2024 Round Table Meeting Opens in Vientiane.

Vientiane: The 2024 Roundtable Implementation Meeting, themed 'Enhance Partnership to Support the Implementation of the National Socio-economic Development Plan', was held in Vientiane on November 14, 2024. The event was co-chaired by Mr. Phet Phomphiphak, Minister of Planning and Investment, and Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator in the Lao PDR. According to Lao News Agency, the meeting gathered Deputy Ministers, Deputy Governors, representatives of the National Assembly, members of international diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations, NGOs, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Minister Phet Phomphiphak emphasized that the meeting provides an excellent opportunity to consult on crucial topics, including the implementation of the 9th Five-Year National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP) of the Lao PDR for 2024, future directions for 2025, and the draft 10th Five-Year NSEDP (2026-2030). Discussions also covered progress toward Laos' graduation from the UN index of Least Developed Countries (LDC) and outcomes from the Summit of the Future held by the UN General Assembly in New York, United States. Despite the challenges facing Laos, its development partners remain committed to supporting the government in the effective implementation of each phase of the NSEDP, contributing to progressive improvements. UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov noted that given the increasing challenges, Laos' development partners must seek more effective approaches to support sustainable socio-economic development in the Lao PDR. 'This roundtable meeting process serves as a valuable platform to help us achieve these goals through substantive consultations focused on financial development, recovery, and resilience, as well as preparing for graduation from least developed country status.'