Category: Politics

Vientiane: At the National Assembly Mrs. Pany Yathotou, Vice President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, received a farewell courtesy call from Mrs. Heather Variava, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Lao PDR, on the occasion of the successful completion of her diplomatic mission in the country.

According to Lao News Agency, during the meeting, Vice President Pany Yathotou commended the contributions made by Ambassador Heather Variava throughout her tenure of nearly two years in the Lao PDR. She noted that the Ambassador had actively contributed to strengthening and expanding bilateral relations and cooperation between the Lao PDR and the United States across several fields.

The Vice President highlighted cooperation in facilitating high-level exchanges between delegations of the two countries at different levels, coordination in law enforcement, particularly in drug suppression and related legal cooperation, and continued collaboration in the clearance of unexploded ordnance (UXO). She also acknowledged progress in socio-economic cooperation, including trade, education, public health, nutrition, and cultural exchanges.

On this occasion, Vice President Pany Yathotou extended her best wishes to Ambassador Heather Variava for continued success in her future assignments and wished her a safe journey.

In response, Ambassador Heather Variava expressed her gratitude to the Vice President for the warm reception. She also conveyed her appreciation to the Government of the Lao PDR and relevant sectors for their close cooperation and support throughout her diplomatic mission, which enabled her to successfully carry out her duties during her tenure in the Lao PDR.

Vientiane: Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, recently welcomed newly appointed Ambassadors from friendly nations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The meeting took place on January 14, 2026, and included separate courtesy calls from Mr. Sergey Zhestkii, Ambassador of the Russian Federation; Mr. Ong Siew Gay, Ambassador of Singapore; and Mr. Yogeshwar Sangwan, Ambassador of India to the Lao PDR.

According to Lao News Agency, the Minister extended a welcome and congratulations to the Ambassadors on their official appointments. He noted the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the Lao PDR and these countries, highlighting the strengthening of bilateral relations through regular high-level exchanges and people-to-people connections.

The Minister expressed confidence in the Ambassadors’ roles in enhancing cooperation in areas such as economics, trade, investment, and tourism, benefiting both Laos and their respective countries.

In response, the Ambassadors appreciated the reception and reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate with Lao authorities, especially the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to further promote cooperation and friendship with the Lao PDR.

Vientiane: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, received U.S. Ambassador Ms. Heather Variava for a farewell courtesy call on Thursday afternoon at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marking the conclusion of her diplomatic tenure in the Lao PDR.

According to Lao News Agency, during the meeting, Minister Thongsavanh commended Ambassador Variava for her significant contributions over the past two years in strengthening bilateral ties. He highlighted her active role in facilitating high-level exchanges and enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors.

The Minister specifically acknowledged the Ambassador’s efforts in coordinating bilateral work in law enforcement, anti-drug efforts, and unexploded ordnance clearance. He also noted her important role in advancing cooperation in education, health, trade, nutrition, and culture, as well as her contributions to the celebrations of the 70th Anniversary of Lao-U.S. diplomatic relations.

Cooperation on the ongoing U.S. Missing in Action (MIA) accounting program in Laos was also recognized as a key area of cooperation during the ambassador’s term.

Ambassador Variava expressed her sincere gratitude to the Lao Government and relevant agencies for their support and hospitality throughout her mission. She conveyed her hope that the same spirit of cooperation would be extended to her successor to further deepen the partnership between the two nations.

Luang namtha: The National Election Commission (NEC) conducted field visits in Luang Namtha Province from January 19-20, 2026, to monitor and promote preparations for the election of members of the 10th National Assembly and the 5th Provincial People’s Council, reinforcing readiness at provincial and district levels.

According to Lao News Agency, the NEC was divided into two delegations. Delegation One, led by Mr. Led Xaiyaphon, President of the Lao Federation of Trade Unions Central Committee and Member of the National Election Commission, together with the Luang Namtha Provincial Election Commission led by Mr. Kongphet Kaeobuapha, Vice President of the Provincial People’s Council and Member of the Provincial Election Commission, monitored election preparations in Nalae District. The visit was attended by the Nalae District Election Commission, its subcommittees, and the secretariat.

