Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith and Cuban President Diaz-Canel met in Havana on Wednesday, where President Thongloun also attended the G77+China Summit. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared interest in expanding cooperation in a variety of fields.
Cuban President Diaz-Canel expressed his appreciation for President Thongloun’s visit to Cuba, which he said demonstrates Laos’s commitment to the G77+China cause and its support for Cuba’s presidency. “We are very grateful for this,” he added.
On the same day, President Thongloun also met with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz to reiterate their shared commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across several areas of mutual interest, like agriculture, health, sports, politics, the economy, and trade, the Vientiane Times reported.
PM Marrero commended the close ties between Laos and Cuba since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations in 1974. He noted that friendly relations and cooperation have flourished since then, with many high-level delegations from both countries visiting each other to discuss and strengthen cooperation, particularly in sectors like education, health, and agriculture.
At the meeting, President Thoungloun also emphasized the importance of PM Marrero’s visit to Laos last year, which further strengthened bilateral ties and cooperation.
Additionally, during their interaction, PM Marrero invited Laos to attend the 39th Havana International Fair in November.
President Thongloun and his delegation arrived in Cuba on Monday to participate in the G77+China Summit in Havana from 15-16 September, where leaders from over 100 countries will discuss and coordinate collective and practical responses to current challenges.
The G77 is a group of 134 developing nations, including Laos, that are part of the United Nations. Founded in 1964, the G77 works to boost economic, scientific, and technological cooperation among its members and to advocate for the interests of developing countries at the UN.
Singapore’s Changi International Airport, often hailed as the world’s best airport, is further improving its facilities by implementing automated immigration clearance starting next year.
According to CNN, officials at Singapore’s Changi Airport will introduce innovative technology that allows passengers to depart from the city-state without passports, by just using biometric data.
“This will reduce the need for passengers to repeatedly present their travel documents at these touchpoints, allowing for more seamless and convenient processing,” said Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information & Second Minister for Home Affairs, in a speech to parliament on Monday.
However, passports will still be required for many countries outside of Singapore that do not offer passport-free clearance, Teo emphasized.
Biometric data, along with facial recognition is already being used to some extent in Changi Airport at automated lanes at immigration checkpoints. By next year, biometrics will be used to create a “single token of authentication”, that could be utilized at various automated touchpoints, including baggage check-ins, immigration clearance, and boarding.
Singapore’s Changi Airport sees more than 100 airlines that fly to 400 cities around the world. In 2023, the Airport handled over 4 million passenger movements every month and surpassed the 5 million mark in June for the first time since January 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic struck.
Laos-China Railway Company has purchased a new electric multiple-unit (EMU) train, which will be delivered today, to support domestic and international tourist demand.
“A new EMU train has been acquired to boost domestic and international passenger travel, particularly in preparation for Laos’ Chairmanship of ASEAN and Visit Laos Year 2024,” said Mr. Anongdeth Phetkayson, the Deputy Director of Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd.
Mr. Anongdeth said the new EMU train features wireless charging and touch-sensitive seat adjustment systems.
Currently, the Laos-China Railway Company runs a total of 5 passenger trains per day, four of which are EMUs and one is a regular train.
According to China Radio International in Vientiane, the Laos-China Railway service has carried over 3.1 million passengers since its opening on 3 December 2021, averaging 4,889 passengers daily and recording the highest passenger count of 10,197 per day.
In 2023, so far, over 1.75 million passengers have traveled on the Laos-China Railway, up 103.7 percent from the same period in 2022.
Additionally, since the start of the cross-border train operation on 13 April 2023, a total of 61,698 passengers have traveled across the border, with an average of 201 people traveling outside the country and 190 people traveling to Laos per day.
The railway has also been an efficient transport option for trade, with over 5.38 million tons of goods being transported since it started operations, averaging 8,229 tons per day, with a maximum daily count of 15,250 tons.
The main trading items have been fruits, cassava flour, barley, rubber, beer, iron ore, concentrated iron ore, and chemical fertilizers, of which 770,900 tons were sent from China to Laos, and 4.56 million tons were exported from Laos to China.
Meanwhile, Amid a surge in passenger travel, the Laos-China Railway Company has also proposed to the Lao government to increase the price of train tickets this year, due to considerable exchange rate fluctuations and the depreciation of the Laotian Kip (LAK).
Laos and Thailand discussed building a new Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge between Vientiane Province and Thailand’s Pak Chom District, Loei Province, to boost tourism, at the 20th Lao-Thai border security meeting on Sunday in Vang Vieng.
