On 11 July 2025, H.E. Mr. Thongphane Savanphet, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the United Nations, formally presented his credentials to H.E. Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Following the official presentation ceremony, Ambassador Thongphane Savanphet held a cordial discussion with the UN Secretary-General, during which he reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling his role as Lao PDR’s new Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

On this occasion, Secretary-General Guterres extended a warm welcome and expressed his congratulations to Ambassador Savanphet on his appointment. He also commended the Government of the Lao PDR for its continuous efforts in overcoming various challenges to achieve social - economic development progress and praised the Lao PDR’s successful chairmanship of ASEAN in 2024 and its active contributions in strengthening ASEAN–UN cooperation. The Secretary-General further affirmed the United Nations’ continued support for Lao PDR, particularly in advancing its implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Secretary-General Guterres noted the Lao PDR’s rich natural resources and vibrant cultural heritage, recalling his previous visits to the country, during which he had the opportunity to personally experience its natural beauty and traditions.

Ambassador Savanphet expressed sincere gratitude for the warm reception and conveyed greetings and best wishes from the President of the Lao PDR to the Secretary-General. He also highlighted the close cooperation between the Lao government and the UN system, particularly with the UN Country Team based in Lao PDR through regular consultations to strengthen development cooperation effectively implement Joint projects and programs and ensure alignment between UN initiatives and Lao National Socio - Economic Development Plans.

Ambassador Savanphet informed the Secretary-General of the Lao government’s dedication to working closely with the United Nations and development partners to support the country’s transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in a smooth and sustainable manner. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to ensure this transition is resilient and enduring.

Additionally, the Ambassador highlighted the Lao PDR’s active participation in the work of the United Nations, including serving as Vice-President of the 76th Session of the UN General Assembly, membership in the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the 2023–2025 term, and as a member of the Executive Board of UNICEF for the 2025–2027 term. Laos also currently serves in the Bureau of the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs).

Ambassador Savanphet took the opportunity to thank the Secretary-General for his visit to the Lao PDR in 2024, during which he participated in the ASEAN-UN Summit under Lao PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship.

In conclusion, the Ambassador expressed appreciation to the United Nations for its continued support to the Lao PDR and reaffirmed Lao PDR is commitment to further deepening its cooperation with the UN to even greater heights in the years to come.