Ministers and Deputy Ministers of Information, Culture and Tourism, the Board of Directors of Vientiane Times, and representatives of supporting Embassies cut a cake to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Vientiane Times.

Vientiane Times marks 30 years of pioneering foreign language reporting

The Vientiane Times, Laos’ first English-language newspaper, on Tuesday commemorated its 30th anniversary with a grand celebration that also featured a strong pledge to build on its successes of the past 30 years.

Director General and Editor-In-Chief of Lao Press in Foreign Languages Thonglor Duangsavanh.

The event, held at the prestigious Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel, was attended by the Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mrs Suanesavanh Vignaket, and marked by a commitment to continue the newspaper’s legacy of excellence.
The Vientiane Times was established on April 7, 1994, under the Ministry of Information and Culture, with a vision to elevate Laos’ presence globally and portray a positive national image, aligning with the Party’s 1986 open-door policy.
Director General and Editor-In-Chief of Lao Press in Foreign Languages Thonglor Duangsavanh, in his address, recounted the newspaper’s journey from its modest beginnings to a globally accepted media institution, equipped with the latest technology and a skilled team dedicated to keeping readers informed about Laos’ political, administrative, social, and economic development.
Adapting to the digital era, the Vientiane Times expanded its reach through a website launched in 1999 and various social media platforms, catering to thousands of subscribers across print, online, and SMS channels.
 “Our past 30 years are a testament to our dedication, but we are not resting on our laurels. We will continue to innovate and evolve,” Mr Thonglor said.
The Vientiane Times has embraced digital advancements, launching Laos’ first media website in 1999 and subsequently expanding its online presence. It has also contributed to educational resources with the development of bilingual dictionaries and has fostered partnerships with regional and international news networks.
President of the Lao Journalists’ Association and former Editor-in-Chief of the Vientiane Times, Mr Savankhone Razmountry, reminisced about the initial obstacles in establishing the newspaper and the ideals that its editors cherish and strive to achieve.
“Vientiane Times’ unwavering commitment to the ethos of self-reliance and continuous self-improvement since its inception led to remarkable triumphs in the realm of international advertising. This steadfast dedication ensures that the newspaper remains a dependable source of vital official information to this day,” Mr Savankhone said.
At the same event, long-time supporter of the newspaper Mr Daovone Phachanthavong stressed the influence of the media and how it contributes significantly to the development of business, economics and society.
“I hold shares in the MYBANLAO in Luang Prabang. When it opened I invited journalists from Lao National Television and the Vientiane Times to cover the event. This media coverage helps to boost profits and the hotel is always fully occupied,” he said.
Mrs Suanesavanh Vignaket awarded a Class II Labour Medal to Mr Daovone for his unwavering support of the newspaper’s growth.
Additionally, the minister honoured outstanding Vientiane Times staff with certificates of appreciation and acknowledged the Australian and British Embassies’ contributions to the newspaper’s development with plaques of appreciation.
As the Vientiane Times looks to the future, it pledges to uphold the journalistic integrity and innovation that have been the cornerstone of its remarkable 30-year journey.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update April 10, 2024)