France Funds 11 Lao Civil Society Projects for Gender Equality

As part of France’s commitment to gender equality worldwide, Siv-Leng Chhuor, Ambassador of France to Laos, signed the grant agreements on 27 March with the eleven Lao organizations benefiting from the French small grants program Equipe France Fund – Civil Society Organizations (FEF-OSC) for 2025, formerly known as PISCCA. 

This is the second and last phase of the 2024-2025 FEF-OSC program, which supports civil society organizations’ (CSO) initiatives on gender equality. In total, the 2024-2025 program finances 19 projects with an envelope of over half a million dollars. Since 2010, the French Embassy has supported 82 projects in Laos, for a total amount of more than USD 3 million.

The FEF-OSC is aligned with the French government’s national and global commitment to promote women’s rights and gender equality, notably through its feminist strategy (2025-2030). In addition to taking gender into account as a priority in all projects carried out by France, gender equality is at the heart of this program, and constitutes its main objective. 

This year, the 11 selected projects will be implemented in eight different provinces: Bokeo, Salavanh, Vientiane, Savannakhet, Phongsaly, Champasack, Luang Prabang and Khammouane. 

Among these selected organizations, six of them will build on their FEF-OSC grant obtained in 2024 through a second phase in 2025. Somphong Chaleurnsack, president of the Ecotouristic Association of Konglor-Natane (AEKN), signed a grant agreement of LAK 499,658,081 (USD 23,303) for their project aiming at strengthening women’s civic and economic influence in the Hin Boun valley of Khammouane province. 

The Association for the Development and Promotion of Women’s Leadership (ADPWL), represented by Bouakham Sythvong, received a grant of LAK 386,158,791 (USD 17,953.60) to carry out the second phase of its project aiming at ending the violence against sex workers and improving their access to health services in Vientiane Capital. 

Inthana Bouphasavanh, representing the Association for the Development of Women and Legal Education (ADWLE), signed the FEF-OSC 2025 agreement for LAK 432,658,081 (USD 20,110).

This marks the second phase of ADWLE’s project, dedicated to improving the response to gender-based violence (GBV) survivors and protecting vulnerable women and children’s legal rights. 

The Association for the Promotion Preservation of Arts and Literature (APPAL), represented by Soukphansa Phouphasouk and recipient of a FEF-OSC grant in 2024, received LAK 494.750.000 (USD 23,000) to implement a new project empowering women and young people to lead and take action to protect the environment. 

Manivone Vorachak represented the Cooperation for Development and Support to Local Knowledge Association (COSKA) as Secretary General. 

The association received LAK 422,714,000 (USD 19,515.88) for the second phase of its project in Phongsaly province on the economic empowerment of young women and better GBV prevention. Empowering women and people with disabilities by improving their economic independence and social inclusion is the main objective of the Lao Disabled People’s Association (LDPA) in Sekong Province. 

Sommay Sethanak, director of the association, signed the grant agreement of LAK 350,000,00 (USD 1,615.88). Soukaseum Bodhisan, President of the Namjai Community Association (NCA), came from Bokeo Province to sign the FEF-OSC 2025 grant agreement of LAK 482,500,000 (USD 22,276.08). 

This second phase aims at providing quality education to girls from ethnic minorities and protecting them from all forms of violence, including early marriages, in Bokeo province. The social enterprise Project Space – Pha Tad Ke will empower young Lao women writers and contribute to a broader public dialogue on feminism, ecology, and social injustice. 

Their director, Henricus Gadella, signed a grant agreement of LAK 242,700,000 (USD 11,204.99) for this project. Sengsavang, represented by Virith Khattignavong, was awarded  LAK 489,997,000 (USD 22,622.21) for the second phase of their project focused on the sustainable reintegration of survivors and women at-risk of human trafficking and domestic violence in Savannakhet province. 

Souphaphone Dangmany, director of STELLA, received LAK 494,750,000 (USD 22,841.64) for their project aimed at empowering young female leaders to help their peers, as well as high school students, understand the importance of study planning and encourage them to explore STEAM fields. 

Lastly, Viengpeth Phongchalern came from Salavan province to represent the Women Development Fund (WDF). The foundation received LAK 300,000,000 (USD 13,850.42) for the second phase of their project on the development of a model gender equality village (MGV), and the prevention of domestic violence and early marriages in Salavan province. 