At the meeting, Mr. Thammavong Bountavone, Provincial Party Committee Member, District Party Secretary, and President of the Nalae District Election Commission, reported that election preparations in Phase I and Phase II had made solid progress in line with the approved plan. Nalae District has established 42 polling stations with 84 ballot boxes, serving an estimated 26,196 eligible voters, including 13,146 women.

Delegation Two, led by Colonel Vongsack Phanthavong, Member of the National Assembly Standing Committee and Chairman of the National Defense and Security Commission, together with the Luang Namtha Provincial Election Commission led by Mr. Khamfong Inmany, Deputy Provincial Party Secretary, President of the Provincial People’s Council, and Vice President of the Provincial Election Commission, monitored election preparations in Sing District.

Mr. Nanmone Kaeosingxay, Provincial Party Committee Member, District Party Secretary, and President of the Sing District Election Commission, reported that preparations in Phase I and Phase II were proceeding steadily. Sing District comprises 93 villages, with 68 polling stations established to serve an estimated 31,234 eligible voters, including 16,346 women.

On the morning of January 20, the NEC delegations jointly continued their monitoring mission in Viengphoukha District, where Mr. Bounsong Vaxaiyee, Provincial Party Committee Member, District Party Secretary, and President of the Viengphoukha District Election Commission, briefed the delegation on local conditions and election preparations. Viengphoukha District has 49 electoral units, 46 villages and polling stations, and an estimated 15,764 eligible voters, including 7,890 women.

During the visits, the National Election Commission called on provincial and district election committees to further strengthen ownership and coordination in the next phase of work. Emphasis was placed on close cooperation between district and provincial levels to ensure 100 percent completion of Phase III tasks, intensified propaganda and mass mobilization to encourage eligible voters to fully and correctly exercise their voting rights in accordance with the law, and strict adherence to transparency and timelines.

The NEC also stressed the importance of ensuring national defense and security, including the safety of polling stations, preparation for voting by leadership and security forces, accurate voter statistics, effective budget management, and other essential logistical support, to guarantee a safe, orderly, and successful election.

Savannakhet: Savannakhet Province is intensifying preparations for the upcoming election of members of the 10th National Assembly and the 5th Provincial People’s Council, as leaders and election officials gathered on January 19, 2026, to review progress and strengthen coordination.

According to Lao News Agency, the meeting was co-chaired by Mrs. Ali Vongnobuontham, President of the Lao Women’s Union Central Committee and Member of the National Election Commission, and Mr. Bounchome Ubonprasert, Secretary of the Savannakhet Provincial Party Committee and Head of the Provincial Election Commission. Officials from central agencies, provincial and district election bodies, and related sectors also took part.

Representatives from Kaisone Phomvihane City, Outhoumphone, Xaybuly, Champhone, and Xepon districts reported on preparations in Electoral District No. 13, sharing both positive progress and practical challenges. Discussions focused on improving coordination and addressing difficulties in disseminating election-related legal documents, including resolutions, instructions, and official announcements issued by the National Election Commission.

Participants exchanged views on solutions to ensure all preparations remain on track and that the election is conducted smoothly, transparently, and in line with the national plan.

Mrs. Ali addressed the meeting, underscoring the importance of raising political awareness among eligible voters through continued education and training, enabling them to clearly understand their rights and responsibilities and to fully exercise their right to vote on Election Day, February 22, 2026.

She called for the timely and accurate completion of voter registration lists and their submission to the National Election Commission before the nationwide announcement of voter figures. She also stressed the need for dynamic and creative public outreach, combining national guidance with local characteristics, to help voters better understand the election process and encourage active participation.

