Prof Hidetoshi Nishimura, Executive Director of ERIA paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Mr. Soulivong Daravong, Minister of Energy and Mines, Lao People's Democratic Republic on November 21, 2013.

Prof Nishimura reported the recent ERIA's activities to the Minister, particularly ERIA's participation in the 7th East Asia Summit (EAS) Energy Ministers Meeting in September 2013. Prof Nishimura presented the Joint Ministerial Statement of the Summit where ERIA's efforts in energy research are mentioned. In this context, he also handed over the special report on 'Southeast Asia Energy Outlook' which ERIA jointly published with International Energy Agency (IEA) in October 2013.

The Minister congratulated ERIA on its achievements especially in the field of Energy and recognized ERIA's efforts for enhancing energy partnerships in the EAS region.

Both reaffirmed future cooperation between both parties.