The Government of the United States of America and the Government of Norway have continued their long-term commitments to supporting the unexploded ordnance (UXO) sector in Lao PDR, with a combined total of over USD $20.8 million committed to Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) to support survey and clearance operations in four southern provinces of Lao …
Read More»
The future of sustainable mobility in Laos took center stage as industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers came together for the highly anticipated 2nd Lao Electric Vehicle (EV) Forum. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Energy and Mines, with funding support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in partnership with the …
Read More»
Vientiane, 7 June 2023 – Today, the United States through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) officially handed over cold chain and IT equipment to the Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, further marking the expanding cooperation between the two countries on COVID-19 vaccination and public health. Despite declining cases in Lao PDR, COVID-19 …
Read More»
On April 25, the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane and the U.S. Department of State sponsored a workshop on Women and Intellectual Property (IP): Celebrating Innovation and Creativity to promote protections for creative professionals in the Lao PDR and facilitate collaboration among creatives. Director General for the Intellectual Property Department at Ministry of Industry and Commerce …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR —Embassy Vientiane Deputy Chief of Mission, Shannon Farrell and Police Colonel Latsamy Xayakham, Director General of Anti Human Trafficking Department, Head of the Office, National Secretariat on Anti Human Trafficking co-chaired a Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Learning Event for in Vientiane on March 17. The event included a presentation on the U.S. …
Read More»
One year since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine One year ago, the global security architecture was shaken hard as Russia started its full-scale war against Ukraine. The Russian invasion of Ukraine asks us all a question: will the world go back to brutal rule of force, or will UN members be …
Read More»
Vientiane – February 3, 2023 – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched a new five-year Project for Capacity Strengthening for Maternal Child Health and Nutrition. The Project will be implemented by JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc. in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MOH) and will implement activities in 24 districts …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR— At a ceremony in Vientiane Capital on December 28, 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Laos and the Lao PDR Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) signed a three-year Letter of Agreement (2022-2025) enabling the United States to support bringing up to 12 Fulbright English Teaching Assistants (ETA) and five English Language Fellows …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The United States continues to support Lao PDR in the fight against malaria. On January 5, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Acting Country Representative to Lao PDR, Dr. Kevin Smith, presented 70,000 long-lasting insecticide treated nets with a total value of $133,000 USD, and entomology laboratory equipment with a total …
Read More»
15 November 2022, Vientiane, Lao PDR: In Vientiane today, U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR H.E. Dr. Peter M. Haymond and WHO Officer-in-Charge Dr. Yu Lee Park handed over more than US$2 million of medical equipment and supplies to H.E. Dr. Phayvanh Keopaseuth, Vice Minister for Health. The commodities, including protective and medical equipment, medication, test …
Read More»
Vientiane, Laos – The United States and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) held their tenth Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue on October 14, 2022, in Vientiane, in which the two sides discussed their ever-expanding range of cooperation. Lao Vice Foreign Minister Bounleua Phandanouvong led the Lao delegation, while U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Daniel J. Kritenbrink …
Read More» Vientiane, Laos – The United States and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) held their tenth Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue on October 14, 2022, in Vientiane, in which the two sides discussed their ever-expanding range of cooperation. Lao Vice Foreign Minister Bounleua Phandanouvong led the Lao delegation, while U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Daniel J. Kritenbrink and U.S. Ambassador to the Lao …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The U.S. Embassy to the Lao PDR Chargé d’Affaires, Ms. Joy Sakurai, joined Dr. Snong Thongsna, chairman of the Vice Minister of Health, at a commencement ceremony for eight graduates of the Field Epidemiology Training (FET) program cohort 13. The graduation was held at the Crowne Plaza hotel, in presence of …
Read More»
Vientiane, 29 June 2022 – Today, the United States through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) officially handed over cold chain and IT equipment worth around U.S. $150,000 to the Ministry of Health (MOH) to further expand COVID-19 vaccination coverage in Lao PDR, especially in hard-to-reach communities. The handover of the equipment, which was …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — On June 14, U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR Dr. Peter M. Haymond joined Director, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), Mr. Kelly K. McKeague, on key engagements with senior Lao leaders from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Defense concerning the bilateral U.S.-Lao government effort to resolve the …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – Isobel Coleman, Deputy Administrator (DA) for Policy and Programming for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), visited Laos on May 13-14, 2022. This visit reaffirmed USAID commitment to the U.S.-Lao Comprehensive Partnership, inaugurated by former President Barack Obama and President Bounnhang Vorachit in 2016. The U.S.-Lao Comprehensive Partnership is …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – Isobel Coleman, Deputy Administrator (DA) for Policy and Programming for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), announced US $5.6 million in additional assistance to address the impacts of COVID-19 on economic growth and primary education in Lao PDR on May 13, 2022. DA Coleman highlighted USAID’s support to women-owned …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — On April 20, U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR Dr. Peter M. Haymond joined Vice Minister of Health Dr. Sanong Thongsana to officially launch the Continuous Professional Development Training Facility for Health Professionals at the Center for Medical Rehabilitation (CMR). The ceremony also marked the official handover of rehabilitation equipment to the …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On March 16-18, 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane provided in Luang Prabang a three-day technical skills workshop on border security for more than 50 Lao Customs and Aviation Security Officers from northern provinces. The workshop was chaired by Mr. Ian Norris, the Regional Security Officer of the U.S. Embassy Vientiane, …
Read More» VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – We appreciate the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for helping to facilitate today’s media availability, and we thank the many representatives of news organizations for gathering. Last week, representatives from the Embassy of Russia subjected the people of Lao PDR to a stream of lies and disinformation regarding its illegal invasion of …
Read More»
Early on February 24, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered an unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine by Russian military forces. This premeditated war of choice will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering. Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction We condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia’s military invasion of …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Country Representative to Lao PDR Michael Ronning presented 220,314 mosquito nets, valued at $416,393 USD, to Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Phayvanh Keopaseuth at a ceremony in Vientiane on February 25, 2022. This is part of the United States’ ongoing support to Lao PDR in …
Read More»
Vientiane, January 26, 2022 – Today, the United States officially handed over 1,698,840 doses of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to Lao PDR, which were delivered to the country through the COVAX Facility. COVAX is a partnership co-led by Gavi, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the World Health Organization (WHO), with UNICEF …
Read More»
With support from the United States through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the Department of Media, the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MICT), and Winrock International conducted a workshop on countering trafficking in persons for media, culture, and tourism stakeholders. The workshop aimed to help media representatives understand their role in countering …
Read More»
Vientiane, January 24, 2022 – Today, Lao PDR received a new shipment of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine via direct donation by the United States through the COVAX Facility. COVAX is a partnership co-led by Gavi, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the World Health Organization (WHO), with UNICEF as a key delivery partner. …
Read More»
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Federal Ministry of Health of Germany (BMG) are continuing to support the Lao PDR’s goal to vaccinate 80 percent of the population by donating IT equipment and a refrigerated truck, valued at LAK3.83 billion ($383,794 USD) to the Ministry of Health (MOH), through the World Health …
Read More»
Vientiane, 2 January 2022 – Today, Lao PDR received a new shipment of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, which is a donation by the United States through the COVAX Facility - a partnership co-led by Gavi, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the World Health Organization (WHO), with UNICEF as a key delivery partner. …
Read More»
Vientiane Capital, 29 November 2021 – The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), officially announced an additional 2.4 million USD grant to UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) to further support the Lao PDR’s ongoing COVID-19 vaccination rollout programme. The grant will primarily focus on supporting the readiness, delivery and …
Read More»
Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR, October 29 — For the second consecutive year, the United States, in partnership with the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) and Ministry of Industry and Commerce, convened a Lao-specific forum in parallel with the Indo-Pacific Business Forum taking place in India. The half-day virtual event was co-chaired by …
Read More»
Vientiane Capital — The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provided a grant LAK 525,164,000 (or equivalent to $54,768.98 USD) to the Lao Bar Association (LBA) at the Vientiane Capital Court on October 28. USAID Country Representative to Laos Mr. Michael Ronning and officials from the Ministry of Justice witnessed the signing of the …
Read More»
Vientiane Capital — Continuing the United States’ support to the Lao PDR in strengthening academic institutions, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Ministry of Education and Sport (MOES) launched the new “Study and Modeling of Management Capacity and System Strengthening Project” at a ceremony in Vientiane on October 21, 2021. Vice Minister …
Read More»
On September 28, 2021, the United States donated food and hygiene packages valued at over $100,000 USD to the Provincial Emergency Operations Committees in Khammouane and Savannakhet provinces. The supplies, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through Save the Children in Laos, will be distributed to quarantine centers to support returning migrants in …
Read More»
Vientiane, LAO PDR – On September 16, 2021, U.S. Ambassador to Laos Dr. Peter M. Haymond handed over new facilities and training spaces to Minister of Health Dr. Bounfeng Phoummalaysith at the Ministry of Health’s Center of Nutrition as part of the United States’ Lao-American Nutrition Initiative (LANI). The ceremony took place with officials from …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR —USAID Country Representative to Lao PDR Mr. Michael Ronning presented 70,000 mosquito nets, 450,000 malaria diagnostic kits, along with 200,000 tablets of antimalarial drugs, valued at more than $530,000 USD, to Minister of Health Dr. Bounfeng Phommalaysith at a ceremony in Vientiane on September 10. The malaria commodities, funded by the United …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — On September 7, 2021, the Ministry of Health (MoH) together with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Save the Children celebrated the success of the integrated Nutrition and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Project – USAID Nurture. The closing ceremony was chaired by Minister of Health Dr. Bounfeng …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — Embassy of the United States of America Deputy Chief of Mission Joy Michiko Sakurai on August 18 handed over US$183,000 in equipment and supplies to the Department of Communicable Disease Control (DCDC) of the Ministry of Health to help the Lao PDR in its continued fight COVID-19 and other communicable diseases. …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) launched the Legal Aid Webpage at a ceremony in Vientiane Capital on August 26, 2021. The Legal Aid Webpage was recently developed and added to the MOJ’s main website (moj.gov.la). The MOJ will use the webpage to provide Lao citizens with information about legal aid services. …
Read More»
XIENGKHOUANG PROVINCE, LAO PDR — The United States announced today it intends to provide $129,000 in funding for conservation of the Ancient (500 BC-500AD) Megalithic Jars (Plain of Jars) in Xiengkhouang province, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). U.S. Ambassador to Laos, Dr. Peter Haymond …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The United States provided $700,000 to Population Services International in support of the Ministry of Health, Department of Communicable Disease Control, Center of Malariology, Parasitology, and Entomology (CMPE), via the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI). This grant will support the Strengthening Surveillance to …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — On July 26th, 2021, Joy Sakurai, Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy to Laos, and officials from the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service presented thirty ATOM ADR300 Document Readers worth USD $48,000 to Lieutenant Colonel Souvannakone Siphamavong, Deputy Director General of the Immigration Police Department and Administrative Director …
