Vientiane Capital, Laos, at Laotel Hotel on 27 February 2025, Lane Xang Minerals Limited Company (LXML) has further extended a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Lao National Defence for the next two years on corporate partnership dedicated toward effective detection and clearance of the Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) around the Sepon mining operation area. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the safety of Company’s employees, contractors, and the local host communities and enhance technical capabilities, ultimately benefiting future generations in Laos. The event co-chaired by Lieutenant General Siphonsay Khamthongveun, Deputy Head of the General Staff Department, and Mr. Saman Aneka, Managing Director of LXML.

The MOU was signed by Colonel Bounsoth Insina, Deputy Director General of the Engineering Department, alongside Mr. Bill Sui, LXML Manager – Supply and Contract. The event was also witnessed by Colonel Patthana Boutichack, Deputy Chief of Office of the General Staff Department, and Mr. Michael Stott, LXML Manager - Mine Technical Services.

UXO clearance is critical to the operational integrity of Sepon mine, located in one of the most heavily bombarded regions of Laos, The UXO remained from the Indochina war which continues to pose significant risks to the lives of local residences. Since beginning operations, LXML has collaborated closely with the Lao Ministry of Defence, the National Regulatory Authority (NRA), and the Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Programme (UXO Lao) to enhance safety standards by applying much dedicated UXO clearance methodologies over the past two decades.

“We are dedicated to removing dangerous obstacles that impede development in Laos,” stated Mr. Saman Aneka. “Our ongoing efforts to enhance the employee’s and community’s safety involve investing in state-of-the-art equipment, improving demining techniques, and raising awareness in partnership with local communities. We are profoundly grateful for the continued support and cooperation of the Lao Ministry of Defence, the NRA, and UXO Lao in undertaking this critical and hazardous work.”

Sepon mine is situated in a remote area facing unique challenges because of its location in one of the most bombed districts of Laos. With an estimated 260 million bombs dropped on the country between 1964 to 1973, approximately 80 million of these munitions failed to detonate, leaving a grim legacy of UXO that continues to threaten lives and hinder development.

Up to date, since the Sepon Mining Operations commenced, LXML has invested over US$ 56 million in UXO clearance, successfully clearing over 6,400 hectares of land and destroying over 60,000 UXO items within and around the Sepon mine.