Mrs. Ali further emphasized the careful selection of candidates in accordance with the law to ensure balanced representation of women, ethnic groups, youth, middle-aged, and senior generations, noting that female candidates should account for at least 35 percent of total candidates, with women making up no less than 30 percent of those elected.

In addition, she urged the continued dissemination of Instruction No. 16/NEC (January 12, 2026) on election campaigning and the display of candidate photographs and biographies, along with strengthened vigilance against misinformation. She also highlighted the importance of thorough logistical preparation, including polling stations, mobile polling units, ballot boxes, ballot printing, official seals, and candidate materials, to ensure a successful and orderly election.

Vientiane: On January 19, 2026, the Party Committee and Command of Division 2, led by Brigadier General Khamphiew Manivong, Political Chief Commander of Division 2, paid a courtesy visit to Lieutenant General Khamlieng Outhakaysone, Minister of National Defense, on the occasion of the 77th Anniversary of the Lao People’s Army (January 20, 1949 – January 20, 2026).

According to Lao News Agency, during the visit, Brigadier General Khamphiew Manivong, on behalf of the leadership, officers, and soldiers of Division 2, conveyed warm congratulations and best wishes to Lieutenant General Khamlieng Outhakaysone, wishing him good health, strength, and longevity, as well as continued success in carrying out the responsibilities entrusted to him by the Party and the State. He also expressed confidence in the Minister’s continued leadership in guiding the Lao People’s Army, including Division 2, toward becoming a modern, strong, and increasingly developed force.

In response, Lieutenant General Khamlieng Outhakaysone expressed his sincere appreciation to the Division 2 Command for their thoughtful visit and kind sentiments. He extended his best wishes to Brigadier General Khamphiew Manivong and the delegation, as well as to all officers and soldiers of Division 2, encouraging them to remain healthy, united, and dedicated to fulfilling the tasks assigned by the Party and the State, while further strengthening discipline and overall capacity.

Hanoi: On January 19, 2026, the Central Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) sent a message of warm greetings to the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV). The message conveyed the LPRP’s joy and extended fraternal solidarity and congratulations to the Congress and to all Vietnamese Party members and citizens.

According to Lao News Agency, the message commended Vietnam’s significant achievements over the past 80 years, highlighting the nation’s political stability, economic growth, and international prestige under the Communist Party of Vietnam’s leadership. The LPRP noted these accomplishments as evidence of the CPV’s wise leadership and the collective determination of the Vietnamese people to build a strong, democratic, and developed nation.

The message underscored the importance of the 14th National Congress as a milestone for Vietnam’s revolutionary development, setting new goals for the country’s advancement. The LPRP expressed confidence that the leadership of the CPV will guide Vietnam to even greater successes in implementing the resolutions of the Congress.

The LPRP also emphasized the shared revolutionary history with the CPV, rooted in the Indochinese Communist Party. The message reiterated Laos’ commitment to maintaining and enhancing the special solidarity between the two nations, a legacy founded by leaders like President Ho Chi Minh and President Kaysone Phomvihane. Both parties have agreed to elevate their relationship to a Great Friendship, Special Solidarity, and Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, demonstrating a high level of political trust and determination to enhance bilateral ties.

On this occasion, the LPRP expressed gratitude for Vietnam’s support and assistance throughout history, during both the struggle for national liberation and the current efforts in national development and protection.

The message concluded with best wishes for the success of the 14th National Congress and the hope that the relationship between Laos and Vietnam will continue to prosper and remain steadfast.

Vientiane: The Lao Federation of Trade Unions (LFTU) is planning a series of activities to celebrate its 70th anniversary, which marks its founding from February 1, 1956, to February 1, 2026.

According to Lao News Agency, Mr. Led Sayaphon, President of the LFTU Central Executive Committee, emphasized the significance of this milestone for the Lao working class and laborers of all ethnic groups in a media statement on January 15, 2026. He highlighted that the establishment of the LFTU by the Party Central Committee in 1956 was a pivotal moment, setting the foundation for the organization’s role in representing workers nationwide.

