Laos Calls for Enhanced International Cooperation on Cluster Munitions at Review Conference

VIENTIANE, September 14, 2026 — Under overcast skies and light rain, Vientiane welcomed delegates from around the world on September 14 for the opening of the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), bringing together countries and organizations united by a common goal: building a world free of cluster munitions and their deadly remnants. On the first day of the conference, Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR and President of the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), hosted high-level foreign delegation heads at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane. Discussions then focused on reviewing progress and challenges in addressing cluster munitions. On September 15, a high-level session chaired by Mr. Anoupharb Vongnorkeo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice-President and Standing Member of the Lao National Regulatory Authority for the UXO/Mine Action Sector (NRA), focused on evaluating the core objectives of the Convention and accelerating global efforts toward a world free from cluster munitions. Key Highlights from the Lao Delegation Ms. Mukdavanh Sisoulith, Director General of the Department of International Organizations, outlined three critical paths forward: strengthening diplomatic outreach in the Asia-Pacific, upholding strict humanitarian and international norms against cluster munitions, and deepening collaboration with international bodies, the Implementation Support Unit (ISU), and youth networks. Presenting on behalf of the NRA, Mr. Bounpheng Sisavath shared significant operational updates. In 2025 alone, the Lao PDR inspected over 6,879 hectares and destroyed more than 73,000 UXO items, including nearly 69,000 submunitions (bombies). Over the past eight months, teams have cleared an additional 4,285 hectares and neutralized over 49,000 explosive items. Side Events A major highlight of the day was a formal signing ceremony for the Declaration of Intent to accede to the Convention by Timor-Leste, marking a vital step forward in regional universalization. The Lao delegation also actively participated in several thematic side events, focusing on bilateral cooperation with Japan, integrating environmental considerations and climate resilience into the Vientiane Action Plan, upgrading survey methodologies, and celebrating the opening of MAG Laos’ art exhibition, "Land and Memory: Living with UXO in the Lao PDR." Throughout the venue, key operational stakeholders—including UXO Lao, Center 523, MAG, NPA, Humanity & Inclusion, The HALO Trust, Terra Renaissance, and the UNDP—hosted interactive exhibitions to raise awareness and showcase ongoing humanitarian mine action partnerships. Separately, delegations from the Lao PDR and the Russian Federation held bilateral negotiations and reached consensus on the draft treaty concerning the mutual protection of citizens of the two countries. The President of the State Audit Organization of the Lao PDR also received Vice Presidents from Vietnam’s Regional State Audit Offices. Laos has called for stronger international cooperation, increased funding, and accelerated action to address the continuing threat posed by cluster munitions and unexploded ordnance (UXO). Source: KPL Laos News