Category: Government Policy

Vientiane: Party Cell, led by Comrade Phonvanh Outhavong, Secretary of the Party Committee of the Investment Promotion and Management Committee, laid a wreath at the Unknown Soldiers Monument (Red Star) and a flower basket at the Kaysone Phomvihane Museum on the morning of August 30, 2026.

According to Lao News Agency, this activity was held to warmly welcome the 1st Congress of the Party Cell of the Investment Promotion and Management Committee, commencing on August 31, 2026. The event aimed to express deep respect and gratitude for the great deeds and indomitable spirit of Lao ancestors, revolutionary fighters, and the multi-ethnic Lao people. These individuals heroically sacrificed their lives for the revolutionary cause under the leadership of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, achieving a significant victory and declaring the independence and establishment of the Lao PDR in 1975.

Vientiane: (KPL) On 28 August 2026, the Institute of Foreign Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Embassy of India to the Lao PDR, jointly organised a lecture under the theme: “Lao PDR and India at 70: From Development Partnership to Comprehensive Partnership”. This lecture was one of the activities commemorating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Lao PDR and India (2 February 1956 -2026) and was held on the occasion of the official visit and working trip to the Lao PDR by Mr Shri Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs of India.

According to Lao News Agency, the event was attended by more than 60 participants from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the LPRP Central Committee’s Commission for External Relations, and various related ministries. The opening ceremony was presided over by Mr Maythong Thammavongsa, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, who expressed appreciation and high regard for the long-standing traditional relations between the two countries, which are built upon a foundation of cooperation and fine friendship.

Following the opening remarks, participants listened to a lecture delivered by Mr Shri Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs of India. He reviewed and highly evaluated the achievements of bilateral cooperation over the past 70 years, characterising the relationship as one of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation. This is reflected in the successes and outcomes of bilateral cooperation across various fields, notably human resource capacity building, the preservation and continuation of fine cultural and religious traditions, and active participation in regional and international multilateral frameworks-including ASEAN and the United Nations-especially amidst the rapidly changing, complex, and unpredictable regional and international landscape.

Over the past 70 years, Laos and India have established and maintained diplomatic relations rooted in tradition up to the present day, with bilateral ties continuously expanding, developing, and yielding concrete results. Looking ahead, both sides have expressed their joint commitment to elevating their cooperation from a development partnership to a comprehensive partnership. This lecture serves as an important milestone in evaluating past bilateral relations as well as future cooperation directions, contributing significantly to the celebration of the 70th anniversary of Lao-Indian diplomatic relations while providing valuable information and insights to all participants.

Vientiane: UNICEF’s Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Mr. Sanjay Wijesekera, engaged in crucial discussions with senior government officials in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) this week, emphasizing the need for sustained investment in children as the nation approaches its graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in November.

According to Lao News Agency, the visit underscored UNICEF’s longstanding partnership with the Lao PDR, spanning over fifty years, with a focus on safeguarding achievements for children and ensuring they continue to benefit amidst the country’s developmental advancements. Mr. Wijesekera met with Mrs. Aly Vongnobountham, President of the Lao Women’s Union, to discuss the Union’s role in the upcoming Country Programme (2027-2031), which includes initiatives on immunization, parenting support, and adolescent wellbeing, alongside a shared commitment to advancing women’s and children’s rights in Lao PDR.

The forthcoming Country Programme aligns with the Government’s 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, concentrating on four key areas: the initial 1,000 days of life, learning and skills, adolescent empowerment and inclusion, and ensuring a safe and clean environment for children. Mr. Wijesekera also engaged with Mr. Anouparb Vongnorkeo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, to discuss the upcoming UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2027-2031) and Lao PDR’s involvement with UNICEF’s Executive Board.

In discussions with Mr. Soulivath Souvannachoumkham, Deputy Minister of Finance, Mr. Wijesekera focused on maintaining public investment in children as the nation prepares for LDC graduation. Despite reducing national poverty from 18.3 percent in 2019 to 15 percent in 2025, child poverty remains a significant issue, with 22.9 percent of children under five living in nationally poor households.

“The Lao PDR has made real progress in reducing poverty,” Mr. Wijesekera stated. “What matters now is making sure every child shares in it, including the very youngest. Sustained investment in children, through this transition and beyond, is what is now needed. UNICEF will continue to support the Government to help protect and build on the gains made for children.”

