The Embassy of Japan in Laos hosted a National Day reception on 26 February at the Ambassador’s residence in Vientiane Capital, marking the 66th birthday of Emperor Naruhito, celebrated annually on 23 February.
The event drew diplomats, senior Lao officials, performers, and members of the Lao–Japanese community to honor the strong ties between the two nations.
The evening began with the national anthems of Laos and Japan, performed by representatives from both countries, followed by a group photo and the traditional Kagami-biraki sake barrel-opening ceremony, symbolizing good fortune and new beginnings.
In his opening speech, Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu reflected on the broader context of the celebration, noting that the past year marked 70 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos, alongside Laos’ 50th anniversary of nationhood. He highlighted high-level exchanges and the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Guests toasted to the Emperor and the enduring friendship between Japan and Laos.
Culture Performance
Cultural performances shaped the atmosphere of the evening. A koto performance inside the residence introduced guests to the traditional Japanese string instrument, setting a calm tone for the event.
Two young kendo practitioners showcased their martial art, explaining how the loud shouts during practice help unify the spirit and body, reflecting discipline and respect.
A live calligraphy demonstration captured attention as the artist wrote the character for “horse” and later “love” in both Japanese and Lao, demonstrating the cultural exchange between the two nations.
The evening concluded with musical and dance performances.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_8435-scaled-e1772168692745-1920x791-1.jpg7911920Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2026-02-28 08:49:002026-02-27 14:51:21Japan Marks Emperor Naruhito’s 66th Birthday with Cultural Reception
Thailand is set to increase the international departure Passenger Service Charge from 20 June.
The move will be implemented across six major airports, which include at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports.
The new rate raises the fee from THB 700 to THB 1,120 (approximately USD 36), a 53 percent increase, and will apply to international departing passengers.
Meanwhile, the domestic rates remain unchanged at THB 130 (about USD 4.1) per passenger.
Airports of Thailand in a statement on their website stressed that the passenger service charge is not a tax or profit-generating measure, but is reserved exclusively for airport operations and infrastructure development, subject to ministerial approval.
Revenue will fund upgrades including the satellite terminal project at Suvarnabhumi, terminal improvements at Don Mueang, and the rollout of the Common Use Passenger Processing System to reduce waiting times and improve check-in efficiency.
This move puts Thailand second only to Singapore for exit charge prices, with other countries in the region remaining cheaper.
Thailand welcomed 32.9 million foreign tourists in 2025, with Suvarnabhumi alone handling nearly 60 million passengers, including arriving and transit travellers, that year.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/LT-Website-Size-43-1-1.png6271200Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2026-02-26 21:34:002026-02-27 14:47:16Thailand to Raise International Departure Tax by 53 Percent from 20 June
The Lao government has planned to build a self-reliant and sustainable economy, leaders said Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone at the latest government meeting on 24 February.
Setting the direction for the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2026–2030), the government will focus on resolving economic and financial challenges while avoiding heavy debt burdens.
Cabinet members reviewed implementation of a resolution draft update, which was circulated to clarify responsibilities across ministries and improve coordination.
The government also examined a five-year action plan to modernize revenue collection. The reforms target higher efficiency, stronger transparency and improved domestic resource mobilisation to reduce external dependence.
Sustainable Growth and Structural Reform
Beyond fiscal reform, the meeting reviewed tourism performance in 2025 and explored ways to expand the sector, recognizing its role in generating foreign exchange and employment.
The group also reviewed draft regulations on transporting dangerous goods by road and rail, and on international non-governmental organizations, aimed at enhancing regulatory clarity, public safety, and effective governance.
The new plan places emphasis on human resource development, science and technology, poverty reduction and narrowing development gaps
At the same time, balanced and green growth will be the pillar of the next phase, focusing on renewable energy and zero-emission transport to ensure sustainable and environmental development.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/641300992_1428170039337298_1326721345523001414_n-e1772013847131-1920x822-1.jpg8221920Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2026-02-25 09:09:002026-03-03 15:13:41Laos Prioritizes Self-Reliant Economy in Next Five Years
Japan Marks Emperor Naruhito’s 66th Birthday with Cultural Reception
The Embassy of Japan in Laos hosted a National Day reception on 26 February at the Ambassador’s residence in Vientiane Capital, marking the 66th birthday of Emperor Naruhito, celebrated annually on 23 February.
