KPL
The Embassy of the Republic of Turkiye to the Lao PDR hosted a warm diplomatic reception in Vientiane on Oct. 29 to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Turkiye.
The elegant evening served not only as a celebration of a historic national milestone but also as a testament to the enduring friendship and expanding bilateral cooperation between Ankara and Vientiane.
The prestigious event was graciously hosted by the Turkish Ambassador to the Lao PDR, Oya Yasar. The celebration drew a distinguished gathering of high-ranking Lao government officials, foreign envoys, and prominent members of civil society.
Representing the Government of the Lao PDR as the guest of honour was the Minister of Technology and Communications Santisouk Simmalavong. Demonstrating the importance of the diplomatic relationship, the function was also attended by the President of the Lao Federation of Trade Unions Khamphoy Vanasan, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Maythong Thammavongsa, members of the international diplomatic corps, media representatives, and several local and foreign dignitaries.
In her welcoming remarks, Ambassador Yasar noted that Turkiye and Laos enjoy 68 years of uninterrupted diplomatic relations, and that the two countries have been steadily strengthening their ties based on mutual respect and a shared desire to deepen cooperation.
She also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand Turkiye’s multi-sectoral collaboration with Laos, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, agriculture, tourism, cultural heritage, disaster management, capacity building, and the empowerment of communities.

A central highlight of the evening’s event was a special video address delivered by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Shown to the attentive audience, the comprehensive speech reflected on the remarkable 103-year journey of the Republic since its foundational establishment on October 29, 1923.
President Erdogan highlighted that the nation is confidently moving toward a more prosperous future by expanding its domestic defense capabilities, developing its own technology, modernizing transport infrastructure, and strengthening energy security. He emphasized that these milestones have made the country more respected and influential.
The President also called upon all 86 million citizens to unite around shared national values to turn the "Turkiye Century" vision into a reality.
Following the formal proceedings, guests were invited to taste a curated selection of authentic Turkish cuisine, fostering warm and constructive interactions among the attendees. The 103rd anniversary celebration successfully marked a momentous occasion for the Turkish people, while simultaneously reinforcing the steadily strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural bridges connecting the Republic of Turkiye and the Lao PDR.
KPL