External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a meeting with Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and they discussed the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centres in Laos. The bilateral meeting also included discussions on the collaboration of various sectors which includes defense, energy, and about development of the partnership. Jaishankar’s visit to the capital of Laos was included in his visit to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings. The EAM posted on his official X account, ”Had a constructive meeting with the Lao PDR Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. Extending the warm wishes from Prime Minister @narendra modi. We converse about cooperation in Heritage conservation, capacity building, defense, energy, digital, and our development association.”
India raises issue of human trafficking
”During my conversation with the Prime Minister of Lao PDR, I brought up the issue of Indian nationals being trafficked through cyber scam centers. We respect the ongoing mutual support of the Lao PDR government in rescuing and providing relief to our citizens,” Jaishankar added. He also underlined the value of Laos PM’s guidance in building up the bilateral ties rooted in a shared civilization connection.
Current status of the Indians trapped in Laos
The 13 Indians who have been trapped in the cyber-scamming centers in Laos have been rescued and returned to their home as per a statement released by the Indian Embassy in Laos on Sunday. The human trafficking issue was also discussed with the Foreign Ministers of Thailand and Cambodia.
518 Indians have been rescued so far
According to the Indian Embassy, around 518 Indians have been freed from the trap, and an advisory regarding fake job offers has also been issued.
MoUs & 10 Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) exchanged in Laos
During the meeting, 10 Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) and MoUs were exchanged in Laos. The collaboration included the Mekong Ganga Cooperation framework and about sharing of digital solutions. The two ministers also unveiled a special stamp set commemorating the shared cultural legacy of Ramayana and Buddhism. Jaishankar rendered India’s full cooperation to Lao’s presidency of the ASEAN and East Asia Summit.
(With PTI inputs)