[1] Accounting for American personnel missing in Laos and clearing unexploded ordnance (UXO) from the wars in Indochina were the initial focuses of the post-1975 bilateral relationship.

The United States and Laos share a commitment to ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for the Mekong sub-region.

[citation needed] A large part of U.S. bilateral assistance to Laos is devoted to improving health and child nutrition.

The United States also helps improve trade policy in Laos, promotes sustainable development and biodiversity conservation, and works to strengthen the criminal justice system and law enforcement.

The United States has provided significant support for clearance of UXO from the war, particularly cluster munitions, as well as for risk education and victims’ assistance.