Vientiane is hosting the Meeting of Governors and Mayors of ASEAN Capitals 2024 (MGMAC 2024) and the ASEAN Mayors Forum 2024 (AMF 2024) from 18-19 September. These events bring together leaders from ASEAN cities, provinces, and capitals under the theme “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience for Sustainable Development of ASEAN Cities.”
The forum provides a platform for governors, mayors, and municipal leaders to discuss key urban challenges such as climate resilience, smart city technologies, sustainable economic growth, and green tourism. The event aims to strengthen ASEAN cities’ and local governments’ commitment to regional growth, cooperation, and integration. The forum is expected to culminate with the adoption of the Vientiane Declaration.
Athsaphangthong Siphandone, Governor of Vientiane, expressed his optimism for the event, stating, “This forum offers an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and impactful outcomes that will benefit all our cities. I look forward to productive discussions ahead.”
Supported by United Cities and Local Governments Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC), AMF 2024 and MGMAC 2024 emphasize sustainable urban development, improving connectivity, and creating livable cities. The discussions align with ASEAN’s post-2025 vision and aim to promote collaboration and innovation across the region to address common urban challenges.
“This is a crucial platform for exchanging ideas and collaborating as our cities face shared challenges. May this forum pave the way for a resilient, sustainable, and well-connected ASEAN,” said Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary General of ASEAN.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/AMF.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-10-23 10:51:062024-10-09 10:54:06ASEAN Mayors, Governors Gather in Laos to Focus on Connectivity, Sustainability
Luxembourg has handed over state-of-the-art blood cold chain equipment to the Lao Red Cross, valued at approximately 2 million Euros on 13 September in Vientiane. This significant contribution aims to strengthen the Laos’ blood transfusion services and ensure a reliable and safe supply of blood products across Laos.
The handover ceremony took place in Vientiane Capital and was attended by key dignitaries, including Khamlavanh Chanthalavanh, President of the Lao Red Cross, Phaivanh Keopaseuth, Vice-Minister of Health, Thomas Lammar, Chargé d’affaires of the Luxembourg Embassy in Laos, Chanthala Souksakhone, Director of the National Blood Transfusion Institute, Robert de Waha, Resident Representative of LuxDev Asia office, as well as representatives from the Lao Government and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.
The high-tech blood cold chain equipment, provided through the Health and Nutrition Programme (LAO/035), implemented by the Ministry of Health and LuxDev, will be distributed at central, provincial and district levels. This investment will play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the blood cold chain across the country, while responding the ambitious goals in terms of increased blood donations across the country. It will ensure that blood products are stored and transported safely from donation centers to hospitals and health facilities to help and rescue emergency cases timely and effectively nation-wide.
The equipment includes a range of 243 essential components, such as freezers, storage units, digital control devices, and mobile cold chain units for outreach campaigns and safe transportation of blood products at district and village levels. Furthermore, the contract includes an extended warranty period and preventive maintenance and training to ensure the effective utilization and maintenance of the equipment.
Khamlavanh Chanthalavanh, the President of the Lao Red Cross, emphasized the importance of this donation: “The Lao Red Cross is grateful for the generous support from Luxembourg Aid & Development. This equipment will enable us to increase our blood products storage by 50% and ensure a reliable supply of blood products to those in need nationwide.”
Thomas Lammar, Charge d’affaires of the Luxembourg Embassy, expressed his satisfaction with this partnership: “Luxembourg is proud to continue its longstanding support for Laos in enhancing healthcare services. Building upon our successful collaboration over two decades ago, we are pleased to once again provide high-quality blood cold chain equipment from Luxembourg. This investment reaffirms our commitment to delivering high quality, durable and reliable solutions tailored to the specific needs of our partners.”
The handover of this high-tech blood cold chain equipment marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Luxembourg and Laos in the health sector. It demonstrates Luxembourg’s dedication to supporting sustainable development and improving the lives and health of people in Laos.
The United States (US) Department of State hosted the Digital Innovations for Female Entrepreneurs in ASEAN Meeting (DIFEM) on 11-12 September in Vientiane. This two-day event aimed to tackle the financial hurdles faced by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and to promote ASEAN’s Digital Trade Standards Roadmap.
Aligned with Laos’s ASEAN chairmanship priorities, DIFEM was a key component of the US-ASEAN Connect Digital Economy Series, highlighting a strong commitment to advancing ASEAN’s digital economy.
The conference gathered 75 entrepreneurs from across ASEAN, focusing on enhancing their digital capabilities. Attendees, including technology companies, government officials, and fellow entrepreneurs, engaged in collaborative efforts to streamline business operations and forge new commercial partnerships.
A highlight of the event was the design sprint activities, where participants received personalized consultations from industry experts to address specific business challenges. Additionally, panel discussions led by prominent female leaders in fintech, digital innovation, and artificial intelligence provided insights into leveraging digital tools to optimize business practices and expand market reach.
US Ambassador to Laos, Heather Variava, underscored the crucial role of women in the digital economy.
“The digital economy in Southeast Asia needs more women working on AI, fintech, and innovating in business policy and leadership roles. Only then can this region maximize equitable and inclusive growth,” Variava stated.
Manothong Vongxay, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce, praised the impact of women-led enterprises.
“Women-led enterprises are setting the standard for networks of support and mentorship. We witnessed the strength of female founders sharing assets, skills, and experiences to increase market potential across many platforms,” Vongxay remarked.
The DIFEM conference not only highlighted the innovative spirit of ASEAN’s female entrepreneurs but also reinforced the region’s commitment to a digital future, driven by inclusivity and collaboration.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/459269361_552773653760229_6955285164782198664_n.jpg450600Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-10-21 10:50:002024-09-16 10:54:03Empowering Women in ASEAN’s Digital Economy
ASEAN Mayors, Governors Gather in Laos to Focus on Connectivity, Sustainability
Vientiane is hosting the Meeting of Governors and Mayors of ASEAN Capitals 2024 (MGMAC 2024) and the ASEAN Mayors Forum 2024 (AMF 2024) from 18-19 September. These events bring together leaders from ASEAN cities, provinces, and capitals under the theme “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience for Sustainable Development of ASEAN Cities.”
The forum provides a platform for governors, mayors, and municipal leaders to discuss key urban challenges such as climate resilience, smart city technologies, sustainable economic growth, and green tourism. The event aims to strengthen ASEAN cities’ and local governments’ commitment to regional growth, cooperation, and integration. The forum is expected to culminate with the adoption of the Vientiane Declaration.
Athsaphangthong Siphandone, Governor of Vientiane, expressed his optimism for the event, stating, “This forum offers an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and impactful outcomes that will benefit all our cities. I look forward to productive discussions ahead.”
Supported by United Cities and Local Governments Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC), AMF 2024 and MGMAC 2024 emphasize sustainable urban development, improving connectivity, and creating livable cities. The discussions align with ASEAN’s post-2025 vision and aim to promote collaboration and innovation across the region to address common urban challenges.
“This is a crucial platform for exchanging ideas and collaborating as our cities face shared challenges. May this forum pave the way for a resilient, sustainable, and well-connected ASEAN,” said Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary General of ASEAN.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/18/asean-mayors-governors-gather-in-laos-to-focus-on-connectivity-sustainability/
Luxembourg Development Cooperation Supports Lao Red Cross with High-Tech Blood Cold Chain Equipment
Luxembourg has handed over state-of-the-art blood cold chain equipment to the Lao Red Cross, valued at approximately 2 million Euros on 13 September in Vientiane. This significant contribution aims to strengthen the Laos’ blood transfusion services and ensure a reliable and safe supply of blood products across Laos.
