VIENTIANE: The Laos Festival 2026 kicked off in Tokyo, Japan on May 23, promoting Lao culture and traditions while strengthening friendship and cooperation between Laos and Japan.
The annual festival, now in its 14th year, has become an important platform for cultural exchange and people-to-people links, attracting Japanese citizens, foreign residents, and members of the Lao community in Japan.
The opening ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Thongsavanh Phomvihane, and Princess Aiko of Japan, along with leaders and other representatives from the two countries.
Speaking on behalf of the Lao government, Thongsavanh highlighted the significance of the festival as an event that gives the people of Japan a deeper insight into Lao lifestyle and traditions.
The festival reflects the close and growing relationship between Laos and Japan as comprehensive strategic partners, while also encouraging stronger cultural understanding and exchanges between the people of both nations, he said.
Thongsavanh noted that the successful organisation of the festival was made possible through strong cooperation and support from relevant sectors in both countries, particularly the Japanese government.
This year’s festival carried special significance as Princess Aiko attended for the first time following her official visit to Laos in November last year. The visit to Laos was also reported as being her first official overseas visit.
Thongsavanh expressed appreciation to all parties involved and invited Japanese citizens and everyone living in or visiting Japan to visit Laos to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, special traditions, and renowned tourist attractions.
Taking place on May 23-24, the festival featured a wide range of cultural performances and activities, giving visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Lao art forms, customs and clothing, as well as Lao cuisine.
On the sidelines of the festival, Thongsavanh met with the chairperson of the Japan-Laos Parliamentary Friendship Association, Shinako Tsuchiya, and President of the Saitama-Laos Friendship Association, Susumu Takahashi.
They discussed ways to strengthen Laos-Japan relations and cooperation, enhance mutual understanding, and foster people-to-people diplomacy and exchanges between their legislative bodies and citizens. - Vientiane Times/ANN
