Vientiane International Airport to have major upgrade as Laos, JICA ink grant agreement

A new chapter in the development of Vientiane International Airport was marked with the signing of a grant agreement between the Lao Ministry of Planning and Investment and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Laos Office on Wednesday.

Ms Sisomboun Ounavong (right) and Ms Miyako Kobayashi display signed agreements on the development of Vientiane International Airport.

The ambitious project aims to deliver significant improvements to one of Laos’ most important gateways to the world.
The project, valued at approximately 2.8 billion yen (around US$20 million), will focus on expanding the International Passenger Terminal, rehabilitating the taxiway and apron pavement, and installing a new airfield lighting system.
These upgrades are expected to make air travel more convenient and safer for passengers and airlines alike, while further strengthening Laos’ connection to the global community.
Highlighting the importance of the contribution of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) in Laos’ development was the Director General of the Department of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Planning and Investment, Ms Sisomboun Ounavong. 
“Japan’s ODA is a significant contributor to bilateral cooperation, and this project aligns closely with the Lao PDR’s 9th Five-Year National Socio-Economic Development Plan, particularly in its focus on infrastructure development.”
The Laos-Japan partnership is vital for achieving the country’s long-term growth objectives, Ms Sisomboun said.
JICA Laos Office Chief Representative Ms Miyako Kobayashi expressed her pride in the collaboration between Japan and Laos in her remarks at the signing ceremony.
“The Government of Japan has provided support for the development of Vientiane International Airport, commonly known as Wattay Airport, since the 1970s, for airport renovations, expansion, human resource development, and other areas over the years.”
“This signing ceremony is a significant milestone, not only for Wattay Airport, but also for the long-standing partnership between our two countries. We are honoured to contribute to Laos’ growth and connectivity through this important project,” Ms Kobayashi said.
Wattay Airport will continue to be a symbol of friendship between Japan and Laos, well utilised and loved by the people of Laos for many years to come, she said.
The improvements come at a crucial time with the capital’s main airport playing a key role in accommodating the increasing number of travellers, including tourists, business visitors, and international delegates.
Upon completion, representatives of both sides believe that the upgraded airport will further boost Laos’ role as a regional hub, attracting more visitors, helping to drive economic growth and supporting the nation’s vision for a brighter future.

By Viengdavanh Banphahaksa
 (Latest Update November 1, 2024)