At a meeting led by Tawee Sermpakdeekul, the governor of Loei, and his deputy Narong Jeenam, and Khamphan Sithidampha, the governor of Laos’ Vientiane province, the discussion centered around tourism promotion, cultural exchanges, and economic, social, and security cooperation, with a focus on attracting Chinese tourists to both countries through the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge in Pak Chom District.
The second friendship bridge project is expected to enhance tourism, trade, and investment between Laos and Thailand.
This strategic move came as a result of Thailand’s decision to implement a visa-free policy for Chinese visitors which prompted Laos to improve conditions in Muen District of Vientiane Province which is near Thailand’s Pak Chom District.
Mr. Tawee noted that Muen District could serve as a gateway to link popular attractions in both Loei and Vientiane Provinces, including a tourism route between Chiang Khan and Pak Chom districts in Loei to Vang Vieng and Feuang districts in Vientiane Province.
“We have a border checkpoint in Loei for tourists to cross from Pak Chom to Muen but Laos has only a temporary checkpoint. We will ask for cooperation from Laos to upgrade the checkpoint to be a permanent one by the end of this year,” said the Leoi District Governor.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Laos-Thailand-Discusses-Building-Second-Friendship-Bridge-in-Vientiane-to-Boost-Tourism-1.jpg6271200Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-09-23 11:40:002023-09-23 11:30:56Laos, Thailand Discusses Building Second Friendship Bridge in Vientiane to Boost Tourism
Since ancient times, the Lao lunar calendar has celebrated traditional festivals, one per month, in a cycle called Hit Sip Song (the twelve traditions). These are celebrated in different ways in different areas of the country, with some of these rituals nearly disappearing. Get a deeper look at how Lao people honor their customs and build karma throughout the year.
Boun Khao Kam (ບຸນເຂົ້າກໍ່າ)
The calendar begins in December, which was traditionally a time for Buddhist monks to enter a period of meditation in a cave, a forest, or a remote temple, in order to make merit for the coming year.
Boun Kong Khao (ບຸນກອງເຂົ້າ)
After the harvest ends, Lao people traditionally made merit to the rice spirits, so that they could have a plentiful harvest the next year. This is still famously celebrated with large ceremonial haystacks in Phieng district, Xayaboury Province.
Boun Khao Chi (ບຸນເຂົ້າຈີ່)
In the past, locals placed mounds of sticky rice on long sticks to grill and offer to monks. This practice comes from an old Buddhist story in which a poor woman only a little amount of rice but gave it to the Buddha instead of eating it herself.
Boun Phavet (ບຸນພະເວດ)
This is a large event throughout Laos. Each temple celebrates on different days. In the ceremony, monks chant the ancient story of the generous King Vessantara, who is believed to be a previous incarnation of the Buddha. Locals celebrate with village parades to their temple to make merit, listen to the tale, and make offerings.
(Photo: Champa Meuang Lao)
Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year) (ບຸນປີໃໝ່)
Lao New Year falls in the middle of April. Traditionally, everyone in Laos makes merit with family, cleans their home, and sprinkles water over Buddha images, elders, and monks to build karma. In modern times, this has devolved into a three-day water fight during the hottest month of the year. A Miss New Year pageant is held and the winner paraded through town, representing one of seven daughters of a mythical god. The best spot to observe both traditional and modern sides of this festival is in Luang Prabang.
Boun Bang Fai (ບຸນບັ້ງໄຟ)
As the rice fields are prepared for planting, the most essential ingredient for a bountiful harvest is rain. Lao people summon rain by launching homemade bamboo rockets at the heavens, so that the gods will take notice and grant their request. This is accompanied by much music and merrymaking.
Boun Xa Lang (ບຸນຊະລ້າງ)
In the past, Lao people would make merit to the protector spirits of their village, and to ask them to drive out evil and protect the happiness and prosperity of the people for the next year.
Boun Khao Phansa (ບຸນເຂົ້າພັນສາ)
The three-month Buddhist Lent begins in July, which also coincides with the rainy season in Laos. Monks are required to stay in one temple for the duration, which comes from an old practice of wandering monks inadvertently trampling farmers’ crops during the growing season. Lao people make certain to give alms on this morning.
Boun Hor Khao Padap Din (ບຸນຫໍ່ເຂົ້າປະດັບດິນ)
On this holiday, hungry and forgotten spirits come out to wander the Earth. Banana leaf containers are made and filled with sweets and offerings to be left around fences, gates, and houses for the hungry ghosts. This holiday is also marked with boat racing on the Khan River in Luang Prabang.
Boun Khao Salak (ບຸນເຂົ້າສະຫຼາກ)
Lao people gather baskets full of food and household items and offer at temples to make merit for family members and ancestors who have already passed away.
