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Lao Red Cross Celebrates 70th Anniversary with Commemorative Events

Vientiane: The Lao Red Cross (LRC) marked its 70th anniversary with a health walk and a photo exhibition at Patuxay, Vientiane on January 4. The event commemorated the organization’s establishment on January 1, 1955, and featured notable attendees including President Thongloun Sisoulith, who is also the organization’s honorable president, along with ministers, heads of equivalent organizations, the Vientiane Mayor, representatives of international organizations, and LRC staff.

According to Lao News Agency, the President of the Lao Red Cross, Mr. Khamlavan Chanthalavan, emphasized the significance of the event in celebrating the LRC’s 70-year history. The occasion was also aligned with three other milestones: the 70th anniversary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and the 105th birth anniversary of late President Kaysone Phomvihane.

Mr. Khamlavan provided an overview of the LRC’s evolution since its inception as the Lao Red Cross Council on January 1, 1955. Initially focused on humanitarian aid in accordance with international conventions, the organization underwent several transformations. In 1975, it was renamed the Lao Red Cross Council and expanded its mandate to include international aid donations, health promotion, disease prevention, traditional medicine integration, and health training for communities affected by war. By 1999, it became the Lao National Red Cross, adopting a framework guided by seven principles and nine core tasks such as emergency relief, blood donation campaigns, and disaster response.

The LRC’s structured system comprises the national organization, provincial branches, and district offices, which operate under a 10-year strategic plan (2021-2030) aligned with national development policies. This plan focuses on strengthening organizational sustainability, promoting public health, and enhancing disaster preparedness and relief efforts.

Mr. Khamlavan highlighted the national recognition LRC has received, particularly for its efforts in mobilizing and providing safe blood supplies nationwide. He commended these achievements as a testament to the organization’s dedication to humanitarian service.

The anniversary celebrations highlighted LRC’s crucial role in promoting solidarity and enhancing the well-being of the Lao people over the past seven decades.