English translation:

Headlines: Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Comprehensive Renovation Project of the Savannakhet Provincial Museum in the scope of the CHAMPA Project funded by Agence Française de Développement (AFD).

On 9 June 2026, the Department of Culture and Tourism of Savannakhet Province organized the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Comprehensive Renovation Project of the Savannakhet Provincial Museum. The ceremony was held in a dignified and warm atmosphere, reflecting a spirit of cooperation, confidence, and shared commitment to preserving the valuable cultural heritage of Savannakhet Province for future generations.

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The ceremony was presided over by Mr. Thongsai Xayavongkhamdy, Member of the Provincial Party Standing Committee and Deputy Governor of Savannakhet Province, together with Colonel Lamkhoun Voravong, Member of the Provincial Party Committee and Head of the Department of Culture and Tourism of Savannakhet Province. The event was attended by representatives from various sectors, government agencies, private organizations, development partners, members of the media, and distinguished guests.

This event marks another important milestone of the the CHAMPA Project in the preservation and development of Savannakhet’s cultural heritage. The project aims to renovate and upgrade the Provincial Museum into a comprehensive center for learning, research, conservation, and public interpretation of the province’s historical, cultural, and heritage values, making them more accessible and engaging for the public in a modern and sustainable manner.

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On this occasion, Mr. Somphone Vilayvong, Deputy Head of the Department of Culture and Tourism of Savannakhet Province and Project Manager of Champa Savan Project, delivered a brief presentation on the project’s objectives and key activities. He highlighted the background, necessity, and significance of the museum renovation project, whose budget exceeds 1 million USD, emphasizing that it would not only help preserve the building and its valuable collections, but also establish a strong foundation for the museum to serve as an important center for education, research, and tourism development in the long term.

Following this, Mr. Antoine Mougenot, representative of the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) – the French Development Agency – delivered remarks expressing his appreciation for the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved in advancing the project. He emphasized the importance of cultural heritage in strengthening local identity and promoting sustainable development. He also reaffirmed AFD’s commitment to supporting cultural heritage conservation as a key component of social and economic development at the local level.

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Subsequently, Mr. Thongsai Xayavongkhamdy, Member of the Provincial Party Standing Committee and Deputy Governor of Savannakhet Province, delivered his remarks and addressed the gathering. He expressed his appreciation and high recognition of the Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, the project management team, development partners, and all related stakeholders for their close cooperation and coordination, which have enabled the project to reach this important stage. 

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At the same time, he encouraged the project management team and all relevant parties to continue implementing the project in accordance with the approved plan, ensuring quality, transparency, and adherence to professional standards. He also provided guidance on strengthening cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure the successful completion of the project and maximize its benefits for society.

The groundbreaking ceremony represents another significant step forward in preserving, promoting, and enhancing the historical and cultural heritage of Savannakhet Province. It reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding these valuable cultural assets and ensuring that they continue to serve as a source of knowledge, pride, and inspiration for future generations of the Lao people.