Lao PDR Fully Prepared to Host Third Review Conference on Cluster Munitions

Ms. Mukdavanh Sisoulith, Director General of the Department of International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Head of the Secretariat of the Lao National Regulatory Authority, announced that the Lao authorities have completed comprehensive preparations to ensure the successful organization of the Third Review Conference on Cluster Munitions (CCM), scheduled to take place in Vientiane from September 14-18, 2026. Speaking to the media, she stated that since early 2026, Lao authorities have worked closely with the Convention on Cluster Munitions Implementation Support Unit (ISU-CCM) and the United Nations in preparing for the conference. Preparations encompass substantive and technical matters, logistics, reception arrangements, and security. The government has also established a National Steering Committee, supported by specialized working groups, to strengthen coordination among relevant ministries and agencies and to regularly monitor progress. Substantive preparations are proceeding as scheduled. The Host Country Agreement between the Lao PDR and the United Nations has been signed, while negotiations on key outcome documents, including the Vientiane Capital Action Plan (VCAP 2027–2031) and the Political Declaration, are in their final stages. These documents are expected to be submitted to States Parties for consideration and formal adoption during the conference. A large number of high-level delegations from around the world are expected to attend, and invitations and conference documents have already been circulated to States Parties and relevant international organizations. Preparations at the conference venue and related facilities are also nearing completion, with government agencies and the private sector working together to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place. Ms. Mukdavanh expressed confidence that the Lao PDR will successfully fulfill its responsibilities as President and host, drawing on its experience in hosting international conferences and the strong cooperation of domestic stakeholders and international development partners. She reaffirmed the Lao PDR’s commitment to ensuring that the conference is conducted effectively and contributes to the country’s responsibilities under the Convention on Cluster Munitions. Under its one-party system, Laos is demonstrating a commitment to international cooperation. Participation in treaties concerning inhumane weapons like cluster munitions is seen as part of its foreign policy aimed at adhering to international norms and building trust within the global community. While Laos has deepened relations with neighboring major powers such as China and Vietnam in recent years, it also seeks to maintain and strengthen ties with Western countries and international organizations. Hosting this conference could serve as an opportunity to enhance Laos's profile on the international stage and expand its diplomatic influence. Economically, Laos remains a developing country with pressing issues such as infrastructure development and poverty reduction. While hosting international conferences can be expected to boost tourism revenue and related industries, the economic benefits may be limited. Furthermore, the Lao economy is heavily reliant on investment and aid from China, making the dynamics of its relationship with China a factor influencing economic stability. Information source: KPL Laos News