Category: Politics

Vientiane: Mr. Anoupharb Vongnorkeo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, representing the Government of the Lao PDR, received the credentials of Ms. Ayshanie Ilanka Medagangoda-Lab©, the newly appointed Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to the Lao PDR, on September 7, 2026.

According to Lao News Agency, the meeting was attended by officials from relevant departments of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and representatives of the UNDP office in the Lao PDR. Deputy Minister Anoupharb extended a warm welcome and congratulations to Ms. Ayshanie on her new appointment. He acknowledged the productive collaboration between the Government of the Lao PDR and UNDP over the years, highlighting UNDP’s contributions to the 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, the formulation of the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2026-2030), and efforts in unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Deputy Minister Anoupharb emphasized that these initiatives have facilitated the Lao PDR’s transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. He expressed confidence in continued cooperation under Ms. Ayshanie’s leadership, focusing on the Government’s priorities outlined in the Country Programme Document for the 2027-2031 cycle.

Ms. Ayshanie thanked Deputy Minister Anoupharb and the Lao Government for their warm reception. She committed to enhancing cooperation with the Lao PDR and supporting its socio-economic development plans and key government priorities in the years ahead.

Vientiane: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on September 7, 2026, inaugurated its first short training course on inspection work at its headquarters in Vientiane. The course aims to enhance the capabilities of personnel tasked with inspection duties within the ministry.

According to Lao News Agency, the opening ceremony was led by Anoupharb Vongnorkeo, a Member of the Party Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs overseeing inspection work. The event saw participation from representatives of the Inspection Committee of the Central Party Committee and the State Inspection Authority, along with Party branch secretaries, deputy secretaries, and Party members responsible for inspection work within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In total, 37 participants, including eight women, attended the training.

The training course is designed to communicate the insights and results of the 5th Nationwide Inspection Work Conference. It aims to deepen participants’ understanding of
the Party’s views, guidelines, and policies on inspection work. Additionally, it aspires to enhance participants’ ability to apply the acquired knowledge to leadership, management, and inspection tasks, thereby boosting the effectiveness and efficiency of inspection work within the ministry.

Anoupharb Vongnorkeo, in his address during the opening ceremony, highlighted the significance of inspection work. He pointed out that the Party considers internal monitoring and inspection to be a strategic task intertwined with Party leadership and state management. He emphasized that inspection should be integrated into all aspects of work and conducted regularly as a vital component of leadership and management.

The two-day training course, scheduled from September 7-8, includes direct exchanges of knowledge and practical experiences between participants and seasoned lecturers from the Inspection Committee of the Central Party Committee and the State Inspection Authority. Key topics of the course cover Party and sta
te monitoring and inspection work, anti-corruption and corruption-prevention strategies, monitoring inspection outcomes, and proactive issue resolution from the beginning.

Anoupharb Vongnorkeo encouraged participants to maintain a strong sense of responsibility, dedicate themselves to learning, and engage in open exchanges of practical experiences with lecturers and fellow participants. This approach is expected to strengthen their professional capacities and ensure the training meets its intended goals.

Vientiane: On September 1, 2026, Brigadier General Sivilay Phengsantisouk, Standing Member of the Provincial Party Committee and Head of the Luang Prabang Political Military Command, led a delegation to present a flower basket and extend congratulations to the Consulate General of Vietnam in Northern Laos and the Office of the Dien Bien Trade Center in Northern Laos on Vietnam’s 81st National Day.

According to Lao News Agency, the delegation was warmly received by Vu Ngoc Ly, Consul General of Vietnam in Northern Laos, and Pham Tuan Minh, Head of the Office of the Dien Bien Trade Center, along with their respective delegations.

Brigadier General Sivilay conveyed best wishes for good health and success, and expressed his hope that the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Laos and Vietnam, particularly between the two countries’ military and local authorities, would continue to deepen.

The Vietnamese representatives expressed appreciation for the visit and extended best
wishes to the leadership, officers, and soldiers of the Luang Prabang Provincial Military Command, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the enduring special relationship between the two countries.

Bishkek: President Thongloun Sisoulith led a Lao delegation to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Plus Meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, from August 31 to September 1, marking Laos’ first participation as an official SCO Dialogue Partner.

