Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Lao Department of Customs Headquarters and Training Center

I’m pleased to join you today for the groundbreaking ceremony of the new headquarters and training center for the Lao PDR’s Department of Customs. On behalf of the United Nations in Laos, I am delighted to witness this milestone that signifies our collective commitment to advancing development and governance in Lao PDR.

The Department of Customs plays a crucial role in enhancing border security, combatting transnational crime and conducting financial investigations. Moving from the design to construction phase, this 5,000 m2 facility is a step towards building resilient, inclusive and accountable public institutions.

The United Nations is committed to supporting Lao PDR’s ambition of socio-economic progress. This project responds to Outcome 6 of the current five-year national development plan, with a tangible contribution to strengthening public governance and the rule of law.

The headquarters building will provide a platform for streamlined operations, enabling the Department of Customs to deliver efficient public services for its clients. The training center, serving 200 staff, will deliver operational training and capacity building in essential areas of the Department’s mandate. Particularly worth noting are energy-efficient and accessible design features of the facility that embrace inclusion and resilience.

This project is more than infrastructure; it’s a commitment to sustainable development. By creating a modern workspace and a training hub, the project ensures the Department of Customs can serve diverse communities effectively and professionally.

On this occasion, let me express my sincere gratitude to all those who have made this project possible — the Government of Lao PDR, and specifically the Ministry of Finance, for its leadership and guidance; the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the U.S. Department of State for the generous support and facilitation; and the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for its technical expertise and management support. I very much look forward to witnessing the outcomes of this partnership in the years to come.

As we break ground today, we share a commitment to building a future where governance is participatory, institutions are resilient, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This milestone reflects not just the start of a construction project, but the continuation of a meaningful international partnership spanning other sectors and institutions. The United Nations stands with Lao PDR in this journey, and we look forward to seeing this facility become operational in delivering citizen-centered public services.

Thank you, once again, to all the partners, and to everyone who will work to make this project a success!