Vientiane, 7 May 2025 - The European Union (EU) Delegation in Lao PDR celebrated the 75^th anniversary of the historic Schuman Declaration that paved the way for the creation of today’s European Union.

This year’s Europe Day, held every year on the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, holds particular significance as it coincides with several other major anniversaries:

• The 105^th anniversary of the birth of former President Kaysone Phomvihane,
• The 70^th anniversary of the establishment of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party,
• The 50^th anniversary of the founding of the Lao PDR,
• The 80^th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, including this week’s 80^th anniversary of Victory in Europe.

These milestones offer a moment to reflect on our shared histories, reaffirming our commitment to peace, unity, and cooperation; the founding principles of the European Union.

“The European Union remains steadfast in promoting peace, multilateralism, and a rules-based international order, values we share with the Lao PDR and ASEAN,” said the EU Ambassador. “Even in an increasingly complex and contested world, we believe in unity in diversity and stand firm on the universal values we have built together in the United Nations since 1945.”

Looking ahead, 2025 will also see the 50^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the European Union and the Lao PDR. The EU remains deeply committed to deepening this enduring partnership and exploring new areas of cooperation in support of Laos’ sustainable development.

As the EU celebrates Europe Day, we also celebrate the strength of our partnership with the Lao PDR, grounded in mutual respect, and a shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous future.

Together we can uphold our values and stand strong in a more contested and unstable world.

To read the EU Ambassador's speech, please click here: https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/lao-pdr/europe-day-celebration-speech-ambassador-european-union-lao-pdr-mr-mark-gallagher_en

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