Boun Ork Phansa (ບຸນອອກພັນສາ)
At the end of Buddhist Lent, Lao people make merit to the spirit of the river. Small floats are constructed out of banana trunks and decorated with banana leaves and flowers, as well as candles and small offerings. In the evening, these are set afloat in the river. Luang Prabang celebrates with a large decorated fireboat parade through town, while Vientiane Capital celebrates with boat racing.
Boun Kathin (ບຸນກະຖິນ)
The final holiday in the calendar is marked with a large merit making where people donate new robes and other offerings to monks. In Vientiane Capital, a huge week-long festival is held at That Luang stupa where people from all over the country come to participate and build karma.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Ork-Phan-Sa-696x423-1.jpg423696Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-09-21 08:00:002023-09-20 09:50:39Twelve Annual Festival Highlights that Showcase the Rich Heritage of Laos
The Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism of Vientiane Capital is expediting its preparations to welcome a higher influx of foreign visitors during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship and as part of Visit Laos Year 2024.
The Director of the Vientiane Capital Information, Culture, and Tourism Department, Mrs. Vilayvone Chanthalaty, said that the department is monitoring the improvement of hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions as part of preparations to host important meetings during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship next year.
According to Mrs. Vilayvone, Vientiane Capital has allowed tourism operators to open 288 hotels with over 10,000 rooms to accommodate official guests and tourists visiting the country. The city currently also has over 270 guesthouses with over 6,000 rooms for visitors.
Mrs. Vilayvone added that the city has nine five-star hotels at the moment and there are plans to open three more by the end of 2023. Four-star and three-star hotels have also been inspected and certified by relevant ministries for the coming year.
Moreover, Vientiane Capital’s Tourism Department has been working with other departments to inspect and ensure that hotels have enough water and electricity, and measures are also in place to keep the city clean.
“We have been collaborating with other government agencies to ensure that hotels have adequate water and electricity and that the city, particularly parks and other public areas, are kept clean,” said Mrs. Vilayvone.
Mrs. Vilayvone further mentioned that the department is also focusing on renovating important tourist attractions in Vientiane Capital, such as Pha That Luang Stupa, Ho Phrakeo Museum, Sisaket Temple, Patuxai Monument, and other attractions.
Tourism companies have also been roped in by the government to develop tour plans that will be available at hotels for tourists to look at and plan their visits to other provinces from Vientiane Capital.
“We are dedicated to offering the highest quality services to all visitors so that they can appreciate the country’s distinctive culture and attractions, and have a lasting positive impression about Laos,” said Mrs. Vilayvone.
However, recently, many social media users in Vientiane Capital have expressed anger and frustration over the poor state of the city’s roads, urging the government to make road repairs a top priority.
A National Assembly member from Vientiane Capital has also urged tourism police to be more prompt in assisting tourists visiting Laos so that they can have a positive and safe experience in the country.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/6-4.jpg6271200Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-09-20 09:30:002023-09-20 09:24:23Vientiane Capital Speeds Up Preparations for ASEAN Chairmanship and Visit Laos Year 2024
In a move to strengthen bilateral ties between Laos and Russia, the Lao Vice President, Pany Yathotou met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday in Vladivostok, Russia on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum.
According to President Putin who extended a warm welcome to VP Pany, Laos, and Russia have a longstanding relationship, and President Pany herself has made some remarkable contributions to the development of relations between the two nations.
“We know you as our good, reliable friend. You have visited our country several times and, as chairman of parliament, you have made a significant contribution to the development of bilateral parliamentary relations,” he said.
President Putin also asked Ms. Pany to convey his regards to Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, who is currently in Cuba to attend the G77 Summit.
While thanking the Russian President for extending an invitation to Laos to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum, Ms. Pany said, “Due to the previously agreed state visit of our President to Cuba to attend the G77 summit, he was not able to personally participate in this event.”
Additionally, the Russian Leader commented on the humanitarian ties between Laos and Russia which both nations have been taking steps to grow over the years. He specifically highlighted the influx of Lao students to study medicine at Russian universities as part of this development initiative.
President Putin also spoke about the military collaboration between the two nations, expressing hope for future growth in this area.
“Contacts also continue through military departments. I am sure that all this has good prospects for development,” said the Russian leader.
From 10-13 September, Vice President Pany is attending the Eastern Economic Forum as a senior foreign guest. The event aims to develop economic cooperation between participating countries and encourage foreign investment in the region.