During his visit, Mr. Wijesekera also interacted with young members of UNICEF’s Youth Advocate Network, whose initiatives include preventing child marriage, promoting climate action, and enhancing digital skills. Additionally, he observed health support services for children and mothers at a local hospital.

Vientiane: The Vietnamese Embassy in Laos hosted a banquet in Vientiane on August 28 to mark the 81st anniversary of the success of the August Revolution (August 19, 1945-2026) and the National Day of Vietnam (September 2, 1945-2026). Lao officials attending the event included Vilay Lakhamphong, Politburo Member and Standing Member of the Secretariat of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee; Khamphan Pheuiyavong, Politburo Member and Head of the LPRP Central Committee’s Propaganda and Training Commission; and Phet Phomphiphak, Politburo Member, Secretary of the LPRP Central Committee, and Head of the LPRP Central Committee Office; alongside leaders from various agencies of the LPRP, the State, the Lao Front for National Construction, mass associations, and localities of Laos.

According to Lao News Agency, the ceremony also saw the presence of heads of the Embassy and representative missions of Vietnam, representatives of the Vietnamese community in Laos, together with ambassadors, charg©s d’affaires, heads of international organisations, and defence attach©s from several countries in Laos.

Addressing the reception, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Minh Tam reviewed the glorious 81-year path of Vietnam since President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence on September 2, 1945, founding the Democratic Republic of Vietnam – now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. This event ushered in a new era in the nation’s history: an era of independence, freedom, and self-determination, where national independence is closely linked with socialism.

He emphasised that over the past 81 years, under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the Vietnamese people have stayed united and resiliently overcome all hardships and challenges to firmly safeguard national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

At the same time, Vietnam has pursued the Doi Moi (Renewal) process and achieved historic milestones. From an underdeveloped economy, it has emerged as the world’s 32nd largest economy, ranking among the top 20 globally in trade and foreign direct investment attraction. It has established diplomatic relations with 194 countries and territories, including strategic partnerships and comprehensive partnerships with 45 countries, encompassing all five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Highlighting the country’s major breakthroughs made in 2025 and 2026, he underscored 2025 as a major landmark in Vietnam’s public administrative reform, characterised by the execution of its largest-ever apparatus streamlining and the launch of the two-tier local administration model. This laid a critical foundation for national governance reform, administrative decentralisation, delegation of authority, and sustainable development in the new era.

In early 2026, Vietnam successfully organised the 14th National Party Congress and the election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly. The congress set strategic visions, mindsets, and policies to propel the country steadily into a new era: striving to become a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle income by 2030 – the centenary of the CPV, and a high-income developed socialist-oriented country by 2045, when Vietnam marks its 100th anniversary, Tam noted.

The ambassador underlined that Vietnam-Laos political ties have grown increasingly close and trustworthy, serving as the core anchor for overall relations. Meanwhile, defence, security, and diplomatic cooperation have deepened as solid pillars, helping maintain political stability and social order in both countries while elevating their regional and international standing.

Economic cooperation has experienced major breakthroughs, with Vietnam remaining one of the largest investors and trade partners in Laos. Furthermore, collaboration in education, training, human resources development, and culture continues to be prioritised by both sides, he added.

Stressing the special bilateral relationship, founded by President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane, and President Souphanouvong and painstakingly nurtured by generations of leaders and citizens of both nations, Tam said this bond has become a vital, exemplary, loyal, and pure relationship rare in international relations. It is a key factor guaranteeing success for each nation’s revolutionary cause, an invaluable shared asset, and a powerful resource for national construction and defence in both countries.

He expressed confidence that Vietnam and Laos will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder to gain even greater attainments in the Doi Moi process and jointly advance toward socialism.

On this occasion, on behalf of the Party, State, and People of Vietnam, Tam extended sincere thanks and deep gratitude to the LPRP, the State, and the people of Laos for their steadfast solidarity and support. He also thanked countries and international friends worldwide for their continued support to Vietnam, as well as their contributions to Vietnam-Laos ties.

