The Lao Peoples Democratic Republic is a peaceful land-locked country of approximately 6 million people located between the countries of Thailand, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, and Burma.

The Mekong River is the most well known natural feature although the country is richly endowed with beautiful mountains, tropical forests and wildlife.

The people of the Lao PDR come from several different ethnic groups which provide a rich and colorful cultural and traditional mosaic.

Due to the geographical location and the rugged terrain, the people of the Lao PDR have historically been somewhat physically isolated from the rapid development process which the rest of Asia experienced over the past several decades and this fact together with the legacy of disruption and damage from war has left the Lao PDR struggling for economic well-being of it's people.