Pakse: The meeting was chaired by Mr Phongsavanh Sisoulath, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mr Phimphon Phandanouvong, Deputy Governor of Champasak Province. Participants included representatives from central ministries and agencies, officials from the four southern provinces and other relevant stakeholders.
According to Lao News Agency, Mr Phongsavanh Sisoulath highlighted that the consultation marked the final round of discussions with local authorities, following earlier consultations held for northern and central provinces in April. He emphasized that the revised decree is set to replace the existing one, which has been regulating news operations of foreign media agencies, diplomatic missions, and international organizations in Laos since 2015.
The ministry noted that the implementation of the current decree has faced challenges, such as a lack of centralized coordination between central and local authorities, overlaps with sector-specific regulations, and gaps in coverage. The revised decree aims to establish a clearer, more comprehensive, and enforceable legal framework that aligns with both Lao and international law. It is also intended to enhance nationwide management of foreign media operations and promote broader information exchange between Laos and other countries.
During the consultation, the drafting committee presented the revised decree, and participants provided feedback focusing on the rights, duties, and responsibilities of their respective sectors.