Vientiane: Mr. Sonexay Sithphasay, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office and Government Spokesperson, conducted a press briefing in Vientiane to discuss the outcomes of the government’s monthly meeting for February 2025. The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, included Deputy Prime Ministers, government members, and representatives from various ministries and agencies. Provincial and Vientiane leaders participated via a tele-conferencing system.
According to Lao News Agency, the two-day meeting, held on February 27-28, focused on several critical issues, including the government’s progress and future directions. A key focus was achieving an economic growth target of 4.8% and meeting other national socio-economic development goals. Discussions also included state budget plans and monetary policies for the year 2025.
The government highlighted its diplomatic efforts, showcasing participation in international engagements. Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone attended the 2025 Global Government Summit in Dubai, UAE, and conducted official visits to Thailand and Vietnam. Notably, he participated in a tripartite summit involving Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia in Ho Chi Minh City.
Economic measures discussed included boosting domestic production, especially in agriculture, to ensure food security and support local producers. Efforts were made to repair and upgrade infrastructure, particularly roads affected by natural disasters, and to enhance access to tourist destinations.
In public health and education, the government addressed seasonal disease outbreaks and focused on educational reforms and human resource development. Policies were also implemented to support volunteer teachers, retired officials, and border soldiers involved in state schools.
In the areas of infrastructure and energy, the Ministry of Planning and Investment was directed to work with relevant sectors to promote commodity production and processing. The focus extended to enhancing mining and mineral processing and ensuring the completion of ongoing energy and mining projects.
The meeting saw the approval of four draft laws, including strategies for land management in the education and sports sector, a trade and transport facilitation action plan for 2025-2030, and the Social Work Law. The government acknowledged the complex international and regional situation but remained committed to achieving targets set by the National Assembly.
Significant progress was reported in national defense, public security, drug eradication, and social stability. Economic indicators showed a 64.85% increase in revenue compared to the same period last year, with import and export values rising by 11.7%. Inflation decreased from 15.5% in January to 12.7% in February.
The government prioritized agricultural production, infrastructure repair, and tourism promotion while continuing to monitor public health issues. Emphasis was placed on educational reforms and human resource development, alongside measures to support volunteer teachers and retired personnel.
In conclusion, the government reiterated its focus on implementing national resolutions, socio-economic development plans, and state budget policies, ensuring stability and progress across all sectors.