After attending the forum, President Putin left Vladivostok to meet with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un at the Vostochny space launch facility in Russia’s Far Eastern Amur Region.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Lao-Vice-President-Pany-Meets-Putin-to-Bolster-Laos-Russia-Bilateral-Tie.jpg6271200Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-09-17 08:00:002023-09-14 09:48:16Lao Vice President Meets Putin to Bolster Laos, Russia Bilateral Ties
During a handover ceremony at the closing of the 43rd ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, Laos took over the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) from Indonesia on Thursday, 7 September.
During the ceremony, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone received the gavel of ASEAN Chairmanship from Indonesian President Joko Widodo and pledged to build a more connected and resilient ASEAN during the country’s chairmanship in 2024.
PM Sonexay expressed his sincere congratulations to the Indonesian President as well as the Indonesian government and people on the successful hosting of the 43rd ASEAN Summit and related summits and said that Laos is prepared to cooperate closely with other ASEAN members and partners to ensure the success of its chairmanship.
“Laos is honored to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024,” PM Sonexay said. “We will build upon the achievements made under Indonesia’s ASEAN Chairmanship and the success of ASEAN over the past years.”
Under the theme “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”, PM Sonexay affirmed that Laos will continue to work together with other ASEAN member countries to strengthen the ASEAN community and create opportunities to address geopolitical and geo-economic challenges and changes.
Additionally, PM Sonexay said that Laos will work to expand ASEAN’s external relations, strengthen ASEAN’s centrality and unity, and develop a regional architecture for stability, peace, and development in the ASEAN region during its chairmanship.
“We will continue to enhance connectivities, narrow the development gaps (among ASEAN countries), promote carbon neutrality, and advance digital transformation in the region and economic integration,” Sonexay added.
Although the chairmanship was symbolically transferred, Indonesia will continue to carry out chairmanship responsibilities until Laos officially takes over early next year.
Laos will assume the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2024, followed by Malaysia in 2025. The Philippines will take over the chairmanship in 2026 instead of Myanmar, which is currently in political turmoil.
The ASEAN leaders agreed that the chairmanship rotation after the Philippines will follow the alphabetical order of member countries’ names unless otherwise decided.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1-4.jpg6271200Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-09-16 09:00:002023-09-11 09:19:05Laos Symbolically Takes Over ASEAN Chairmanship from Indonesia
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet for a working breakfast on Tuesday, 5 September, while attending the 43rd ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Jakarta.
During their interaction, the three leaders shared information about the economic and social development of their countries and discussed areas of common cooperation and regional and international issues of interest.
The three leaders agreed to work together in a number of areas, including national defense and security, economics and trade, and investment, particularly in supporting each other in regional and international frameworks, such as the ASEAN Cooperation Framework and the Mekong River Commission (MRC).
Additionally, the leaders also agreed to promote educational exchanges by providing financial support for students to study in each other’s countries and learn about their cultures and languages, to boost future relations between the three nations.
The leaders also agreed to continue implementing agreements and conventions, hold regular joint mechanism meetings, and research ways to facilitate trilateral trade among the three countries.
On this occasion, PM Sonexay and PM Pham Minh Chinh took the opportunity to congratulate Cambodia on the success of its election, the overwhelming victory of the Cambodian People’s Party, and the election of Hun Manet as the new Prime Minister.
PM Sonexay also invited PM Hun Manet to visit Laos in the future and expressed hope for future support and cooperation from Vietnam and Cambodia during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone along with other high-ranking delegates arrived on Monday in Jakarta, Indonesia, to attend the 43rd ASEAN Summit and related meetings that are being held under the theme “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth” from 4-7 September.
Upon arrival in Jakarta, PM Sonexay and his delegates attended the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit 2023, which was organized by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC).
The summit brought together key stakeholders from ASEAN and its dialogue partners to discuss ways to boost trade and investment in the region, with over 2,000 delegates from 50 countries attending the event.
In his speech, PM Sonexay highlighted opportunities and challenges faced by ASEAN in areas of economic integration, climate change, and sustainable development. He also called on ASEAN to work together for a business-friendly environment and centrality in regional and global economies.
PM Sonexay also witnessed the handover of the chairmanship of the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (ABIS) from Indonesia to Laos. The new chairman is Mr. Oudet Souvannavong, the president of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as Laos will host the next ABIS meeting in 2024.
Lao President Meets with Cuban Leaders to Deepen Bilateral Ties, Attends G77-China Summit
Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith and Cuban President Diaz-Canel met in Havana on Wednesday, where President Thongloun also attended the G77+China Summit. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared interest in expanding cooperation in a variety of fields.
