KPL
The Lao PDR hosted the 14th Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Economic Corridors Forum (ECF) in Vientiane on September 14–15, bringing together senior officials and representatives from the six GMS countries, international organisations and the private sector to advance economic corridor development and strengthen regional resilience.
(KPL) The Lao PDR hosted the 14th Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Economic Corridors Forum (ECF) in Vientiane on September 14–15, bringing together senior officials and representatives from the six GMS countries, international organisations and the private sector to advance economic corridor development and strengthen regional resilience.
The forum was organised by the Ministry of Finance on behalf of the Lao Government in cooperation with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the GMS Secretariat.
The meeting was co-opened by Ms. Phetsamone Sone, Deputy Minister of Finance; Mr. Neanshan Zhang, Head of the ADB Southeast Asia Department; and Ms. Sanny Campbell, Country Director of the ADB Resident Mission in Lao PDR.
Held under the theme “Accelerating, Harnessing, Harmonizing Economic Corridor Development to Ensure GMS Resilience against Major Global Challenges,” the forum focused on making economic corridors more integrated, competitive, inclusive and secure.
Discussions covered development priorities and investment needs along economic corridors, stronger coordination among stakeholders, greater involvement of local authorities and the private sector, and the use of public-private partnerships to advance corridor development.
Deputy Minister Phetsamone stressed the importance of transforming the Lao PDR from a landlocked country into a land-linked nation by strengthening regional and international connectivity. She also called for a shift from policy frameworks to concrete implementation through the GMS Investment Framework 2027–2029.
The forum also addressed four strategic areas: accelerating economic corridor development from planning to implementation; promoting inclusive labour migration; strengthening the role of local authorities and special economic zones as drivers of development; and advancing innovation and modernisation for sustainable growth.
The meeting is expected to contribute to stronger regional cooperation, sustainable financing and practical economic opportunities that generate tangible benefits for people and communities across the GMS.
KPL