Read More»
Vientiane, 19 July 2021 – Today, Lao PDR received a new shipment of COVID-19 vaccines donated by the United States through the COVAX Facility – a partnership co-led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the World Health Organization (WHO), with UNICEF as key delivery partner – consisting of …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — With funding support from the United States, World Education and Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) signed a grant agreement on June 28, 2021. This grant will run from April 2021 until July 2022 and provide approximately $500,000 USD over its lifetime. Per the agreement, COPE will assist the Center of …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — On June 22, 2021, U.S. Ambassador to Laos, Dr. Peter Haymond and officials from the U.S. Department of Defense presented COVID-19 relief supplies to Dr. Sanong Thongsana, Lao PDR Deputy Minister of Health as part of the United States’ ongoing COVID-19 support to the Lao PDR. The U.S. government brought these …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — A ceremony was held on June 18, 2021 for 8 graduates of the Field Epidemiology Training (FET) program, a world-class training supported by the Ministry of Health, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, U.S. Centers for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization, in preparation to continue to help Laos fight Covid-19 …
Read More» VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — On May 27, 2021, CRS and the Ministry of Health signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a new project “Applied Nutrition Research Capacity Building (ANRCB)” funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through the LASER PULSE program led by Purdue University. ANRCB is the newest project under the Lao …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — U.S. Ambassador Dr. Peter M. Haymond presented personal protective equipment and hygiene supplies to Minister of Health Dr. Bounfeng Phoummalysith, on May 25, 2021 as part of the United States’ ongoing COVID-19 support to Lao PDR. The equipment and supplies were the first of two deliveries of supplies via the U.S. …
Read More»
Vientiane, 20 March 2021 – Lao PDR today received its first shipment of COVID-19 vaccine doses through the COVAX facility, a partnership between the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The shipment consists of 132,000 doses of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine, manufactured by the Serum …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR— U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR Dr. Peter Haymond was joined by Salavan Vice Governor Somchay Ounchit and Director of Salavan Provincial Health Department Akhom Lamvichit to lead a groundbreaking ceremony for comprehensive renovations of the Khongsedon District Hospital, Salavan Province, on January 26, 2021. At the ceremony, the officials signed an Administrative …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR— Continuing the United States’ ongoing support the Lao government’s objective of making the Lao PDR a rule of law state, the Lao Bar Association opened the first Legal Aid Clinic, supported by the United States, during a ceremony at the Vientiane Province Lao Bar Association Office. Minister of Justice Xaysi Santivong and …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR— The United States contributed 16 new 4×4 vehicles and 134 UXO detectors, worth more than USD$1 million at a handover ceremony held at the UXO Lao Training Center in Vientiane on January 19, 2021. U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR Dr. Peter M. Haymond was joined at the event by Deputy Minister of …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR— A grant of more than USD73,000 was awarded to the Lao Cassava Association (LCA) on December 10, 2020, by the United States through the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Creating Linkages for Expanded Agricultural Networks (CLEAN) Project. The grant supports technical training for more than 8,000 LCA members in Salavan Province …
Read More» The United States has announced new funding of $25 million over five years to feed children in schools across the Lao PDR. The U.S. program, funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program project, will be implemented by the World Food Program (WFP) in partnership with …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAOS — Continuing the United States’ longstanding support to the Lao health sector, U.S. Ambassador to Laos Dr. Peter M. Haymond presented 50,000 malaria diagnostic kits to Vice Minister of Health Dr. Bounfeng Phoummalaisith at a ceremony in Vientiane on November 13. These rapid test kits, provided through the U.S. Agency for International Development …
Read More»
On November 6, 2020, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR Dr. Peter M. Haymond presented 4,800 COVID-19 reagent kits and related supplies to the National Center for Laboratory and Epidemiology. The kits given were the first delivery of a total of 9,200 kits donated by U.S. Army Pacific through its Indo-Pacific Command. The kits will …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The Embassy of the United States of America in Vientiane brought together on October 29 senior representatives from government, industry, and the non-profit sector for a major event linked to the 2020 Indo-Pacific Business Forum, which is being held in Hanoi, Vietnam. The Vientiane event, which included virtual viewing of keynote …
Read More» Private businesses are organizing a special flight from Vientiane to Bangkok, expected to depart 11:40 on November 11 and arrive in Bangkok at approximately 12:55 the same day. Tickets are still available. Tickets cost USD$450. Tickets for this flight can be reserved by contacting Oudomsin Travel at +856 (0)20 55 518 999 or +856 (0)20 55 511 888, Lin Travel at …
Read More»
LUANG PRABANG, Lao PDR – U.S. Ambassador Dr. Peter Haymond commemorated the completion of the restoration of Wat Visoun in Luang Prabang and handed over the successful restoration project to the government and people of Luang Prabang on October 6 during a ceremony at Wat Visoun. The historic temple was restored with U.S. government funding …
Read More»
In a ceremony highlighting growing Lao-U.S. security assistance cooperation, U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR Dr. Peter M. Haymond handed over nine Ford Everest field ambulances to Deputy Minister of National Defense Major General Aesamay Leuangvanxay on October 1 at the Ministry of National Defense. The United States is providing the ambulances through its Foreign Military Financing …
Read More»
VIENTIANE PROVINCE, LAO PDR — Continuing the United States’ ongoing support for education in the Lao PDR, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR Dr. Peter M. Haymond presented supplementary reading materials on behalf of the United States to Dr. Daravone Kittiphanh, Director of Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) at Saka Primary School …
Read More» The United States champions a free and open Indo-Pacific. Today we are strengthening U.S. policy in a vital, contentious part of that region — the South China Sea. We are making clear: Beijing’s claims to offshore resources across most of the South China Sea are completely unlawful, as is its campaign of bullying to control …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAOS — Continuing the United States’ longstanding support of the Lao health sector, U.S. Ambassador to Laos Dr. Peter M. Haymond presented 88,000 specially-treated mosquito nets funded by the United States to Vice Minister of Health Dr. Phouthone Muangpak at a ceremony in Vientiane on July 17. These mosquito nets, provided through the U.S. …
Read More» VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has committed an additional $2.5 million to mitigate and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Lao PDR. In coordination with the Government of Lao PDR, USAID will provide this additional funding to international organizations in Lao PDR to control the …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — U.S. Ambassador Dr. Peter M. Haymond delivered additional supplies from the United States to help the Lao PDR fight against the novel coronavirus disease COVID-19. Ambassador Haymond delivered the additional supplies to Dr Phouthone Meuangpak Vice Minister of Health, at a handover ceremony in Vientiane on May 26. This new shipment …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — U.S. Ambassador Dr. Peter M. Haymond today announced additional funding from the United States to help the Lao PDR fight against the novel coronavirus disease COVID-19. The United States has committed an additional US$3.17 million in new funding support, provided through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC), for …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — U.S. Ambassador Dr. Peter M. Haymond announced additional funding of nearly $2 million from the United States in support of the Lao PDR in response to the global spread of the novel coronavirus disease COVID-19. Ambassador Haymond made the announcement as part of his opening remarks for a U.S.-sponsored tabletop exercise …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR, Dr. Peter M. Haymond handed over personal protective equipment to Dr. Phouthone Muoangpak, Vice Minister of Health, at a ceremony in Vientiane today as part of the United States’ early assistance to Lao PDR to prepare for any potential spread of the novel coronavirus. The equipment, …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On February 7, President Bounnhang Vorachit formally accepted the credentials of the new United States Ambassador to Lao PDR, Dr. Peter M. Haymond, at the Presidential Palace in Vientiane. This is Ambassador Haymond’s third diplomatic assignment in Laos, where he and his family previously lived from 1997-2000 and 2008-2011. Ambassador Haymond’s …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – United States Ambassador to Lao PDR Rena Bitter and Minister of Labor and Social Welfare Dr. Khampeng Saysompeng witnessed on January 21 in Vientiane the signing of an MOU between the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) of Laos and Tetratech to support UXO capacity building programs. As part of the United States’ …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – Continuing U.S. support to the government of the Lao PDR in its mission to strengthen the country’s rule of law, the United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), launched the new three-year Legal Aid Support project at a ceremony in Vientiane on January 24. Minister of Justice Xaysi …
Read More»
IENTIANE, LAO PDR – Continuing the United States’ support to the Lao PDR in its mission to end human trafficking, the U.S. Government and Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare formally launched the three-year Laos Counter Trafficking in Persons (CTIP) program at a ceremony in Vientiane on January 13. Mdm. Baykham Khattiya, Deputy Minister of Labour …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – Minister of Industry and Commerce Mme. Khemmani Pholsena and U.S. Ambassador to Laos Rena Bitter launched the new Laos Business Environment project at a ceremony in Vientiane on December 12. The five-year project, funded by the United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is the latest partnership between …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — Continuing the United States’ leading support to the Lao PDR in its mission to eliminate malaria by 2030, U.S. Ambassador to Laos Rena Bitter presented 100,000 rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits to Dr. Phouthone Muoangpak, Vice Minister of Health, at a handover ceremony in Vientiane on December 6. These test kits, …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On December 5, U.S. Ambassador to Laos Rena Bitter and senior officials from the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) met with senior officials from the Lao PDR Ministry of National Defense (MND) for the 14th Lao-United States Bilateral Defense Dialogue (BDD). Brigadier General Kenchanh Nanthalangsy, the Director General of the Foreign Relations …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAOS – In order to help improve the nutrition of Lao citizens — and especially Lao children — the United States, in close cooperation with the Lao Ministry of Health, opened the Lao National Institute of Nutrition and the Lao-American Nutrition Initiative (LANI) on November 14, 2019 in Vientiane. The beautiful new institute, which …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAOS – In order to help improve the health of Lao citizens and the country’s livestock, the United States announced its support on October 4, 2019, for development of a national wildlife disease surveillance network. This $700,000 project, which is funded by the United States through the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), will support …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAOS – The United States continues to help Lao PDR strengthen the country’s agricultural sector through a broad range of programs. Most recently, the United States and the Lao government launched the “Laos Microenterprise Project”, which is funded by the United States through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). On October 4, 2019, the …
Read More»
