On the morning of December 2, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam and his spouse attended the official celebration and military parade marking the 50th anniversary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), and the 105th birth anniversary of President Kaysone Phomvihane.

The event took place at Thatluang Square in the capital city of Vientiane, drawing the participation of Lao Party General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith, senior leaders of Laos, and representatives from government ministries, organizations, and provinces.

General Secretary To Lam, his spouse, and the high-level Vietnamese delegation joined the Lao people in celebrating this momentous occasion.

Delivering the keynote address, Lao General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith recalled that 50 years ago, it was on this very ground that revolutionary forces and patriotic Laotians united to seize power in Vientiane. This led to the first national congress, which proclaimed the complete abolition of colonial and feudal systems, and the establishment of the Lao PDR on December 2, 1975.

From that historical moment, “the fate of our country and society was profoundly transformed, ushering in a new era of building our beloved nation toward independence, sovereignty, unity, and prosperity, ensuring that all ethnic groups in Laos can live in peace, freedom, and happiness,” he said.

Celebration of revolutionary heritage and national unity

Speaking on behalf of the Lao Party, State, and people, Thongloun Sisoulith expressed deep gratitude to international friends, development partners, and global organizations that have supported Laos over the past five decades.

He affirmed that Laos remains steadfast in its revolutionary identity and ideals. This includes upholding the socialist path, strengthening people’s democracy, and ensuring that all state power truly belongs to the people.

He emphasized that this enduring ideal is the consistent commitment of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party and the shared aspiration of the Laotian people. It is now the responsibility of the younger generations to carry forward the revolutionary cause and lead the nation on the socialist path.

Amid rapid and complex changes in the region and globally, the Lao leader reaffirmed the country’s commitment to a foreign policy of peace, independence, friendship, and cooperation for development. Laos will continue to strengthen its relationships with global partners.

Looking ahead: Laos' 2055 vision for national development

Thongloun Sisoulith laid out an ambitious vision outlined in the Party’s political platform: By 2055, the centennial of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, Laos aims to become an upper-middle-income country with a strong political system, a modern economy, and a well-developed productive capacity. The country seeks to ensure decent living standards for all ethnic groups and move toward widespread prosperity.

He also pledged to safeguard the revolutionary achievements and the victories of the past 50 years with unwavering loyalty and dedication, ensuring they are carried forward by generations to come.

Following the address, a grand military parade and march were held, featuring units from the armed forces, ministries, government agencies, and social-political organizations. The ceremony reflected Laos’ national pride and achievements over the past half-century.