Vientiane’s Patuxay Monument hosted a celebration as ASEAN capital governors unveiled a symbol representing ASEAN musical instruments. The event, on 19 September, included a tree-planting ceremony, blending cultural significance with environmental awareness.
The event featured notable attendees, including Naly Sisoulith, the wife of the President of Laos, Vientiane Governor Athsaphangthong Siphandone, and ambassadors from ASEAN member countries.
Governor Athsaphangthong emphasized that the tree-planting activity symbolizes appreciation for the success of recent key regional meetings, including the Meeting of governors and mayors of ASEAN Capitals, the ASEAN Mayors’ Forum, and Annual meeting of the AIMF regional network in South-East Asia.
He also highlighted the importance of the activity in contributing to a greener and more beautiful Patuxay Park, aligning with ASEAN’s goals to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental sustainability.
The newly expanded area of Patuxay Park not only increases green space in Vientiane but also reinforces cooperation between ASEAN capitals. The gathering, themed “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” focused on key discussions around green tourism, sustainable economic development, livable cities, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience.
Patuxay Park is now home to many native Lao trees, as well as sculptures, symbols, and national musical instruments representing ASEAN capitals.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/asean-symbol.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-10-28 10:59:412024-10-09 11:01:02Symbol of ASEAN Musical Instruments Unveiled at Patuxay Park
Namtheun 2 was recognized for its excellent health and safety performance at the 5th ASEAN Occupational Safety and Health Network (OSHNET) Awards, held on 11 September.
The award was presented at an event organized by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower, which also featured the 11th ASEAN-OSHNET Conference, a Policy Dialogue on Enhancing Safety through Global Supply Chains, and the 25th ASEAN-OSHNET Coordinating Board Meeting.
The ASEAN-OSHNET Excellence Awards honor companies across the ASEAN region for their achievements in occupational safety and health. The awards highlight outstanding practices and contributions that support the region’s goal of fostering a skilled and competitive workforce.
The Government of Laos, through the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, nominated Nam Theun 2 for the award, recognizing the company’s strong safety culture and excellent performance.
Nam Theun 2’s CEO, Marc-Antoine Rupp, expressed pride in the company’s commitment to health and safety.
“It is a tremendous honor to receive this award,” he said. “This accolade reflects the development of our safety culture and reaffirms Nam Theun 2’s steadfast commitment to health and safety.”
“Our safety performance highlights our dedication to achieving Zero Harm. It also underscores the success of our targeted safety programs, which focus on critical areas and key safety indicators.”
“I extend my sincere gratitude to every employee, contractor, and member of the local community who contributed to this achievement. Their unwavering commitment to safety ensures that we all return home safely each day.” Marc-Antoine added.
On 18 September, 250 participants, including ministerial delegations and high-ranking officials from ASEAN member states, along with representatives and technical experts from dialogue and development partners, gathered in Vientiane, Laos, for the 2nd ASEAN-MRC Water Security Dialogue. Under the theme ‘Sustainable Investment for a Connected, Resilient, and Water-Secure Southeast Asia,’ the dialogue reflected the shared commitment to addressing critical water security challenges across the Mekong and ASEAN regions
Co-convened by the Mekong River Commission (MCR) and ASEAN Secretariats, this Dialogue has evolved into an important mechanism for fostering regional cooperation, enhancing resilience, and advancing sustainable development in the Mekong and ASEAN region.
“The ASEAN-MRC Water Security Dialogue has the potential to become a cornerstone—a cornerstone of our regional efforts, fostering collaboration not just among the Mekong countries, but across all ASEAN Member States,” said Saleumxay Kommasith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos, on behalf ASEAN Chair 2024.
Saleumxay Kommasith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos. (Photo supplied by the Mekong River Commission)
The Dialogue recognized the numerous pressing challenges facing ASEAN and the Mekong region, including the impacts of climate change, disaster-related events such as floods, droughts and landslides, human-induced changes, water scarcity, and food security concerns. The ongoing impacts of these challenges demand urgent action, and opportunity to chart a common vision for cooperation.
“This dialogue provides a platform for policymakers and stakeholders to exchange innovative ideas, identify possible areas for enhancing cooperation toward sustainability, and reaffirm our dedication to tackling water security challenges in the Mekong and ASEAN,” said Lao Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Bounkham Vorachit.
The need for increased investment in water infrastructure, climate adaptation, and sustainable management and conservation of natural resources was emphasized, along with the importance of enhanced cooperation among ASEAN Member States and their institutions to address these interconnected issues effectively. It was acknowledged that only through a concerted and unified regional, multilateral and transboundary effort can we ensure resilience and water security for the people and ecosystems of Southeast Asia.
Anoulak Kittikhoun, the CEO of the Mekong River Commission Secretariat, highlighted, “Investments in MRC – ASEAN institutional cooperation, disaster monitoring, forecasting and management, and joint infrastructure projects will make the Mekong and broader region more connected, resilient and water secured.”
ASEAN and the MRC were commended for their leadership roles in addressing water security and promoting regional cooperation. ASEAN has been instrumental in fostering political dialogue and connectivity, while the MRC continues to serve as a trusted “regional knowledge hub”, a mature “water diplomacy platform” and a successful model of transboundary water cooperation in the Mekong region.
ASEAN Member States are committed to deepening partnerships towards a more connected and resilient Mekong and ASEAN region. The Dialogue reinforced a forward-looking and optimistic vision where regional cooperation, mutual understanding, and shared investments and joint projects will drive progress toward water security and sustainable development for all.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Ten-Heads-of-Deletation-of-ASEAN-Countries-2048x1013-1.jpg10132048Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-10-24 10:54:282024-10-09 10:57:11ASEAN-Mekong Water Security Dialogue Kicks Off in Vientiane
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
Representatives from Thailand’s Transport Company Limited, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) of Thailand, and the Lao Department of Transport convened in Vientiane, Laos, on 4-5 September. The meeting aimed to address and enhance road transport cooperation between the two nations.