XIENG KHOUANG, LAO PDR – Continuing the United States’ proud tradition of partnering with the Government of the Lao PDR to help those with disabilities on September 24-25, 2019, U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter joined Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Welfare, Madame Baiykham Kattiya in leading a delegation to visit a disabilities inclusion project site …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On September 13, 2019, U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter announced a Disaster Declaration, and the immediate release of $100,000 in emergency relief in flood-affected areas of southern Laos. The people of the United States are concerned about the ongoing floods in southern Laos and are proud to support the people of the …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – The United States continues its broad support for education and opportunity in Laos. On August 30 the U.S. Embassy formally launched a new basic education program in Laos with the signing of two memoranda of understanding (MOUs) to officially begin a five-year “Learn to Read” program. The MOUs between the Lao …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On August 22, 2019, the U.S. Embassy partnered with the Lao tech-incubator firm TOH-LAO as well as top tech firms including Facebook to officially launch the AC STEM Lab – a training program designed to cultivate and grow the number of highly skilled workers available for employment in the tech sector …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAOS – The United States is collaborating with Laos to improve the livelihoods of farmers and expand the trade of Lao agricultural products. On July 10, 2019 in Vientiane, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Lao PDR and WinrockInternational signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand programs designed to strengthen local farmers …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR—Continuing the United States deep support of the Lao health sector U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR Rena Bitter presented more than 174,000 additional mosquito nets to Mr. Khamphone Phoutthavong, Deputy Minister of Health, at a ceremony in Vientiane on July 9. These mosquito nets will be distributed to families in rural areas of …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The United States continues to share knowledge and collaborate with young Lao scientists on important health challenges. On July 1, 2019, officials from the U.S. Embassy, Lao Ministry of Health, and the National University of Laos welcomed a group of 33 scientists from Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam to celebrate …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — To celebrate the 243rd anniversary of American independence, the U.S. Embassy hosted Lao government leaders and other guests at a hotel in Vientiane on July 2, 2019. The theme of this year’s event celebrated voting rights, specifically highlighting the 100th anniversary of women receiving the right to vote in the United …
Read More»
VIENTIANE AND LUANG PRABANG, LAOS – From June 3-8, 2019, an American artist visited the Lao PDR to work with students and artisans to raise awareness about wildlife trafficking in the region through a program called “Saving Wildlife Through Art”. New York artist Michel Benjamin traveled to the capital of Vientiane and the city of …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – A senior U.S. official reinforced the United States government’s support to the Lao PDR as the two countries work together to counter illegal narcotics and transnational crime. During her two-day visit to Laos, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Assistant Secretary Kirsten D. Madison met with Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On May 17-18, 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane hosted a filmmaker from the American Film Showcase program who visited multiple Lao legal institutions and presented excerpts from her documentary film on gender and rule of law. During a two-day visit to the region, American filmmaker Sharon Rowen conducted workshops at …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR: On May 17, 2019 members of the international diplomatic corps, business community and civil society met to mark the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOT) at the Australian Embassy in Vientiane. Representatives from the Office of the Embassy of Canada, the Australian Embassy, the British Embassy, the Delegation of the …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – The United States continues to play a leading role in helping to improve the well-being of people with disabilities in Laos. On May 16, 2019 in Vientiane, the Lao PDR and World Education Laos signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand programs, which will increase the self-reliance of people with …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – On May 2-3, 2019, Dr. Robert Pope, Director, Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR), Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), met with counterparts in the Lao government and military, as well as representatives of the World Health Organization (WHO), to review the positive results from U.S.-Lao cooperative health security programs. Dr. Pope discussed the …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On April 8, President Donald J. Trump formally accepted the credentials of the new Lao Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Khamphan Anlavan, at the White House in Washington, DC. Ambassador Khamphan’s presentation of credentials in the Oval Office followed the successful completion of the ninth annual U.S.-Laos Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue …
Read More»
WASHINGTON D.C., USA – The United States and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) held their ninth annual Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue on March 27, 2019 in Washington D.C., reflecting the growing, broad-based relationship between the two nations. Lao PDR Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongphane Savanphet led the Lao delegation, together with Ambassador to the …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On March 22, 2019, officials from the Governments of Laos and the United States celebrated the successful completion of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) LUNA II project at a ceremony at the Lao Plaza Hotel in Vientiane. The event, co-chaired by Minister of Industry and Commerce Khemmani Pholsena, and …
Read More»
LUANG PRABANG, LAO PDR – During the week of March 4-8, 2019, fifty young entrepreneurs from ASEAN countries and Timor Leste met in Luang Prabang to join a workshop on ecotourism organized through the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI), a U.S. government-funded program. Using momentum generated by the Lao Government’s “Visit Lao Year 2018” …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On February 26, 2019, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) officially launched a new consumer protection website developed with support from the United States government. The website, made possible with funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), will help protect consumers from unfair business practices. The launch, held …
Read More»
HANOI, VIETNAM – From February 18 to 22, 2019, senior Lao government officials visited Vietnam’s National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), a center of excellence for nutrition in the region. Their visit occurred in advance of the highly anticipated launch of the new National Institute of Nutrition in Laos, and was made possible with support from …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On February 20, 2019 the United States and Lao governments officially launched an intellectual property web portal at the Ministry of Science and Technology in Vientiane. The launch was co-chaired by Mr. Daniel Fitzpatrick, Chief of Party, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) LUNAII project, and PhD. Khanlasy Keobounphanh, Director General, …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – On February 20, approximately forty Lao government officials along with officials from the United States and Vietnam, participated in a seminar on the Cape Town Convention to discuss best practices for strengthening the business environment related to aircraft ownership and financing in the Lao PDR. This seminar was organized by the …
Read More»
LUANG PRABANG, Lao PDR – On February 14th, 2019 representatives from the U.S. charitable organization Spirit of America and the U.S. Embassy officially handed over more than $10,000 in equipment and support to the Laos Buffalo Dairy in Luang Prabang. The Laos Buffalo Dairy is an American co-owned business in Luang Prabang that rents buffalos …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific Mr. Karl Ehlers led a high level delegation to meet with H.E. Somchit Inthamith, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce, and other Lao government officials on deepening economic, trade, and investment ties on January 31 in Vientiane. This meeting was the …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – A high-ranking military delegation from the U.S. Department of Defense visited the Lao PDR from January 16-18, 2019. The military delegation met with counterparts in the Lao military and government, highlighted the growing U.S.-Lao bilateral defense relationship, and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) presented a handbook on the use of natural dyes in handicraft production to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) of the Lao PDR at a handover ceremony on December 11, 2018, in Vientiane. The event, which was held at Salana Boutique Hotel, …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – The United States Embassy, in cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, hosted the Third Lao Digital Forum on December 14, 2018. The forum focused on opportunities for e-commerce in Lao PDR and how to best encourage its growth. It was chaired by Minister of Industry and Commerce Khemmani Pholsena, …
Read More»
LUANG PRABANG, LAO PDR: From December 7 to 12, 2018, acclaimed American filmmakers are leading an animation workshop in Luang Prabang for artists and screenwriters from eight Southeast Asian countries. With support from the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane and U.S. Mission to ASEAN, this workshop is produced in collaboration with the renowned American Film Showcase …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Robert R. Redfield, MD, met with Minister of Health Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bounkong Syhavong and other senior health officials to discuss the ongoing, broad cooperation between the United States and Lao PDR in the health sector. U.S. CDC currently works with Lao …
Read More»
REMARKS BY VICE PRESIDENT PENCE AT THE 2018 APEC CEO SUMMIT Pacific Explorer Marquee Theatre Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea 12:25 P.M. PGT Thank you, Scott. And thank you all for that warm welcome. Prime Minister O’Neill, Chairman Taureka, representatives from across the region, leaders of the business community, and to all our distinguished guests, …
Read More»
PREPARED REMARKS FOR VICE PRESIDENT PENCE AT THE EAST ASIA SUMMIT PLENARY SESSION Suntec Convention Centre Suntec City, Singapore * It’s an honor to be here with so many leaders from across the Indo-Pacific at the 13th East Asia Summit. Prime Minister Lee, thank you once again for hosting this meeting in the beautiful and …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On November 9, 2018, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services Eric Hargan met with Minister of Health Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bounkong Syhavong to discuss health cooperation between the United States and Lao PDR. Laos is an important partner in our global efforts to combat emerging and re-emerging disease threats, …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAOS – On November 8, 2018 the American company GE signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EDL-Gen to host a Digital Industrial Workshop with energy officials and to further develop energy infrastructure in the Lao PDR. Under the MoU, GE will host a Digital Industrial Workshop with EDL-Gen officials, then run a technical …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – On November 2, 2018, officials from the U.S. government and the Lao Ministry of Justice launched a mobile phone application that aims to digitally facilitate the country’s economic development and rule of law. U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Colin Crosby joined Vice Minister of Justice Dr. Seumsouk Simphavong and more than …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR: On November 1, 2018 the United States government formally handed over information technology and equipment to senior officials in the Anti-Money Laundering Intelligence Office (AMLIO) of the Lao PDR. The U.S. Embassy presented the equipment to AMLIO Director General Madame Phengsy Phengmuong in the capital. Also attending the ceremony was Ms. Ekaterina …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR: On October 14-16, a senior official from the U.S. State Department visited Laos to review the continued progress in bilateral relations and to brief Lao officials on the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy. During his visit Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) Walter Douglas from the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs met with Deputy …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR: The United States and the Lao PDR signed an Amended Letter of Agreement between the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane and the Department of Customs in the Ministry of Finance of the Lao PDR to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the areas of Law Enforcement and Border Security. The signing ceremony took place at …
Read More»
OAHU, HAWAII: On September 18th, 2018 Senior officials from the U.S. military in Hawaii hosted officials from the Lao Ministry of National Defense at Camp Smith, Hawaii for the 13th Lao-United States Bilateral Defense Dialogue. Delegates discussed strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation and improving practical collaboration in a range of areas. The meeting was led …
Read More»
ATTAPEU, LAO PDR – U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter visited U.S. government funded relief projects for people affected by recent flash floods and met with Provincial Governor Leth Xayaphone and local officials to discuss recovery efforts during her recent trip to Attapeu Province on September 10-11, 2018 as part of the United States’ ongoing support to …
Read More» VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – During the month of August, the U.S. Government has expanded its support for emergency relief in Attapeu Province and nearby areas affected by the severe flooding in July in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), through its Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance, is partnering …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – Leaders from major American companies met with the Government of the Lao PDR in Vientiane from August 23-24, 2018 as part of the US-ASEAN Business Council Mission to Laos. The focus of their trip was to discuss new ways to expand trade and investment between the U.S. and the Lao PDR. …
Read More» VIENTIANE, LAO PDR – U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter announced the deployment of an assessment team and the immediate release of $100,000 for emergency relief in Attapeu Province and nearby flood-affected areas of Southern Laos on Friday, July 27. Through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the U.S. Government has deployed a team of experts …
Read More»
