Luang Prabang – The opening ceremony of UXO Lao’s renovated Visitor Center was held today, on August 19, 2024, marking a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to raise awareness about Unexploded Ordnance (UXO).

The ceremony was graced by the presence of esteemed representatives from the International Organization Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and from Department of Labor and Social Welfare, and the Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism of Luang Prabang Province. Representatives from international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), and media outlets were also in attendance. UXO Lao also invited teachers and students from Souphanouvong University, to raise awareness among younger generation about the dangers of UXO and its profound impact on the livelihoods of the Lao people.

At the ceremony, Mr. Anousak Phongsa, UXO Lao National Programme Director delivered his speech “We really hope that the UXO Visitor Center will be a part of Lao historical education, that will be useful for new generation and general domestic and foreign visitors learn the impact of war and UXO issues in Lao PDR. I would like to express my gratitude the Government of Ireland, KOICA and UNDP for supporting the renovation of UXO Visitor Center”.

This renovation of the Visitor Center was carried out under the guidance from Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with assistance from Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and the government of Ireland, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Located in the historical area of Luang Prabang, the UXO Lao Visitor Center is recognized as a key tourist attraction in Lao PDR. The center has been playing a crucial role in raising awareness, educating the public and mobilizing further support for UXO/mine action initiatives in the country.