(KPL) Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Laos, serving as Chair and Secretariat of the National Regulatory Authority for the UXO/Mine Action Sector, held a ceremony on April 1, 2026, in Vientiane to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

The event was organized in collaboration with the Lao People's Revolutionary Youth Union, with support from the Government of Ireland and the United Nations Development Programme. It brought together government officials, diplomats, representatives of UN agencies and international organizations, as well as students from five secondary schools.

Thongly Sisoulith, Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Youth Union, attended the event.

Moukdavanh Sisoulith, Director General of the International Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Head of the NRA Secretariat, said April 4 was designated by the United Nations in 2005 to raise awareness of the dangers of unexploded ordnance (UXO).

This year’s theme, “Invest in Peace, Invest in Mine Action,” highlights the importance of sustained support for mine action efforts.

The event focused on youth engagement, featuring practical demonstrations of survey and clearance techniques conducted under strict safety standards. Educational sessions covered the history of UXO contamination in Laos, the Convention on Cluster Munitions, risk education, and victim assistance.

The celebration also serves as a lead-up to a major international event. Laos will host the Third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions from September 13 to 18, 2026, in Vientiane.

Hosting the conference is described as a “return to the home of the Convention,” as Vientiane hosted the first Meeting of States Parties. The event is expected to strengthen Laos’ leadership in humanitarian efforts and mobilize international funding and technical support to address remaining UXO challenges.

To promote youth participation, the NRA Secretariat launched a nationwide painting competition titled “Messages to the Past and Future.”

The competition is open to artists and young people aged 9 to 35, with submissions accepted until July 19, 2026. Winners will receive scholarships worth 10 million kip.

KPL