Vientiane: An inter-sectoral coordination group between Vietnam and Laos conducted an inspection in the northwestern province of Dien Bien from August 26 to 28 to review the implementation of the 2007 Hanoi Agreement on facilitating the movement of people, vehicles, and goods across the shared border, as reported by the Ministry of Industry and Trade on August 29.

According to Lao News Agency, the inspection sought to assess the results of the agreement’s implementation, identify challenges, and discuss measures to further facilitate cross-border movement and trade. The agreement, signed between the Vietnamese and Lao Governments on September 14, 2007, serves as a crucial framework for promoting investment and trade cooperation between the two nations.

After nearly two decades, the agreement has played a significant role in facilitating cross-border activities, contributing to trade and investment growth, socio-economic development in border areas, and strengthening the traditional friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Laos.

During the inspection, the joint inter-sectoral delegation conducted a field survey at the Tay Trang International Border Gate in Dien Bien province and its Pang Hok counterpart in Phongsaly province. They engaged in discussions with border-gate authorities regarding regulations on immigration, import-export activities, vehicle management, cargo inspection and control, and trade facilitation.

The assessment also included an evaluation of border-gate infrastructure, connecting roads, inspection areas, warehouses, and facilities for import and export. Discussions highlighted difficulties encountered during the implementation of the agreement.

The delegation noted positive outcomes from the coordination between authorities and local administrations on both sides of the border. Regular exchanges of information and coordination in resolving issues at border gates have facilitated the movement of people, vehicles, and goods while ensuring effective state management and national defense along the border.

In a working session post-inspection, both sides comprehensively reviewed the agreement’s implementation, focusing on the period from 2023 through the first half of 2026. Topics discussed included procedures for border crossing, import and export regulations, quarantine, payment mechanisms, border-gate infrastructure, transport connectivity, information technology, and digital transformation.

The discussions also addressed issues such as inadequate infrastructure, limited warehousing, cargo inspection facilities, and modest logistics services. Both sides agreed on the need to review regulations governing people, vehicles, and goods to ensure alignment with current laws and management practices.

The group agreed to explore measures to enhance cross-border trade, particularly for agricultural products, improve connectivity between infrastructure, accelerate digital transformation, modernize border management, and enhance coordination among authorities.

A central focus of the inspection was reviewing the provisions of the 2007 Hanoi Agreement. Based on border conditions and recommendations, the group discussed potential amendments to align with current legislation, administrative reforms, and cross-border trade developments.

The group aims to continue collaborating on amendments, with proposals to be submitted to authorities for consideration, targeting completion by 2027. This initiative is expected to strengthen the legal framework for facilitating cross-border movement, thereby boosting bilateral trade and socio-economic development in border areas.

Vientiane: The 1st Congress of the Party Cell of the Committee for Investment Promotion and Management (CIPM) was convened on August 31, 2026, under the leadership of Mrs. Phonevanh Outhavong, Secretary of the CIPM Party Committee.

According to Lao News Agency, the congress was attended by Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith, a Politburo Member of the Central Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the CIPM. The event also saw participation from full and alternate members of the Party Central Committee, senior leaders from various ministries, and members of the party cells under the CIPM.

During the congress, Mrs. Phonevanh Outhavong presented the draft political report from the Executive Committee of the CIPM. Following this, Mr. Vanthana Norintha, Deputy Secretary of the CIPM Party Committee, introduced the draft development programme for the investment promotion and management sector.

The delegates engaged in a collective review and discussion of the draft political
report and the sector’s development programme. They assessed various aspects such as strengths, weaknesses, shortcomings, root causes, and lessons learned in leadership and guidance over recent years. The congress concluded with the formal adoption of the political report and the 5-year investment sector development programme, which will serve as a foundational guideline for the CIPM Party Cell’s activities over the next five years.

In his address, Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith commended the success of the congress and urged the CIPM Party Committee to prioritize political and ideological education for party members and officials. He emphasized the importance of responsibility, decisiveness, and proactive approaches in implementing strategic plans into practical actions.

Mr. Kommasith highlighted the necessity of ensuring that the National Socio-Economic Development Plan achieves its targets, thereby positioning the committee as a strong advisory body to the Government in the macro-management of investment promot
ion and management. He also stressed the improvement of future plan formulations to enhance realism and scientific grounding, promoting investment reforms in both public and private sectors. He pointed out the importance of prioritizing urgent, high-utility projects that provide societal benefits, economic efficiency, and rapid, tangible results, while avoiding inefficient and prolonged projects.

