Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxôn Lao

Political Status: Fully independent constitutional monarchy proclaimed October 23, 1953; Communist-led people’s democratic republic established December 2, 1975; present constitution adopted August 14, 1991.

Area: 91,428 sq. mi. (236,800 sq. km.).

Population: 4,581,258 (1995C); 6,109,000 (2006E).

Major Urban Center (2005E): VIENTIANE (Viangchan, 730,000).

Official Language: Lao (English is considered the business language in government circles).

Monetary Unit: New Kip (market rate November 2, 2007: 9,622 new kips = $1US). The Thai baht also circulates.

President: CHOUMMALY SAYASONE; elected by the National Assembly on June 8, 2006, to succeed KHAMTAY SIPHANDONE.

Vice President: BOUNNHANG VORACHIT; elected by the National Assembly on June 8, 2006, to succeed CHOUMMALY SAYASONE.

Prime Minister: BOUASONE BOUPHAVANH; approved by the National Assembly on June 8, 2006, to succeed BOUNNHANG VORACHIT.