Vientiane:The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Laos recently hosted a meeting focusing on enhancing regional business partnerships. The discussions were aimed at strengthening ties between the BRICS Women's Business Alliance and the ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs Network. A key topic was the potential establishment of a representative office for the Alliance in Laos.

According to Lao News Agency, Mr. Maithong, a Standing Member of the Steering Committee for Economic Diplomacy of the Lao PDR, welcomed the delegation during its working visit. He acknowledged the delegation's scheduled participation in the BRICS-ASEAN Business Forum set for October 29-30, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand.

Mr. Maithong expressed enthusiasm for the growing cooperation between the BRICS Women's Business Alliance and the Lao Women's Business Association. He indicated support for further collaboration and joint initiatives.

Ms. Nesterova expressed gratitude to the Lao hosts for their hospitality and provided an overview of the Alliance's activities and achievements since its inception during the 12th BRICS Summit in 2020. She emphasized the Alliance's crucial role in fostering cooperation among BRICS nations and enhancing business prospects for women entrepreneurs through various multilateral projects.

The BRICS Women's Business Alliance has established representative offices in multiple countries, including Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and Belarus. It has actively participated in international business forums held alongside BRICS summits and engaged with international financial institutions and senior officials from BRICS member countries.

The proposed representative office in Laos aims to further connect business networks, support women entrepreneurs, and expand economic cooperation between Laos, BRICS, and ASEAN.