Laos will gift two elephants to St. Petersburg, Russia, in honor of the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The announcement was made by Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The two leaders met in Moscow to discuss the development of cooperation between their nations. As part of efforts to strengthen friendly ties, President Sisoulith decided to present the gift to St. Petersburg.

President Putin acknowledged the gesture, noting his personal connection to the city, where he received his education at the Herzen Pedagogical Institute. He also recognized President Sisoulith as a close friend of Russia, highlighting his familiarity with the country.