Thousands of athletes, coaches, referees, and tens of thousands of spectators gathered at the main stadium on Saturday to witness the opening of the country's largest multi-sport event, which is being held under the slogan: “United, Disciplined, Transparent, Developed.”

An aerial parachute display by the Lao Air Force’s 306th Battalion marked the start of the ceremony, followed by musical and dance performances featuring well-known Lao artists. A colourful parade of athletes and officials from 21 provincial and ministerial teams then entered the stadium.

The torch relay, a symbolic highlight of the event, concluded with the lighting of the cauldron, signalling the official start of the Games. A fireworks display brought the ceremony to a close, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.

Vientiane Mayor Athsaphangthong Siphandone, who also chairs the 12th National Games Organising Committee, said the event would run until 25 November and feature 33 sports. A total of 9,485 participants are involved, including 4,065 registered athletes competing for 1,563 medals – 432 gold, 432 silver, and 699 bronze.

The mascot of this year’s Games is a peacock, symbolising agility and progress.

The Games, held every three years and rotated among Lao provinces, aim to promote national unity, health, and sporting excellence. The 11th Games were hosted by Xiengkhouang Province in 2022.

Vientiane was given the honour this year as part of the government’s commitment to decentralised development and wider public participation in sport.

KPL