A high-level military delegation from landlocked Laos has begun a five-day official visit to Myanmar, according to regime-controlled media. The visit is reportedly aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries’ armed forces, with a particular emphasis on naval coordination despite Laos having no direct sea access.
The delegation is led by Major General Vanthong Bouttavong, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Lao People’s Army. The trip follows an earlier visit in February by the Lao–Myanmar Friendship Association, signaling continued military-to-military engagement between the two governments.
Although bilateral trade between Laos and Myanmar has historically remained limited compared to Myanmar’s larger neighbors, shifting regional dynamics are reshaping priorities. As armed conflicts across Myanmar continue to disrupt or close key border trade routes with Thailand, China, Bangladesh, and India, the Myanmar military authorities have increasingly turned attention toward less-developed crossing points.
One such focus is the Kenglat border post in Tachileik District, eastern Shan State, an area strategically positioned near the Mekong River, which forms a natural boundary with Laos. Analysts note that this renewed attention reflects the junta’s attempt to diversify and stabilize cross-border economic channels amid widening regional instability.
(Photo: Myanmar National Portal)
