(From left) Mr Jesper Lauridsen, Ms Moukdavanh Sisoulith, Ms Benita Summerville, and Mr Jean-Gabriel Duss view an exhibition during a ceremony marking 25 years of HELVETAS in Laos, held in Vientiane on Thursday.

HELVETAS Laos celebrates 25 years of partnership, impact in Laos

HELVETAS Laos is marking 25 years of partnership with Laos, celebrating its contribution to sustainable and inclusive development through initiatives that have supported local communities, strengthened institutions and expanded economic opportunities since 2001.
The Swiss organisation has worked alongside government institutions, local authorities, civil society organisations, educational institutions, private sector partners, and communities across the country.
Guided by national development priorities and supported by development partners and donors, these partnerships have helped to expand economic opportunities, strengthen local capacities, and improve the lives of people throughout Laos.
To mark this milestone, a ceremony was held in Vientiane on Thursday, attended by Director General of the Department of International Organisations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms Moukdavanh Sisoulith; Country Director of HELVETAS Laos, Jesper Lauridsen; Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy,  Ms Benita Summerville; and Head of Cooperation for the SDC Mekong Region, Mr Jean-Gabriel Duss,  alongside other distinguished partners and representatives.

Jesper Lauridsen speaks at a ceremony in Vientiane on Thursday to mark 25 years of partnership between HELVETAS and Laos.

Over the past quarter century, Laos has achieved remarkable social and economic progress. During this period, HELVETAS has supported initiatives that have helped farmers improve productivity and access to markets, equipped young people with skills for employment and entrepreneurship, strengthened local governance and service delivery, fostered responsible private sector development, and supported the growth of civil society.
Across all areas of engagement, the organisation has remained committed to a simple principle: sustainable development is most effective when it is led by local actors and grounded in local knowledge, ownership, and capacity.
The 25-year anniversary is not only an opportunity to reflect on achievements, but also to recognise the many partnerships that have made them possible. HELVETAS extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of Laos at both national and sub-national levels, development partners and donors, civil society organisations, universities and research institutions, private sector actors, and, above all, the communities whose resilience, aspirations, and commitment have been at the heart of every success.
Throughout its presence in Laos, HELVETAS has sought to act not as the driver of change, but as a trusted partner supporting Lao-led solutions. The organisation believes that lasting impact depends on empowering people, strengthening institutions, and creating opportunities that endure well beyond the lifespan of individual projects.
As Laos continues its development journey, new opportunities and challenges are emerging. HELVETAS remains committed to supporting the country’s priorities by contributing international experience, technical expertise, innovation, and partnership approaches that complement national ambitions while respecting local leadership and national ownership.
Twenty-five years is an important milestone, but it is not a destination. It is a moment to celebrate the progress achieved together and to renew a shared commitment to the future.
“For 25 years, HELVETAS has been privileged to work alongside the people and institutions of Laos,” said Jesper Lauridsen. “Our greatest achievements are not the projects we have carried out, but the partnerships we have built and the local capacities that continue to create impact long after projects end.”
“We are deeply grateful for the trust of our partners and remain committed to contributing to Laos’ development priorities as a respectful and reliable partner for years to come.”
HELVETAS views its 25th anniversary not only as an opportunity to reflect on progress, but also as a chance to renew its commitment to working with partners towards a more prosperous, inclusive, resilient and sustainable future for the people of Laos.
Under the anniversary theme, “25 Years of Impact Together – For a Better Laos”, HELVETAS looks forward to continuing its partnership and contribution to the country’s development in the years ahead.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update November 9, 2026)