EU Ambassador visits Savannakhet to strengthen ties, mark 50th anniversary of relations

The Ambassador of the European Union to Laos, Mr Mark Gallagher, visited Savannakhet province from August 14-15 to strengthen bilateral relations, promote cultural exchange, and explore opportunities for cooperation.
During the mission, Mr Gallagher paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Savannakhet, Mr Bounchom Ubonpaseuth, to discuss ongoing EU-funded projects in the province and possible areas for future collaboration.
The visit reaffirmed the commitment of Laos and the European Union to advancing sustainable development, economic opportunities, and inclusive growth.

“Savannakhet is a province of enormous potential, economically, culturally and environmentally,” Mr Gallagher said. “Our partnership here, particularly through EU-supported initiatives, is already making a positive impact, and I look forward to seeing this cooperation grow in the years to come.”
This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and the European Union. To celebrate this milestone, the annual European

Film Festival, which is usually held only in Vientiane, was extended to Savannakhet during the Ambassador’s visit.
While in Savannakhet, Mr Gallagher visited the province’s Special Economic Zone to learn more about its role in driving investment and growth given its strategic location linked to markets in Thailand and Vietnam. The programme included a visit to EssilorLuxotica’s new factory to explore how more quality European investment might be attracted to Laos.

The Ambassador also travelled outside the city to visit the Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Laos project, which is co-funded by the European Union and the French Development Agency and implemented by the Wildlife Conservation Society.
The project pilots community-based land use planning in protected areas such as the Xechamphon wetlands, while strengthening policies for biodiversity conservation.
The initiative has seen the creation of 43 Guardian Villages, while 3,000 households in forest-dependent communities have increased their income from harvesting shade-grown coffee, cardamom and honey.
At the same time, biodiversity has improved, with a doubling of Siamese crocodile nests and an increase in the gibbon population.
At Tansoum village, Mr Gallagher visited the Crocodile Information Centre, observed crocodile nests, and shared a samakhee meal with villagers.
The European Union remains firmly committed to supporting Laos’ development priorities in partnership with national and provincial authorities.
It aims to deliver long-term positive results for the people of Savannakhet by promoting a greener economy, expanding access to quality education, and creating more inclusive economic opportunities.
The visit highlighted the European Union’s dedication to building partnerships that drive sustainable growth, encourage cultural exchange, and promote shared prosperity between Laos and the European Union.

By Advertorial Desk
(Latest Update August 18, 2025)