Lao Press in Foreign Languages (Vientiane Times) is one of the five principal media organsations of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, together with the Lao National Radio, Lao News Agency, Lao National Television, and Pasaxon Newspaper, all operating under the oversight of the Commission for Information and Education of the Central Committee.

Vientiane Times: A trusted bridge between Laos and the world

On April 7, 1994, as the first Friendship Bridge stretched across the Mekong River linking Laos and Thailand, another bridge quietly came into existence. It was not built of steel and concrete, but of words, ideas and information. That bridge was the Vientiane Times.
More than three decades later, the newspaper stands as one of Laos’ most respected media institutions, connecting the country with the international community while providing readers with trustworthy news and information. Its journey from a modest weekly publication to a modern multimedia news organisation mirrors the remarkable transformation of Laos itself.
As journalists, editors and media professionals prepare to gather for the First Lao Media Congress next month, the story of the Vientiane Times offers a powerful example of how commitment, professionalism and innovation can build public trust and contribute to national development.
When the first issue rolled off the press in 1994, the challenges were immense. There was no established newsroom, no team of experienced reporters and only limited resources. Yet the mission was clear: to create an English-language newspaper capable of presenting Laos to the outside world and supporting the country’s opening-up policy.
At that time, Laos was embracing greater international cooperation and integration. The nation needed a platform that could communicate its development, aspirations and opportunities to foreign governments, investors, development partners and visitors. The Vientiane Times was entrusted with that responsibility.
What began as a weekly publication of just 16 pages, featuring black-and-white photographs and manually assembled layouts, gradually evolved into a professional news organisation with a growing readership at home and abroad.
The newspaper’s success did not come overnight. It was built patiently through years of hard work, determination and a commitment to maintaining high professional standards. Throughout its history, the Vientiane Times has remained guided by four core values: Fast, Accurate, Reliable and Responsible. The slogan that has inspired the newspaper’s growth and success is: “Self-reliance, mutual support, and strengthening ourselves through our own efforts.”
These principles have become more relevant than ever in an age where information travels instantly and unverified reports can spread across digital platforms within minutes. While audiences today have access to countless sources of information, they continue to value news organisations that place accuracy and credibility above speed alone.
Trust is perhaps the newspaper’s greatest achievement. It is a quality that cannot be purchased or manufactured. It is earned through consistency, professionalism and accountability.
For more than 30 years, readers have turned to the Vientiane Times for dependable coverage of government policies, economic developments, social issues, international relations and national events. Diplomats, business leaders, development agencies, academics and ordinary citizens alike have relied on its reporting to better understand Laos and its place in a rapidly changing world.
The newspaper has also played an important role in showcasing the country’s culture, traditions and tourism potential. Through countless articles and special reports, it has helped introduce international audiences to Laos’ unique heritage, natural beauty and development achievements.
Beyond informing readers, the Vientiane Times has contributed significantly to the modernisation of the Lao media sector.
Recognising the growing importance of digital communication, the newspaper launched its website in 1999, becoming one of the country’s early pioneers in online journalism. This initiative dramatically expanded its reach, enabling readers around the world to access news about Laos with unprecedented speed and convenience.
Over the years, the organisation continued to embrace technological change. Online subscriptions, video production, mobile news services and social media platforms became integral parts of its operations. Today, the Vientiane Times publishes content through multiple channels, including websites, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok, ensuring that audiences can access news whenever and wherever they choose.
The ability to adapt has been crucial to the newspaper’s continued success. Around the world, traditional media organisations have faced growing challenges as advertising revenue shifts to digital platforms and audiences increasingly consume news through mobile devices. Many newspapers have struggled to survive in this new environment.
Yet the Vientiane Times has demonstrated resilience by embracing innovation while preserving the journalistic values that define its identity. Rather than viewing technological change as a threat, the organisation has used it as an opportunity to strengthen its connection with readers.
The newspaper’s achievements extend well beyond its own newsroom
Throughout its development, the Vientiane Times has invested heavily in human resource development. Journalists, editors, photographers, videographers and technical staff have received training from international media organisations and development partners, enabling them to acquire new skills and meet international standards of journalism.
The newspaper has also served as a learning platform for young journalists and students, helping to nurture future generations of media professionals. In addition, it has contributed to the broader development of the Lao media landscape by assisting other media organisations with website creation, technical expertise and professional training.
International cooperation has been another important pillar of its success
Over the years, the Vientiane Times has established partnerships with leading media organisations and news agencies across Asia and beyond. Membership in regional and international media networks has enabled the newspaper to exchange news, share professional experiences and strengthen cooperation with fellow journalists from around the world.
These relationships have enhanced the newspaper’s ability to provide readers with broader perspectives while also ensuring that Laos’ voice is heard internationally.
The publication has been particularly valuable during major national, regional and international events hosted by the Lao PDR. From ASEAN summits and ministerial meetings to international sporting competitions and high-level diplomatic gatherings, the Vientiane Times has played a vital role in communicating Laos’ preparations, achievements and hospitality to global audiences.
In many respects, the newspaper has served as an ambassador for the nation, helping to build understanding and strengthen friendships between Laos and the international community.
Today, the media landscape continues to evolve at an extraordinary pace. Artificial intelligence, digital platforms and changing audience behaviours are reshaping journalism worldwide. At the same time, misinformation and disinformation have become significant challenges, increasing the need for trustworthy and responsible reporting.
In such an environment, the role of credible journalism becomes even more important
As the First Lao Media Congress approaches, marking a new chapter in the development of the nation’s media sector, the experience of the Vientiane Times demonstrates that success is not measured solely by circulation figures, technology or financial performance. It is measured by the confidence readers place in a publication and the contribution it makes to society.
For more than 30 years, the Vientiane Times has informed, connected and inspired. Guided by its enduring commitment to being Fast, Accurate, Reliable and Responsible, it remains a trusted voice for Laos and a bridge between the nation and the wider world.

By Phon Thikeo
 (Latest Update June 19, 2026)