VIENTIANE: Laos is strengthening resilience and disaster management efforts as climate change and natural disasters continue to threaten socio-economic development and the livelihoods of communities that rely heavily on natural resources.
A scientific seminar on climate change and disaster risk reduction was held from Monday to Wednesday (May 18-20) in Vientiane province, bringing together participants to discuss strategies for strengthening resilience and improving disaster management in Laos, Lao News Agency reported on Wednesday.
Speaking at the meeting, Vice President of the Lao National Assembly (NA) Monexay Laomuaxong said climate change and natural disasters are global challenges that not only affect the environment but also threaten socio-economic development and the livelihoods of people who depend heavily on natural resources.
He noted that the National Assembly has actively implemented international commitments related to climate change and disaster risk reduction, but acknowledged that challenges and limitations remain, requiring stronger cooperation and more effective implementation measures.
The seminar aimed to raise awareness, strengthen knowledge and skills, and enhance capacity in addressing climate change and disaster risks affecting Lao society. It also served as a platform for participants to exchange experiences and lessons learned from their work and local activities.
Discussions focused on policy and legislative proposals, the implementation of strategies and laws related to climate change and disaster management, greenhouse gas emission reduction, resilience building, and the development of a modern disaster risk management system.
Participants also emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between central and local authorities in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, while sharing experiences from their communities in responding to climate-related disasters. - Xinhua
