A visitor enjoying the refreshing atmosphere by the waterfall at Namkat Yorla Pa in Oudomxay province.  --Photo Namkat Yorla Pa

Laos at 50: A journey of change, progress and national pride

As Laos celebrates the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic on December 2, the nation pauses to look back at a journey filled with resilience, development, and collective pride.
For many Lao citizens, this golden milestone is more than a celebration, it is a reflection of how far the country has come and a reminder of the determination that has guided the nation over the past half-century.
Fifty years ago, Laos stood at the starting point of nation-building. Today, the country has transformed its landscape, strengthened its unity, and steadily improved the living standards of people across all ethnic groups.
Under the leadership of the Party and state, Laos has enjoyed political stability, independence, and territorial integrity, which have allowed the country to move forward with confidence.
The capital, Vientiane, will celebrate the day in grand style on December 2, bringing together thousands of people from all walks of life. For many, this historic day carries deep emotional meaning: it is a time to honour the extraordinary achievements of the past 50 years, from peace and stability to growing international recognition.

The Vientiane-Vangvieng expressway.  --Photo Phoonsab

Growing presence on the international stage
Laos’ voice in the global community has grown significantly. Over the years, the country has been an active and respected member of major international organisations, including the United Nations, ASEAN, the WTO, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Group of 77. It also participates in cooperation mechanisms such as the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), ASEM, ACMECS, and the Belt and Road Initiative.
One of the proudest moments came in 2024, when Laos assumed the ASEAN Chair for the third time and successfully hosted the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits. The chosen theme, “Increasing ASEAN Connectivity and Strength”, highlighted Laos’ commitment to unity and regional cooperation.
As of 2025, the country has diplomatic relations with 151 nations, strengthening friendships around the world.
Economic growth and rising living standards
Economic development has been one of the most visible transformations. Average income per capita reached US$2,664 in 2020, a remarkable increase from 1985, showing clear improvement in people’s livelihoods.
Between 2021 and 2025, sectors such as energy, agriculture, industry, tourism, IT, logistics and regional processing were the key drivers of sustainable growth. Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith recently highlighted these achievements at the 10th Ordinary Session of the National Assembly.
Total state revenue over the five-year period reached 251,910 billion kip, surpassing the National Assembly’s target by 16 percent.
Laos’ upgraded infrastructure has also played a vital role. New roads, expressways, airports, urban development projects, and special economic zones have strengthened regional connectivity.
The Laos-China Railway has been one of the most transformative achievements, carrying 3.8 million passengers and transporting 4.78 million tonnes of freight in 2024 alone. The railway has generated more than 52 billion kip in service fees and helped Laos become a growing logistics hub.
The country’s access to the sea has also improved through the use of new facilities at Vietnam’s Vung Ang seaport, opening further doors for trade and transport.
Tourism revival
Following the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, tourism has made a strong recovery. The Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign attracted 4.12 million foreign tourists and generated US$1.42 billion in revenue. Domestic travel also surged, with nearly four million Lao citizens exploring their own country. These numbers reflect both improved infrastructure and a renewed appreciation for the natural and cultural beauty of Laos.
The United Nations has recommended that Laos graduate from Least Developed Country status in 2026, a major milestone that underscores decades of effort and national progress.
As part of the country’s 50th anniversary celebrations, 24 units from the Ministry of National Defence, Ministry of Public Security and other entities comprising several hundred people will gather at the That Luang esplanade to take part in a spectacular parade.
For the people of Laos, the celebration is not just a ceremony. It is a tribute to the country’s enduring peace, unity and development since 1975. It is a time to honour the past, celebrate the present and look forward to a future full of hope — a future built on the strong foundations laid over the last 50 years.

By Khonesavanh Latsaphao
(Latest Update December 1, 2025)