Representatives of Lao's Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications and Viettel Corporation signed a cooperative agreement in March 2014. On February 5, the two sides officially launch Lao font for mobile devices and computers that is a part of the agreement. — VNA/VNS Photo Hoang Chuong

VIENTIANE — Laos's Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications and Vietnamese telecom corporation Viettel officially launched the Lao font (Phetsarath) for mobile devices and computers in Vientiane on February 5.

The font can be used in the Android and iOS operating systems for mobile devices, and in the Windows operating systems for computers, the Vietnam News Agency in Laos reported.

Viettel has sponsored, researched and developed the font during the past one year.

Speaking at the ceremony, a representative from the ministry expressed gratitude for Viettel's support in developing the font. He said the project has marked a breakthrough for the Laotian telecom sector, contributing to shortening the digital distance between cities and the countryside, and boosting the local residents' capacity to connect with each other.

Thanks to the font, more than five million mobile phone subscribers in Laos will now be able to text, read news and send emails in Laotian.

In March 2014, Viettel had signed a cooperative agreement with the ministry. It included sponsorship of the Vietnamese company for building the Lao font, as well as supporting communications for Unitel, a joint venture between Viettel Global and Lao Asia Telecom. — VNS