Lao Red Cross, ICRC Reaffirm Commitment to Humanitarian Cooperation

The Lao Red Cross (LRC) President, Khamlavan Chanthavanh, met with a delegation led by Jürg Lauber, Vice President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), at the Lao Red Cross headquarters on September 14, 2026, reaffirming their commitment to continued humanitarian cooperation. During the meeting, Mr. Khamlavan briefed the delegation on the long-standing cooperation between the Lao Red Cross and the ICRC, including recent humanitarian activities and regional engagements. He highlighted the participation of a Lao Red Cross delegation in the 23rd Southeast Asia Red Cross and Red Crescent Leaders Meeting in Myanmar from September 7–9. He also outlined the Lao Red Cross’s humanitarian work in support of vulnerable communities affected by disasters, carried out in coordination with government agencies, the private sector and international partners. He reaffirmed the organisation’s readiness to further strengthen cooperation with the ICRC. Mr. Lauber expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and commended the Lao Red Cross for its humanitarian contributions and cooperation with the ICRC. He reaffirmed the ICRC’s commitment to maintaining close cooperation and supporting humanitarian activities in the Lao PDR. The two sides also exchanged views on humanitarian work and ways to further strengthen cooperation for the benefit of vulnerable people and communities. Beneath the tranquil and verdant landscapes of the Lao PDR lies a lingering shadow—millions of unexploded ordnance (UXO) left behind from decades of conflict. While international treaties and dedicated clearance operations strive to heal the scarred land, the true measure of this hidden crisis is etched deep into the lives of survivors whose extraordinary courage continues to inspire many of us. The 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), being held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, from September 14–18, 2026, represents a critical milestone in turning political commitments into concrete, measurable actions. Several Lao companies and financial institutions have provided nearly 7 billion kip in financial and in-kind support for the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (3RC-CCM), being held in Vientiane from September 14–18, 2026. Authorities in Boten Zone, Luang Namtha Province, have seized 35,600 e-cigarettes concealed among other goods during an operation to crack down on the illegal transport of e-cigarettes. Information Source: KPL Laos News