Dr Sonexay Siphandone (centre), Mr Anouparb Vongnorkeo (left), and Mr Bakhodir Burkhanov unveil commemorative stamps marking 70 years of Laos’ membership in the United Nations.

Laos, UN mark 70-year partnership, pledge to deepen ties

Laos and the United Nations have celebrated 70 years of partnership,  highlighting support for youth, sustainable development, and future cooperation.
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone led the special ceremony at UN House in Vientiane, joined by senior government leaders, development partners, members of the diplomatic community, and young people.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Anouparb Vongnorkeo said the anniversary was a chance to reflect on shared achievements and strengthen cooperation as Laos works towards its long-term development goals.
He said the support of United Nations agencies has played an important role in improving livelihoods, reducing poverty, and protecting the environment.
This partnership has also helped build national resilience, support human resource development, and advance Laos’ goal to graduate from Least Developed Country status.
The deputy minister said Laos endorsed the Pact for the Future in September last year as part of its ongoing commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Laos will continue to align National Socio-Economic Development Plans with these goals, with a focus on climate resilience, access to new technology, and stronger cooperation to support countries in vulnerable situations, he added.
“Young people and future generations are an important driving force for national development,” he was quoted as saying.
People under the age of 30 make up 60 percent of the population, giving Laos a unique opportunity to build on the energy and creativity of young people, he added.
He praised Lao youth for designing the logo that marks the 70th anniversary, saying it shows their talent and growing engagement in national development.
United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr Bakhodir Burkhanov, said UN House symbolises the long-standing trust between Laos and the United Nations.
“Partners are always welcome here and this, too, reflects the spirit of international cooperation and solidarity that has characterised Laos’ 70 years in the United Nations.”
Mr Burkhanov said the United Nations stands ready to continue supporting Laos as it enters a new phase of development. UN House, built on land provided by the Lao government, symbolises the trust and friendship that both sides have nurtured for seven decades, he added.
Future cooperation will place greater emphasis on climate resilience, new technologies, innovation and sustainable financing.
Mr Burkhanov said the United Nations will continue to support Laos in strengthening human capital, improving access to services, and ensuring a smooth and sustainable graduation from Least Developed Country status.
Both sides agreed that young people will be central to future cooperation, as Laos has one of the youngest populations in Southeast Asia.
Laos became a member of the United Nations in 1955, at a time when the organisation counted just 60 members, compared to 193 today.
Following the establishment of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in 1975, after periods of colonial transition and conflict, the new government adopted a foreign policy grounded in peace, mutual respect and international cooperation.
Over the ensuing decades, Laos has worked to strengthen its institutions and has made notable progress in reducing poverty, improving maternal and child health, and enhancing access to education.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update November 27, 2025)