Cuban President Diaz-Canel expressed his appreciation for President Thongloun’s visit to Cuba, which he said demonstrates Laos’s commitment to the G77+China cause and its support for Cuba’s presidency. “We are very grateful for this,” he added.
On the same day, President Thongloun also met with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz to reiterate their shared commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across several areas of mutual interest, like agriculture, health, sports, politics, the economy, and trade, the Vientiane Times reported.
PM Marrero commended the close ties between Laos and Cuba since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations in 1974. He noted that friendly relations and cooperation have flourished since then, with many high-level delegations from both countries visiting each other to discuss and strengthen cooperation, particularly in sectors like education, health, and agriculture.
At the meeting, President Thoungloun also emphasized the importance of PM Marrero’s visit to Laos last year, which further strengthened bilateral ties and cooperation.
Additionally, during their interaction, PM Marrero invited Laos to attend the 39th Havana International Fair in November.
President Thongloun and his delegation arrived in Cuba on Monday to participate in the G77+China Summit in Havana from 15-16 September, where leaders from over 100 countries will discuss and coordinate collective and practical responses to current challenges.
The G77 is a group of 134 developing nations, including Laos, that are part of the United Nations. Founded in 1964, the G77 works to boost economic, scientific, and technological cooperation among its members and to advocate for the interests of developing countries at the UN.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/15/lao-president-meets-with-cuban-leaders-to-deepen-bilateral-ties-attends-g77-china-summit/
Singapore’s Changi Airport to Introduce Passport-Free Departures
Singapore’s Changi International Airport, often hailed as the world’s best airport, is further improving its facilities by implementing automated immigration clearance starting next year.
According to CNN, officials at Singapore’s Changi Airport will introduce innovative technology that allows passengers to depart from the city-state without passports, by just using biometric data.
“This will reduce the need for passengers to repeatedly present their travel documents at these touchpoints, allowing for more seamless and convenient processing,” said Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information & Second Minister for Home Affairs, in a speech to parliament on Monday.
However, passports will still be required for many countries outside of Singapore that do not offer passport-free clearance, Teo emphasized.
Biometric data, along with facial recognition is already being used to some extent in Changi Airport at automated lanes at immigration checkpoints. By next year, biometrics will be used to create a “single token of authentication”, that could be utilized at various automated touchpoints, including baggage check-ins, immigration clearance, and boarding.
Singapore’s Changi Airport sees more than 100 airlines that fly to 400 cities around the world. In 2023, the Airport handled over 4 million passenger movements every month and surpassed the 5 million mark in June for the first time since January 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic struck.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/22/singapores-changi-airport-to-introduce-passport-free-departures/
Laos-China Railway Purchases New Train to Boost Passenger Travel
Laos-China Railway Company has purchased a new electric multiple-unit (EMU) train, which will be delivered today, to support domestic and international tourist demand.
“A new EMU train has been acquired to boost domestic and international passenger travel, particularly in preparation for Laos’ Chairmanship of ASEAN and Visit Laos Year 2024,” said Mr. Anongdeth Phetkayson, the Deputy Director of Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd.
Mr. Anongdeth said the new EMU train features wireless charging and touch-sensitive seat adjustment systems.
Currently, the Laos-China Railway Company runs a total of 5 passenger trains per day, four of which are EMUs and one is a regular train.
According to China Radio International in Vientiane, the Laos-China Railway service has carried over 3.1 million passengers since its opening on 3 December 2021, averaging 4,889 passengers daily and recording the highest passenger count of 10,197 per day.
In 2023, so far, over 1.75 million passengers have traveled on the Laos-China Railway, up 103.7 percent from the same period in 2022.
Additionally, since the start of the cross-border train operation on 13 April 2023, a total of 61,698 passengers have traveled across the border, with an average of 201 people traveling outside the country and 190 people traveling to Laos per day.
The railway has also been an efficient transport option for trade, with over 5.38 million tons of goods being transported since it started operations, averaging 8,229 tons per day, with a maximum daily count of 15,250 tons.
The main trading items have been fruits, cassava flour, barley, rubber, beer, iron ore, concentrated iron ore, and chemical fertilizers, of which 770,900 tons were sent from China to Laos, and 4.56 million tons were exported from Laos to China.
Meanwhile, Amid a surge in passenger travel, the Laos-China Railway Company has also proposed to the Lao government to increase the price of train tickets this year, due to considerable exchange rate fluctuations and the depreciation of the Laotian Kip (LAK).
