(KPL) A meeting to commend the outcomes of the 12th National Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party was held on January 9, 2026, at the National Culture Hall in Vientiane Capital. The meeting was attended by General Secretary Thongloun Sisoulith, senior Party leaders, and Party members.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Anouphab Tunalom highlighted the key outcomes and strategic directions adopted by the 12th Party Congress, emphasizing their significance for national development and the socialist-oriented path of the Lao PDR.

Key Outcomes and Strategic Directions of the 12th Party Congress

Adoption of the 3rd Political Program

The Congress approved the 3rd Political Program, consisting of 11 key points, which serves as the Party’s long-term strategic vision for the transition toward socialism.

The program includes a comprehensive review of the implementation of the 2nd Political Program, covering the periods of national liberation, national defense and construction, as well as the Renovation era.

Looking ahead to 2055, marking the 100th anniversary of the Party, Laos aims to become a high middle-income country approaching high-income status, supported by a modern economy and a strong political system.

Evaluation of the 2021–2025 Period

The Congress noted that despite global and domestic challenges, the country has maintained fundamental socio-economic stability, successfully controlled inflation, managed macroeconomic imbalances, and avoided major national crises, while continuing steady progress across all sectors.

Vision and Goals for Future Development

The Party will continue to advance under the guiding principle of strengthening Party leadership, building an independent and self-reliant economy, and reinforcing the People’s Democratic Regime toward socialism.

Key development milestones include graduating from Least Developed Country status by 2030, maintaining GDP growth of at least 6 percent, and developing seven priority economic sectors.

During the 2026–2035 period, emphasis will be placed on modernizing state administration, promoting digital transformation, and reducing public debt. By 2055, the goal is to ensure a high standard of living for all ethnic groups nationwide.

Key Breakthroughs and Reforms

To achieve these objectives, the Congress identified several major breakthroughs, including administrative reform to simplify bureaucracy and enhance transparency, a shift from a consumer-based economy to a production-oriented economy, diversification of energy sources beyond hydropower, reform of the education system to a 6+3+3 structure, and ensuring access to basic healthcare services at village and community levels.

Foreign Policy Orientation

The Congress reaffirmed Laos’ foreign policy of peace, independence, friendship, and cooperation. This includes strengthening the great friendship and special solidarity with Vietnam, expanding the comprehensive strategic partnership with China, reinforcing traditional relations with Russia and Cambodia, and promoting multilateral cooperation and peaceful conflict resolution.

New Party Leadership

The Congress elected a new Central Committee for the 12th tenure, with Thongloun Sisoulith re-elected as General Secretary. The Politburo consists of 13 members, including one woman, while the Secretariat comprises 11 members, including four women. Vansay Phongsavanh was elected Chairman of the Inspection Committee.

Summary

The 12th Party Congress underscores self-reliance and economic independence as central pillars for addressing current financial challenges and guiding the Lao PDR toward a modern, socialist-oriented future.

KPL