Special Sharing Session: Laos-UK Relationship at 70: Retrospective and Progress | 10 October 2025

In commemoration of 70 years of diplomatic relations between Laos and the United Kingdom, the ASEAN-UK Young Leaders Initiative (ASEAN-UK YLI) is pleased to announce a Special Sharing Session on “Laos-UK Relationship at 70: Retrospective and Progress.”

During this event, Mr. Thavone Singharaj, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in the United Kingdom will join us as distinguished speaker. Mr. Singharaj will provide valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations between Laos and the UK, explore collaboration across various sectors, and discuss the current state of bilateral relations, as well as regional cooperation within the context of ASEAN-UK relations.

The topics discuss during this Special Sharing Session are: (i). Reflect on the key milestones and historical junctures; (ii). Highlight the contemporary bilateral relations including trade, social development, political consultation and people to people links, as well as, the expanding on the regional cooperation through the ASEAN-UK relations, and (iii). Discuss the potential new avenues for partnership, particularly in the context of graduation from LDC status and the UK’s focus on the Indo-Pacific region.

Agenda (UK Time)

Date: Friday, 10 October 2025

Time: 10.00-11.00 (UK) / 16.00-17.00 (Laos) via Online

09.50 – 10.00	Registration
10.00 – 10.05	Introduction
10.05 – 10.30	Special Sharing Session on “The Laos-UK Relationship at 70: Retrospective and Progress" Special Guest Speaker: Mr Thavone Singharaj, Deputy Head of Mission, the Embassy of Laos in London
10.30 – 10.50	Q & A and Discussion Session Moderator: Mr Chhuon Vanndasambath, General Coordinator of the ASEAN-UK Young Leaders Initiative
10.50 – 11.00	Photo Session and End of Programme

Register via this link: https://bit.ly/SharingSessionLaosUKat70

About our Speaker

Mr Thavone Singharaj is a distinguished diplomat with a comprehensive background in international relations, policy research, and diplomacy. He currently serves as the Deputy Head of Mission and Counselor at the Embassy of Laos in London, where he plays a key role in representing Lao interests in the United Kingdom. Mr. Singharaj earned his Bachelor of Arts from the National University of Laos (1997-2002) and a Master of Arts in International Relations from Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, Japan (2008-2010). His diplomatic career has included significant roles such as Director of the Southeast Asian Division in the Asia-Pacific and Africa Department (2020-2023) and First Secretary and Deputy Permanent Representative to ASEAN (2015-2018). In addition to his diplomatic work, he has contributed to research and education, notably as a Coordinator and Lecturer for the English for Lao Government Officials (EGOs) programme, and has published works on Laos’ diplomatic relations with Russia, China, and Australia.

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