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/21/laos-china-railway-purchases-new-train-to-boost-passenger-travel/
Laos, Thailand Discusses Building Second Friendship Bridge in Vientiane to Boost Tourism
Laos and Thailand discussed building a new Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge between Vientiane Province and Thailand’s Pak Chom District, Loei Province, to boost tourism, at the 20th Lao-Thai border security meeting on Sunday in Vang Vieng.
At a meeting led by Tawee Sermpakdeekul, the governor of Loei, and his deputy Narong Jeenam, and Khamphan Sithidampha, the governor of Laos’ Vientiane province, the discussion centered around tourism promotion, cultural exchanges, and economic, social, and security cooperation, with a focus on attracting Chinese tourists to both countries through the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge in Pak Chom District.
The second friendship bridge project is expected to enhance tourism, trade, and investment between Laos and Thailand.
This strategic move came as a result of Thailand’s decision to implement a visa-free policy for Chinese visitors which prompted Laos to improve conditions in Muen District of Vientiane Province which is near Thailand’s Pak Chom District.
Mr. Tawee noted that Muen District could serve as a gateway to link popular attractions in both Loei and Vientiane Provinces, including a tourism route between Chiang Khan and Pak Chom districts in Loei to Vang Vieng and Feuang districts in Vientiane Province.
“We have a border checkpoint in Loei for tourists to cross from Pak Chom to Muen but Laos has only a temporary checkpoint. We will ask for cooperation from Laos to upgrade the checkpoint to be a permanent one by the end of this year,” said the Leoi District Governor.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/18/laos-thailand-discusses-building-second-friendship-bridge-in-vientiane-to-boost-tourism/
Twelve Annual Festival Highlights that Showcase the Rich Heritage of Laos
Since ancient times, the Lao lunar calendar has celebrated traditional festivals, one per month, in a cycle called Hit Sip Song (the twelve traditions). These are celebrated in different ways in different areas of the country, with some of these rituals nearly disappearing. Get a deeper look at how Lao people honor their customs and build karma throughout the year.
Boun Khao Kam
(ບຸນເຂົ້າກໍ່າ)
The calendar begins in December, which was traditionally a time for Buddhist monks to enter a period of meditation in a cave, a forest, or a remote temple, in order to make merit for the coming year.
Boun Kong Khao
(ບຸນກອງເຂົ້າ)
After the harvest ends, Lao people traditionally made merit to the rice spirits, so that they could have a plentiful harvest the next year. This is still famously celebrated with large ceremonial haystacks in Phieng district, Xayaboury Province.
Boun Khao Chi
(ບຸນເຂົ້າຈີ່)
In the past, locals placed mounds of sticky rice on long sticks to grill and offer to monks. This practice comes from an old Buddhist story in which a poor woman only a little amount of rice but gave it to the Buddha instead of eating it herself.
Boun Phavet
(ບຸນພະເວດ)
This is a large event throughout Laos. Each temple celebrates on different days. In the ceremony, monks chant the ancient story of the generous King Vessantara, who is believed to be a previous incarnation of the Buddha. Locals celebrate with village parades to their temple to make merit, listen to the tale, and make offerings.
Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year)
(ບຸນປີໃໝ່)
Lao New Year falls in the middle of April. Traditionally, everyone in Laos makes merit with family, cleans their home, and sprinkles water over Buddha images, elders, and monks to build karma. In modern times, this has devolved into a three-day water fight during the hottest month of the year. A Miss New Year pageant is held and the winner paraded through town, representing one of seven daughters of a mythical god. The best spot to observe both traditional and modern sides of this festival is in Luang Prabang.
Boun Bang Fai
(ບຸນບັ້ງໄຟ)
As the rice fields are prepared for planting, the most essential ingredient for a bountiful harvest is rain. Lao people summon rain by launching homemade bamboo rockets at the heavens, so that the gods will take notice and grant their request. This is accompanied by much music and merrymaking.
Boun Xa Lang
(ບຸນຊະລ້າງ)
In the past, Lao people would make merit to the protector spirits of their village, and to ask them to drive out evil and protect the happiness and prosperity of the people for the next year.
Boun Khao Phansa
(ບຸນເຂົ້າພັນສາ)
The three-month Buddhist Lent begins in July, which also coincides with the rainy season in Laos. Monks are required to stay in one temple for the duration, which comes from an old practice of wandering monks inadvertently trampling farmers’ crops during the growing season. Lao people make certain to give alms on this morning.
Boun Hor Khao Padap Din
(ບຸນຫໍ່ເຂົ້າປະດັບດິນ)
On this holiday, hungry and forgotten spirits come out to wander the Earth. Banana leaf containers are made and filled with sweets and offerings to be left around fences, gates, and houses for the hungry ghosts. This holiday is also marked with boat racing on the Khan River in Luang Prabang.
