On 16 February 2026 in Luang Prabang Province, H.E. Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the National Regulatory Authority for the UXO/Mine Action Sector in the Lao PDR (NRA), together with his delegation, visited the new office and visitor center of UXO Lao and observed on-site activities addressing unexploded ordnance (UXO) contamination in Luang Prabang, as part of preparations for the Lao PDR to host and chair the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions.

The mission aimed to strengthen capacity in implementing the strategic plans of the NRA and to monitor the progress of UXO survey and clearance activities, including compliance with the updated 2025-National Standards by humanitarian uxo/mine action operators.

The delegation visited a UXO Lao clearance site in Hadkhor Village, Pak-Ou District, and observed UXO-contaminated areas in Phik Yai Village, Luang Prabang City. A site has been designated for field visits by high-level delegates as part of preparations for the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, scheduled to take place from 14–18 September 2026 in Vientiane Capital under the theme:

“Accelerating Progress Towards a World Free from the Threat of Cluster Munitions.” The conference is expected to bring together approximately 700–900 delegates from more than 150 countries.

“Lao PDR’s role as host country and chair of the conference reflects not only a diplomatic responsibility, but also a significant international commitment rooted in the nation’s history and its strong determination to build a safer future free from the threat of unexploded ordnance” said by H.E. Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane.