VIENTIANE, Nov. 30 (Xinhua) -- Laos' National Convention Center is preparing to welcome leaders and delegates attending the 44th  Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in the Lao capital Vientiane in 2024.

This aerial photo taken on Nov. 25, 2022 shows a Lane Xang EMU (electric multiple unit) train parking at the Vientiane Railway Station in Vientiane, Laos. (Photo: Xinhua)

Lao national TV on Thursday quoted Head of the National Convention Center Kaisone Bounsomvang as saying that the finishing touches are being made to the interior decoration, while facilities, security and IT equipment are being upgraded and coordination with other agencies is underway to ensure the smooth and successful hosting of the summit.

Staff at the center are coordinating with the Lao Ministry of Public Security to arrange for guards to be on duty around the clock to ensure the safety of guests.

Laos will be the ASEAN chair for the third time, starting from Jan. 1, 2024, with its chairmanship taking the theme "ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience" amid challenges facing the world and the ASEAN region.

Secretary-General of ASEAN Kao Kim Hourn is on a visit to Laos from Tuesday to Thursday to monitor preparations for the country's chairmanship.

Leading an ASEAN secretariat team, Kao met with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone to discuss ways to provide full support and ensure the success of Laos' ASEAN chairmanship.