The FEF-OSC 2025 selection committee was held on Monday 17 March and was composed of development partners who support, and are familiar with, civil society and gender equality issues: the German International Development Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). 

This edition is the last phase of the two-year program on gender equality. In early 2026, a new FEF-OSC program on a different thematic (tba) will be launched.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/31/france-funds-11-lao-civil-society-projects-for-gender-equality/

Women with Disabilities Association Brings Lao Handicrafts to the Global Stage

The Women With Disability Association (WWDA) is leading an initiative to provide opportunities for women with disabilities in Laos. 

The initiative, largely funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the Japanese government, aims to enhance the Lao handicraft sector and give individuals with disabilities the opportunity to showcase their work to an international audience.

Since its inception in 2001, WWDA has received substantial support from JICA and the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP). This collaboration has enabled the center to not only produce high-quality handcrafted goods but also expand its offerings by providing vital facilities, training, and even field trips to Japan, where individuals could learn new ideas and skills for product development.

The association officially became an association in 2021, founded by Chanhpheng Sivila, a disabled woman with a deep passion for social change. Having learned advanced handicraft skills in Japan in 1997, Chanhpheng’s mission was to bring her skills and knowledge back to Laos to help others in her community, especially disabled women, gain valuable employment opportunities.

“After I came back to Laos, I adapted those lessons to implement them here, especially for those with disabilities because I want them to have the same opportunities,” Chanhpheng said, also mentioning her dedication to creating a better future for women with disabilities.

Currently, nearly 30 disabled students from Oudomxay and Bokeo Provinces are enrolled at the center. These students are taught to produce detailed handicrafts, such as weaving, pottery, ceramics, and paper crafts, all of which are sold to foreigners as part of the center’s efforts to raise awareness and promote Lao craftsmanship globally.

In addition to the focus on craft production, WWDA is also committed to improving the quality of life for women in rural areas, many of whom have limited access to education.

“We gave them vocational training, they’ll be taught basic education first, then we coordinated with job organizations to give them a job such as in a garment factory. Also, some of them stay with us to learn more about sewing and work in textile,” Chanhpheng explained.

Despite the success of these initiatives, Chanhpheng expressed concern about the limited number of students enrolled compared to the many individuals who lack access to such opportunities. She hopes that more funding will allow the organization to extend its services to a broader group of disabled people, especially those from remote regions.

One of the staffs in WWDA.

WWDA’s vision is to continue promoting Lao handicrafts while showcasing the true value of these works, especially in partnership with other provinces with unique handicraft traditions.

“We aim to keep supporting handicrafts so that society knows its true value, also in partnership with other Provinces with different uniqueness,” said Chanhpheng, highlighting the importance of continued innovation in the sector.

To further enhance the quality and variety of products, the Japan Embassy has sent a volunteer from JICA to provide advice on new product development. Taeko Taguchi, a community developer, has spent three years volunteering at WWDA, helping with product design and offering valuable guidance to the center.

“I feel very grateful for being a volunteer here, hopefully to help develop Lao products to be better and better,” Taguchi stated. 

This year marks the 60th anniversary of JICA’s Volunteer Programme, which has supported numerous projects in Laos since 1965. Through the program, over 40 volunteers currently work across the country, dedicated to strengthening the bond between Laos and Japan and contributing to Laos’ development.

Koga Toshimichi, the head of the economic section at the Japanese Embassy in Laos, emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two countries. 

“The project that we implemented in Laos is not only for economic development, but also for human resources development with long-term development,” he said, reiterating Japan’s commitment to helping Laos in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Other notable projects supported by the Japanese government include the JICA MaWaSU Project, which focuses on water supply sector development, as well as the construction of new Setthathirath Hospitals in Vientiane and Chamsassak. Additionally, the Lao-Japan Institute is dedicated to human resource development in Laos.

As Laos celebrates its 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Japan, it is clear that the ongoing collaboration between the two countries continues to play a pivotal role in the development of Laos’ human resources and economy. 

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/27/women-with-disabilities-association-brings-lao-handicrafts-to-the-global-stage/

ASEAN Center for Energy Launches Net Zero Emissions Roadmap for Laos

In line with Laos’ commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) launched its flagship publication, “An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions for Laos.” 

