St. Petersburg: Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith led the Lao delegation to the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2025), held under the theme ‘Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World’ from June 19-20, 2025.

According to Lao News Agency, SPIEF is one of the world’s most significant economic forums, originally launched in 1997 and inaugurated annually by Russian President Vladimir Putin since 2006. This year’s forum featured high-level discussions on various topics, including global economic trends, Russia’s development strategy, modern technology, AI, digital transformation, food security, and the future of international trade and investment.

Moreover, the forum included exhibitions showcasing innovation and economic opportunities. Over 20,000 participants from 140 countries, along with leading businesses and investors, attended the exhibitions.

During the forum, DPM Saleumxay actively participated as a panelist in two major sessions, including the EAEU-ASEAN Business Dialogue, which highlighted the growing cooperation between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and ASEAN. The Deputy Prime Minister also attended the Plenary Session, featuring Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, and Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang.

DPM Saleumxay held discussions with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk, focusing on strengthening Lao-Russian relations and cooperation. Additionally, he explored opportunities to expand trade and investment in Laos with leading Russian investors.