Luang Prabang – The U.S. government sponsored a volleyball tournament and cultural exchange event for high school students from the United States and the Lao PDR in Luang Prabang on July 19-20, 2018, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sport. A visiting delegation of 25 players and coaches from San Diego, California traveled …
Read More»
VIENTIANE – The U.S. Embassy celebrated 242 years of American independence at its annual Independence Day event at a hotel in Vientiane on July 3, 2018, together with more than 600 invited guests. Minister of Education and Sports Ms. Sengdeuan Lachanthaboun and Ambassador Phoxay Khaikhamphithoun, Chief of Cabinet in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, were …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – The focus was on financial technology, economic growth and microenterprise development at the second Lao Digital Forum hosted by the U.S. Embassy, held in Vientiane on June 29. Organized by the U.S. Embassy and Bank of Lao PDR, with financial support from U.S. companies Microsoft and Visa, the forum brought together …
Read More»
LUANG PRABANG, PAKSE, Lao PDR: Between June 13-20, 2018, the U.S. government collaborated with Lao partners to hold trainings on anti-money laundering in two different provinces in the Lao PDR. The “Investigative Techniques Workshop on Prosecuting Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism” were held in in partnership with the Anti-Money Laundering Intelligence Office (AMLIO) of …
Read More»
XIENGKHOUANG, HOUAPHANH: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, provided training on natural dyeing and digital marketing for women-owned businesses from May 28-June 15, 2018 in Xieng Khouang and Houaphanh provinces. More than 50 women entrepreneurs participated in the 3-week training courses, where they learned …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter joined Vice Minister of Education Mr. Boualarn Silipanya and Country Representative for the UN World Food Programme (WFP) in Laos Sarah Gordon-Gibson on June 4, 2018, for the official launch of WFP’s new five-year school feeding activity that is funded by the U.S. Government. This project is …
Read More»
MAY 15, 2018, VIENTIANE: A U.S. documentary filmmaker visited Vientiane from May 11-16 to show her film about entrepreneurship and discuss ways to promote small businesses in the Lao PDR. Ms. Cheryl Miller Houser is a well-known film producer and director from New York, who is visiting Laos under the auspices of the U.S. State …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – A high-ranking military delegation from the U.S. Pacific Command visited the Lao government from May 10-11, 2018 to highlight the growing U.S.-Laos bilateral defense relationship and to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. U.S. Pacific Command is one of six geographic Unified Combatant Commands of the U.S. Armed Forces. …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – The ninth cohort of Lao public health workers graduated from the Field Epidemiology Training Program in Vientiane on Monday, April 30, 2018, supported by the United States Government. Associate Professor Dr. Bounkong Syhavong, Minister of Health for the Lao PDR, presented graduation certificates to the trainees at a ceremony also attended …
Read More» Press Statement John J. Sullivan Acting Secretary of State Washington, DC April 11, 2018 On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend best wishes to the people of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic as they celebrate “Pi Mai Lao” on April 14. Our bilateral Comprehensive Partnership continues to grow, as exemplified …
Read More»
Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Acting Assistant Secretary Susan Thornton co-chaired the 31st U.S.-ASEAN Dialogue in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on April 3 together with Secretary General Dato’ Ramlan Ibrahim of Malaysia. The Dialogue included fruitful talks among the United States, all ten ASEAN members, and the ASEAN Secretariat, and demonstrated the ongoing importance …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – A high-ranking member of the U.S. Congress visited Vientiane on April 2-3, 2018 and met with representatives of the Lao government on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation in the areas of defense, public security and law enforcement. Representative Jackie Speier is a Democratic Congresswoman representing California’s …
Read More»
LUANG NAMTHA, Lao PDR – During a visit to U.S.-funded school feeding projects in three villages on March 27-29, 2018, U.S. government officials met with Vice Governor of Luang Namtha Province, H.E. Mr. Bounyee Keokhounmeuang, and learned how local school children and farmers are benefitting from U.S.-government assistance in the province. Deputy Administrator of the …
Read More»
SAVANNAKHET, Lao PDR – Officials from the United States Embassy in Vientiane and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Washington, DC, met with the Governor of Savannakhet Province, H.E. Mr. Santiphap Phomvihanh, and visited a U.S.-funded school feeding project at Nongsavang School on March 26, 2018. Ms. Jocelyn Brown, Deputy Administrator of the …
Read More»
The United States Embassy and United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) formally presented three new District Hospitals and one village clinic to the following three districts: Toumlan and Samouey Districts of Salavan Province and Thataeng District in Xekong Province. The handover ceremonies were held on February 27, 2018 in Toumlan and Thataeng Districts, and on February …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – Two high-level delegations from the U.S. Congress visited the Lao PDR between February 21-25. The Members of Congress met with counterparts in the Lao government, and discuss progress on bilateral cooperation under the U.S.-Lao PDR Comprehensive Partnership. Respectively, the two delegations were the highest-ranking and the largest U.S. Congressional delegations to …
Read More»
LUANG PRABANG, Laos – The United States and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic are working to prepare for future disasters through a new project called “Prepared and Resilient Communities in Lao PDR” funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). On January 31, U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter witnessed the signing of a memorandum …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter made opening remarks at the first-ever Lao Digital Forum held on January 26. The Forum focused on the global digital economy revolution and its potential benefits for microenterprises and Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Laos, as well as the policy environment needed to harness the benefits of …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter joined Lao government officials at a January 26 ceremony at the Don Chan Palace to officially recognize the Lao PDR for becoming the fifth endemic country globally to have eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. Trachoma is a blinding eye disease caused by a bacterial infection …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter handed over 15 new Toyota Landcruisers to the Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Program (UXO Lao) during a ceremony on January 12. The contribution, valued at approximately USD 490,000, included 15 sets of equipment for 15 new UXO Lao Clearance teams that are operating in Savannakhet, Khammouan and …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter and Minister Sengdeuane Lachanthaboun signed a five-year Letter of Agreement on U.S. Government assistance for English teaching in Laos. This agreement between the U.S. Embassy and Lao Ministry of Education and Sports will help strengthen English language instruction and offer cultural insights for students in Laos. In …
Read More» Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC November 30, 2017 On behalf of the United States of America, I offer congratulations to President Bounnhang Vorachit and the people of Laos on the occasion of Laos’ National Day on December 2. The ties between the United States and Laos continue to develop in the spirit …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – In partnership with the government of the Lao PDR, the U.S. government co-hosted a regional meeting between five key Southeast Asian countries on November 16-17, 2017 to encourage equitable, sustainable, and inclusive growth throughout the Lower Mekong Region. The 10th Regional Working Group Meeting was organized by the Lower Mekong Initiative …
Read More» Earlier this month at the National Assembly in Seoul, President Trump highlighted the tragic tale of the “two Koreas” — one free, just and peaceful, the other tyrannical, oppressive and dangerous. This contrast is at the root of America’s most urgent national-security challenge. It is also now on vivid display in a South Korean hospital, …
Read More»
Philippine International Convention Center Manila, Philippines 2:57 P.M. PHT PRESIDENT TRUMP: President Duterte, distinguished leaders, friends and partners: I’m honored to represent the United States of America at this U.S.-ASEAN Commemorative Summit. We gather today at a time of great promise and great challenge. I speak to you on behalf of 350 million Americans with …
Read More»
National Assembly Building Seoul, Republic of Korea 11:24 A.M. KST PRESIDENT TRUMP: Assembly Speaker Chung, distinguished members of this Assembly, ladies and gentlemen: Thank you for the extraordinary privilege to speak in this great chamber and to address your people on behalf of the people of the United States of America. In our short time …
Read More»
1:19 P.M. ICT PRESIDENT TRUMP: What an honor it is to be here in Vietnam — in the very heart of the Indo-Pacific — to address the people and business leaders of this region. This has already been a remarkable week for the United States in this wonderful part of the world. Starting from Hawaii, …
Read More»
LUANG PRABANG, Lao PDR – U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter commemorated the completion of the restoration of Wat Visoun in Luang Prabang during a trip to the region. The historic temple was restored with U.S. government funding of $257,000 under the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation. Built in the 16th century during the reign of King …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – The visit of U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur L. Ross, Jr. marks the first visit of a U.S. Commerce Secretary to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and the first visit of a U.S. Cabinet Secretary during the Trump Administration. During his historic visit, Secretary Ross was hosted by Minister of Industry and …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – Last week, Alexandria Huerta, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Laos Country Office Director recognized Lao officials for their participation and performance during a five-week course on English drafting, analysis, and editing skills. The course was designed specifically for officials who support regional trade negotiations on behalf of the Lao …
Read More»
Senior officials from the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM) met with senior officials from the Ministry of National Defense (MND) for the 12th Lao-United States Bilateral Defense Dialogue. This meeting was hosted by the Ministry of National Defense, and held on August 28, 2017 at the Manoluck Hotel in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. …
Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR Rena Bitter joined Deputy Minister of Education and Sports (MoES), Associate Prof. Dr Kongsy Sengmany and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Country Representative Bernie F. Chaves this week at a MOU signing ceremony between the MoES and CRS. This signing ceremony was to officially launch phase two of the Learning …
Read More»
The United States and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic held their 8th annual Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue on July 25 in Washington, D.C. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs Susan Thornton led the U.S delegation, which included representatives from the U.S. Departments of State, Defense, and Commerce; Office of the U.S. …
Read More»
The U.S. Embassy, U.S. Pacific Command and the Defense Institute for Medical Operations, in a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Public Health, and the Ministry of National Defense, sponsored Health Systems Development and Best Practices course in Vientiane, Laos, from July 24-28, 2017. The Health Systems Development course focused on ways to improve patient …
Read More»
Maj. Gen. Michael D. Rothstein, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Plans, Programs and Operations, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, visited the Lao PDR from July 10-14 in order to promote enhanced collaboration on unexploded ordnance (UXO) survey and clearance activities. He visited field sites in Xieng Khouang Province to review progress on the implementation …
Read More»
The U.S. Embassy celebrated 241 years of American independence at its annual Independence Day event on July 6, 2017. Minister of Labor and Social Welfare Dr. Khampheng Saysompheng and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Sengphet Houngbounguang were the guests of honor and officially represented the Lao PDR at the event. Over 300 guests joined …
Read More»
On Friday, U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Lao PDR’s National Regulatory Authority for UXO/Mine Action Section (NRA), represented by Director General Phoukhieo Chanthasomboune, and Mines Advisory Group (MAG Laos), represented by Country Director Blossum Gilmour. The ceremony took place at the NRA Office in Vientiane …
Read More»
Vientiane, Laos – American company General Electric (GE) is expanding its presence in the ASEAN region with the official opening of its office in Laos at a launch ceremony in Vientiane today. U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter was on hand to help cut the ribbon, and she highlighted that GE’s presence in Laos is a sign …
Read More»
U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter visited a U.S. government-funded Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) Mobile Clinic for persons with disabilities and met with government officials during her trip to Xayaburi Province early this month. Ambassador Bitter visited Xiengphone District Hospital where Mobile Clinic staff provides free rehabilitative services. While there, she spoke to community members …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Lao PDR – Experts from the United States and Lao PDR met in Vientiane on May 31 to create action plans to strengthen resilience against health threats such as infectious diseases and emerging diseases that can pass from animals to humans. The U.S. government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Lao Ministry …
Read More»
