(KPL) Vientiane Province and Luxembourg reviewed the progress of development cooperation and priorities for future support during a meeting in Vientiane Province on September 23, 2026, focusing on poverty reduction, local capacity building and improving living conditions in rural communities.

Mr. Phoutanouphet Xaysombat, Secretary of the Party Committee of Vientiane Province, received a Luxembourg delegation led by Mr. Thomas Lammar, Chargé d’Affaires of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Mr. Lammar said implementation of four development programmes in the province had progressed well, highlighting the contribution of provincial departments and local authorities. He also raised the need to assess the impact of major infrastructure investments, including dam construction and other large-scale projects that may overlap with development assistance.

He emphasised the importance of ensuring that such investments deliver tangible benefits for local communities, particularly by improving livelihoods and incomes. The programmes will also refine their work plans to strengthen capacity at the grassroots level and continue supporting poverty reduction, income generation and improved living standards in line with district and provincial socio-economic development plans.

Mr. Phoutanouphet expressed appreciation for Luxembourg’s long-standing development assistance through LuxDev, particularly the Local Development Programme, which supports socio-economic development in areas including education, healthcare, labour and social welfare, and public works and transport.

He said the cooperation had helped improve conditions for people in remote areas and strengthen the capacity of local officials in development planning, budget management and project implementation.

LuxDev’s current Local Development Programme is being implemented in Vientiane, Bokeo, Bolikhamxay and Khammouane provinces, with a focus on improving the well-being of people in poorer rural communities through local development and infrastructure support.

The two sides also exchanged views on related issues and discussed ways to further improve cooperation and address challenges during the next phase of implementation.

KPL