This report marks ACE’s first national-level initiative to guide a country on its journey towards net-zero emissions, exploring potential pathways for reducing energy sector emissions.

The energy sector remains one of the largest contributors to climate change, and this Lao Net Zero Report focuses on the adoption of various technological approaches, including renewable energy and emerging low-carbon technologies, as potential solutions. 

The event was held alongside the dissemination of ACE’s other key publication, the 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook (AEO8), which was launched under Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024. 

The AEO8, which will be shared across ASEAN Member States (AMS) in the coming months, provides strategic insights into optimising and decarbonising energy systems for a sustainable future. It aims to offer key findings and policy recommendations for sustainable energy planning in the region. 

Dato’ Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood, Executive Director of ACE, stated, “The ASEAN Energy Outlook serves as a vital reference for shaping a sustainable energy future for the region. It provides strategic insights into optimising and decarbonising our energy systems. We are proud to begin our net zero collaboration with Laos and look forward to partnering with all AMS to accelerate progress towards climate targets, particularly in the energy sector.”

Around 40 representatives from various Lao government agencies, academic institutions, and state-owned enterprises attended the event. Participants actively engaged in a panel discussion focused on enhancing regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and intergovernmental collaboration to achieve both national and regional climate goals.

Santisouk Phimphachanh, Senior Official on Energy Leader for Laos, noted, “The hosting of these key events emphasises Laos’s commitment to leading the region toward a sustainable, low-carbon future. ACE’s pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation in the energy sector, along with other low-carbon initiatives, is essential to achieving our climate and energy goals.”

The AEO8’s findings will be disseminated through a series of country-level events across the ASEAN Member States, supporting knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives throughout the region. 

Laos, as the first country to collaborate with ACE in developing a national-level report on its pathway to net zero, demonstrates its strong commitment to the energy transition and to fostering innovation for a sustainable future.

Zulfikar Yurnaidi, Manager of Energy Modelling and Policy Planning at ACE, highlighted the importance of aligning regional and national energy planning: “The 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook introduced the Carbon Neutrality Scenario (CNS) at the regional level, which has now been translated into this country-specific roadmap, with Laos as our first partner. Through the AEO and national net zero reports, ACE is committed to supporting ASEAN Member States in advancing regional cooperation for collective energy and climate goals.”

Aldilla Noor Rakhiemah, Project Manager of the ASEAN Climate Change and Energy Project (ACCEPT), added, “The launch of ‘An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions of Laos’ is a pivotal milestone in Laos’s energy transition journey.

ACCEPT plays a key role in strengthening the energy-climate nexus through data-driven analysis and accelerating regional collaboration by conducting regional capacity-building efforts. This aligns with ACCEPT’s long-term goal of supporting ASEAN Member States in transitioning to a low-carbon energy system and achieving their net-zero targets.”

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/25/asean-center-for-energy-launches-net-zero-emissions-roadmap-for-laos/

Luang Prabang Economy Sees Steady Growth, Surpassing GDP Targets

Luang Prabang has experienced steady economic growth over the past five years, with an average annual growth rate of 6.9 percent. 

The province’s gross domestic product (GDP) reached LAK 3,989 billion (around USD 183 million), surpassing the initial target of LAK 931 billion (about USD 42 million), according to Saveuy Silavanh, Standing Party Member and Deputy Mayor of Luang Prabang district during the 8th Congress of the Luang Prabang Party Committee on 24 March.

This economic growth translates to an average annual income of LAK 39 million (approximately USD 1,897) per person.

One of the most significant contributors to Luang Prabang’s economic success is its thriving tourism sector, Saveuy noted.

In 2024, the province welcomed over 2.3 million visitors, surpassing the initial target of 900,000. According to the Luang Prabang Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the UNESCO Heritage Town hosted 1,532,394 foreign visitors last year.

To support the continued expansion of tourism, Saveuy said that the authorities have focused on upgrading infrastructure, including building concrete roads to villages and improving access routes to popular attractions. 

Additionally, tourism-related facilities have expanded rapidly, while major infrastructure projects such as the Lao-China Railway and Luang Prabang International Airport continue to undergo upgrades.

Beyond tourism, Luang Prabang has made progress in human resource development, public healthcare, rural development, and poverty alleviation. As a result of these efforts, the government officially recognized the province as a “comprehensively strong city” and a “poverty-free city” in February.