Ambassador Alexander A. Arvizu, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), visited the Lao PDR from May 23-26 in order to participate in the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) and related bilateral meetings in Vientiane. Speaking with a wide range of senior Lao government …
Read More»
To mark the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOT) on May 17 the Office of the Embassy of Canada, the Australian Embassy, the British Embassy, the Delegation of the European Union, and the U.S. Embassy in partnership with Proud to be Us Laos, hosted a reception in Vientiane. The guests included members of …
Read More»
U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter visited American health and education projects and met with government officials during her trip to Sekong, Salavan, and Champasak Provinces on May 9-10. In Sekong Province, Ambassador Bitter visited Chung Hung Nuea School and Kok Hai School where she handed over school supplies and enjoyed lunch with the students who students …
Read More»
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, best wishes to the people of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic as they celebrate the Lao New Year. This past year our two countries announced a Comprehensive Partnership, which opened a new era in the U.S.-Lao relationship and deepened our diplomatic, commercial and people-to-people …
Read More»
The National Center for Laboratory and Epidemiology (NCLE), Ministry of Health, convened a workshop, with support from the U.S. government, to mark the new initiative: Strengthening Health Laboratory and Epidemiology System in Lao PDR, held in Vientiane Capital on 21 March 2017. This project will strengthen National Laboratory Systems in Laos with a commitment of …
Read More»
A senior delegation from the Office of the United States Trade Representative, led by Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Barbara Weisel and joined by Ambassador Rena Bitter, met with H.E Somchith Inthamith, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce, and other Lao government officials to discuss deepening economic, trade, and investment ties on March 22 in Vientiane. …
Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR Rena Bitter attended the first-ever National Wheelchair Basketball Tournament on March 18, 2017. The event was funded by the U.S. Government through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). “The U.S. Government is committed to supporting integration of Persons with Disability (PWD) into society, working to remove barriers, and helping …
Read More»
The U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR, Rena Bitter visited schools supported by the World Food Programme (WFP) and the U.S. government on March 10 in Luang Prabang Province. The U.S. government’s McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program has been funding WFP school meals program since 2008. Each day, 140,000 children in 1,450 schools across seven provinces …
Read More»
The U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission to Lao PDR Michael Kleine presented 120,000 mosquito nets to the Deputy Minister of Health, H.E. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phouthone Muongpak during a ceremony in Vientiane on March 10. These mosquito nets will be distributed to families in rural areas of Bolikhamxay, Khammouane, Oudomxay, Phongsaly, Salavan, Sayabouly, and Savannakhet …
Read More»
More than one hundred alumni of U.S.-Lao exchange programs gathered on March 03 to share memories and connect with their fellow exchange program participants. These alumni range from high school students to established professionals and distinguished leaders who participated in a broad variety of programs in the United States. U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter praised the …
Read More»
The U.S. Embassy, in cooperation with the National Blood Transfusion Center (NBTC), conducted a five-day workshop to enhance blood safety in the Lao PDR. The workshop took place February 27 to March 3 in conjunction with the Lao Red Cross National Annual Meeting in Vientiane Province. More than sixty laboratory technicians, nurses, and directors of …
Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR Rena Bitter joined Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Phouthone Meungpak and World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Lao PDR, Dr. Juliet Fleischl to congratulate the eighth cohort of field epidemiology trainees during their graduation ceremony at the Don Chan Palace Hotel on February 27. The Lao Field Epidemiology Training (FET) …
Read More»
The United States and the Lao PDR are working to reduce child stunting through USAID Nurture, a $3.7 million United States Government development project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development. On February 03, the Lao government signed a memorandum of understanding with Save the Children, the prime implementing partner for the program. Through …
Read More»
U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Southeast Asia W. Patrick Murphy visited the Lao PDR on Jan 16 and 17. Speaking about the U.S.-Lao relationship Mr. Murphy said, “Our joint future is bright as we work together to realize the promise of the Comprehensive Partnership.” He outlined several key areas where the U.S. and …
Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR Rena Bitter handed over a new blood center in Champasak Province to the Vice-Governor of Champasak Province, Mr. Somsanith Boudthivong, during a ceremony on January 12. The new blood center will provide emergency blood services to people in the southern provinces. In September 2016, President Obama and President Bounnhang …
Read More»
The Lao People’s Democratic Republic has taken a momentous step forward to prevent, detect and respond to infectious disease threats by developing a five-year plan aligned with the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Health Regulations (IHR). From December 20-21, the Ministry of Health’s Department of Communicable Disease Control …
Read More»
On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I extend my warmest wishes to President Bounnhang Vorachit and the people of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic as you commemorate your National Day on December 2. This year marked another high point in our bilateral relationship, culminating in an historic visit by President Obama and …
Read More»
The U.S. government, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), and the Lao Ministry of Health held a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the future campus of the Lao-American Nutrition Institute (LANI) on November 2, 2016 in Vientiane. The Minister of Health H.E. Dr. Bounkong Syhavong, Ambassador Rena Bitter, and OHSU President Joe Robertson attended …
Read More»
The new U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR Rena Bitter presented her credentials to President Bounnhang Vorachith on November 2 at the Presidential Palace. During her tenure as Ambassador, she is looking forward to advancing the Comprehensive Partnership between the Lao PDR and the United States that President Obama and President Vorachith unveiled in September. …
Read More»
Susan Markham, Senior Coordinator for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), today wrapped up a five-day visit to Lao PDR during which she met Lao education officials and visited schools to pave the way for the expansion of the U.S. Government’s Let Girls Learn initiative to Laos, which …
Read More»
President Obama’s historic trip to Laos was a fitting end to my time as the U.S Ambassador to the Lao PDR and a perfect beginning to a new era of U.S.-Lao relations, one that lets us heal the wounds of the past and build a foundation for the future. During the visit, President Bounnhang and …
Read More»
President Barack Obama’s September 5-8 visit to the Lao PDR opened a new era in the U.S.-Lao relationship. During his time in Laos, President Obama visited both Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and participated in the U.S.-ASEAN and East Asia Summit. In Vientiane, President Bounnhang hosted President Obama in an official state visit, which included a …
Read More»
During his historic visit to the Lao PDR, on September 6th U.S. President Barack Obama announced that the United States will double unexploded ordnance (UXO) assistance to the Lao PDR, from $15 million during the last year to $30 million in the coming year. The assistance, which totals $90 million over the next three years, will support …
Read More»
President Bounnhang Vorachit welcomed United States President Barack Obama to the Lao PDR for an official state visit on September 6th at the Presidential Palace in Vientiane. On the occasion of this historic visit, President Obama and President Vorachit unveiled a Comprehensive Partnership between the Lao P.D.R. and the United States of America, and explored …
Read More»
As U.S. President Barack Obama arrives for his historic trip to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the economic bonds between the United States and Laos continue to grow. General Electric (GE) announced plans on September 5 to open a new office in Vientiane in order to establish a presence in the growing local market. Additionally, …
Read More»
As U.S. President Barack Obama arrives for his historic trip to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the economic bonds between the United States and Laos continue to grow. On September 5, Microsoft, the Ministry of Education and Sports, and the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications agreed to collaborate on an innovative new skill-building program. The …
Read More»
The U.S. government, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), and the Lao Ministry of Health signed two Memorandums of Understanding on September 5th to construct and operate a new Lao-American Nutrition Institute (LANI) in Vientiane. The Institute will help prevent malnutrition and promote health and well-being throughout Laos. The Oregon Health and Science University will …
Read More»
As U.S. President Barack Obama arrives in the Lao PDR for his historic visit, the United States agreed to provide a large grant for a 20-megawatt solar power plant feasibility study in the Lao PDR that could power up to 30,000 households. On September 5, U.S. Ambassador Daniel A. Clune signed the grant agreement along …
Read More»
U.S. President Obama will travel to Laos and China September 2-9, 2016. President Obama will be the first U.S. president to visit Laos, where he will participate in the U.S.-ASEAN Summit and the East Asia Summit. Additionally, he will have bilateral meetings with President Bounnhang Vorachith and other key officials to advance U.S.-Lao cooperation on …
Read More»
U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Daniel R. Russel visited the Lao PDR on August11 and 12 to prepare for President Obama’s historic visit to Laos next month. Assistant Secretary Russel met separately with Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith and Xaysomphone Phomvihane, President of the Lao Front for Construction, to discuss the growing bilateral relationship and make …
Read More»
Consultations between the ten ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) and the United States Trade Representative were held on 4 August 2016 in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The Consultations were co-chaired by H.E. Mrs Khemmani Pholsena, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Lao PDR and Ms. Barbara Weisel, Assistant United States Trade Representative (AUSTR) for Southeast Asia and …
Read More»
Senior officials from the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM) met August 1-3 in Honolulu with senior officials from the Ministry of National Defense (MND) for the 11th Lao-United States Bilateral Defense Dialogue. The meeting was led by Brigadier General Kenchanh Nangthalasy, Director of Foreign Relations Department (FRD), Ministry of National Defense (MND) and …
Read More»
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry traveled to Vientiane, Laos on July 25-26 to participate in the ASEAN Regional Forum, the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers Meeting, the ASEAN-U.S. Ministerial Meeting, and the Lower Mekong Initiative Ministerial Meeting. This is Secretary Kerry’s second trip to the Lao PDR this year, reaffirming the U.S commitment to expanded …
Read More»
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry will travel to Vientiane, Laos, from July 25-26 to participate in the ASEAN Regional Forum, the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers Meeting, the ASEAN-U.S. Ministerial Meeting, and the Lower Mekong Initiative Ministerial Meeting. At these ASEAN meetings, the Secretary will discuss the region’s security architecture and shared transnational challenges. …
Read More»
The U.S. Embassy celebrated 240 years of American independence at its annual Independence Day event on July 4, 2016. Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith was the guest of honor and officially represented the Lao PDR at the event. Over 500 guests joined the Embassy staff on the grounds of the Embassy, including …
Read More»
With support from U.S. Embassy Vientiane, an innovative entrepreneur, Ms. Oulayphone Silimasack, was selected to attend the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) in Palo Alto, California from June 22-24. Ms. Oulayphone Silimasack, who runs AEC English Center in Vientiane, joined 700 entrepreneurs from around the world along with investors, speakers, and leaders in the field. High-level …
Read More»
VIENTIANE, Laos (June 16, 2016) – A joint U.S. – Lao team recently finished a series of excavations to account for U.S. service members remaining unaccounted-for from the Indochina War. Fifty-three American and 15 Lao team members excavated four aircraft crash sites in Houaphan, Xiangkhouang and Khammouan Provinces. On June 16, the United States and …
Read More»
With support from the U.S. Embassy the Lao Customs Department, Ministry of Finance and American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative (ABA-ROLI) conducted a workshop for senior officials from the Lao PDR Customs Department on strengthening customs systems. The two-day workshop began on May 26. At the opening, speakers noted the importance of this cooperation. …
Read More»
The U.S. Embassy this week is funding vocational training in organic agricultural methods for recovering drug addicts who have received treatment at Somsanga Drug Treatment and Vocational Training Center in Vientiane. The training will help drug addicts develop their skills in agriculture and gardening, so that they may once more become productive members of their …
Read More»
Six outstanding Lao students will travel to the United States this year to pursue Master’s degrees and to upgrade their professional skills under the prestigious Fulbright Program. During a recent meeting at the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao P.D.R. Daniel A. Clune congratulated the group on their achievement and encouraged them …
Read More»
