Thailand and Luxembourg Hold First Development Cooperation Meeting to Strengthen Partnership in Laos
Vientiane, Lao PDR – July 8, 2026 — Thailand and Luxembourg have taken an important step toward expanding their international development partnership with the successful convening of the 1st Thailand–Luxembourg Development Cooperation Meeting in Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Chulvat Narinthrangura, Director-General of the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), and Mr. Robert de Waha, Head of the Asia Regional Office of the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency (LuxDev). Representatives from relevant Lao government agencies, along with officials from the Thai and Luxembourg Embassies in Vientiane, also participated in the discussions.
The inaugural meeting focused on strengthening trilateral cooperation to support the development priorities of the Lao PDR. Delegates identified four strategic sectors for future collaboration:
- Public health
- Local and community development
- Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
- Good governance
A key highlight of the discussions was Thailand’s proposal for a zero-burning agriculture initiative, aimed at reducing transboundary haze pollution while promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices. The initiative reflects the growing commitment of both countries to address regional environmental challenges through practical and collaborative solutions.
To ensure meaningful progress, both sides agreed to identify a pilot project that can deliver measurable results by 2027. The project will serve as a model for future Thailand–Luxembourg cooperation in supporting sustainable development across the region.
Following the meeting, the Luxembourg delegation invited the Thai representatives to visit several development projects supported by LuxDev in Laos. The delegation toured the Tourism and Hospitality Skills Development Center in Vang Vieng, a community development project in Navay Village, and Maria Teresa Hospital. These visits provided valuable opportunities to exchange best practices, gain insights into successful development initiatives, and explore new areas for future collaboration.
The first Thailand–Luxembourg Development Cooperation Meeting marks the beginning of a stronger partnership between the two countries, reinforcing their shared commitment to sustainable development, regional cooperation, and improving the quality of life for communities in the Lao PDR.