KPL
On November 20, President Thongloun Sisoulith received a courtesy visit from a high-level delegation representing friendly nations, development partners, and international organisations attending the 14th High-Level Round Table Meeting (RTM).
(KPL) On November 20, President Thongloun Sisoulith received a courtesy visit from a high-level delegation representing friendly nations, development partners, and international organisations attending the 14th High-Level Round Table Meeting (RTM).
The delegation reported on the successful conclusion of the 2025 RTM, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, who also serves as Vice Chairman of the National Steering Committee for the Round Table Process.
During the meeting, Minister of Finance Santiphab Phomvihane presented the key outcomes of the 14th RTM, which centred on four major areas.
First, participants unanimously endorsed and signed the Vientiane Declaration III (2026–2035).
Second, the meeting reviewed the implementation of the 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP) for 2020–2025 and examined the draft 10th NSEDP (2026–2030). Delegates agreed to intensify efforts by defining clearer and more detailed measures and policies to achieve the plan’s six strategic goals.
Third, delegates were briefed on progress toward the Lao PDR’s planned graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, as well as the implementation of the Doha Programme of Action for LDCs (DPoA). The discussion highlighted the need for a robust financing strategy, prudent debt management, and adequate budget allocations for essential sectors such as education and public health — all key components for a successful and sustainable LDC transition.
Finally, the Meeting received a report on the outcomes of the High-Level Dialogue Forum, held under the theme: “Post-LDC Graduation: Opening the Door to New Development Pathways – Growth, Employment Promotion, and Technology.” The forum explored access to technology and knowledge transfer, the green transition, the growing role of artificial intelligence as a modern development tool, and improvements in public administration and financial management.
President Thongloun warmly welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for their continued support of the country’s socio-economic development. He also provided guidance on ensuring the concrete implementation of the RTM outcomes so that they deliver tangible benefits to the Lao people.
KPL