Khammouane, Lao PDR– Representatives from the U.S. Government and development partners handed over restored and constructed water systems to the Lao government to increase access to water for over 1,300 men, women and children in three villages, particularly during the dry season. This assistance, including storage tanks, improved piping and distribution points, were provided with …
Read More»
U.S. Ambassador Daniel Clune turned over $110,000 worth of equipment to the Ministry of Public Security of the Lao PDR on May 13. Police Brigadier General, Sisavath Keomalavong, Director of the General Police Department accepted the donation on behalf of the Lao government. The equipment, including body armor, drug test kits, and other materials, will assist …
Read More»
United States Deputy Chief of Mission to the Lao PDR Michael Kleine presented a new Village Clinic to The Vice Governor of Xiengkhouang Province, HE Mr. Buasone Sinouanthong during a handover ceremony on May 12, 2016 in Xiengkhouang Province. Located in Nonghet District, the $589,473 U.S-funded village clinic building is on the site of existing …
Read More»
United States Deputy Chief of Mission to the Lao PDR Michael Kleine handed over a new lower secondary school in Huaphanh Province to Vice-Governor of Huaphanh Province, Mrs. Pheng Kanyaphim during a ceremony on May 11, 2016. The $630,537 U.S.-funded project includes a new building with five classrooms, one teacher room, and a dormitory at …
Read More»
VIENTIANE – Today, the Lao PDR’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry launched a new U.S.-funded project to help identify viruses that have the potential to move from animals to humans. Under a memorandum of understanding signed by Lao officials and representatives from the U.S. Agency for International Development project, teams will begin taking samples from …
Read More»
The United States and Lao PDR conducted their seventh annual Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue on May 6 in Vientiane. Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel led the U.S delegation, which included officials from the U.S. Departments of State and Defense and the United States Agency for International Development. During their discussions, Assistant Secretary Russel and Lao …
Read More»
VIENTIANE– Officials from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Lao PDR Ministry of Education and Sports have concluded a visit to schools supported by the McGovern–Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program, through the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The representatives visited five WFP-supported schools in Oudomxay province, northern …
Read More»
In honor of Earth Day, U.S. Ambassador Daniel Clune and his wife Judy joined English Access Scholarship students in planting a frangipani tree, the national symbol of Laos, at the American Center @ That Dam. This event was part of an international effort to plant 7.8 billion trees, one tree for every person on the …
Read More»
On Friday, April 22 the Lao PDR signed the historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change on Earth Day at the United Nations in New York. Laos was represented by H.E. Sommad Pholsena, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Phouvong Luangsaysana, Director General of Disaster Management and Climate Change at the Ministry of Natural Resources and …
Read More» Empowered by a curriculum developed by the U.S. Agency for International Development Lowering Emissions in Asia’s Forests (USAID LEAF) program, 700 professors at 63 universities in the Asia-Pacific region are rolling out education to a new generation of climate change professionals in Southeast Asia. Working with university professors mainly from the Lower Mekong region, USAID …
Read More» A delegation of 4 leading U.S. companies organized by the US-ASEAN Business Council visited the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to meet with various agencies of the government and explore how U.S. companies can support Laos’ Chairmanship of ASEAN, as well as discuss how Laos can harness the benefits of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). The …
Read More» The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a new partnership with 12 leading universities and vocational institutions in the Lower Mekong sub-region to empower students with essential skills to thrive in the workplace. Selected as part of a competitive USAID Connecting the Mekong through Education and Training (USAID COMET) grants program, the following …
Read More» In collaboration with the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and The Habibie Center (THC), the U.S. government sponsored a workshop on February 25, 2016 on “Women Empowerment and Gender Equality in the ASEAN Economic Community” at Vientiane Plaza Hotel in Vientiane, Lao PDR . Women constitute more than half …
Read More» With support from the U.S. Science Envoy Program, experts in child nutrition from Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and Australia will come together to address child nutrition challenges and kick-start a process of scientific advancement in Southeast Asia. U.S. Science Envoy Dr. Geraldine Richmond will facilitate the first regional conference entitled “Developmental Neuroscience and Stunting: A …
Read More» With support from the U.S. Embassy the State Inspection and Anti-Corruption Authority (SIAA) and American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI) conducted a training workshop for trainers about preventing and combating corruption on March 14 in Vientiane. Seventy-seven Lao government officials from 37 different ministries and organizations attended the five-day workshop. Mr. Xaikham …
Read More» With support from the U.S. Embassy and other development partners, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) officially launched a Legal Information Kiosk on March 3, at the People’s Provincial Court of Xieng Khuang. The Kiosk will enhance local citizens’ ability to gain access to legal information. This project aims to support the Lao PDR’s goal …
Read More» The United States government formally presented a new school in Pakxan District, Bolikhamxay Province to the Lao government, in a handover ceremony on February 19, 2016. United States Ambassador to the Lao PDR Daniel Clune and the Vice-Governor of Bolikhamxay Province Dr. Souvanny Xaysana participated in the ceremony. The $456,635 U.S.-funded project includes a new …
Read More» United States Ambassador to the Lao PDR Daniel A. Clune handed over a new secondary school in Khammouane Province to Vice-Governor of Khammouane Province, Mr. Khamsy Outhivong during a ceremony on February 18, 2016. The $639,070 U.S.-funded project includes a new building with eight classrooms, two teacher rooms, and a dormitory at Phonsaath Complete Secondary …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador Daniel A. Clune handed over three new green houses, a reservoir facility, office supplies, and media equipment to the Somsanga Drug Treatment and Vocation Training Center on February 2, 2016. The reservoir and greenhouse will enable the center to expand its vocational training program, helping individuals who have received treatment at Somsanga to …
Read More» U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry engaged in a lively discussion with members of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) about environmental sustainability during his visit to the Lao PDR. Seated at a restaurant overlooking the Mekong River, Secretary Kerry highlighted the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting countries in the region as they seek …
Read More» U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry’s January 24 and 25 visit to Vientiane emphasized the deepening ties between the United States and Lao PDR. Secretary Kerry met with Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong to discuss preparations for the U.S.-ASEAN Sunnylands Summit, which will be jointly hosted by the United States and Laos in California next month. …
Read More» The U.S. government announced on January 28 the launch of a new $6 million program implemented by Save the Children to improve the health of women and children in Laos. Over the next three years, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Nurture initiative will help reduce child nutritional stunting and improve household nutrition, water, …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador Daniel Clune on December 6 attended the unveiling in Luang Prabang of 25 short films depicting traditional folktales from the Hmong, Kmhmu, and Tai Lue ethnic groups. The program was part of the U.S.-supported Women and Folktales Project, a partnership of the Luang Prabang Film Festival (LPFF) and the Traditional Arts and Ethnology …
Read More» In recognition of the deepening partnership between the United States and the Lao PDR, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Daniel R. Russel visited the Lao PDR on December 17 and 18. Addressing the Institute of Foreign Affairs, Assistant Secretary Russel told a capacity audience that, “We’re writing a new chapter in relations between Laos and …
Read More» During a town hall meeting on November 20 with emerging leaders from ASEAN countries participating in the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Summit in Kuala Lumpur, President Obama highlighted the accomplishments of Ms. Chindavone Sanlath from Phongsali Province, who is working to improve forest management in Laos. “I was born in one of the …
Read More» U.S. President Barack Obama met with Prime Minister of the Lao PDR Thongsing Thammavong in Kuala Lumpur on November 21 to discuss the expanding relationship between the two nations. During the meeting Prime Minster Thongsing Thammavong highlighted the growing partnership between the U.S. and Laos in the health and UXO clearance sectors. The two leaders …
Read More» The United States opened a new Center for cultural exchange, language study, and other programming on November 17. Located in U.S. Embassy’s historic That Dam compound, the new facility is known as The American Center @ That Dam. More than one hundred people visited the Center on opening day. Mr. Vannakon, who participated in one …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador Daniel Clune and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) led the first official Lao business delegation to the United States from October 25-30. The group visited the states of Washington and California to explore ways to deepen business relationships between the United States and the Lao PDR. In Washington, the …
Read More» On October 16, U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Benjamin Rhodes announced $2.2 million in new U.S. support to UXO Lao, which will enable it to rehire trained technicians it lost in 2014 as a result of funding difficulties. The UXO Lao teams will be deployed in Houaphanh, Xiengkhouang, Khammouane, Savannakhet, Salavan, and Champassak provinces. Mr. …
Read More» The United States government formally presented blood safety equipment valued at nearly $1 million (8 billion kip) to the Lao government in a handover ceremony on October 6 at the National Blood Transfusion Center of the Lao Red Cross in Vientiane. The equipment included blood centrifuges, blood bank refrigerators and other medical items to support …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission, Michael Kleine opened the Fundamentals of Nuclear Safeguards and the Additional Protocol of the International Atomic Energy Agency Workshop held at the Lao Plaza Hotel October 5-8, 2015. This workshop was sponsored by the U.S. government through the U.S. Department of Energy and co-hosted by the Department of International …
Read More» H.E. Mr. Choummaly Sayasone, President of the Lao PDR, and his wife Madame Keosaychay Sayasone met with President and Mrs. Obama in New York City. The meeting was a sign of the close relationship between the United States and Laos. This year marks the 60 year anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two nations. Lao Version (PDF 289KB)
Read More» The U.S. Embassy supported a three-day intensive counter narcotics training for the Lao Counter Narcotic Police Departments from four southern provinces. The training began on Wednesday September 16, 2015, at the Provincial Conference Hall in Attapu province. The instructors from the Lao Counter Narcotics Police Department conducted the training, which included a general overview of …
Read More» The Lao PDR, in partnership with the United States, hosted the Lower Mekong Initiative Disaster Relief Exercise and Exchange (LMI DREE) in Vientiane, starting on September 22. The LMI DREE is an annual civil-military disaster preparedness and response initiative between the governments of Lao PDR, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, Viet Nam, and the United States. Each …
Read More» On September 22, 2015 staff from U.S. Embassy and the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs played in a friendly football match. In remarks before the match, U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Officer Matthew Ference thanked the Protocol Department and highlighted the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and the Laos …
Read More» In response to widespread flooding in the northern and north-central provinces of Lao PDR, the U.S. Embassy and the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs are partnering with the International Organization of Migration (IOM) and World Vision to distribute disaster relief supplies to communities in Bolikhamxay province. The disaster relief supply distribution is part of …
Read More» Senior officials from the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM) met September 15 in Vientiane with senior officials from the Ministry of National Defense (MND) for the 10th Lao-United States Bilateral Defense Dialogue. The meeting was led by Brigadier General Onsy Senesouk, Permanent Secretary of National Defense (MND) and Brigadier General Mark Gillette, Deputy …
Read More» On September 10, 2015, the U.S. Embassy and Lao National Commission on Drug Control (LCDC) turned over $18,999 USD (more than 150 Million Lao Kip) worth of office supplies and media equipment to four Northern provinces to assist them in carrying out an Anti-Drug Civic Awareness Campaign in their region. Director of the International Narcotics …
Read More» American and Lao staff at the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane teamed up with the Lao Red Cross to mark the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks by organizing a blood donation drive at the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane. For Americans, the tradition of engaging in charitable service on September 11 is an annual …
Read More» As a growing number of people in ASEAN realize the benefit of internet connectivity through smartphone technology, expanding broadband access to greater number of rural people becomes increasingly important to the region. In support of this trend, the U.S. government on September 7 and 8 sponsored a two-day conference on rural wireless broadband internet for …
