Vientiane:Ambassador Jones paid a farewell visit to Dr Phet Phomphiphak, during which they discussed Laos' development priorities. Ambassador Jones expressed gratitude for Dr Phet's support during her tenure and acknowledged his significant contributions to national development, including his involvement in supporting Party decision-making and implementing national priorities.
According to Lao News Agency, the two sides reflected on the growth of bilateral relations, notably the elevation to a Comprehensive Partnership in 2024, and Australia's increased engagement with the Lao People's Revolutionary Party since the establishment of the Laos-Australia Friendship Association.
Their discussions included the implementation of the National Agenda on Rural Development and Poverty Alleviation, with a focus on improving rural livelihoods, increasing agricultural productivity, and promoting inclusive economic growth. They emphasized the importance of ensuring development benefits reach communities throughout the country, including rural and remote areas. Both parties agreed on the importance of growing investment and welcomed Australian business investments, particularly in rural areas.
Ambassador Jones and Dr Phet explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in support of Laos' long-term development objectives. Dr Phet highlighted Laos' intention to enhance cooperation with Australia in human resource development, health, education, and technological capacity building, especially in rural areas, identifying these as crucial for sustainable development.
Ambassador Jones emphasized Australia's support through economic governance programs, education and health partnerships, agricultural research cooperation, and leadership development initiatives. She reaffirmed Australia's commitment to developing Laos' future leaders through scholarships, professional development, English-language training, and institutional partnerships.
Ambassador Jones expressed confidence that the partnership between the two nations would continue to deepen under her successor. Dr Phet thanked Ambassador Jones for her dedication to the Australia-Laos relationship and welcomed the continued strengthening of relations and ongoing cooperation between the two countries.