(KPL) Mr. Sonexay Sithphasay, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office and Government Spokesperson, held a press briefing at the office in Vientiane on the outcomes of the monthly meeting of the government for February 2025.

The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, was attended by Deputy Prime Ministers, government members, representatives from ministries and agencies. provincial and Vientiane leaders attended the meeting via a tele-conferencing system.

The meeting, held on Feb 27-28, at the Prime Minister's Office, discussed several critical topics.

The government reviewed its progress and outlined future directions, focusing on achieving the economic growth target of 4.8% and other national socio-economic development goals, state budget plans, and monetary policies for 2025.

The government highlighted its diplomatic engagements, including visits to friendly countries and participation in international meetings. Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone attended the 2025 Global Government Summit in Dubai, UAE, and conducted official visits to Thailand and Vietnam, where he participated in the tripartite summit of Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia in Ho Chi Minh City.

Economic Measures

The government emphasized measures to boost domestic production, particularly in agriculture, to ensure food security and support local producers. Efforts were also made to repair and upgrade roads affected by natural disasters and improve access to tourist destinations.

Public Health and Education

The government continued to monitor and address seasonal disease outbreaks, while also focusing on educational reforms, human resource development, and addressing teacher shortages. Policies were implemented to support volunteer teachers, retired officials, and border soldiers assisting in state schools.

Infrastructure and Energy

The meeting directed the Ministry of Planning and Investment to collaborate with relevant sectors to promote commodity production and processing, enhance mining and mineral processing, and ensure the completion of ongoing energy and mining projects.

Legislative Updates

The government approved four draft laws, including the Land Management Strategy for the Education and Sports sector, the Trade and Transport Facilitation Action Plan for 2025-2030, and the Social Work Law.

The government acknowledged the complex and unpredictable international and regional situation but reaffirmed its commitment to achieving the targets set by the National Assembly. Significant progress was noted 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 (excluding electricity) rising by 11.7%. Inflation decreased from 15.5% in January to 12.7% in February.

The government also prioritized agricultural production, infrastructure repair, and tourism promotion, while continuing to monitor and address public health issues. Educational reforms and human resource development were emphasized, along with 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.

KPL