The Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Programme (UXO Lao) was honoured to welcome delegates attending the Third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions to its field operations site in Phik Yai Village, Luang Prabang City, Luang Prabang Province.

H.E. Mr. Anouphab Vongnorkeo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR and Vice-Chairman and Standing Vice-Chairman of the National Regulatory Authority for UXO/Mine Action Sector in the Lao PDR, led a delegation of conference participants and representatives of the Luang Prabang provincial authorities, totalling nearly 300 participants, on a field visit to observe first-hand the ongoing efforts to address the UXO contamination problem.

The visit provided an opportunity for the delegates to witness the realities of UXO contamination in the Lao PDR, which continues to pose a serious threat to the lives, livelihoods and well-being of Lao people across the country, while also hindering the socio-economic development of the Lao PDR.

Mr. Anousak Phongsa, National Programme Director of UXO Lao, briefed the visiting delegates on the organization’s field operations, key achievements, and the support provided by development partners and international organisations from the establishment of UXO Lao to the present day.

At the same time, an Area Clearance Team Leader also provided a detailed briefing on the implementation of field clearance activities in Phik Yai Village, giving all delegates an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the operational conditions and progress on the ground.

UXO Lao would like to express its sincere appreciation and profound gratitude to all development partners and international organisations for their continued support to UXO Lao throughout the years. We sincerely hope that all partners will continue to provide their support and further strengthen cooperation in the years ahead, working together to build a safer future for the Lao PDR.