The event drew diplomats, senior Lao officials, performers, and members of the Lao–Japanese community to honor the strong ties between the two nations.
The evening began with the national anthems of Laos and Japan, performed by representatives from both countries, followed by a group photo and the traditional Kagami-biraki sake barrel-opening ceremony, symbolizing good fortune and new beginnings.
In his opening speech, Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu reflected on the broader context of the celebration, noting that the past year marked 70 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos, alongside Laos’ 50th anniversary of nationhood. He highlighted high-level exchanges and the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Guests toasted to the Emperor and the enduring friendship between Japan and Laos.
Culture Performance
Cultural performances shaped the atmosphere of the evening. A koto performance inside the residence introduced guests to the traditional Japanese string instrument, setting a calm tone for the event.
Two young kendo practitioners showcased their martial art, explaining how the loud shouts during practice help unify the spirit and body, reflecting discipline and respect.
A live calligraphy demonstration captured attention as the artist wrote the character for “horse” and later “love” in both Japanese and Lao, demonstrating the cultural exchange between the two nations.
The evening concluded with musical and dance performances.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/27/japan-marks-emperor-naruhitos-66th-birthday-with-cultural-reception/
Thailand to Raise International Departure Tax by 53 Percent from 20 June
Thailand is set to increase the international departure Passenger Service Charge from 20 June.
The move will be implemented across six major airports, which include at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports.
The new rate raises the fee from THB 700 to THB 1,120 (approximately USD 36), a 53 percent increase, and will apply to international departing passengers.
Meanwhile, the domestic rates remain unchanged at THB 130 (about USD 4.1) per passenger.
Airports of Thailand in a statement on their website stressed that the passenger service charge is not a tax or profit-generating measure, but is reserved exclusively for airport operations and infrastructure development, subject to ministerial approval.
Revenue will fund upgrades including the satellite terminal project at Suvarnabhumi, terminal improvements at Don Mueang, and the rollout of the Common Use Passenger Processing System to reduce waiting times and improve check-in efficiency.
This move puts Thailand second only to Singapore for exit charge prices, with other countries in the region remaining cheaper.
Thailand welcomed 32.9 million foreign tourists in 2025, with Suvarnabhumi alone handling nearly 60 million passengers, including arriving and transit travellers, that year.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/26/thailand-to-raise-international-departure-tax-by-53-percent-from-20-june/
Laos Prioritizes Self-Reliant Economy in Next Five Years
The Lao government has planned to build a self-reliant and sustainable economy, leaders said Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone at the latest government meeting on 24 February.
Setting the direction for the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2026–2030), the government will focus on resolving economic and financial challenges while avoiding heavy debt burdens.
Cabinet members reviewed implementation of a resolution draft update, which was circulated to clarify responsibilities across ministries and improve coordination.
The government also examined a five-year action plan to modernize revenue collection. The reforms target higher efficiency, stronger transparency and improved domestic resource mobilisation to reduce external dependence.
Sustainable Growth and Structural Reform
Beyond fiscal reform, the meeting reviewed tourism performance in 2025 and explored ways to expand the sector, recognizing its role in generating foreign exchange and employment.
The group also reviewed draft regulations on transporting dangerous goods by road and rail, and on international non-governmental organizations, aimed at enhancing regulatory clarity, public safety, and effective governance.
The new plan places emphasis on human resource development, science and technology, poverty reduction and narrowing development gaps
At the same time, balanced and green growth will be the pillar of the next phase, focusing on renewable energy and zero-emission transport to ensure sustainable and environmental development.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/25/laos-prioritizes-self-reliant-economy-in-next-five-years/