Laos has congratulated Thais for backing the military-sponsored draft charter, saying the referendum result paves the way for reforms.
The congratulatory message was conveyed yesterday by Lao Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith during a meeting with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to bolster Thai-Lao cooperation.
The poll result secures a path toward national reforms as part of a roadmap which the Lao government supports, deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak quoted Mr Saleumxay as saying after the meeting.
The minister also stressed that peace and progress in Thailand are key factors for further development in Laos, Maj Gen Werachon said.
Saleumxay: Supports regime's roadmap
Issues on joint development were raised during the meeting yesterday.
Plans to build roads and bridges were of particular interest to Gen Prayut who wants to see better communication links between people of the countries.
Vientiane is ready to support Thai businessmen to help make them the "number one investors" in Laos while Bangkok has promised to better manage and take care of Lao migrant workers in Thailand, the deputy spokesman said.
Regarding energy, Laos is to press ahead with its "battery of Asean" policy by exporting dam-generated electricity, with Thailand as the major importer.
Thailand plans to increase electricity imports from Laos under a memorandum of understanding between the nations, Maj Gen Werachon said.
Mr Saleumxay's view of the charter referendum result was in stark contrast to those expressed by United States and European Union officials.
The US and the EU share concerns there was insufficient debate on the draft charter in the lead-up to the Aug 7 poll.
It is usual that many comments will be made about the referendum, especially from people who disagree with the government, said National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) spokesman Col Winthai Suvaree.
As for the "foreign voices" including the EU, their negative comments can cause people to doubt their claim that they maintain a neutral stance, he said.
The referendum was not about who won or lost, Col Winthai said.
He said it was part of the NCPO's roadmap towards an election and a reflection that most people want Thailand to move forward under the plan.