(KPL) Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos, led the Lao delegation to the 82nd session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), held from April 20 to 24, 2026, in Bangkok.

The session was convened under the theme, “Leaving no one behind: advancing a society for all ages in Asia and the Pacific.” It aims to review the implementation of past ESCAP programs and resolutions while setting priorities for the 2026–2027 period.

The forum serves as a key platform for member states and development partners to address regional challenges, including demographic change, socio-economic development, job creation, women’s economic empowerment, elderly care, and social inclusion.

During the opening ceremony on April 20, Mr. Thongsavanh delivered a special address outlining major challenges facing the region. He emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global issues.

He pointed to ongoing economic pressures, rising public debt, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, which continue to affect energy and food security, contributing to inflation and increasing living costs.

During the general debate, Mr. Thongsavanh highlighted Laos’ national development priorities. He referenced the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, recently approved by the National Assembly, which aims to guide Laos toward graduating from Least Developed Country status in 2026.

He said the government is targeting average annual economic growth of at least six percent and aims to raise GDP per capita to 3,055 U.S. dollars by 2030.

The strategy focuses on building a more self-reliant economy through priority sectors, including clean energy, agriculture and processing, tourism, logistics, and the digital economy. He added that these efforts are aligned with inclusive development goals to ensure all age groups benefit from progress.

On the sidelines of the session, Mr. Thongsavanh held bilateral meetings with Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of UNESCAP and Jeyhun Bayramov, (Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan to discuss strengthening cooperation.

The session is expected to adopt six resolutions and 25 decisions related to the 2026–2027 work program. These measures are aimed at accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States.

The Lao delegation also participated in a series of side events, exchanging experiences and best practices to address socio-economic challenges and promote sustainable, inclusive development across the region.

KPL