VIENTIANE: Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (pic) has instructed Attapeu authorities to take decisive action over unproductive mining projects, as part of efforts to boost economic self-reliance and investment accountability.
The premier met with provincial leaders during a working visit to the southern province on July 2 to monitor development progress and preparations for the upcoming 12th Provincial Party Congress.
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone addresses a meeting with the leaders of Attapeu province last week.
The meeting, held at the Attapeu Governor’s office, brought together deputy ministers, senior officials from the Prime Minister’s Office, and relevant representatives.
In assessing the province’s mid-year performance, the prime minister commended the achievements made but stressed the urgency of stronger leadership and more effective implementation moving forward.
His main concern was the oversight of investment projects, many of which, he said, had made no progress, experienced delays, violated contractual terms, or had serious negative environmental or social impacts. These projects will now undergo close scrutiny.
PM Sonexay advised provincial authorities to issue warnings to the owners of underperforming projects and set firm deadlines for resolution.
His stance reflects a national push for stronger accountability, ensuring that all investments contribute to local development without causing harm.
If corrective action is not taken within the set timeframe, these ventures will be subject to cancellation or official withdrawal, the prime minister said.
To support these measures, he advised provincial authorities to coordinate with the Special Taskforce established under Decision No. 47/PM, dated April 25, 2025.
This taskforce is mandated to manage, monitor, and inspect previously approved mining projects, ensuring they comply with legal and environmental standards.
The prime minister also reaffirmed the importance of enforcing the legal instruments of the taskforce, particularly in monitoring resource-related activities and ensuring transparent, lawful development practices.
Prime Minister Sonexay’s visit has injected renewed urgency and clarity into the development agenda of Attapeu province.
With a clear focus on disciplined governance, self-reliant growth, and investment accountability, the province is being positioned to serve as a model of resilient, people-centred development aligned with national aspirations. - Vientiane Times/ANN
