Southeast Asia Information Port (www.dnyxxg.com) – On the occasion of the Lao traditional New Year, Songkran (Water Festival), Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee and President of Laos, delivered a national televised address from the Presidential Palace, extending his sincerest New Year's greetings for the Year of the Horse (2569 Buddhist Era) to all Lao citizens, overseas Laos, and foreign friends living and working in Laos. In his speech, President Thongloun reviewed the achievements of the Year of the Snake (2568 Buddhist Era), analyzed the current development situation, and called on the people of the whole country to unite and overcome difficulties to fully promote the sustainable development of the country.
President Thongloun defined the past year as "a year of remarkable achievements and proud development," highlighting three major milestones: the successful celebration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, the successful convening of the 12th National Congress of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, and the smooth completion of the elections for the 10th National People's Congress and the 5th Provincial People's Councils. He emphasized that despite facing multiple challenges such as global economic fluctuations and complex regional situations, Laos has maintained political stability and social harmony, achieving a positive economic recovery and steady growth. This achievement is attributed to the concerted efforts of all ethnic groups in the country, as well as the continuous support and assistance from friendly countries and international organizations. Meanwhile, Laos' influence in regional cooperation and international affairs continues to rise, and it is steadily moving towards a new stage of high-quality development.
Looking ahead to the year 2569 in the Buddhist calendar, President Thongloun objectively pointed out that the global development environment remains fraught with uncertainty, and local conflicts and various risks and challenges persist. He called on the whole society to further promote patriotism and the tradition of national unity, closely unite around the Party Central Committee and the government, and form a powerful force to overcome difficulties. Regarding the national development blueprint, the President clearly stated that efforts should be intensified to implement the resolutions of the 12th Party Congress, focusing on the core objectives of the 10th Five-Year Plan for National Socio-Economic Development (2026-2030), guided by green and sustainable development, and achieving substantial breakthroughs in key areas such as economic growth, improvement of people's livelihoods, and regional connectivity. The five-year plan reportedly sets an average annual economic growth target of 6%, focusing on promoting coordinated development of agricultural modernization, industrial upgrading, digital infrastructure, and ecological protection, helping Laos steadily shed its status as a least developed country.
At the end of his speech, President Thongloun once again extended New Year's greetings to all the Lao people and foreign residents who have contributed to Laos' development, wishing everyone good health, family happiness, and prosperous careers in the new year. He also encouraged the nation to celebrate a peaceful, joyful, and safe Spring Festival by preserving culture, conveying goodwill, and participating in traditional celebrations such as the Water Festival's bathing of the Buddha, tying threads for blessings, and dancing the Nam Vang dance.
