(KPL) The official launch ceremony of the Digital Citizen Management and Identity Card System was held on July 30, 2025, marking a significant step in the Lao PDR’s journey toward digital transformation.

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from both Laos and Vietnam, including General Vilay Lakhamphong, Member of the Politburo of the Central Committee, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Public Security of the Lao PDR, and General Luong Tam Quang, Member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam and Minister of Public Security of Vietnam. Also present were Mr. Boviengkham Vongdara, Minister of Technology and Communications, deputy ministers, senior officials from both Ministries of Public Security, and other relevant parties.

In his address, General Vilay Lakhamphong emphasized the importance of the launch, stating that the digital citizen management and identity card system will be uniformly implemented from central to local levels. He noted that the project reflects the vision set forth by the Presidents of Laos and Vietnam, who jointly pressed the symbolic launch button on July 11, 2024.

“This system is a crucial step in turning the government’s vision for a digital government, digital economy, and digital society into reality,” General Vilay stated. He added that the system would enhance national capacity in governance, security, and socio-economic development.

The project, which is funded and supported by the Government and Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam, aims to establish a centralized citizen database and chip-embedded identity card system. General Vilay extended gratitude to the Vietnamese side for their generous and wholehearted cooperation.

Senior Lieutenant General Khamking Phuylamanyvong, Deputy Minister of Public Security, highlighted that a digital citizen database is essential for national defense, public security, and economic development. He emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to integrating modern technology and expressed appreciation for the Vietnamese government's assistance in this strategic initiative.

“The success of this project opens a new chapter in our history,” he said. “It will further strengthen the special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between our two Parties, States, and peoples—especially between the public security forces of Laos and Vietnam.”

As part of the event, medals and certificates of appreciation were presented to outstanding provincial and district police forces who contributed to the implementation of the project. In addition, the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam donated 3 vehicles and 244 motorcycles to support Laos’ public security efforts. The donation was handed over by General Luong Tam Quang and received by General Vilay Lakhamphong.

Following the ceremony, the dignitaries toured an exhibition showcasing the capabilities of the new chip-embedded ID card, including demonstrations on digital mapping, system functionalities, and management procedures.

The launch represents a key milestone in the modernization of Laos’ public security infrastructure and lays the foundation for improved administrative efficiency, citizen services, and regional cooperation in digital governance.

KPL