VIENTIANE: The new United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative has pledged to strengthen support for Laos’ socio-economic development priorities in the years ahead.
The pledge was made when Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Anouparb Vongnorkeo received a Letter of Credence from the new UNDP Resident Representative to Laos, Ayshanie Ilanka Medagangoda-Labe, on Monday.
The meeting marked the start of Ayshanie’s tenure in Laos and provided an opportunity to reaffirm the strong cooperation between the government and UNDP.
Anouparb welcomed and congratulated Ayshanie on her appointment and praised UNDP for its support to Laos over the years.
He said UNDP had contributed to the 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan and supported preparation of the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2026-2030.
UNDP’s support has also covered the Round Table Meeting process, unexploded ordnance clearance, and efforts to meet the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Anouparb said this cooperation had helped Laos advance its development goals and prepare for smooth, efficient and sustainable graduation from Least Developed Country status.
Laos is scheduled to graduate from Least Developed Country status later this year, marking an important step in its development. Graduation reflects progress in areas such as income, human assets, and economic and environmental vulnerability.
Anouparb said cooperation would continue under the leadership of the new UNDP Resident Representative, with a focus on government priorities and programmes outlined in the Country Programme Document for 2027-2031.
The next five-year programme is expected to guide UNDP’s support for Laos at an important stage of its development, as the country works to strengthen economic and social progress while preparing for life beyond Least Developed Country status.
Ayshanie expressed her gratitude to the government for the warm welcome and pledged to strengthen cooperation in support of Laos’ socio-economic development plans and priorities.
The meeting was attended by officials from relevant departments of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a delegation from UNDP Laos. - Vientiane Times/ANN