The handover ceremony took place in Vientiane Capital and was attended by key dignitaries, including Khamlavanh Chanthalavanh, President of the Lao Red Cross, Phaivanh Keopaseuth, Vice-Minister of Health, Thomas Lammar, Chargé d’affaires of the Luxembourg Embassy in Laos, Chanthala Souksakhone, Director of the National Blood Transfusion Institute, Robert de Waha, Resident Representative of LuxDev Asia office, as well as representatives from the Lao Government and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.
The high-tech blood cold chain equipment, provided through the Health and Nutrition Programme (LAO/035), implemented by the Ministry of Health and LuxDev, will be distributed at central, provincial and district levels. This investment will play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the blood cold chain across the country, while responding the ambitious goals in terms of increased blood donations across the country. It will ensure that blood products are stored and transported safely from donation centers to hospitals and health facilities to help and rescue emergency cases timely and effectively nation-wide.
The equipment includes a range of 243 essential components, such as freezers, storage units, digital control devices, and mobile cold chain units for outreach campaigns and safe transportation of blood products at district and village levels. Furthermore, the contract includes an extended warranty period and preventive maintenance and training to ensure the effective utilization and maintenance of the equipment.
Khamlavanh Chanthalavanh, the President of the Lao Red Cross, emphasized the importance of this donation: “The Lao Red Cross is grateful for the generous support from Luxembourg Aid & Development. This equipment will enable us to increase our blood products storage by 50% and ensure a reliable supply of blood products to those in need nationwide.”
Thomas Lammar, Charge d’affaires of the Luxembourg Embassy, expressed his satisfaction with this partnership: “Luxembourg is proud to continue its longstanding support for Laos in enhancing healthcare services. Building upon our successful collaboration over two decades ago, we are pleased to once again provide high-quality blood cold chain equipment from Luxembourg. This investment reaffirms our commitment to delivering high quality, durable and reliable solutions tailored to the specific needs of our partners.”
The handover of this high-tech blood cold chain equipment marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Luxembourg and Laos in the health sector. It demonstrates Luxembourg’s dedication to supporting sustainable development and improving the lives and health of people in Laos.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/16/luxembourg-development-cooperation-supports-lao-red-cross-with-high-tech-blood-cold-chain-equipment/
Empowering Women in ASEAN’s Digital Economy
The United States (US) Department of State hosted the Digital Innovations for Female Entrepreneurs in ASEAN Meeting (DIFEM) on 11-12 September in Vientiane. This two-day event aimed to tackle the financial hurdles faced by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and to promote ASEAN’s Digital Trade Standards Roadmap.
Aligned with Laos’s ASEAN chairmanship priorities, DIFEM was a key component of the US-ASEAN Connect Digital Economy Series, highlighting a strong commitment to advancing ASEAN’s digital economy.
The conference gathered 75 entrepreneurs from across ASEAN, focusing on enhancing their digital capabilities. Attendees, including technology companies, government officials, and fellow entrepreneurs, engaged in collaborative efforts to streamline business operations and forge new commercial partnerships.
A highlight of the event was the design sprint activities, where participants received personalized consultations from industry experts to address specific business challenges. Additionally, panel discussions led by prominent female leaders in fintech, digital innovation, and artificial intelligence provided insights into leveraging digital tools to optimize business practices and expand market reach.
US Ambassador to Laos, Heather Variava, underscored the crucial role of women in the digital economy.
“The digital economy in Southeast Asia needs more women working on AI, fintech, and innovating in business policy and leadership roles. Only then can this region maximize equitable and inclusive growth,” Variava stated.
Manothong Vongxay, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce, praised the impact of women-led enterprises.
“Women-led enterprises are setting the standard for networks of support and mentorship. We witnessed the strength of female founders sharing assets, skills, and experiences to increase market potential across many platforms,” Vongxay remarked.
The DIFEM conference not only highlighted the innovative spirit of ASEAN’s female entrepreneurs but also reinforced the region’s commitment to a digital future, driven by inclusivity and collaboration.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/12/empowering-women-in-aseans-digital-economy/