Boun Khao Salak
(ບຸນເຂົ້າສະຫຼາກ)
Lao people gather baskets full of food and household items and offer at temples to make merit for family members and ancestors who have already passed away.
Boun Ork Phansa
(ບຸນອອກພັນສາ)
At the end of Buddhist Lent, Lao people make merit to the spirit of the river. Small floats are constructed out of banana trunks and decorated with banana leaves and flowers, as well as candles and small offerings. In the evening, these are set afloat in the river. Luang Prabang celebrates with a large decorated fireboat parade through town, while Vientiane Capital celebrates with boat racing.
Boun Kathin
(ບຸນກະຖິນ)
The final holiday in the calendar is marked with a large merit making where people donate new robes and other offerings to monks. In Vientiane Capital, a huge week-long festival is held at That Luang stupa where people from all over the country come to participate and build karma.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/14/twelve-annual-festival-highlights-that-showcase-the-rich-heritage-of-laos/
Vientiane Capital Speeds Up Preparations for ASEAN Chairmanship and Visit Laos Year 2024
The Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism of Vientiane Capital is expediting its preparations to welcome a higher influx of foreign visitors during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship and as part of Visit Laos Year 2024.
The Director of the Vientiane Capital Information, Culture, and Tourism Department, Mrs. Vilayvone Chanthalaty, said that the department is monitoring the improvement of hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions as part of preparations to host important meetings during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship next year.
According to Mrs. Vilayvone, Vientiane Capital has allowed tourism operators to open 288 hotels with over 10,000 rooms to accommodate official guests and tourists visiting the country. The city currently also has over 270 guesthouses with over 6,000 rooms for visitors.
Mrs. Vilayvone added that the city has nine five-star hotels at the moment and there are plans to open three more by the end of 2023. Four-star and three-star hotels have also been inspected and certified by relevant ministries for the coming year.
Moreover, Vientiane Capital’s Tourism Department has been working with other departments to inspect and ensure that hotels have enough water and electricity, and measures are also in place to keep the city clean.
“We have been collaborating with other government agencies to ensure that hotels have adequate water and electricity and that the city, particularly parks and other public areas, are kept clean,” said Mrs. Vilayvone.
Mrs. Vilayvone further mentioned that the department is also focusing on renovating important tourist attractions in Vientiane Capital, such as Pha That Luang Stupa, Ho Phrakeo Museum, Sisaket Temple, Patuxai Monument, and other attractions.
Tourism companies have also been roped in by the government to develop tour plans that will be available at hotels for tourists to look at and plan their visits to other provinces from Vientiane Capital.
“We are dedicated to offering the highest quality services to all visitors so that they can appreciate the country’s distinctive culture and attractions, and have a lasting positive impression about Laos,” said Mrs. Vilayvone.
However, recently, many social media users in Vientiane Capital have expressed anger and frustration over the poor state of the city’s roads, urging the government to make road repairs a top priority.
A National Assembly member from Vientiane Capital has also urged tourism police to be more prompt in assisting tourists visiting Laos so that they can have a positive and safe experience in the country.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/15/vientiane-capital-speeds-up-preparations-for-asean-chairmanship-and-visit-laos-year-2024/
Lao Vice President Meets Putin to Bolster Laos, Russia Bilateral Ties
In a move to strengthen bilateral ties between Laos and Russia, the Lao Vice President, Pany Yathotou met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday in Vladivostok, Russia on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum.
According to President Putin who extended a warm welcome to VP Pany, Laos, and Russia have a longstanding relationship, and President Pany herself has made some remarkable contributions to the development of relations between the two nations.
“We know you as our good, reliable friend. You have visited our country several times and, as chairman of parliament, you have made a significant contribution to the development of bilateral parliamentary relations,” he said.
President Putin also asked Ms. Pany to convey his regards to Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, who is currently in Cuba to attend the G77 Summit.
While thanking the Russian President for extending an invitation to Laos to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum, Ms. Pany said, “Due to the previously agreed state visit of our President to Cuba to attend the G77 summit, he was not able to personally participate in this event.”
Additionally, the Russian Leader commented on the humanitarian ties between Laos and Russia which both nations have been taking steps to grow over the years. He specifically highlighted the influx of Lao students to study medicine at Russian universities as part of this development initiative.
President Putin also spoke about the military collaboration between the two nations, expressing hope for future growth in this area.
“Contacts also continue through military departments. I am sure that all this has good prospects for development,” said the Russian leader.
From 10-13 September, Vice President Pany is attending the Eastern Economic Forum as a senior foreign guest. The event aims to develop economic cooperation between participating countries and encourage foreign investment in the region.
