VIENTIANE (Vientiane Times/ANN): Australian Ambassador to Laos, Megan Jones, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to fostering people-to-people connections and economic cooperation between Laos and Australia.
As part of the Australia-Laos Friendship Association’s initiatives, Ambassador Jones handed over 100 audio tour headsets to the Lao Leadership Caves Information Centre in Viengxay district.
The donation aims to enhance visitor experiences at this historic site while strengthening the enduring ties between Laos and Australia, which were further cemented by the Comprehensive Partnership signed by the two countries’ Prime Ministers last year.
While in Huaphan during the weekend visit, Ambassador Jones met with the province’s Vice Governor, Phoutphan Keovongxay, to discuss Australia’s support for the province’s development priorities.
“The Laos-Australia Comprehensive Partnership guides our collaboration across various sectors, including socio-economic development, trade and investment, climate resilience and clean energy transition, as well as defence and law enforcement cooperation,” she said.
Vice Governor Phoutphan Keovongxay expressed appreciation for Australia’s continued support and discussed the province’s challenges and potential with the ambassador.
“Huaphan has significant historical interest and scenic beauty, and we would like the ambassador’s support in promoting our province to Australian tourists,” he said.
“With the strong relationship and support from Australia, we hope to attract more Australian investment to the province. I would also like to request the ambassador’s assistance in encouraging further investment from Australia,” he added.
The Ambassador also underscored Australia’s dedication to human resource development by addressing an Australia Awards Scholarships information session, encouraging Lao students to pursue higher education opportunities in Australia.
Further reinforcing economic engagement, Ambassador Jones joined Australian logistics company Linfox in launching its investment in Huaphan as part of its broader business expansion across Laos.
Since 2018, Linfox has trained over 200 Lao workers to meet Australian transport and logistics standards, with women making up 50 percent of its workforce.
Under the “Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy”, Australia continues to strengthen economic ties with Laos by boosting two-way trade and investment.
In 2024, Linfox secured a AUD15 million contract with Carlsberg/Lao Brewery Company to transport products in Huaphan, Phongsaly and Vientiane provinces.
This followed a separate AUD4 million deal in July to supply forklifts to Carlsberg warehouses in Laos.
Australia’s ongoing collaboration with Laos, particularly in Huaphan, reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development, economic growth, and stronger bilateral relations.
