UN House, Vientiane - Today Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is in Vientiane and will inaugurate UN Headquarters in the Lao PDR and launch the Lao PDR's Mid Term MDG Progress Report. This news post will bring you updates and images from the days events as they happen.

1127: The visit has concluded. The Secretary-General addressed the UN staff of the Lao PDR and encouraged them to motivate themselves by "treating every day differently" and "asking how you can be better."

The SG also met a number of dignitaries and officials...

... as well as a number of excited UN staff members.

1011: And the speeches have been delivered, just the staff forum to go.

The speeches were relayed to television screens for better viewing:

0850: The Press have arrived and are getting their first briefing. Less than half an hour to go!

0800: UN House has started to buzz. The building gets its grand opening today!

0720: Security is tightening as it sets up for the day ahead

0645: All still quiet as preparations are finalised. The podium and seats await our honoured guests.