The LFTU has been instrumental over the years in political-ideological education, uniting workers, and safeguarding their rights and interests. It has also contributed to national liberation and socio-economic development. Trade unions have been vital in improving workers’ conditions by advocating for wage adjustments, resolving labor disputes, and expanding social security.

To mark the 70th anniversary, the LFTU has guided trade unions to organize activities tailored to local conditions. These activities include commemorative ceremonies, knowledge competitions, blood donation campaigns, health check-ups, trade fairs, sports competitions, cultural performances, and seminars on trade union development.

A central celebration will take place at the National Convention Center and will be broadcast nationwide. Accompanying activities such as seminars, exhibitions, and contests will also be held to enrich the celebrations.

Mr. Led Sayaphon has urged trade unions and workers to actively participate to ensure that the celebrations reflect the unity and spirit of the Lao working class.

Hanoi: Secretary of the Party Committee of Laos’ Champasak province, Alounxay Sounnalath, highlighted Vietnam’s key achievements during 2021-2025, the significance of the upcoming 14th National Party Congress, the enduring Vietnam-Laos friendship, and expectations for 2026-2030 in a recent interview to Vietnam News Agency. Under the leadership of the Politburo and the 13th Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), Vietnam achieved broad-based and substantial progress across multiple sectors during the 2021-2025 period, he said.

According to Lao News Agency, on the economic front, average annual GDP growth hit about 6.3%, establishing Vietnam as one of the region’s and world’s fastest-growing economies. The economy’s size in 2025 was estimated at more than 510 billion USD, 1.47 times larger than in 2020, while per capita GDP stood at around 5,000 USD, elevating the country into the upper-middle-income group. The private sector has solidified its role as a major growth engine, with the rise of big conglomerates capable of competing on global and regional stages.

In socio-culture, Vietnam made clear strides, he noted. Social welfare remained secure, with steady improvements in both material and spiritual living standards. The healthcare system expanded widely, effectively controlling epidemics and mastering advanced medical technologies. Health insurance coverage reached an estimated nearly 95.2% of the population, while average life expectancy climbed to about 74.8 years.

National defence and security were bolstered, with independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity firmly safeguarded, and social safety and order maintained. Diplomacy was pursued proactively, comprehensively, and consistently in line with the foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development, contributing to a peaceful and stable environment while opening up new development opportunities. State apparatus reforms continued, with streamlining and efficiency gains from central to local levels, notably through the adoption of a two-tier local administration model at the provincial and grassroots levels.

Alounxay described the 14th Congress as a major turning point, occurring amid vigorous realisation of the 13th Congress resolution, a review of 40 years of Doi Moi (renewal), and the CPV’s 96th founding anniversary. The Congress, he noted, will reaffirm resolve to harness great national unity; uphold independence, self-reliance, and resilience; and confidently steer the nation into a new era of peace, democracy, prosperity, civilisation, and happiness while steadfastly pursuing the socialist path.

Turning to the great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic bond between Laos and Vietnam, the Champasak Party chief stressed that this is an invaluable asset of both nations and a sacred legacy nurtured by President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane, President Souphanouvong, and generations of leaders and people of the two countries.

During 2021-2025, the special Laos-Vietnam relationship was further reinforced and comprehensively developed, playing a strategic role in safeguarding independence, sovereignty, political stability, socio-economic development, and socialist construction in each country, while contributing positively to peace, stability, and development in the region and the world.

According to him, 2025 marked a historic milestone in bilateral ties, as Laos and Vietnam agreed to elevate their relationship to the level of ‘great friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic bond’. This upgrade reflected profound and enduring political trust between the two Parties and States, and underscored the determination of high-ranking leaders to further advance Laos-Vietnam relations in a more substantive and effective manner, suited to the new development phase.

The Lao Party, State, and people will continue working closely with their fraternal Vietnamese counterparts to preserve, nurture, and transmit this special solidarity to future generations, ensuring it remains eternally strong and enduring, he added.