2004 Programs and Events

Dugan Discusses Human Rights With Lao Officials (Nov. 20, 2004)

Deputy Assistant Secretary Dugan

U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Rights and Labor Elizabeth Dugan and Senior Advisor Susan O'Sullivan visited Laos November 18-20 for discussions with senior Lao government officials, representatives of Non-Governmental Organizations and members of the diplomatic community on issues pertaining to human rights in Laos.

During their visit to Vientiane, Ms. Dugan and Ms. O'Sullivan met with Deputy Foreign Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Somsavat Lengsavad, and discussed the importance of human rights to both countries. Ms. Dugan and Ms. O'Sullivan also met with members of the religious community in Vientiane to learn first-hand about the implementation of the Prime Minister's Decree 92 on the Protection and Administration of Religious Practice.

In separate talks with NGO's and members of the diplomatic community, Ms. Dugan and Ms. O'Sullivan heard about the country's progress in eradicating poverty and in promoting the human rights of the Lao people. Ms. Dugan's and Ms. O'Sullivan's visit to Vientiane was part of a visit to the region that also included stops in Vietnam, Thailand and China.