Xinhua reported.

The re-election of both leaders solidifies a period of close collaboration between Beijing and Vientiane, particularly within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. Laos is a key partner in the China-Laos Railway project, a flagship initiative of the Belt and Road, which began operations in December 2021. The railway has significantly boosted trade and connectivity between the two countries.