Deputy Prime Minister Sisoulit Thongloun of Laos

Moreover Mr Bouasone is a protégé of outgoing president Khamtai, as is the new state and Party president General Choummali Sayasone, while Mr Thongloun is the son-in-law of former Politburo member Phoumi Vongvichit.

Thongloun expressed his appreciation to the Thai side for its assistance which will help perpetuate Buddhism, the main religion of both countries.