VIENTIAN (Xinhua) -- A grand ceremony has been held in central Laos' Khammuan province to celebrate the inscription of Hin Nam No National Protected Area as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The ceremony, held on Thursday, was attended by Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, senior government officials, provincial leaders, and representatives from international organizations, the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Environment said on Friday.
In his remarks, Lao Minister of Agriculture and Environment Linkham Douangsavanh emphasized that the inscription represents a historic milestone.
Hin Nam No is Laos' first natural World Heritage Site and its first transboundary natural heritage site shared with Vietnam. Covering approximately 82,000 hectares, the park is renowned for its dramatic limestone landscapes and rich biodiversity, making it a critical area for conservation.
Lao Minister of Culture and Tourism Suansavanh Viyaket noted that the site was officially inscribed during UNESCO's 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in France in 2025. The recognition makes Hin Nam No the fourth World Heritage Site in Laos.
Provincial officials pledged to continue working with partners to protect and preserve the park, while promoting sustainable tourism and leveraging the site as a driver of socio-economic development to improve local livelihoods and reduce poverty.
Hin Nam No National Protected Area, a natural treasure in southeastern Laos, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
The park encompasses diverse ecosystems, including pristine forests, majestic waterfalls, and intricate cave systems. It is home to a wide variety of species, including rare and exotic birds, mammals, reptiles and plants, and is home to several ethnic minority groups. -- Xinhua
