Lao PDR Urges Stronger International Action on Cluster Munitions Threat

Vientiane, September 14, 2026 — The Lao PDR has called for stronger international cooperation, increased funding, and accelerated action to address the continuing threat posed by cluster munitions and unexploded ordnance (UXO), as the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) continued its High-Level Segment in Vientiane on September 14. The High-Level Segment was chaired by Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, who outlined the main objectives of the conference, including reviewing progress in implementing the Convention and establishing priorities for future cooperation. He called on States Parties and the international community to translate the Convention into concrete results, strengthen solidarity with affected countries, and put people and survivors at the centre of efforts. He also stressed the need to accelerate implementation, expand UXO clearance, strengthen risk education and victim assistance, promote universalisation of the Convention, and mobilise greater international support and funding. Speaking on behalf of the Lao PDR delegation, Mr. Anoupharb Vongnorkeo, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, said UXO contamination continues to threaten lives and hinder socio-economic development in the country. He noted that the Lao Government has made addressing the UXO problem a long-term national priority, reflected in Sustainable Development Goal 18, “Lives Safe from UXO.” Mr. Anoupharb highlighted the impact of limited resources on UXO clearance operations and called for sustained international cooperation and financial support. He reaffirmed the Lao PDR’s commitment to the conference’s key outcome—the adoption of the Vientiane Capital Action Plan 2027–2031 as a roadmap for cooperation over the next five years. The High-Level Segment also heard statements from Mrs. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP); Mr. Jürg Lauber, Vice President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC); and representatives of the Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC). The speakers reaffirmed international support for the Convention and commended the Lao PDR for its longstanding role in the treaty process, including hosting the 1st Meeting of States Parties in 2010. High-level representatives from Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Viet Nam, and Thailand also delivered statements reaffirming their commitment to the Convention and stressing the importance of regional and international cooperation in translating its objectives into practical results. On the evening of September 14, Mr. Thongsavanh hosted an official welcome dinner on behalf of the Government of the Lao PDR for participating delegations. The reception provided an opportunity for delegates to exchange views and experience Lao cultural performances. The 3RC-CCM is being held in Vientiane from September 14–18, 2026. Participants are expected to negotiate and adopt three key outcome documents: the Review Document on implementation of the Convention, the Vientiane Capital Action Plan 2027–2031, and a Political Declaration setting out the Convention’s priorities for the next five years. The conference represents an important step in strengthening global efforts to eliminate the threat posed by cluster munitions and support affected communities.