Programs and Events

U.S. Embassy Joins NGOs and Lao Government Agencies to Mark UN International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action

Ambassador Patricia M. Haslach greets H.E. Major General Duangchay Phichit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, at the U.S. Embassy booth, as NRA Director Maligna Saignavongs looks on.

On April 5th, the U.S. Embassy joined non-governmental organizations, UXO Lao, and the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) at the National Cultural Hall to commemorate UN International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

The Embassy set up a booth with photos of U.S.-sponsored activities, pamphlets and handouts on the U.S. donor assistance projects, and information on U.S. funding levels. The United States is committed to working with Laos to rid the country of unexploded ordnance (UXO).

In Laos, the U.S. has contributed $25 million since 1998 to fund clearance project, education and awareness campaigns, and victims’ assistance programs. Worldwide, the United States has provided well over $1 billion to cleanup efforts around the world since 1993. This contribution represents between one-third and one-half of all funding invested world-wide toward this cause.