Representatives attending the third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions pose for a group photo in Vientiane, Laos, Sept. 14, 2026. The third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions officially opened on Monday in Lao capital Vientiane, bringing together delegations and senior officials globally, as well as representatives of international organizations and relevant sectors. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

The third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions officially opened on Monday in Lao capital Vientiane, bringing together delegations and senior officials globally, as well as representatives of international organizations and relevant sectors.

The conference, chaired by Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane, is being held from Monday to Friday, Lao News Agency reported on Monday.

The conference is particularly significant for Laos, one of the countries most heavily affected by cluster munitions. Its hosting underscores the government's commitment to international peace and security under the Convention on Cluster Munitions, while highlighting its continued efforts to address the country's legacy of unexploded ordnance.

Laos has played an active role in the convention process from the early drafting stages through the adoption of the convention. The government has incorporated the convention's objectives into its national strategic framework, Safe Path Forward III (2021-2030), to support the effective implementation of international commitments at the national level. 

Representatives attending the third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions visit the UXO Lao Visitor Center in Luang Prabang Province, Laos, Sept. 13, 2026. The third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions officially opened on Monday in Lao capital Vientiane, bringing together delegations and senior officials globally, as well as representatives of international organizations and relevant sectors. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

Representatives attending the third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions visit the UXO Lao Visitor Center in Luang Prabang Province, Laos, Sept. 13, 2026. The third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions officially opened on Monday in Lao capital Vientiane, bringing together delegations and senior officials globally, as well as representatives of international organizations and relevant sectors. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)