Society

Japan, Laos to reopen borders

Aug 24 (NHK) - Japan and Laos have agreed to ease entry restrictions imposed in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Long-term residents will be allowed to travel between the two countries as early as September.

Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and his Laotian counterpart Saleumxay Kommasith met in Laos on Sunday.

The ministers also confirmed that the two countries will speed up coordination in order to permit short-term visitors as soon as possible, including business people.

Motegi said Japan intends to resume admitting government-sponsored Laotian students soon.

Saleumxay expressed gratitude for the plan.

After the meeting, the ministers signed an agreement where Japan will offer Laos about 22.6 million dollars in grant aid for projects, including the construction and renovation of institutions to train teachers.

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