President extends good wishes for Lao New Year  

President Bounnhang Vorachit has wished Lao people of all ethnicities, Lao expatriates living abroad, foreign expatriates in Laos and friendly countries happiness on the occasion of Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year).
People across the country are saying goodbye to 2561- the Year of the Dog - and welcoming 2562 – the Year of the Pig. The official Pi Mai Lao holiday is April 14-16.
On this auspicious occasion, the President, who is also Secretary General of the Central Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, represented the Party and state leaders yesterday in expressing warm solidarity and offering greetings and best wishes to all people.
He hoped everyone would enjoy happiness, joy, peace, friendship and prosperity.   

The president particularly offered best wishes to those who were victims of the deadly flood that swept through Sanamxay district, Attapeu province, last year, caused by the collapse of a dam that killed dozens of villagers. He also remembered those who suffered in other floods around the country.
President Bounnhang hailed the solidarity of the Party, state, armed forces and the Lao multiethnic people, who are united in fulfilling the Resolution adopted by the 10th Party Congress and the five-year National Socio-economic Development Plan (2016-2020).
This wholehearted participation has contributed significantly and enabled the country to enjoy strong political stability, social security, continuous economic growth, and improved living conditions.
Of particular note this year were leaders and the Lao multiethnic people’s involvement in grand events to mark the 50th anniversary of Viengxay as the revolutionary stronghold and the 70th anniversary of the Lao People’s Army.
The achievements made have bolstered the confidence of the Lao people and international friends in the Party’s leadership.
“These have raised our country’s profile in the international arena,” President Bounnhang said. All of these successes promise a favourable outlook for the upcoming year, which is significant in realising the Resolution of the 10th Party Congress and the five-year National Socio-economic Development Plan over the remaining period.
The president underlined the need for all parties to prepare for the upcoming 11th Party Congress, while creating new turning points, new driving forces and new conditions to propel the nation towards prosperity.
“May I take this opportunity to call on Lao compatriots of all ethnic groups, Party cadres, officials, soldiers and police officers to collectively preserve and enhance the tradition of cohesive solidarity, uphold the compatriotic spirit, and actively enhance the sound traditions of Laos and the Lao people,” President Bounnhang said.
On this occasion, Party and state leaders invited Lao and foreign tourists to visit the country’s tourist attractions, which showcase Laos’ historic, natural and cultural charms, and to enjoy the nation’s colourful culture and customs. The president hoped that the year 2562 – the Year of the Pig - would bring luck, new successes and wellbeing to the entire Lao people. 

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update April 12, 2019)