Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand Meet in Laos

On October 10, 2024, in Vientiane, Laos, the Prime Minister of Canada engaged in a series of high-level meetings with various leaders from the Asia-Pacific region. These included discussions with the Prime Ministers of Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, as well as the President of the Philippines and the Secretary General of ASEAN. Each meeting featured a pooled photo opportunity, highlighting the collaborative nature of these discussions. The Prime Minister's agenda focused on enhancing regional connectivity and resilience, culminating in participation in the ASEAN-Canada Special Summit. This summit aimed to strengthen ties between Canada and ASEAN member states, addressing shared challenges and opportunities in the region. In addition to the formal meetings, the Prime Minister attended an official dinner hosted by the Prime Minister of Laos, which provided an informal setting for further dialogue and relationship-building among the leaders. Such gatherings are crucial for fostering diplomatic relations and understanding between nations. The events in Laos underscore Canada's commitment to engaging with Southeast Asian nations, reflecting a broader strategy to enhance its presence and influence in the Asia-Pacific region. This engagement is vital for addressing global issues such as trade, security, and climate change, which require cooperative efforts among nations.