Read More» In partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Commission for the Advancement of Women in Laos and the Lao Women’s Union, the U.S. government sponsored a workshop from September 8 to 10 on gender integration in climate change and forestry. The workshop aims to educate staff from the Departments of Forestry and Forest …
Read More» On September 17 the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted the “Seminar on the Preparations for the LAO PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2016,” supported by the Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS) and the U.S. Embassy to the Lao PDR. Lao government officials …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Vientiane joined together with the Lao Youth Union to conduct life skill training programs for teachers and youth leaders. The programs ran concurrently between August 25 and 29 and provided participants with an opportunity to share life experiences, develop skills, and learn about child development and risk factors for drug use. …
Read More» On August 31, the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Defense Institute for Medical Operations (DIMO), in cooperation with the Ministry of National Defense and Ministry of Public Health will open a five-day workshop on Infection Control in Ebola. Michael Kleine, Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy and Dr. Nao Bouttha, Chief of Cabinet, Ministry of Public …
Read More» The U.S. government sponsored an August 10-23 regional assessment mission by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to help inform the design of the Lao Drug Control Master Plan 2016-2020. The mission was led by Dr. Bounpone Sirivong, Deputy Head of the Lao Commission for Drug Control and Supervision along with Mr. …
Read More» On August 29, U.S. Ambassador to Laos Daniel Clune hosted a reception to welcome the U.S. Embassy’s new Deputy Chief of Mission Michael Kleine, who recently arrived in Vientiane. Government officials from various ministries attended the reception at Ambassador Clune’s residence. In his remarks, Michael Kleine highlighted cooperation between the United States and Laos in …
Read More» Between July 13 and August 31, the U.S. government provided a Pathogen Asset Control System software suite to the National Animal Health Laboratory, Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry; the National Center for Laboratory and Epidemiology, Ministry of Health; and Institute Pasteur du Lao. The software system improves the safety of …
Read More» Congressman Devin Nunes from California and Congressman Frank LoBiondo from New Jersey, both members of the U.S. House of Representatives, visited Vientiane August 13 and 14. During their stay, they met with Dr. Koukeo Akkhamounty, Member of the Standing Committee and President of the Foreign Relations Committee of the National Assembly, and Vice-Minister of Public …
Read More» Lao Deputy PM meets US Secretary of State in Myanmar Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Thongloun Sisoulith met with US Secretary of State John Kerry in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar on Saturday to discuss how to consolidate their bilateral ties. The talk was held on the sideline of the 47th …
Read More» On August 10, 2015 the U.S. Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs marked the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Laos with a friendly football match. Fittingly, the match ended in a 6-6 tie. In remarks after the match, Ambassador Clune reiterated the U.S. commitment to deepening their relationship between …
Read More» In honor of ASEAN Day on August 8, the U.S. Embassy hosted a Model ASEAN Debate Contest. Held at the American Corner at the Lao-American College on the morning of August 4, the Model ASEAN Debate brought together eight students to discuss the best way to solve an important regional issue. Each participant represented an …
Read More» On August 03, 2015 alumni from the U.S. Government South East Asia Youth Leadership Program (SEAYLP) launched their “Young Elephant” summer school program for elementary school students at Bo O high school in Hadxayfong district, Vientiane. Mr. Nikone Keophilalay, Director of Bo O High School and Ms. Lucija Straley, Deputy Public Affairs Officers at the …
Read More» Staff from the United States Embassy in Vientiane traveled to Luang Prabang to discuss educational opportunities on July 27-29. Deputy Public Affairs Officer Lucija Straley and Education Advisor Phonesana Siphanhvieng gave a presentation about studying in the United States at the Lao-American Reading Corner at the Luang Prabang Public Library on July 27. They discussed …
Read More» Dr. Jill Biden, the wife of the Vice President of the United States Joe Biden, visited Luang Prabang on July 22 as part of her two-day visit to Laos. She was accompanied by Catherine Russell, the U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues. During the visit, Dr. Biden’s toured Wat Xieng Thong, a recipient of grants …
Read More» Dr. Jill Biden, the wife of the Vice President of the United States Joe Biden, visited Laos from July 21-22. She was accompanied by Catherine Russell, the U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues. During their visit they discussed educational opportunities for women and girls and highlighted the growing partnership between the United States and Laos. …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Institute for International Affairs completed the sixth and final seminar aimed at improving the English skills of Lao officials working on health, environment, and infrastructure issues. Graduates received their certificates during a graduation reception at the residence of the U.S. Ambassador to Laos, Daniel Clune. The …
Read More» On Friday, July 10th, United States Ambassador Daniel A. Clune joined Mr. Kou Chansina, Chairman of Lao National Commission for Drug Control (LCDC) and Mr. Jeremy Douglas, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Regional Representative, at a signing ceremony for a new Memorandum of Understanding between the LCDC and UNODC. This agreement …
Read More» Dr. Jill Biden, the wife of the Vice President of the United States, will visit Laos on July 21-22, 2015. She’ll be traveling with Catherine Russell, the U.S. ambassador-at-large for Global Women’s Issues and will engage government and civil society partners on issues related to economic empowerment and educational opportunities for women and girls. This …
Read More» On July 6, the Lao PDR’s Environmental Police Department, under the Ministry of Public Security, will participate in an intensive Advanced Analyst Course on Wildlife and Timber Trafficking sponsored by United States and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime. The course strengthens law enforcement capacity to carry out strategic analysis of wildlife smuggling cases, …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy celebrated 239 years of American independence at its annual Independence Day event on July 2, 2015. Minister for the Government Office Sommad Pholsena and Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Sounthone Xayachack were guests of honor and officially represented the Lao PDR at the event. Over 500 additional guests joined the Embassy staff on …
Read More» On June 30, 2015 the U.S. Embassy and Lao National Commission on Drug Control (LCDC) turned over $7,500 (more than 60 Million Lao Kip) worth of office supplies and media equipment to the Lao Youth Union to assist them in carrying out an Anti-Drug Civic Awareness Campaign in Vientiane and neighboring provinces. U.S. Ambassador to …
Read More» The fourth annual One Health Symposium was held June 29-30 in Champasack province. This year, the primary objectives of the meeting were to strengthen coordination and collaboration between multi-disciplinary sectors, improve International Health Regulation (IHR) Core Capacity, and facilitate information sharing through research, projects, and outbreak investigations. Participants included provincial focal points for animal-human health …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador to ASEAN Nina Hachigian arrived in Vientiane on June 25 for two days of meetings to explore the Lao PDR’s plans and priorities for ASEAN, while reinforcing U.S. support for Laos’ 2016 ASEAN chairmanship preparations. This is Ambassador Hachigian’s first visit to Laos, and it offers her a chance to better understand the …
Read More» Fish ecologists Dr. Doug Peterson, from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and Dr. Stephen Walsh, from the U.S. Geological Survey, arrived in Laos on June 16 for a ten-day visit under the auspices of the U.S.-funded Smart Infrastructure for the Mekong Program. During their visit they will help research river ecology and lend …
Read More» More than 100 alumni from U.S. Exchange Programs shared their experiences during the Fifth Annual Lao American Alumni Overseas Student Club (LAO-SC) networking event at the Lao Plaza Hotel in Vientiane on June 20, 2015. The theme of the event was “Connecting and Sharing.” Mr. Paul Mayer, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of the United …
Read More» The United States is strengthening its commitment to the UXO sector in Laos by increasing its total assistance for Laos’ UXO sector to $15 million this year. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel announced the new assistance during the annual U.S.-Lao PDR Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue, which took place in Washington, D.C. on June 19. …
Read More» The United States and Lao PDR completed their sixth Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue on June 19 in Washington, D.C. The Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue is held each year, rotating between Vientiane and Washington, D.C. The Lao delegation met with U.S. officials from the Department of State, Department of Defense, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, USAID, and …
Read More» In honor of World No Tobacco Day, more than 40 students attended a seminar on the dangers of tobacco use at the US Embassy Information Resource Center. Dr. Sengdeuan Hang from the U.S. Embassy Health Unit discussed the health risks associated with smoking, and students shared their ideas about how to combat tobacco use. Schools …
Read More» Four outstanding Lao students will travel to the United States this year to pursue Master’s degrees under the U.S. State Department’s prestigious Fulbright Scholarship Program. During a recent meeting at the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao P.D.R. Daniel A. Clune congratulated the group on their achievement and encouraged them to make …
Read More» Ambassador of the United States Daniel A. Clune traveled to Saysomboun and Vientiane Provinces from May 13-15 to meet with government officials and visit the Phu Bia Mine and local schools. In Saysomboun, Ambassador Clune visited Long Cheng District primary and secondary school, where he donated over 600 books, various school supplies, and athletic equipment. …
Read More» On Monday, May 18, U.S. Ambassador Daniel Clune and Government Inspection and Anti-Corruption Authority (GIAA) Vice President Bounsome Sangsomsak opened a week-long training workshop for GIAA officials at the Khampaseuth Hotel in Vang Vieng. The workshop brings together officials from all 18 of GIAA’s provincial offices and will focus on improving officials’ abilities to design …
Read More» Today U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR, Daniel Clune attended World Education’s signature ceremony of seven sub-grants totaling $1,575.000 million dollars to support four local and three international non-governmental organizations strengthen the disability sector and to provide direct assistance to some of the estimated 150,000 people in Lao PDR who live with a disability. “The support …
Read More» Daniel A. Clune, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR, Dr. Som Ock Kingsada, Vice-Minister of Health, and Ms. Hongwei Gao, the UNICEF Representative to the Lao PDR toured the Khoksa Ath Salt Factory in Vientiane on May 12 to mark the announcement of an additional $165,000 in funding from the U.S. Government to UNICEF to …
Read More» The United States is strengthening its commitment to the UXO sector in Laos by increasing its assistance to $13 million this year. Daniel A. Clune, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR and Phoukhieo Chanthasomboune, Director of the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) made the announcement of the increase on May 8 at the offices of the …
Read More» The governments of the United States and Lao PDR are presenting a Multilateral Wildlife Trafficking Workshop in Vientiane from May 6-8. The Workshop includes investigators and prosecutors from Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Ambassador Daniel A. Clune of the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane and Director General Khamphout Phandanouvong of the Lao Department of …
Read More» On April 24, 2015 the Information Resource Center, U.S. Embassy Vientiane organized an Earth Day celebration in cooperation with Seeds of Hope Laos at the American Corner at the Lao American College. During this event the Assistant Public Affairs Officer, Lucija Straley gave the opening speech and asked students about the history of Earth Day. …
Read More» On March 16, 2015 the U.S. Embassy held a pre-departure orientation for six Lao high school students selected to participate in this year’s Southeast Asian Youth Leadership Program (SEAYLP). The students learned about American culture, and heard from last year’s participants about what to expect during the exchange program. SEAYLP brings together youth from across …
Read More» The Lao People’s Democratic Republic will host the first-ever “Extraordinary Friends of the Lower Mekong” (XFLM) sub-cabinet level meeting Mekong sustainability in Pakse on February 2-3. The two day conference will be co-chaired by H.E. Saleumxay Kommasith, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Counselor of the U.S. Department of State, H.E. Thomas A. Shannon. …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy, in cooperation with the National Blood Transfusion Center (NBTC), and the Lao People’s Army, provided a four-day workshop on Pre-transfusion Testing for the Ministry of Health, Lao Red Cross and Lao People’s Army medical personnel from thirteen provinces. The workshop was conducted 26-29 January in Luang Prabang. This training was designed to …
Read More» The United States, Brunei and Laos will provide English language training to Lao officials to help them prepare for Laos’ chairmanship of ASEAN in 2016. U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR. Daniel A. Clune, Bruneian Ambassador to the Lao PDR. Emran Bahar, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ ASEAN Department Mr. Phongsavanh Sisoulath, …
