Laos–Malaysia relations

Laos–Malaysia relations are foreign relations between Laos and Malaysia. Both countries are the members of ASEAN.

Laos–Malaysia relations

Laos	Malaysia

History

During the collapse of the Communist Bloc, the Soviet Union could no longer afford aid for the development of Laos.[1] This made Laos seek aid from other countries to help develop their country and has led the country to adopt a neutral foreign policy.[1] When this policy of neutrality was adopted, relations with Malaysia were established.[1] The relations has been supported by the past Malaysian King Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin.[2]

Economic relations

In 2003, the trade between the two countries were very small with the valued at only US$2.4 million but increase to US$2.7 million in 2004.[3] While in 2009, Malaysia's exported to Laos has reached US$7.4 million and the Malaysian investment in the country has reached US$150 million.[4] Both countries also has signed various agreements to provide for the expanding of bilateral relations such as the Bilateral Trade Agreement, Tourism Agreement. Investment Guarantee Agreement, Air Services Agreement and the Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation Agreement.[3] In 2010, Malaysia ranks ninth in the list of largest foreign investors in Laos.[4][5] By 2015, Malaysia is the second largest investor after Vietnam with a total investment of $430 million.[6] In 2017, the two countries establish a joint committee on science, technology and innovation (STI) co-operation,[7] with Malaysian companies are encouraged to invest more in Laos.[8]

References

1. Martin Stuart-Fox (28 September 1997). A History of Laos. Cambridge University Press. pp. 200–. ISBN 978-0-521-59746-3.
2. "King hopes Malaysia, Laos continue cooperation for mutual benefits". Bernama, Prime Minister's Office of Malaysia. 25 November 2010. Retrieved 18 November 2013.
3. "Trade Relations between Lao PDR and Malaysia" (PDF). Smepdo.org. Retrieved 18 November 2013.
4. "Laos, Malaysia sign three cooperation documents". Vientiane Times, Lao Investors House. 4 June 2010. Archived from the original on 18 November 2013. Retrieved 18 November 2013.
5. "NA president receives Malaysian Ambassador". The National Assembly of The Lao People's Democratic Republic. Archived from the original on 20 October 2011. Retrieved 18 November 2013.
6. Ralph Jennings (3 May 2017). "Impoverished Laos Shows Resistance To Becoming A Client State Of China". Forbes. Retrieved 12 May 2017.
7. "Malaysia, Laos to establish joint committee on STI, ink MoU on STI". Bernama. The Sun. 9 May 2017. Retrieved 12 May 2017.
8. "Opening way for Malaysia-Laos trade". The Star. 12 May 2017. Retrieved 12 May 2017.