The first ever international conference on Lao Studies was held at Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, on May 20-22, 2005.

The purpose of the conference is to establish a firm ground for scholars, experts, researchers, educators, students and the general public to share ideas and thoughts; and lto earn from one another about Laos.

Attended by more than 350 people from around the world, the conference was considered a great success. Speakers and presenters included representatives from the Lao PDR, Hong Kong, Japan and other countires around the globe.

Lao Culture Night

The conference consisted of two days of presentations, film festival and cultural shows.

Listen to our Lao Diaspora report for more details.