Laos and the European Union (EU) celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations on 10 December 2025 in Vientiane, attended by high-level leaders and diplomatic missions.
Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Lao Government, and Mr. Mark Gallagher, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the European Union to the Lao PDR, on behalf of the EU, presided over the grand celebration, with heads of departments, ambassadors and invited guests in attendance.
In their remarks, both sides expressed their appreciation for the achievements of the continuously growing cooperation based on trust, respect and mutual benefits.
Bilateral cooperation has achieved remarkable achievements in many areas, such as: Political exchanges of high-level delegations have continued to promote political relations between the two sides; In the economic sphere, both sides have made every effort to increase trade and investment value
by encouraging businesspeople and investors to explore opportunities in potential sectors; in the socio-cultural sphere, the EU has provided continuous assistance and has made significant contributions to the socio-economic development of Laos.
The cooperation between the two sides has provided mutual support in regional and international forums, especially in the framework of ASEAN and the United Nations.
Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane stressed that the EU is one of the most important development partners of the Lao PDR, playing a key role in promoting socio-economic development.
He took this opportunity, on behalf of the Lao Government, to express his deep gratitude to the EU for its support and generosity to Laos over the past five decades.
The Minister welcomed the EU’s commitment to continue supporting Laos after it graduates from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026
particularly in sustainable and comprehensive development efforts to ensure the smooth and successful transition strategy in line with its goals.
This celebration demonstrates the strength of Lao-EU relations and the shared commitment to continue developing cooperation in the future.