(KPL) Laos will prioritize cultural economic development over the next five years, leveraging its rich cultural heritage to promote sustainable economic growth and social development.

The direction was highlighted during the Government’s Second Open Meeting of 2025, held on January 13, 2026. At the meeting, Minister of Culture and Tourism Suansavanh Viyaket outlined key priorities aligned with the resolutions of the 12th National Party Congress and the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan.

The strategy focuses on transforming cultural assets into economic value while ensuring strict protection and preservation. Priority measures include strengthening the management of UNESCO World Heritage sites and national heritage areas, while promoting their responsible economic use for the benefit of society and local communities.

The ministry will also work to strengthen national identity by standardizing the Lao language and revitalizing traditional arts, literature, and cultural values of all ethnic groups.

In the tourism sector, Laos will advance sustainable development under the “Green Industry” framework. Plans include developing tourism products that integrate natural beauty, historical sites, and ethnic traditions, improving coordination between government management and market demands, and enhancing links between domestic tourism and regional travel routes to attract more international visitors.

The five-year plan also emphasizes promoting a modern and civilized lifestyle, encouraging creativity, ethics, and discipline, while reducing outdated beliefs, wasteful practices, and social inefficiencies.

Minister Suansavanh stressed that economic development must go hand in hand with spiritual and cultural values to ensure stable and sustainable national development.

KPL