Lao PDR and Luxembourg advance anti-money laundering efforts with EUR 2.4 million boost

The government of the Lao PDR and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg have reinforced their longstanding partnership through the official launch of an additional EUR 2.4 million contribution to the Rule of law, access to justice and good governance (ROLAG) programme. This additional funding reaffirms their shared commitment to advancing justice, strengthening institutions and promoting sustainable development in Lao PDR. It will primarily support expanded cooperation in anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism through the Institute for Legal Support and Technical Assistance (ILSTA), contributing to Lao PDR's efforts to strengthen financial integrity and address national and international priorities until December 2027.

The launch event was chaired by H.E. Mr Soulivath SOUVANNACHOUMKHAM, Vice-Minister of Finance, and co-chaired by H.E. Sisuda SOPHAVANDY, Vice-Minister of Justice, and Mr Thomas LAMMAR, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Lao PDR. 

The event brought together senior representatives from other key government institutions, including the Bank of the Lao PDR, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with representatives of the Embassy of Luxembourg, LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, ILSTA and development partners.

In the opening remarks, H.E. Mr Soulivath SOUVANNACHOUMKHAM, Vice-Minister of Finance, emphasised the importance of the additional contribution:

A highlight of the event was the ceremonial handover of the signed amendment, symbolising the strong and enduring partnership between Lao PDR and Luxembourg.

As the ROLAG programme enters its final implementation phase through to 2027, the additional EUR 2.4 million represents more than just financial support. It is a strategic investment in stronger institutions, greater integrity, transparency, increased public trust, and reforms that will continue to generate impact beyond the lifetime of the programme.

Through this renewed commitment, Lao PDR and Luxembourg continue to transform partnership into progress and shared ambitions into lasting change for the benefit of present and future generations.

The Rule of law, access to justice and good governance (ROLAG) programme is financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and jointly implemented by the Ministry of Education and Sports, the Ministry of Justice, LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, ILSTA and the University of Luxembourg.