Read More» In an important symbol of the United States’ commitment and enduring relationship with the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos, U.S. Ambassador Daniel A. Clune, and State Department Undersecretary for Management Patrick Kennedydedicated the new $150 million American Embassy in Vientiane in a red, white and blue ceremony attended by representatives of the Lao government, media, …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR, Daniel A. Clune, visited Luang Prabang on December 6 –9, to participate in two handover ceremonies hosted by the Luang Prabang Department of Information and Culture, as well as to officially sign a new grant that will preserve the Buddhist Archives of Luang Prabang . All of these projects …
Read More» Sombath Somphone was abducted on the evening of December 15, 2012 from a police checkpoint in Vientiane. The United States remains deeply concerned over Sombath’s fate and the message it sends to other members of civil society who strive to improve the lives of their countrymen. Our thoughts are with Sombath’s family, friends, and the …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Officer Matt Ference and Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Joshua Bernstein, currently teaching English at the National University of Laos, visited Sisattanak High School on November 25, 2014, where they discussed the U.S. education system and opportunities for Lao students to study in the United States. They were joined by Ms. Bouakeo …
Read More» In a ceremony at the Luang Prabang Provincial library today, Matthew Ference, Public Affairs Officer from the U.S. Embassy to the Lao P.D.R., and Mr. Ounchanh Souvannalith head of Information Culture and Tourism department in Luang Prabang province signed a grant worth more than $18,000. The funds will go to support the operations of Luang …
Read More» On October 23, 2014 the U.S. Embassy Management section collaborated with the Public Affairs Section to organize a book donation event at the Faculty of Engineering library. Than Sean Buckley administrative officer and Khammanh Phetkhounphone IRC Director, U.S. Embassy Vientiane handed over 600 books to the Faculty of Engineering library, valued at about $8000. These …
Read More» Government officials from six countries around the region, including Lao PDR, received a four-day training event as part of the Asia-Pacific Leadership Program on Gender, Climate Change and REDD+’s Training Workshop Series, which began on Tuesday, Sept 23rd, at the Green Park Boutique Hotel in Vientiane. Instructors from USAID’s Low Emissions Asian Development (LEAD) and …
Read More» Lao Customs officials from both Lao Customs Department and Regional Customs Offices received a three-day training on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Investigations, which begins on Wednesday September 17, at the Lao Plaza Hotel in Vientiane. The Instructors from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Washington conducted the training, which included class-room exercises where …
Read More» American and Lao staff at the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane teamed up with the Lao Red Cross to mark the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks by organizing a blood donation drive. The U.S. Embassy decided to mark the occasion with a blood drive following recent statements from the Lao Red Cross that …
Read More» The Embassy hosted a back-to-school pizza party to wish students who have been studying English at the Information Resource Center (IRC) good luck on their return to school in September. Deputy Chief of Mission Paul Mayer attended the party and encouraged the students to continue using their English skills to improve their own lives and …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy Vientiane hosted an event for Lao students about college life in the United States, given by Megan O’Brien, a student intern at the embassy. Over 60 high school and college students attended the event, which was held at the American Corner at Lao-American College. Students learned about the American college classroom, living on …
Read More» On August 8th, 2014, teams of English students gathered at the Lao-American College to participate in the 2nd annual debate sponsored by U.S. Embassy Vientiane on the topic, “Is Gender Equality Possible?” Students from the Faculty of Letters at the National University of Laos, the Lao-American College, Vientiane High School, and the Finance and Banking …
Read More» On August 5, 2014, representatives from the Ministry of Health and the U.S. Embassy participated in a trachoma survey conducted in Ban NongKok, Bachiang District, Champasak Province. Trachoma is an infection that usually inflicts children ages 1-9 and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent blindness. As part of a five year long program funded …
Read More» Eight exceptional Lao students met with U.S. Ambassador to the Lao P.D.R. Daniel A. Clune, and Public Affairs Officer Pam DeVolder to discuss their upcoming travel to the United States as part of two U.S. State Department student exchange programs. During their meeting, Ambassador Clune congratulated the group on their selection to each program, and …
Read More» Four outstanding Lao students will travel to the United States this year to pursue Master’s degrees under the U.S. State Department’s prestigious Fulbright Scholarship Program. During a recent meeting at the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao P.D.R. Daniel A. Clune congratulated the group on their achievement and encouraged them to make …
Read More» Representatives from the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane team travelled to Xieng Khouang Province this week where they gave presentations on education and English language workshops with students and faculty from schools and colleges around Phonesavanh. Deputy Public Affairs Officer Ken Kosakowski met with officials from Phonesavanh High School, the Vocation School of Xieng Khouang, and …
Read More» The United States is strengthening its commitment to the UXO sector in Laos by increasing its assistance to $12 million this year. Daniel A. Clune, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR and Phoukhieo Chanthasomboune, Director of the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) made the announcement of the increase on June 6 at the offices of the …
Read More» The United States Embassy and United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) formally presented two new District Hospitals to the following two districts: Viengthong District, Bolikhamxay Province and Xaibuathong District, Khammouane Province. The handover ceremonies were held on May 15, 2014 in Bolikhamxay Province and on May 16, 2014 in Khammouane Province. These projects are new district …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador to the Lao P.D.R. Daniel A. Clune, and his wife Mrs. Judy Clune welcomed Lao artists, government officials, and members of the diplomatic community to their residence on May 13, to officially open the U.S. Art in Embassies (AIE) weaving exhibition at the U.S. Ambassador’s residence in Vientiane. The exhibition features blankets, tapestries, …
Read More» We are deeply saddened to hear the news of a plane crash in Laos, which claimed the lives of Lao Government officials and others on board the flight. We extend our deepest condolences to the Government of Laos. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and with all the people of …
Read More» Senior officials of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC), the US Embassy, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) today formally launched the second “Lao PDR – U.S. International and ASEAN Integration Project” (LUNA II) that aims to promote investment to create more jobs through supporting the implementation of the country’s trade and …
Read More» “What is Earth Day?” That is the question that was heard over and over again as U.S. Embassy Vientiane was in the planning phase of its Earth Day celebration. On Monday April 28, 2014, over 100 local high school students from 4 high schools institutions in Vientiane found out about Earth Day, and much more. …
Read More» With the emergence of H7N9 in Guanxi province in China, the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have designed a comprehensive surveillance program for the H7N9 influenza virus in Northern provinces of Laos. To support development and …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador Daniel A. Clune travelled to Savannakhet Province from February 12-17, in order to visit American projects in the province and to witness the economic growth and social development of the area. He met with Governor Souphanh Keomexay during the visit, and the two exchanged views on increasing investment and trade in the fast-growing …
Read More» The Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic hosted over 90 delegates from Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, Viet Nam, the United States and the ASEAN Secretariat on March 20-21, 2014 for the 6th Lower Mekong Initiative Regional Working Group Meeting. The Lower Mekong Initiative is a multinational forum for addressing trans-boundary policy and development challenges in …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Institute for International Affairs opened the sixth and final of six seminars aimed at improving the English skills of Lao officials working on health, environment, and infrastructure issues. U.S. Ambassador to the Lao P.D.R. Daniel A. Clune and Director General of the Institute of Foreign Affairs, …
Read More» The United States and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic met for the Fifth U.S.-Laos Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on February 3, 2014. Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Scot Marciel and Vice Foreign Minister of Laos Bounkeut Sangsomsak co-chaired the meeting. The dialogue provided …
Read More» For the first time since arriving in the Lao PDR, United States Ambassador Daniel A. Clune met with H.E. Mr. Noulinh Sindbandhit, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE). In the meeting, Ambassador Clune gave Mr. Sindbandhit an overview of U.S. assistance programs in the environmental sector. Currently, the United States has 13 projects in …
Read More» On January 24, 2014, the U.S. Embassy’s Public Affairs Section organized its annual speech contest in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.at the American Corner of the Lao-American College in Vientiane. This year’s topic was “What’s your dream?” Contestants were asked to speak for 3-5 minutes in English on their personal dreams and their …
Read More» Two staff members from the U.S. Congress House Foreign Affairs Committee visited Vientiane from January 22 to 24 to meet with senior Lao government officials and development partners to discuss wildlife trafficking. Mr. Worku Gachou and Mr. Brent Woolfork used their visit to learn about the status of Lao efforts to counter transnational wildlife trafficking. …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy today turned over to the Drug Control Department of the Ministry of Public Security of the Lao PDR a year’s worth of essential office supplies that will assist that Department to carry out its law enforcement duties. Accepting this donation on behalf of the Government of the Lao PDR was Police Colonel …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Institute for International Affairs concluded the fourth of six planned seminars aimed at improving the English skills of Lao officials working on health, environment, and infrastructure issues. Deputy Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Embassy to the Lao P.D.R. Kenneth Kosakowski and Deputy Director General of …
Read More» Prior to hitting the road to the Southern provinces, the Education USA team held an information event on Friday October 25, 2013, at the Information Resource Center (IRC) in U.S. Embassy Vientiane. The presentation was given by Deputy Public Affairs Officer Ken Kosakowski to a group of 30 undergraduate students, who expressed interest in study …
Read More» On October 30, 2013, at the Information Resource Center, U.S. Embassy Vientiane, Laos organized the second Education USA presentation of the month. The presentation was given by Amy Jarich, Assistant Vice Chancellor and Director of Admissions at the University of California; Berkeley. Ms. Jarich spoke generally about the U.S. university admissions process, and gave details …
Read More» On November 23, 2013, the Education USA team from U.S. Embassy Vientiane, participated in a exhibition at the 3rd Annual FongLao Mekong Dance festival. The festival was organized by Fang Lao Company, and more than 100 visitors visited the embassy’s booth. At the Education USA booth, students were able to read educational materials, and talk …
Read More» An opening ceremony celebrating the expansion of the American Reading Corner in Luang Prabang was held on December 9, 2013 at the Luang Prabang provincial library. U.S. Ambassador to Laos Daniel A. Clune, Public Affairs Officer Pam DeVolder, and Mr. Ounchanh Souvannalith head of Information Culture and Tourism department in Luang prabang province, as well …
Read More» U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) Paul Mayer and a team from the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane traveled to Phongsali Province December 16-20 to meet with provincial and district officials, and to deliver warm clothing, books, and toys worth nearly 8 million Lao Kip to the children of Phongsali. The team met with the Vice …
Read More» Sombath Somphone, one of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic’s most respected civil society figures, was abducted on the evening of December 15, 2012 from a Lao police checkpoint in Vientiane. Today marks the one-year anniversary of this deplorable event, which was recorded on Lao Government surveillance cameras. The United States remains deeply concerned over Sombath’s …
Read More» On November 8, Typhoon Haiyan—known as Yolanda in the Philippines—made landfall in the central Philippines, bringing strong winds and heavy rains that have resulted in flooding, landslides, and widespread damage. In response to the storm, the U.S. Government announced $20 million in humanitarian assistance, including emergency food aid and critical relief supplies for disaster-affected areas. …
Read More» The Federal Government of the United States of America is currently in a Lapse of Appropriations period starting October 1. The United States Embassy in Vientiane remain open for consular services, including services to American citizens and visa processing. Appointments for visa services and American Citizen Services will take place as scheduled. We will update this notice …
Read More» On September 30, 2013, the IRC organized a “Back to School” party for Lao students who spent their summer studying English at the IRC. More than 60 students, teachers and staff attended. During the party, the students had many opportunities to practice their English with Embassy Officers including Ambassador Clune. The Ambassador spoke to the …
Read More»