(KPL)The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Government of the Lao PDR convened their Annual Review and Planning Meeting to assess the implementation of the 7th Country Programme Framework (CPF) 2022–2026 and chart priorities for 2025–2026.

The high-level meeting, co-chaired by FAO and key government ministries, focused on evaluating progress made in 2024 and identifying strategies to enhance the effectiveness and impact of upcoming interventions.

The 7th Country Programme is guided by annual work plans developed through broad consultation to ensure resource efficiency and accountability. These plans are subject to robust monitoring—quarterly, midterm, and annual—alongside bilateral reviews with implementing partners. The joint annual meeting provides a comprehensive review of results, challenges, and lessons learned, enabling improved coordination and programme delivery.

Key highlights of the meeting included the presentation of findings from the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the CPF, which offered strategic guidance for future planning and laid the groundwork for the upcoming 8th Country Programme. Discussions also focused on finalising high-impact interventions for the 2025 work plan, addressing implementation risks, and reinforcing good practices across sectors. The session also reviewed audit findings and lessons learned to inform more efficient and accountable programming.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Phonevanh Outhavong, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment, underscored the importance of evaluating achievements during the third year of the 7th Country Programme. She expressed appreciation to FAO for its continued support in enhancing food security, nutrition, agriculture, and natural resource sustainability in Lao PDR.   “This meeting is a valuable opportunity to reflect on past progress, share lessons, and define key priorities for the years ahead,” she said.

Mrs. Outhavong also noted progress in the CPF’s three strategic focus areas—People’s Livelihoods, Inclusive Prosperity, and Environment, Climate Change, and Resilience—despite ongoing economic challenges.

Ms. Kyung-mee Kim, FAO Representative to the Lao PDR, acknowledged the government’s confidence in FAO as a trusted development partner. “FAO is proud to support Lao PDR in transforming its agriculture sector to achieve better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and better lives,” she said.

Ms. Kim highlighted last year’s 4.1% growth in the agriculture sector and the country’s success in surpassing agricultural export targets. She also pointed to persistent structural challenges, including climate vulnerability, inefficient irrigation systems, slow adoption of modern practices, and declining soil fertility.

Reaffirming FAO’s commitment, she noted the organization’s active engagement with other UN agencies in securing funding from the UN Joint SDG Fund for Food System Transformation. “This funding offers a promising opportunity to scale up Lao PDR’s efforts in building a more sustainable and resilient food and agriculture system,” she added.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by both FAO and the Lao Government to continue deepening cooperation and driving forward national development priorities through sustainable agriculture, food security, and rural resilience.

KPL