Vientiane:Laos and the United Nations have endorsed a US$510 million United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for 2027-2031. The endorsement ceremony took place in Vientiane on October 21, 2026, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane and UN Resident Coordinator Bakhodir Burkhanov. The event saw attendance from deputy ministers, ambassadors, senior government officials, and representatives from UN agencies.
According to Lao News Agency, the UNSDCF will guide the cooperation between the Lao Government and 24 UN agencies, funds, and programmes over the next five years. It aligns with the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan and Laos' long-term development priorities.
The framework outlines three strategic pillars enhancing people's well-being through investment in human development, health, education, and social protection; strengthening governance, the rule of law, and institutional capacity; and promoting environmental sustainability through climate resilience, natural resource management, and green economic growth. It also comprises 10 priority action plans focused on sustainable development, poverty reduction, and ensuring a sustainable transition from least developed country status.
During the ceremony, Mr. Thongsavanh expressed appreciation for the UN's longstanding partnership with Laos and reaffirmed the government's commitment to effective coordination, transparent implementation, and delivery of tangible benefits for the Lao people. Mr. Burkhanov reiterated the UN system's commitment to supporting Laos' national development priorities and its efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Following the endorsement, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Anouparb Vongnorkeo and Mr. Burkhanov co-chaired the final High-Level Joint Steering Committee meeting for the 2022-2026 cooperation framework. The meeting reviewed progress and key achievements during the outgoing five-year period and discussed priorities for the transition to the new framework beginning in 2027. The new framework is expected to strengthen cooperation between Laos and the United Nations in addressing development challenges, reducing poverty, and advancing the country's sustainable development goals.