Jaishankar Addresses Trafficking of Indians in Laos

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone to discuss the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centers. They also explored development partnership in defense and energy. Jaishankar acknowledged the assistance provided by Laos in rescuing Indian citizens.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on Saturday to address the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centers in Southeast Asia. The two leaders also explored development partnerships in defense and energy sectors.

S Jaishankar participates in the meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the capital of the Laos People's Democratic Republic, along with fellow foreign ministers. He conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed bilateral cooperation in several fields, including heritage conservation and digital capacity building.

Jaishankar expressed his gratitude towards Siphandone for supporting the rescue of trafficked Indian nationals. So far, the Indian embassy in Laos has rescued 518 Indians, including 13 recently returned home. The talks also included discussions with Foreign Ministers of Cambodia and Thailand, emphasizing India's support for Laos' Chairship of ASEAN and the East Asia Summit.

(With inputs from agencies.)