Sekong province

Sekong (also sometimes Xekong, Lao: ເຊກອງ, pronounced [séː kɔ̀ːŋ]) is a province of Laos in the southeast of the country. It is the second smallest province in Laos, covering an area of 7,665 square kilometres (2,959 sq mi). It is bordered by Vietnam to the east, Attapeu province to the south, Salavan province to the north, and Champasak province to the west. Sekong has the smallest population (129,398 as of 2020) and the lowest population density of any province. It was created in 1984 by splitting Salavan province. It is the most diverse province in Laos with 14 ethnic groups. The Sekong River, which divides the province, flows in a southerly direction into Cambodia and is navigable. The Dakchung Plateau and Xe Xap National Biodiversity Conservation Area are among the areas under protection.