Laos Accelerates Preparations for Cluster Munitions Review Conference, Reaffirming Commitment

The Lao government is stepping up preparations for the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) Review Conference, scheduled to be held in Vientiane from September 13-18, 2026. This conference, held every five years, serves as a platform to assess the implementation of the treaty and strengthen international cooperation. As the country most heavily affected by cluster munitions, Laos will use this major international event to reaffirm its commitment to addressing the humanitarian impact of unexploded ordnance. Preparations are being led by Anouparb Vongnorkeo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice President of the National Committee for the Management and Resolution of the Unexploded Ordnance Problem in the Lao PDR. More than 100 members of the national steering committee and its subcommittees attended a meeting to review preparations. These include programme content, registration, venue arrangements, protocol, security, transportation, publicity, health services, finance, exhibitions, volunteer management, and logistical support. Officials also reported that preparations for a field visit to a UXO clearance site in Luang Prabang Province on September 13 are progressing well. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has conducted regular inspections in coordination with provincial authorities to ensure readiness. In his closing remarks, Anouparb called on all committees to complete their assigned responsibilities thoroughly to ensure the conference is organized efficiently and meets international standards. The hosting of this conference by Laos, a one-party state that maintains close relations with China and Vietnam, underscores its long-standing commitment to addressing the legacy of unexploded ordnance. It serves as an opportunity to demonstrate to the international community its continued engagement and determination to resolve this issue. Economically, the clearance of UXO is crucial for development, directly impacting the nation's economic progress. Source: KPL Laos News