On 4 April 2018, the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane organised an event to celebrate Thai – Lao New Year 2018. The event was attended by high-ranking officials and representatives from the Lao PDR, namely H.E. Dr. Xaysompone Phomvihane, President of Lao Front for National Construction and spouse, H.E. Mr. Hiem Phommachanh, President of Lao - Thai Association for Friendship, Mr. Oudet Souvannavong, President of Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and spouse, as well as, on the Thai side, Mr. Chatchawan Sakornsin, Chargé d’ Affairs a.i. of the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane and spouse, Mr. Ronnachai Chitwiset, Nong Khai Governor and spouse, and Mr. Thanapon Chantaranimi, Udonthani Deputy Governor and representatives from public and private sectors of Thailand and the Lao PDR, diplomatic corps and international organisations.

          Activities held at the event were baci ceremony, water blessing ceremony, sprinkling water onto a Buddha Statue, cultural performances by Bunditpatanasilpa Institute of Thailand, in collaboration with the Thai Foundation, and Art Education College of the Lao PDR as well as the promotion of “Visit Laos Year 2018” campaign by Tourism Marketing Department, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of the Lao PDR in order to promote Lao tourism along with Thai tourism, as reflected by Thailand’s “Two Countries, One Destination” concept.

          In addition, delicious Thai and Lao cuisine and drinks were provided at the event by Thai and Lao private sectors. There were also lucky draws. Prizes were sponsored by Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways.

          The atmosphere of the Celebration of Thai – Lao New Year this year was heart-warming, joyful and colorful. At the same time, it preserves culture and traditions that Thailand and the Lao PDR have in common and also reflects the close ties and friendship between the Thai and Lao communities.