“Safeguarding Singaporean interests” is not just a phrase here. It is the core mission of the Embassy of Singapore in Vientiane.
The Embassy of Singapore in Vientiane stands as a crucial link between Singapore and Laos. It fosters diplomatic ties and supports Singaporeans in Laos. Let’s explore its story.
Singapore and Laos officially established diplomatic relations on December 2 1974. The Singapore Embassy in Vientiane first opened in February 1997. Mr. Tan Seng Chye was the first Ambassador.
Initially the Embassy of Singapore operated from a two-story house. It was located in Ban Naxay in Saysettha District. On January 1 2009 the Embassy moved. Its new location was along Thadeua Road. It is near the Australian Embassy.
The Embassy’s mission is clear. It safeguards the interests of Singaporeans in Laos. This includes those visiting living and working there. It also promotes political, economic, and cultural connections. These connections are between Singapore and Lao PDR.
Need a new passport or a document notarized? The Embassy of Singapore in Vientiane offers these services. They also issue visas for Singapore. They provide assistance to Singaporean citizens during emergencies.
You can find the Embassy at Ban Watnak, Unit 4 Thadeua Road, Km3, Sisattanak District. You can contact them by phone. The number is +856 21 353 939. Their office hours are Monday to Friday. They are open from 8.30 am to 12.00 pm and 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm.
Several Ambassadors have served here. Ms. Seetoh Hoy Cheng served from March 2000 to December 2003. Ms. Karen Tan followed from February 2004 to August 2007. Mr. Benjamin Jeyaraj William served from October 2007 to January 2011. Mr. Dileep Nair was Ambassador from June 2011 to January 2013. Ms. Kang Siew Kheng served from January 2013 to August 2014. Mr. Dominic Goh served from January 12 2015 to July 26 2019. Ms. Leow Siu Lin served from July 29 2019 to June 24 2023. Mr. Sudesh Keshavlal Maniar is the current Ambassador. He has served since August 16 2023.
The Embassy also advises Singaporeans on safety. In November 2024 several tourists died in Vang Vieng. They consumed alcohol contaminated with methanol. The Embassy urged Singaporeans to be cautious. They should only buy alcohol from licensed places. They should also avoid homemade drinks.
The Embassy of Singapore in Vientiane continues to strengthen ties. It supports Singaporeans and fosters cooperation. It stands as a symbol of Singapore’s commitment to its relationship with Laos.