(KPL) The multi-sectoral National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Committee convened its annual review meeting from 3-4 October 2024, bringing together key stakeholders to assess the progress in addressing AMR in the Lao PDR.

The meeting also aimed to chart the next steps, including the development of an updated National Strategic Plan on AMR for 2025-2030.

Established in 2016, the AMR Committee has been central to the Lao PDR's efforts in tackling the rising challenge of antimicrobial resistance. With support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the country developed its first National Strategic Plan on AMR (2019-2023), which was endorsed by the Ministers of Health and Agriculture and Forestry.

Dr. Phonepadith Xangsayarath, Chair of the National AMR Committee, emphasized the significance of this year’s review in guiding the upcoming strategic plan. He noted the importance of cross-sector collaboration and aligning development partners' support with the government's AMR priorities to ensure future success. The review also provided key lessons for improving implementation.

Dr. Timothy Armstrong, WHO Representative to the Lao PDR, commended the government's leadership in combating AMR and underscored the urgency of taking coordinated action to mitigate the growing health security threat. “The updated National Strategic Plan on AMR will be an opportunity for stakeholders to agree on key priorities and solutions to accelerate progress,” said Dr. Armstrong.

Dr. Supatsak Subharat, FAO’s Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD) Country Team Leader, called for enhanced collaboration across sectors to successfully execute the revised strategic plan. He stressed the need for improved mechanisms to support cross-sectoral integration and evidence-based action.

The meeting was led by the Ministry of Health's Department of Communicable Diseases Control and included representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Ministry of National Defense, and Ministry of Public Security. Development partners and stakeholders from various sectors were also in attendance to discuss the way forward in the Lao PDR’s fight against AMR.

The updated National Strategic Plan on AMR for 2025-2030 is expected to guide the Lao PDR's continued efforts to address AMR through strengthened systems, increased cooperation, and evidence-based interventions across relevant sectors.

KPL