Griffith University Alumnus Receives 2026 Outstanding Business Award for Diplomacy in Laos
Dr Bounthanongsack (Bo) Chanthalath has received the 2026 Outstanding Alumnus Award from Griffith Business School for his distinguished diplomatic career. Dr Chanthalath serves as the Director General of Asia Pacific and Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) and completed a Doctor of Philosophy at Griffith University in 2016.
A Career Dedicated to Diplomacy and International Cooperation
Over a career spanning more than two decades, Dr Chanthalath has worked to build international partnerships, advance regional cooperation, and promote mutual understanding. His career has focused on strengthening Laos’ relationships across Asia, the Pacific, and Africa. Commenting on his work, Dr Chanthalath stated, I serve my country with pride and honour by building bridges between Laos and the international community through diplomacy and cooperation.
He further noted that diplomacy is about more than representing a country. It is about building trust, fostering cooperation, and creating opportunities that support national development and improve people’s lives.
Return to Griffith and Award Recognition
Dr Chanthalath recently returned to the university as a guest of the Griffith Asia Institute (GAI) to deliver a seminar examining contemporary relations between Australia and Laos. GAI Acting Director Associate Professor Gloria Ge noted that the visit provided valuable perspectives on the opportunities and challenges shaping relations between the two nations.
Reflecting on his time as an international student, Dr Chanthalath credited his supervisor, former GAI Directors Professor Andrew O’Neil and Professor Ian Hall, along with lecturers and classmates, for providing a supportive environment. The Outstanding Alumnus Award was presented by Pro Vice Chancellor (Business) Professor Caitlin Byrne, alongside fellow recipients Seema Chauhan, Ryan James, and Joseph Hardy.