VIENTIANE: The Lao government has outlined key achievements during the first six months of 2026 while charting priorities for the remainder of the year, following the close of the first expanded government meeting last week.
Speaking at a press conference at the National Convention Centre on June 25, Deputy Minister and Deputy Head of the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr Kheungkham Keonouchanh, briefed reporters on the outcomes of the two-day meeting held on June 24-25.
The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and attended by deputy prime ministers, cabinet ministers, chairs of the administrative committees of Vientiane and the provinces, and representatives of central Partyand government agencies. A total of 50 senior officials participated.
The government firstly reviewed itsachievements during the first half of 2026 and established priority actions for the remaining six months of the year.
This was followed by an assessment of the progress made under the National Socio-Economic Development Plan, budget, and monetary plan for the first half of the year, as well as measures to ensure successful implementation of these plans during the second half of 2026.
Among the achievements highlighted was the government’s continuing crackdown on illegal mining operations. Law enforcement agencies broke up illicit operations in 12 provinces, resulting in the arrest of Lao and foreign nationals.
Officials impounded significant quantities of heavy machinery and equipment used in illegal mining, including 72 excavators, three dump trucks, one loader, 10 boats, five pick-up trucks and additional mining-related equipment.
Authorities said the crackdown demonstrated the government’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law, protecting the country’s natural resources, and ensuring that all mining operations are legal.
The government also reaffirmed its determination to continue implementing its development priorities during the final six months of 2026, with an emphasis on sustaining economic growth, strengthening public administration, and maintaining effective law enforcement throughout the country. - Vientiane Times/ANN