Vientiane: Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Anouparb Vongnorkeo received Xu Wenguang, Member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Zhejiang Provincial Committee and Vice Governor of Zhejiang Province, during his official visit to Laos on August 28, 2026.

According to Lao News Agency, Anouparb welcomed the delegation and emphasized the significance of implementing the outcomes of the June 2026 state visit to China by Party General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith. He underscored the longstanding friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership between Laos and China, expressing gratitude for China’s ongoing support and assistance to Laos.

During the meeting, both parties acknowledged the increasing cooperation in trade, investment, and other sectors. They agreed to establish a coordination mechanism to facilitate exchanges and cooperation between Laos and Zhejiang. Priority areas identified for collaboration include environmental protection, agriculture, human resourc
e development, technology, innovation, artificial intelligence, and unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance.

Xu Wenguang provided the Lao side with insights into the outcomes of the Laos-Zhejiang Economic and Trade Cooperation Seminar and discussed Zhejiang’s socio-economic development, highlighting opportunities for expanded bilateral cooperation.

Hanoi: Singapore has reaffirmed its enduring ties with Laos, celebrating both its 61st National Day and the 25th anniversary of bilateral development cooperation with the Lao PDR. Speaking at a commemorative reception in Vientiane on 27 August 2026, Singapore’s Ambassador to Laos, Ong Siew Gay, highlighted the milestone as a testament to the deep, longstanding friendship between the two nations.

According to Lao News Agency, the event was attended by high-level dignitaries, including National Assembly Vice President Vilayvong Bouddakham, Minister of Technology and Communications Santisouk Simmalavong, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organisations, and alumni of Singaporean training programmes. Ambassador Ong reflected on Singapore’s journey since gaining independence on 9 August 1965 under volatile regional and domestic conditions, noting the transformation into a global hub for aviation, maritime trade, logistics, and finance.

Ambassador Ong emphasized that Singapore must continually adapt and innovate to remain relevant and ensure its long-term future. He highlighted the evolution of Southeast Asia into a unified community through ASEAN and stressed the importance of deepening integration, strengthening external partnerships, and upholding a rules-based regional order.

The partnership between Singapore and Laos began in earnest in 2001, marked by the rollout of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) and the opening of the Laos-Singapore Cooperation Centre in Vientiane. Ambassador Ong pointed out that human resource development is the cornerstone of bilateral cooperation, with nearly 18,000 public servants from Laos having participated in development courses under the Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP).

The reception concluded with a shared commitment from both countries to build on this 25-year foundation, deepening collaboration and mutual support in the years ahead.

Hanoi: On August 27, 2026, Mrs. Khamphao Ernthavanh, Ambassador of the Lao PDR to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, led a delegation to visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam to extend congratulations on the 81st National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (September 2, 1945 – 2026). They were warmly welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Manh Cuong and other ministry officials.

According to Lao News Agency, during the meeting, Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh praised the achievements attained by the Party, State, and people of Vietnam over the past 81 years. She expressed gratitude to Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its continuous support and role as a bridge between the Lao Embassy and relevant Vietnamese agencies. This cooperation has nurtured the friendship, solidarity, and partnership between the two Parties, States, and peoples, particularly between the Lao Embassy and the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She concluded by wishing the leadership and staff of the ministry health, happiness, and success in their duties.

In response, Deputy Minister Nguyen Manh Cuong welcomed the Lao delegation. He expressed gratitude for their visit and thanked the high-ranking Party and State leaders of the Lao PDR for sending congratulatory messages to their Vietnamese counterparts. He noted that these gestures reflect the cultivation of the special relationship between Vietnam and Laos, bonds that have stood the test of time through both the national liberation struggle and current nation-building efforts, creating an alliance unique in the world.

Additionally, to mark Vietnam’s 81st National Day, high-ranking leaders of the Lao PDR sent congratulatory flower baskets to their Vietnamese counterparts. The leaders included General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Acting President of the National Assembly Sounthone Xayachack, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane.