Putin Receives Two Elephants from Laos: 'They Will Come in Handy'

President Thongloun Sisoulith of Laos presented Russian President Vladimir Putin with a pair of elephants as a symbolic gift marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and Russia. The gesture was made during their formal meeting at the Kremlin, as broadcast by RBK.

A Gift from the Lao Government and People

“On this occasion—the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our countries—the Lao government and the Lao people would like to present you, or the Russian Federation, with a pair of elephants,” Sisoulith stated during the bilateral talks.

“They’ll come in handy—thank you,” President Putin replied with a smile.

Deepening Diplomatic and Economic Ties

According to a statement on the Kremlin’s official website, Putin described Sisoulith as a close friend of Russia. The Russian president noted that bilateral trade between the two countries grew by nearly 20% in the first five months of 2025. He also reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to increase the quota for Lao students pursuing higher education in Russia.

Invitation to the Eastern Economic Forum

Putin invited both President Sisoulith and Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of Laos to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) scheduled for September. The forum, held in Russia’s Far East, is a major platform for fostering cooperation between Russia and Asia-Pacific nations.

Meeting Agenda and Official Statements

Dmitry Peskov, the Russian presidential spokesperson, confirmed that the Kremlin meeting included official document exchanges and joint statements to the media. He added that the leaders were also scheduled to hold extended talks with their respective delegations.

“Today marks the Kremlin segment of the official visit by the President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The two heads of state will first meet one-on-one, followed by Russia–Laos negotiations involving both delegations. They will exchange signed documents and make public statements,” Peskov explained.

Recent Russia–Laos Diplomatic Contacts

President Putin has met with senior Lao leaders on several occasions in recent years. In September 2023, he held discussions with Lao Vice President Pany Yathotou on the sidelines of the EEF. A month later, in October, Putin met with Sisoulith in Beijing during an international summit.