Laos Minister of Energy and Mines, Phosay Sayasone, chairs an open meeting to share lessons and outline future plans for the management of mines during 2025. - Vientiane Times/ANN
VIENTIANE: Officials of the Ministry of Energy and Mines and representatives of mining companies and other stakeholders are sharing lessons learned and discussing plans for higher quality and effective investments in mining projects in Laos for 2025.
These issues are on the agenda of a two-day open meeting that began on January 20 and has brought together key stakeholders, ministry officials, provincial leaders, and representatives of relevant ministries and mining companies to assess the progress made in 2024 and to formulate plans for this year.
The discussions will help align the operations of mining ventures with the Vision 2040 and Mineral Development Strategy 2030.
The primary objective of the meeting is to comprehensively review mining activities during 2024 to identify successes and shortcomings. Through a detailed evaluation, participants will try to understand the causes of difficulties, draw valuable lessons and strengthen coordination between the relevant ministries, departments and local authorities.
In his opening remarks, the Minister of Energy and Mines, Phosay Sayasone, highlighted the challenges faced by the mining sector during 2024, including volatile international and domestic conditions.
These included economic difficulties, fiscal constraints, rising fuel and commodity prices, fluctuating exchange rates, and delays in several projects due to unforeseen hurdles.
Despite these obstacles, the mining sector achieved significant milestones under the guidance of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, government and local authorities.
“The energy and mining sectors have encountered numerous challenges, but thanks to the collective efforts of workers, party members and civil servants, we have made continuous and solid progress,” Phosay said.
The discussions focused on addressing unresolved issues and implementing measures to enhance the quality and efficiency of operations. Special emphasis was placed on improving organisational structures, enhancing inter-agency collaboration and refining the strategic approach to mineral development.
“This meeting is an essential step towards creating a strong foundation for improvement. By analysing the past and planning effectively, we aim to ensure that the energy and mining sectors can fulfil their critical roles in national development,” Phosay said.
The outcomes of the meeting are expected to lay the groundwork for a more robust and resilient mining sector in 2025, contributing to the country’s broader economic growth and sustainability goals. - Vientiane Times/ANN
