Strengthening Friendship Between the Peoples of Two Nations
The Lao–Japan Institute organized the Japanese New Year Festival 2026 on January 16–17, 2026, at the Lao–Japan Institute, National University of Laos. The event was honored by the presence of Mr. Koizumi Tsutomu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Lao PDR, Associate Professor Dr. Dexanoulath Saendouangdeth, President of the National University of Laos, Ms. Miyako Kobayashi, Chief Representative of JICA in Laos, Mr. Phonekeo Chanthamaly, Director of the Lao–Japan Institute, along with project advisors, deans, department heads, office representatives, lecturers, students from the National University of Laos, and guests from Japan and Laos in Vientiane Capital.
Activities within the event included a traditional sake barrel opening ceremony to express unity and shared determination to strive for success in the coming year. Cultural and tourism activities were also held, including a traditional rice pounding ceremony and the sharing of sticky rice. Sticky rice symbolizes unity, perseverance, delicacy, and ultimate success. In addition, there were nearly 20 Lao and Japanese cultural performances, as well as interactive games organized by the Saitama–Laos Friendship Association from Japan.
The event also featured exhibition booths from various businesses operated by both Lao and Japanese participants. These activities contributed to an atmosphere of cooperation and solidarity between Laos and Japan, while also celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Lao PDR and Japan.
Associate Professor Dr. Dexanoulath Saendouangdeth delivered the opening remarks, stating that he felt proud and highly honored to represent the leadership of the National University of Laos at the opening ceremony of the Japanese New Year Celebration. The event was organized by the Lao–Japan Human Resource Development Institute with support from JICA and the Japan Foundation. Its objective was to promote cultural exchange between Laos and Japan, which plays an important role in strengthening the friendly relations between the two governments and peoples of Laos and Japan.
He further noted that the event also served as a platform to strengthen business networks and alumni communities, supporting the promotion of products by entrepreneurs. Japan is widely recognized for its rich cultural heritage, strong national identity, and advanced economic and technological development. Many countries are interested in learning from and exchanging knowledge with Japan through various cooperation programs.
Laos and Japan established diplomatic relations in 1955. At the end of last year, both nations jointly celebrated the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The cultural exchange activities organized by the Lao–Japan Institute represent a significant effort to promote cooperation and mutual understanding between the Lao and Japanese peoples. Appreciation was expressed to the Government and people of Japan for their continued support of socio economic development in the Lao PDR, particularly in the education sector. Numerous cooperative projects have been implemented with the National University of Laos and related faculties and departments.
During the Japanese New Year Celebration, participants were able to observe and take part in traditional Japanese New Year activities and enjoy cultural performances from both countries. The event also highlighted the talents of students and entrepreneurs within the alumni and trainee networks of the Lao–Japan Institute. Special activities were presented by the Laos–Saitama Friendship Association from Japan.
All businesses participating in the exhibition were alumni networks of the Lao–Japan Institute. It was expressed with confidence that this celebration would further strengthen friendship between the peoples of the two nations, create lasting impressions, and reinforce solidarity among all participants.
Mr. Koizumi Tsutomu stated that in 2025, a total of 50 activities were officially recognized as part of the 70th anniversary celebrations of diplomatic relations between Laos and Japan. Of these, five activities involved the Lao–Japan Institute. He emphasized that the year was marked by frequent high level exchanges and a wide range of commemorative activities, including cultural exchanges across all levels and sectors, creating dynamic and meaningful engagement between Laos and Japan.
For 2026, he noted that the year represents a new beginning, building upon the strong foundation of consultation and exchange established in 2025. The aim is to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership and elevate the longstanding friendship between the two countries to a higher level.