After attending the forum, President Putin left Vladivostok to meet with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un at the Vostochny space launch facility in Russia’s Far Eastern Amur Region.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/13/lao-vice-president-meets-putin-to-bolster-laos-russia-bilateral-ties/
Laos Symbolically Takes Over ASEAN Chairmanship from Indonesia
During a handover ceremony at the closing of the 43rd ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, Laos took over the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) from Indonesia on Thursday, 7 September.
During the ceremony, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone received the gavel of ASEAN Chairmanship from Indonesian President Joko Widodo and pledged to build a more connected and resilient ASEAN during the country’s chairmanship in 2024.
PM Sonexay expressed his sincere congratulations to the Indonesian President as well as the Indonesian government and people on the successful hosting of the 43rd ASEAN Summit and related summits and said that Laos is prepared to cooperate closely with other ASEAN members and partners to ensure the success of its chairmanship.
“Laos is honored to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024,” PM Sonexay said. “We will build upon the achievements made under Indonesia’s ASEAN Chairmanship and the success of ASEAN over the past years.”
Under the theme “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”, PM Sonexay affirmed that Laos will continue to work together with other ASEAN member countries to strengthen the ASEAN community and create opportunities to address geopolitical and geo-economic challenges and changes.
Additionally, PM Sonexay said that Laos will work to expand ASEAN’s external relations, strengthen ASEAN’s centrality and unity, and develop a regional architecture for stability, peace, and development in the ASEAN region during its chairmanship.
“We will continue to enhance connectivities, narrow the development gaps (among ASEAN countries), promote carbon neutrality, and advance digital transformation in the region and economic integration,” Sonexay added.
Although the chairmanship was symbolically transferred, Indonesia will continue to carry out chairmanship responsibilities until Laos officially takes over early next year.
Laos will assume the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2024, followed by Malaysia in 2025. The Philippines will take over the chairmanship in 2026 instead of Myanmar, which is currently in political turmoil.
The ASEAN leaders agreed that the chairmanship rotation after the Philippines will follow the alphabetical order of member countries’ names unless otherwise decided.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/08/laos-symbolically-takes-over-asean-chairmanship-from-indonesia/
Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia PMs Meet to Discuss Cooperation Efforts During ASEAN Summit
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet for a working breakfast on Tuesday, 5 September, while attending the 43rd ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Jakarta.
During their interaction, the three leaders shared information about the economic and social development of their countries and discussed areas of common cooperation and regional and international issues of interest.
The three leaders agreed to work together in a number of areas, including national defense and security, economics and trade, and investment, particularly in supporting each other in regional and international frameworks, such as the ASEAN Cooperation Framework and the Mekong River Commission (MRC).
Additionally, the leaders also agreed to promote educational exchanges by providing financial support for students to study in each other’s countries and learn about their cultures and languages, to boost future relations between the three nations.
The leaders also agreed to continue implementing agreements and conventions, hold regular joint mechanism meetings, and research ways to facilitate trilateral trade among the three countries.
On this occasion, PM Sonexay and PM Pham Minh Chinh took the opportunity to congratulate Cambodia on the success of its election, the overwhelming victory of the Cambodian People’s Party, and the election of Hun Manet as the new Prime Minister.
PM Sonexay also invited PM Hun Manet to visit Laos in the future and expressed hope for future support and cooperation from Vietnam and Cambodia during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/06/laos-vietnam-cambodia-pms-meet-to-discuss-cooperation-efforts-during-asean-summit/
Lao PM Attends 43rd ASEAN Summit, Calls for Business-Friendly Environment in Region
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone along with other high-ranking delegates arrived on Monday in Jakarta, Indonesia, to attend the 43rd ASEAN Summit and related meetings that are being held under the theme “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth” from 4-7 September.
Upon arrival in Jakarta, PM Sonexay and his delegates attended the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit 2023, which was organized by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC).
The summit brought together key stakeholders from ASEAN and its dialogue partners to discuss ways to boost trade and investment in the region, with over 2,000 delegates from 50 countries attending the event.
In his speech, PM Sonexay highlighted opportunities and challenges faced by ASEAN in areas of economic integration, climate change, and sustainable development. He also called on ASEAN to work together for a business-friendly environment and centrality in regional and global economies.
PM Sonexay also witnessed the handover of the chairmanship of the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (ABIS) from Indonesia to Laos. The new chairman is Mr. Oudet Souvannavong, the president of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as Laos will host the next ABIS meeting in 2024.
source: https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-admin/post-new.php?post_type=post