President Michael D Higgins begins his visit to Laos today – the final country on his tour of south east Asia.
He’ll be meeting the country’s political leaders in the capital Vientiane.
The President’s trip is aimed at promoting trade, education and cultural links with countries in the region.
President Michael D. Higgins receiving an official welcome to Laos People's Democratic Republic. pic.twitter.com/LEn65FdYYP
— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) November 15, 2016
The President’s visit will seek to support the socio-economic development of the region in the areas of nutrition, clearance of unexploded ordnance, green energy and small producer sustainability in the agricultural area.
He will discuss the future of ecologically sustainable tourism, including through the Irish Aid programme.
President Higgins will attend a State Banquet hosted in his honour by President Bounnhang Vorachith and his wife, which will also include a performance of Lao traditional music.
The President and Sabina Higgins will also have a meeting with the small Irish community in Lao PDR.
The President will also visit Mahasot Hospital, where women are supported in learning about early child nutrition before and after birth, through a partnership project between Government and civil society which is supported by Irish Aid.
