(KPL) The Lao Red Cross and the Singapore Red Cross agreed to strengthen bilateral ties and expand humanitarian collaboration during a high-level meeting held on March 16, 2026, in Vientiane.

The talks were led by Khamlavanh Chanthalavanh and Benjamin William, with both sides reviewing recent progress and outlining priority areas for future cooperation.

A key milestone highlighted during the meeting was the elevation of the Lao Red Cross in 2025 to an institution with ministerial-equivalent status, a move that has enhanced its capacity to deliver across its core humanitarian mandates, including disaster response, blood services, primary healthcare, and emergency rescue.

The Lao Red Cross also reported ongoing disaster risk reduction programmes in 10 provinces, supported by international partners, with plans to expand coverage further. In 2025, the organization provided unconditional cash assistance to more than 6,800 families—around 40,000 people—affected by severe flooding in six provinces.

Under the strengthened partnership, both organizations agreed to prioritize cooperation in disaster preparedness through training, simulation exercises, and improved management of emergency stockpiles. Additional areas include community health initiatives, particularly water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) projects in Luang Namtha Province and Luang Prabang Province, as well as digital transformation and volunteer management systems.

The two sides also plan to expand training opportunities through collaboration with Singapore-based institutions.

The meeting concluded with the signing of a bilateral cooperation agreement between Chanthachone Manithip and Benjamin William, witnessed by the Singaporean Ambassador to the Lao PDR and senior officials from both organizations

KPL