Vientiane: Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on Thursday welcomed Mr. Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, who is in the Lao PDR for an official visit and working mission. Prime Minister Sonexay expressed his appreciation for Mr. Shoigu's visit, describing it as an important step in strengthening the longstanding friendship and expanding cooperation between Laos and Russia. He said the trip contributes to advancing the strategic partnership shared by the two countries.According to Lao News Agency, the Prime Minister highlighted steady progress in bilateral and multilateral cooperation in recent years, particularly in trade and investment, energy, biotechnology, education, defence, legal affairs, culture, and tourism. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Lao PDR's commitment to further deepening cooperation for mutual benefit.Mr. Shoigu thanked the Lao government for its warm reception and outlined the objectives of his delegation's visit, reaffirming Russia's commitment to continued collaboration with Laos across key sectors.