A Griffith University graduate whose career has helped strengthen Laos’ relationships across Asia, the Pacific and Africa has been recognised with the 2026 Outstanding Alumnus Award from Griffith Business School.
Dr Bounthanongsack (Bo) Chanthalath, who completed a Doctor of Philosophy at Griffith in 2016 and was a HDR member of the Griffith Asia Institute during his time here, is the Director General of Asia Pacific and Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). Over more than two decades in diplomacy, he has played a key role in building international partnerships, advancing regional cooperation and promoting mutual understanding between nations.
Dr Chanthalath recently returned to Griffith University as a guest of the Griffith Asia Institute (GAI), where he delivered a seminar examining contemporary relations between Australia and Laos. The visit provided students and researchers with valuable insights into diplomacy, regional cooperation and the evolving Australia-Laos relationship.
GAI Acting Director, Associate Professor Gloria Ge said hosting Dr Chanthalath was a valuable opportunity for the institute and wider Griffith community, stating that, “Bo’s seminar provided important perspectives on the opportunities and challenges shaping relations between Australia and Laos.”
“[Bo’s] insights helped deepen our understanding of a relationship that continues to grow in importance across diplomacy, education, development cooperation and people-to-people connections.”
Reflecting on his career, Dr Chanthalath said diplomacy offered an opportunity to foster cooperation across cultures and countries:
“I serve my country with pride and honour by building bridges between Laos and the international community through diplomacy and cooperation.”
Having worked with diplomats and officials from a wide range of cultural and religious backgrounds, Dr Chanthalath said every interaction had broadened his perspective and strengthened his commitment to international engagement.
“My work matters because it helps strengthen Laos’ relationships with the international community,” he said.
“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.”
Dr Chanthalath credits Griffith University with helping shape both his professional and personal development. As an international student arriving from Laos, he found a welcoming environment and strong support network that helped him succeed. He stated, his supervisor, former GAI Directors, Professor Andrew O’Neil and Professor Ian Hall, along with his lecturers and classmates, created a supportive environment that gave him the confidence to succeed.
“What I often share with friends and colleagues is that Griffith was much more than a place to earn a degree. It was where I built lifelong friendships with people from around the world, expanded my global perspective, and developed both personally and professionally.”
The experiences and relationships formed during his time at Griffith continue to influence his work today, where understanding different cultures and building lasting partnerships remain at the heart of effective diplomacy.
The Outstanding Alumnus Award recognises graduates whose professional achievements have made a significant contribution to their field and community. For Dr Chanthalath, the honour reflects a career dedicated to cooperation, dialogue and strengthening connections between Laos and the wider world. Our Griffith Asia Institute community congratulate him and all his success for the future.