One of the major outcomes of the discussions was the agreement to launch a new international bus route connecting Udon Thani in Thailand with Vang Vieng in Laos. Scheduled to begin in early November, this route will provide a direct link to the Laos-China railway.
The meeting also highlighted plans to study and potentially introduce five additional bus routes. These proposed routes include connections from Chiang Mai to Boten and Bangkok to Savannakhet, which are expected to enhance accessibility and foster stronger economic ties between the two countries.
To improve passenger convenience, the transport authorities will expand ticket sales through online and E-Ticket systems across all routes aiming to streamline the booking process and provide travelers with more flexible options.
In response to growing demand, upgrades will be made to the bus services. The Bangkok-Pakse route will see the introduction of special air-conditioned buses, designed to enhance comfort for long-distance travelers. Additionally, more buses and trips will be added to the Mukdahan-Savannakhet route to accommodate increased passenger flow.
According to Thai media, there will also be an increase in staff at the Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint. This measure is expected to improve service efficiency and facilitate smoother processing for passengers crossing the border.
The new measures are anticipated to provide significant benefits to travelers and contribute to the overall development of regional transportation networks.
Laos is considering the introduction of direct flights from South Korea to Luang Prabang as part of the Knowledge Sharing Program (KSP). This initiative aims to boost tourism and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
At a seminar held in Vientiane on 3 September, Lao and Korean officials reviewed the progress on the KSP project, known as Luang Prabang International Airspace and Flight Procedure Improvement.
Funded by the Korean government, the project focuses on modernizing the airport’s infrastructure, enhancing air transport safety, and creating new opportunities for tourism in Laos.
During the meeting, Korean companies involved in the project presented their plans for the second year, including further design work and vital training for Lao airspace managers. They also unveiled a new conceptual design for Luang Prabang International Airport. They also revealed a new conceptual design for Luang Prabang International Airport, along with proposed improvements to the airport’s airspace design, Terminal Control Area (TMA), and flight procedures.
Both Lao and Korean officials expressed optimism that these upgrades will attract Korean airlines to establish direct flights between Incheon International Airport and Luang Prabang
The KSP’s ongoing efforts are expected to bring Luang Prabang International Airport up to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, positioning Laos as a key destination for international travelers, especially from South Korea.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/korea.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-10-18 10:38:002024-09-16 10:40:48Laos, South Korea Collaborate on Direct Flight Initiative to Boost Tourism, Economic Ties
Sekong’s Ministry of Home Affairs launched the “Electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics” system on 3 September, aiming to enhance the management, use, protection, and retrieval of citizens’ information.
The new electronic birth registration system is designed to record and analyze citizens’ statistics, facilitating public access to government services and helping safeguard their rights and best interests.
Deputy Minister Nisith Keopanya announced that all Lao nationals will receive a certificate confirming their citizenship status. This data will be used to guide policy-making and national socio-economic development plans, including the Sustainable Development Plan, in line with international agreements the government has signed.
Nisith emphasized that the recording of citizen statistics is a key objective of the government, particularly because Laos is home to diverse ethnic groups and religions that contribute to national unity, protection, and development.
The electronic citizen information management system’s development began in 2022, with the birth and death registration features becoming operational in February 2023. The province has set a target of registering at least 80 percent of citizens and newborns by 2025.
Khao Soi Luang Namtha has become a social media sensation, surging to the forefront of Lao cuisine thanks to a viral TikTok video. This traditional noodle dish, a classic in the northern Luang Namtha and Luang Prabang provinces, has found a new wave of fans across Laos and beyond, all thanks to Khonemany Keosaenmai, the 30-year-old star of the viral video.
Her clip, which showed a unique way to enjoy Khao Soi, has reignited interest in the traditional noodle, making it a trending favorite among both locals and visitors.
Khao Soi, which translates to “cut rice,” is made from rice flour. The process involves steaming the flour in a rectangular mold, then rolling and cutting it into long noodle-like pieces.
Traditionally served with pork or beef broth, Khao Soi is complemented by a sauce made from minced pork, tomatoes, and fermented bean paste, with additional seasoning sauces to enhance its flavor. It’s typically enjoyed as a soup, but Khonemany’s video introduced a new approach: wrapping the noodles around the sauce and chili, creating a handheld roll.
Khonemany explained that her innovative method was born out of practicality.
“I prefer Khao Soi without soup, so I tried to wrap it and it turned out good. I’m surprised that I could make our traditional local food more popular among everybody,” she said.
The woman ‘s passion for Khao Soi is deeply rooted in her upbringing. She proudly described the dish as a symbol of Muang Sing district, her native region, her native region, where it has been a staple in every household and local restaurant since her childhood.
Her adaptation was influenced by a type of dry Khao Soi that is less common but still cherished in local cuisine. By modifying the traditional serving method, Khonemany aimed to make the dish more convenient and accessible.
“I would like the next generation to develop Khao Soi as a product for export so that we can promote Lao food internationally,” she said.
Khao Soi is more than just a dish in Laos—it’s a tradition passed down through generations. This popular noodle dish has deep roots in Lao culture, enjoyed by families for years. It continues to be a favorite meal, found in homes and markets across the country.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/shutterstock_1149932561-1000x640-1.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-10-17 10:36:002024-09-16 10:38:22Khao Soi Goes Viral: TikTok Sparks New Trend in Traditional Lao Cuisine
