India, Laos business chambers sign four pacts to boost trade ties

VIENTIANE: Business chambers of India and Laos on Monday signed four agreements to boost bilateral trade ties between the two countries after visiting President Pratibha Devisingh Patil addressed a meeting of captains of industry, comprising representatives of India and Laos.

The three agreements included (1) A Letter of Intent between the Lao Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Laos; (2) A Memorandum of Understanding between the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Laos; (3) A Memorandum of Understanding between the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Laos and (4) A Memorandum of Understanding between the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) and the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Laos.

Earlier, President Patil met the President of the National Assembly of Lao PDR, Thongsing Thammavong at the Lao Plaza Hotel for about 30-minutes. The two reportedly exchanged views on matters of bilateral, regional and international importance to both countries.

After addressing the business meeting, President Patil left for the presidential palace, where she was given a ceremonial farewell. She then left for the Wattay International Airport and emplaned for Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.