Vientiane (VNA) – A State memorial service and burial ceremony for Xaysomphone Phomvihane, Politburo member of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and President of the Lao National Assembly, was solemnly held at That Luang Square in Vientiane on August 12.​The event was attended by senior Lao Party and State leaders, Government and National Assembly officials, former leaders, religious dignitaries, members of Xaysomphone Phomvihane's family, and representatives of international organisations and diplomatic missions in Laos. (Photo: VNA)In his eulogy, Lao Party General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith recalled Xaysomphone Phomvihane's more than five decades of dedication to the common cause of the Lao Party and State, highlighting his strong political mettle, revolutionary ethics, patriotism and loyalty to the Party, nation and people.​He described Xaysomphone Phomvihane as a capable revolutionary intellectual with broad knowledge and a strategic vision. He served as President of the Lao Front for National Construction Central Committee for one term and President of the National Assembly during the 9th and 10th tenures. In recognition of his contributions, Xaysomphone Phomvihane received 17 State and Party orders, including the first- and second-class Itsala Orders and first-, second- and third-class Labour Orders. Following the official ceremony, Buddhist rites were held, including robe offering, prayers, blessings and the ceremonial pouring of water, before flowers and incense were offered in farewell to Xaysomphone Phomvihane./.