Savannakhet: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, acting as the National Coordinator of the Lao PDR for the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, organized a ceremony to celebrate International Francophonie Day on March 20, 2025. The event was chaired by Mr. Thongphane Savanphet, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Attendees included Mr. Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune, Vice Governor of Savannakhet Province, representatives from the Ministry of Education and Sports, the French Ambassador to Laos, diplomatic corps, representatives from the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), teachers, and students studying the French language.
According to Lao News Agency, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs highlighted the history of Laos’ participation in the Francophonie movement and emphasized cooperation with the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). He reiterated Laos’ active engagement in promoting the French language and Francophone values, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region and within Laos. The Deputy Minister commended efforts to enhance French language education and create job opportunities for youth and French speakers. He also praised the longstanding cooperation between Laos and France across various sectors, particularly in promoting French language education in Laos.
The Vice Governor of Savannakhet Province and the French Ambassador to Laos exchanged remarks, emphasizing the importance of celebrating this significant day. They reported on their respective activities and contributions to promoting cooperation within the Francophonie framework, particularly in advancing French language education in Laos.
Laos became a full member of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) in 1991 and has actively participated in its initiatives, including promoting the French language, cultural diversity, economic cooperation, and digital development. French language education is promoted in Vientiane and three provinces: Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Champassak. French is widely used in the education and public health sectors, with efforts to enhance bilingual Lao-French classrooms at primary and secondary levels, as well as in higher education institutions. Additionally, cooperation extends to other areas such as health, economy, trade, investment, culture, media, development, and information technology.
OIF is an intergovernmental organization that brings together French-speaking countries. It was established on March 20, 1970, initially as the Agency for Cultural and Technical Cooperation, and was renamed the International Organisation of La Francophonie in 2005. It currently has 93 member countries across five continents, with its headquarters in Paris, France.