Investment has also played a crucial role in the province’s economic development. Currently, there are 72 investment projects in Luang Prabang, with a combined value exceeding USD 174 million. Of these, 53 domestic projects account for more than USD 140 million, while 19 foreign investment projects contribute over USD 33 million.

With continued efforts to improve infrastructure and attract investment, Luang Prabang is poised for sustained economic and tourism growth in the coming years.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/25/luang-prabang-economy-sees-steady-growth-surpassing-gdp-targets/

Laos Signs Clean Energy Deal with Chinese, Singaporean Firms

Laos has taken another step toward expanding its clean energy sector by signing a USD 1.45 billion agreement with China Western Power Industrial and a Singapore-based construction firm.

The deal, announced in a stock exchange filing on 24 March, involves designing, supplying, and constructing an 1,800-megawatt clean energy power project in Xekong, southern Laos.

The project, undertaken in partnership with the province’s thermal power plant, is set for completion by early 2030, with initial designs expected to be finalized by the end of this year. However, details on the project’s energy source were not disclosed.

The Chinese company has also signed a USD 228.8 million power transmission deal with the same Lao entity on the same day.

This latest agreement follows a 2022 supply and service deal worth USD 409 million between China Western Power and another Lao power company.

Last year, Laos and China further agreed to expand a wind and solar energy base in the north of the country.

Laos has historically relied on hydropower, generating about 80 percent of its electricity from this source over the past decade.

However, efforts to scale up solar and wind energy have been ongoing. Electricity exports to neighboring Thailand and Vietnam continue to play a key role in Laos’ economic strategy.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/25/laos-signs-clean-energy-deal-with-chinese-singaporean-firms/

Laos Ranks 7th in ASEAN for Education Amid Thailand’s Rejection

Laos has been ranked 7th in ASEAN and 102nd in the world for education, according to the latest assessment by World Population Review.  

The rankings take into account various factors, including literacy rates, educational quality, and access to learning opportunities.

Within ASEAN, Singapore secured the top spot, ranking 11th globally, followed by Brunei in second place (47th globally) and Vietnam in third (53rd globally). 

Indonesia ranked fourth in ASEAN (67th globally), with the Philippines in fifth (71st globally) and Malaysia in sixth (89th globally).

Laos placed 7th in ASEAN (102nd globally), ahead of Thailand, which ranked 8th in ASEAN (107th globally). Myanmar followed in 9th place (109th globally), while Cambodia ranked last in the region at 10th place (120th globally).

The report highlights literacy rates across ASEAN, measuring the percentage of people aged 15 and above who can read and write. Laos has a literacy rate of 88 percent, placing it ahead of Cambodia and Thailand but behind most of its regional neighbors.

Brunei leads ASEAN with a literacy rate of 98 percent, followed closely by Singapore at 97 percent. The Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam each report 96 percent, while Malaysia stands at 95 percent. 

Thailand follows with 94 percent, Myanmar records 89 percent, and Cambodia ranks lowest in the region at 84 percent.

A country’s literacy rate reflects the percentage of people who can read and write at a basic level. While it is a key indicator of educational development, it does not fully capture the quality of education, access to higher learning, or skill development.

Globally, South Korea claimed the top spot for education, followed by Denmark (2nd), the Netherlands (3rd), Belgium (4th), and Slovenia (5th).

The report also identified the countries with the highest literacy rates, which include Andorra, Ukraine, Cuba, Barbados, and Moldova, where nearly the entire population is literate.

Thailand Rejects Ranking

However, Thailand’s Office of the Education Council (OEC) has dismissed the recent education ranking by World Population Review, claiming that the data lacks transparency and does not reflect the current situation.

Prawit Erawan, secretary-general of the OEC, stated that the website relied on outdated information from 2021, which does not align with Thailand’s present educational landscape. 

He also pointed out that Thailand’s own literacy rate assessment shows a 99 percent literacy rate, the highest in ASEAN—contradicting the ranking’s figure of 94 percent.

Lao Social Media Users Question the Ranking

Meanwhile, in Laos, social media users have expressed skepticism over the country’s higher ranking compared to Thailand. Many pointed out ongoing challenges in Laos’ education system, such as teacher shortages in rural areas and high dropout rates, which they argue remain serious issues.

