Vientiane: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora and the Laotian community as he arrived in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, on October 10, for a two-day visit. Upon his arrival at the hotel, PM Modi joined the gathering in reciting Gayatri Mantra with many people welcoming him in Hindi, saying, "Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi ji, aapka Laos mei hardik swagat hai" (Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we warmly welcome you in Laos).
As part of the cultural celebrations, a Bihu dance performance featuring Laotian participants was also staged to welcome the Prime Minister. In a special ceremony, PM Modi met with senior Buddhist monks, highlighting the ancient bond of Buddhism that has connected India and Laos for over 2000 years. According to folklore, relics of Gautama Buddha were brought to Laos, where they were enshrined at the Pha That Luang stupa, a revered national monument.
The Prime Minister is in Laos to attend the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit at the invitation of Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, the current ASEAN Chair. During the visit, PM Modi is expected to hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the ASEAN and East Asia Summits.
