Suu Kyi, Htin Kyaw on official visit to Laos

07 May 2016
Suu Kyi, Htin Kyaw on official visit to Laos
Myanmar President Htin Kyaw (front), followed by Foreign Minister and State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, at the airport prior to flying to Laos. Photo: Min Min/Mizzima

Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar’s State Counsellor and foreign minister, visited neighbouring Laos on May 6 in her first official trip abroad, accompanied by President Htin Kyaw.
The visit was made at the invitation of President Bounnhang Vorachit of Laos.
Htin Kyaw was the first head of state to be hosted by Bounnhang, who officially took up his post three weeks ago.
Local Laotian media said the purpose of the visit was to improve cooperation and strengthen relations between the two countries
The Laotian state news agency KPL said the purpose of the visit was to strengthen relations and cooperation between the countries, which share a short stretch of border.
Laos currently chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Myanmar is seeking to improve ties with fellow members of ASEAN.