“It’s impossible that Laos is ranked this high. If you survey all the universities in Laos, the quality is still lower compared to Thailand,” one commenter wrote.

“If this ranking is accurate, why do so many students keep dropping out of school? High inflation and a struggling economy are making education inaccessible for many children. We can tell what’s real and what’s not,” another user added.

Others, however, argued that education rankings go beyond just school systems.

“Education isn’t just about studying in school. In Thailand, formal education is concentrated in the central region, while many people in rural areas lack access. This ranking was done by an international website, not the Lao government,” one critic noted.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/24/laos-ranks-7th-in-asean-for-education-amid-thailands-rejection/

Taiwan Becomes Asia’s Happiest Place in 2025

Taiwan has been named the happiest place in Asia, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report. 

Ranking 27th globally, Taiwan has climbed from 31st last year, surpassing Singapore as the leading country in Asia. 

Following Taiwan in the Asia rankings are Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, China, and Mongolia.

Laos, on the other hand, is ranked 93rd, just behind China (92nd) and ahead of Mongolia (94th).

Vietnam made a notable improvement this year, rising from 54th place in 2024 to 46th in 2025. Over the past five years, the country has surged nearly 40 spots, moving up from 83rd in 2020.

The World Happiness Report is a collaborative effort from leading global experts in well-being science. It is based on data from the Gallup World Poll, which measures individuals’ self-reported life evaluations, averaged over the period from 2022 to 2024. The ranking takes into account six key factors: gross domestic product per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and corruption.

Although the happiness ranking reflects people’s subjective assessments of their quality of life, these six factors offer deeper insights into the differences between nations, according to the report.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/24/taiwan-becomes-asias-happiest-place-in-2025/

Crowne Plaza Vientiane to Host Wedding Fair 2025

On 29-30 March, Crowne Plaza Vientiane, a five-star hotel in the capital, will host Wedding Fair 2025: Your Forever Starts From Here.

The two-day fair will showcase a variety of wedding ideas tailored to individual preferences and offer couples expert guidance in planning their special day.

The event will also bring together leading wedding suppliers and service providers, allowing attendees to explore a range of options, from venue selection and décor to menu planning and photography. 

Each booth will feature special promotions, making it an ideal opportunity for couples looking for exclusive deals.  

An Asian couple holding hands (photo credit: besphotographer)

Visitors will have the chance to consult with experienced wedding professionals who can provide personalized recommendations to bring their dream wedding to life. The fair will also feature a selection of curated wedding packages designed to suit different styles and preferences.  

In addition to discovering exclusive services and packages, attendees will have the opportunity to win special gifts, including stays at IHG Hotels. 

Those interested in participating in the event can register by contacting +856 20 97133986 or following Crowne Plaza Vientiane’s official page at https://web.facebook.com/crowneplazavientiane

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/24/crowne-plaza-vientiane-to-host-wedding-fair-2025/

Salavanh Opens New Blood Transfusion Center with Swiss Support

On March 20, the Lao Red Cross (LRC), in collaboration with the Swiss Red Cross (SRC), inaugurated a new Blood Transfusion Center in Salavanh Province

The ceremony was co-presided by LRC President Khamlavanh Chanthalvanh, Somchai Ounchit, Provincial Party Standing Committee Member and Deputy Governor of Salavanh Province, and SRC Country Representative Binita Poudel. Distinguished attendees included representatives from the LRC Headquarters, SRC in Laos, National Blood Transfusion Institute (NBTI), Salavanh Provincial Red Cross Branch, Blood Transfusion Center (BTC), and various provincial offices and organizations.

the Lao Red Cross (LRC), in collaboration with the Swiss Red Cross (SRC), inaugurated a new Blood Transfusion Center in Salavanh Province

The construction of the Blood Transfusion Center was made possible through the support of the Swiss Red Cross, with a total investment of LAK 1,721,001,000 (approximately USD 79,473). This significant contribution aims to enhance blood transfusion services in Salavanh Province, improving healthcare access and ensuring the availability of safe blood for those in need.

Khamlavanh Chanthalavanh, President of the Lao Red Cross, expressed gratitude to the Swiss Red Cross for their steadfast support, saying, “This new facility stands as a testament to our shared commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and ensuring the availability of safe blood for all.” 