According to Lao News Agency, the meeting was held under the theme ‘The United Nations as a Key Element of a Fair World Order: The Contribution of the SCO Plus States to the Formation of a Multipolar World.’ It brought together leaders and representatives of SCO member states, dialogue partners, and observer states.

During the meeting, President Thongloun reaffirmed Laos’ support for multilateralism and highlighted the central role of the United Nations in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development. He expressed enthusiasm for Laos’ new dialogue partnership with the SCO and pledged constructive participation in regional cooperation efforts.

Laos introduced four key areas for collaboration: agriculture and food security; digital transformation; transport, connectivity, and integration; and banking and financial cooperation. These priority areas aim to strengthen regional ties and foster mutual growth.

In addition to the main event, President Thongloun engaged in bilateral discussions with leaders from Kyrgyzstan and Belarus, as well as the SCO Secretary-General, to explore future cooperation opportunities.

Vientiane capital: Mr. Khamlavanh Chanthalavanh, President of the Lao Red Cross, held a meeting with Ms. Krongkanit Rakcharoen, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Lao PDR, to discuss avenues for bilateral cooperation.

According to Lao News Agency, the meeting took place on September 2, 2026, in Vientiane Capital. Mr. Khamlavanh expressed his appreciation for the ambassador’s visit and highlighted that it serves to further strengthen the longstanding friendship and cooperative efforts between Laos and Thailand, benefiting both nations’ citizens.

During the meeting, Mr. Khamlavanh thanked the Government of Thailand for its ongoing support to the Lao PDR, emphasizing that such assistance has played a crucial role in enhancing the good-neighbourly relations between the two countries.

Ms. Krongkanit reciprocated the warm sentiments, expressing her gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Lao Red Cross president.

Hanoi: On the occasion of the 81st National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the leaders of Vietnam extended heartfelt sentiments of comradeship and brotherhood to the leaders and people of Laos. The celebration marks the historic moment when President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence on 2 September 1945 at Ba Dinh Square, leading to the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. This pivotal event marked the beginning of a new era for Vietnam, characterized by national independence associated with socialism.

According to Lao News Agency, Vietnam’s journey since independence has been marked by significant achievements, particularly through the Doi Moi (Renewal) process initiated over 40 years ago. The Vietnamese economy has shown robust growth, maintaining an average rate of 7% per year. From a per capita income of less than US$100 in 1986, Vietnam’s economy is projected to reach approximately US$514 billion by 2025, ranking 32nd globally, with GDP
per capita exceeding US$5,000. The nation’s trade turnover has also hit a record high, placing Vietnam among the top 20 trading economies worldwide.

The year 2025 marked a crucial milestone in Vietnam’s history with significant state administrative reforms, including restructuring and streamlining of the state apparatus. This laid the foundation for renewed national governance and sustainable development. In early 2026, the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam set strategic goals for the country’s development towards 2030 and beyond, aiming to achieve upper-middle-income status and eventually becoming a developed, high-income country by 2045.

Vietnam’s foreign policy continues to focus on independence, cooperation, and development, maintaining diplomatic relations with 194 countries and playing an active role in regional and global cooperation. The nation successfully hosted significant international events, including the P4G Summit and the ASEAN Future Forum, and was re-elected to the U
nited Nations Human Rights Council for 2026-2028.

The enduring relationship between Vietnam and Laos remains a cornerstone of Vietnam’s foreign policy. The two nations recently agreed to enhance their bilateral relations by incorporating ‘strategic cohesion,’ reflecting a deep, long-term vision for mutual development. Vietnam continues to be a major investor in Laos, with significant advancements in trade and investment cooperation, including plans for strategic projects such as the Vung Ang International Port and the Vientiane-Vung Ang railway.

Educational and cultural exchanges further strengthen the Vietnam-Laos bond, with many Lao students and officials trained in Vietnam contributing to Laos’s development. Similarly, Vietnamese individuals studying and working in Laos help solidify the relationship between the two nations.

Despite global uncertainties, the Vietnam-Laos relationship continues to hold strategic importance. Both countries affirm their commitment to standing together, sharing experiences,
and supporting each other for mutual benefits and development, ensuring that the special solidarity between them remains enduring and prosperous for generations to come.

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.