During the visit, Ambassador Jones paid courtesy calls on provincial leaders, including Mr Vongsavanh Xayyavong, Chairman of the Oudomxay Provincial Administrative Committee; Mr. Onchanh Khamphavong, Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee; and Mr Bounelua Sinxayvoravong, Chairman of the Luang Prabang Provincial Administrative Committee.

Discussions focused on provincial development priorities and continued cooperation to improve the wellbeing of people across northern Laos.

A major highlight of the visit was the launch of the Wolbachia mosquito release initiative under the Driving Down Dengue in Laos programme in Oudomxay and Luang Prabang provinces.

The launch was led by Mrs. Baykham Khattiya, Minister of Health, in Luang Prabang and Mrs. Aphone Visathep, Vice Minister of Health, in Oudomxay, demonstrating the Lao Government’s strong commitment to protecting communities from dengue and strengthening public health outcomes.  

The initiative represents an important milestone in introducing innovative, safe and sustainable approaches to dengue prevention in Laos.

The Ambassador also joined Ministry of Health officials, provincial health authorities and development partners to observe implementation of the Health and Nutrition Services Access Phase II (HANSA II) programme in Oudomxay and Luang Namtha. 

Supporting the Government’s efforts to improve health and nutrition services, the programme is helping women and children in remote areas gain better access to quality healthcare and essential nutrition services.

At Oudomxay Provincial Hospital, Ambassador Jones observed progress in strengthening eye health services through cooperation with the Ministry of Health and provincial authorities. The initiative is helping improve access to eye care, enhance the skills of health workers and strengthen service delivery for local communities.

In Luang Namtha, the Ambassador visited Viengphoukha district to observe activities supporting community development in remote areas. These included mobile health services, education activities aimed at helping girls successfully transition to secondary school, and climate-resilient water, sanitation and hygiene improvements at Thong Laad Health Centre. Together, these initiatives contribute to improved health, stronger educational outcomes and enhanced resilience for local communities.

In Luang Prabang, Ambassador Jones met with government representatives, businesses and community organisations to discuss opportunities to promote sustainable economic growth, tourism, investment and job creation.

She also visited a social enterprise supporting income generation for women and persons with disabilities, reflecting the shared commitment of Laos and Australia to inclusive development.

Ambassador Jones said, "Australia is proud to work alongside the Government of the Lao PDR to support national and provincial development priorities. We welcome the strong leadership shown by the Ministry of Health, provincial authorities and local communities in improving services and opportunities for people across northern Laos."

Australia remains committed to strengthening its long-standing partnership with the Lao PDR and supporting efforts to advance inclusive, sustainable and resilient development that improves the lives of all Lao people.

KPL