Vientiane: International delegations gathered at the National Convention Hall on September 15, 2026, to continue robust discussions and deliver statements during the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM).
According to Lao News Agency, the conference was chaired by Mr. Anoupharb Vongnorkeo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice-President and Standing Member of the Lao National Regulatory Authority for the UXO/Mine Action Sector (NRA). The high-level session focused on evaluating the core objectives of the Convention and accelerating global efforts toward a world free from cluster munitions.
Ms. Mukdavanh Sisoulith, Director General of the Department of International Organizations, highlighted three critical paths forward for the Lao delegation. These included strengthening diplomatic outreach in the Asia-Pacific, upholding strict humanitarian and international norms against cluster munitions, and deepening collaboration with international bodies, the Implementation Support Unit (ISU), and youth networks.
Mr. Bounpheng Sisavath, presenting on behalf of the NRA, shared significant operational updates. In 2025 alone, the Lao PDR inspected over 6,879 hectares and destroyed more than 73,000 UXO items, including nearly 69,000 submunitions (bombies). Over the past eight months, teams have cleared an additional 4,285 hectares and neutralized over 49,000 explosive items.
A major highlight of the day was a formal signing ceremony for the Declaration of Intent to accede to the Convention by Timor-Leste, marking a vital step forward in regional universalization. The Lao delegation also actively participated in several thematic side events, focusing on bilateral cooperation with Japan, integrating environmental considerations and climate resilience into the Vientiane Action Plan, upgrading survey methodologies, and celebrating the opening of MAG Laos’ art exhibition, “Land and Memory: Living with UXO in the Lao PDR.”
Throughout the venue, key operational stakeholders-including UXO Lao, Center 523, MAG, NPA, Humanity and Inclusion, The HALO Trust, Terra Renaissance, and the UNDP-hosted interactive exhibitions to raise awareness and showcase ongoing humanitarian mine action partnerships.