The Lao People's Democratic Republic celebrated its 50th anniversary on December 2, 2025, with a grand national ceremony and parade at the That Luang esplanade, a testament to a half-century of national, protection and development.
The event was presided over by Mr. Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee and President of Laos. It was attended by Mr. To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, alongside high-ranking Party and state officials, representatives from friendly nations, the diplomatic corps, international organizations, revolutionary veterans, and Vientiane residents.
In a comprehensive address marking the historic milestone, President Thongloun Sisoulith reflected on the nation's journey. "Throughout the 50-year period of the mission to protect and develop Laos, it has firmly confirmed the genuine revolutionary tradition as a lesson for continuing to lead the country forward," he stated. He emphasized the unwavering commitment to the socialist ideal, the great national unity of all Lao ethnic groups, and the continuous strengthening of the people's democratic regime.
Looking ahead to a complex regional and international landscape, President Thongloun outlined the nation's steadfast foreign policy of peace, independence, friendship, and cooperation. Domestically, he stressed the goal of building a self-reliant economy, following a balanced development path that harmonizes economy, culture, society, and environment toward green and sustainable growth.
The vision, as set in the Party's political program, aims for Laos to become a upper middle-income developing country with a strong political system and a modern economic base by the 100th anniversary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party in 2055.
Following the speech, a vibrant and orderly parade commenced, symbolizing national unity and progress. The first procession featured the national and Party flags, the national emblem, and delegations from the President's Office, the Prime Minister's Office, and the National Institute of Economic and Social Sciences. The second procession showcased the strength and discipline of the national defence and public security forces.
The third and largest segment was a mass parade comprising 20 contingents, including the December 2 Youth Corps, the Lao People's Revolutionary Youth Union, the Lao Women's Union, the Lao Federation of Trade Unions, the Lao Front for National Construction, along with representatives from the justice system, various economic and social ministries, and cultural and tourism sectors.
The celebration served as both a proud reflection on five decades of achievement and a confident declaration of Laos' path toward a peaceful, independent, democratic, united, and prosperous future.