Mr Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune (right) and Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu shake hands after signing an agreement on the Japan-funded airport upgrade.

Japan funds upgrade of Wattay International Airport

The Japanese government will provide US$20 million for the expansion of Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, to spur the growth of international air travel between Laos and other countries in the region. 
An agreement on the funding was signed by Laos’ Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune and the Japanese Ambassador to Laos, Mr Koizumi Tsutomu, in the presence of officials from the Ministry and the Embassy.
The upgrade of Laos’ main international airport is an essential component of the government’s ambition to strengthen connectivity with the rest of the region and further afield. Air travel is especially important for Laos given that the country does not have a coastline.
The government is banking on an increase in the number of passengers arriving by air to boost economic development through enhanced tourism and commerce, which requires better airport facilities and services, as well as more highly skilled ground staff.  

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update October 28, 2024)