He further highlighted the significance of the Swiss Red Cross’s contribution, noting that their ongoing partnership has been instrumental in advancing the Lao Red Cross’s mission to improve national blood transfusion services. 

Somchai Ounchit, Deputy Governor of Salavanh Province, highlighted thel role of the newly established Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center in enhancing the province’s healthcare infrastructure. 

He remarked, “The establishment of this center marks a significant milestone in our efforts to provide timely and safe blood transfusions to those in need.” He further emphasized that the center’s operations align with the Lao Red Cross’s mission to improve national blood transfusion services, ensuring the availability of safe blood for all citizens.

Binita Poudel, Country Representative of the Swiss Red Cross, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to supporting Laos, stating, “Our collaboration with the Lao Red Cross reflects our shared vision of strengthening healthcare services and ensuring that every citizen has access to essential medical resources.” She emphasized that this partnership aims to enhance community well-being and resilience through improved healthcare infrastructure and services.

Chanthala Souksakhone, Director of the National Blood Transfusion Institute, stresses the role of the newly inaugurated Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center in addressing the nation’s increasing blood demand, stating, “With rising demand and medical needs, this center will play a crucial role in meeting the nation’s blood transfusion requirements.” 

He outlined the national goal to collect 120,000 blood bags annually by 2030, with Salavanh Province’s targets set at 2,100 units in 2025, 2,300 in 2026, 2,800 in 2027, and reaching 4,500 by 2030.

Souksakhone expressed confidence that, under the leadership of provincial authorities and with the support of the Salavanh Provincial Red Cross Branch and blood transfusion center staff, the Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center will significantly contribute to achieving these objectives.

Davanh Phuangchampa, Acting Director of the Salavanh Provincial Red Cross Branch, accepted stewardship of the newly inaugurated Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center on behalf of the provincial Red Cross. 

He expressed, “We are honored to take stewardship of this facility, which will undoubtedly save countless lives and strengthen our community’s health infrastructure.” Representing the eight districts of Salavanh Province, Phuangchampa emphasized the center’s significance in enhancing local healthcare services and ensuring timely access to safe blood transfusions for all residents. 

The inauguration and handover of the Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center represent a significant advancement in enhancing blood donation and transfusion services within Salavanh Province. 

This development is poised to substantially bolster the region’s healthcare infrastructure, ensuring timely access to safe blood transfusions and thereby improving the overall health and well-being of local communities.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/22/salavanh-opens-new-blood-transfusion-center-with-swiss-support/

Nam Theun 2 Marks 15 Years with Golf Classic in Vientiane

On 15 March, Nam Theun 2 Power Company Limited (NTPC) celebrated its 15th anniversary with the Nam Theun 2 Golf Classic, held at the Lao Country Club in Vientiane. 

The event brought together over 100 enthusiastic golfers for an amateur tournament, conducted under the rules of the Lao National Golf Federation.

The tournament saw attendance from Phoxay Sayasone, Minister of Energy and Mines, and Vanxay Phongsavanh, Governor of Khamouanne Province, where the majority of NTPC’s facilities are located. 

“We are delighted to celebrate this significant milestone with our partners, stakeholders, and friends,” said Marc-Antoine Rupp, CEO of NTPC. “The Nam Theun 2 Golf Classic not only highlights our commitment to fostering cooperation but also showcases the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines NTPC.”

“I greatly appreciate the hard work of Nam Theun 2, which has produced countless successes, particularly in contributing to the socio-economic development of the country. The Nam Theun 2 Project is highly regarded by the Lao government. It is widely recognized as a cornerstone, a source of strength, and a symbol of Laos’ reputation and capability.” remarked Phoxay Sayasone, Minister of Energy and Mines at the opening.

The event featured a day of competitive golf, followed by an awards ceremony recognizing the top performers. Participants enjoyed the scenic beauty and challenging course of the Lao Country Club, making the tournament a memorable experience for all.

As one of Laos’ largest hydropower projects, Nam Theun 2 is a joint investment between Electricité de France (EDF) with a 40 percent stake, Electricity Generating Company of Thailand (EGCO) holding 35 percent, and the Lao government, represented by Lao Holding State Enterprise (LHSE), with 25 percent . The 1,080 MW hydropower facility, located in Khammouane province, is set to operate under a 25-year concession from 2010 to 2035.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/21/nam-theun-2-marks-15-years-with-golf-classic-in-vientiane/

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