The Government of Japan has made a significant contribution to the UXO/Mine Action Sector by providing vehicles and equipment to the National Regulatory Authority for UXO/Mine Action Sector in Lao PDR (NRA) and the Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Programme (UXO Lao) through the Crown Agents Japan, with total assistance amounting to 540,000,000 yen, or approximately 3,700,000 million US dollars.

The handover ceremony took place on 11 December 2025 at the UXO Lao Headquarters in Vientiane Capital, with the distinguished presence of H.E. Mrs. Keo Chanthavixay, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, and H.E. Mr. Koizumi Tsutomu, Ambassador of Japan to the Lao PDR. The event was also attended by representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, the NRA Office, UXO Lao Headquarters, the Embassy of Japan to the Lao PDR, and Toyota Laos.

This assistance demonstrates the honest commitment of the Government of Japan in supporting the efforts of the Government of the Lao PDR to address the UXO problem which continues to pose a serious threat to the lives of the Lao people of all ethnic groups and to hinder the socio-economic development of the country. Therefore, this support not only represents humanitarian support but also reflects the strong and longstanding relationship between the two governments, further reaffirmed when Laos and Japan elevated their bilateral relations to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” in January 2025.

UXO Lao expresses its deep gratitude and appreciation to the Government and the People of Japan for their consistently provided support to the Lao PDR whether in financial assistance, human resources, technical expertise and various equipment that contributing directly to the Government of Lao PDR’s efforts at all priority areas, including the UXO clearance.