KPL
The Lao Government and the United Nations have endorsed a five-year Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2027–2031, outlining joint priorities to improve people’s well-being, strengthen governance and promote environmental sustainability, with a planned financial envelope of US$510 million.
(KPL) The endorsement ceremony was held in Vientiane on October 21, 2026, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane, representing the Lao Government, and UN Resident Coordinator Bakhodir Burkhanov, representing the UN system in Laos. The event was attended by deputy ministers, ambassadors, senior government officials and representatives of UN agencies.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2027–2031 will guide cooperation between the Lao Government and 24 UN agencies, funds and programmes over the next five years. It is aligned with the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan and the country’s long-term development priorities.
The framework sets out three strategic pillars: improving people’s well-being through investment in human development, health, education and social protection; strengthening governance, the rule of law and institutional capacity; and promoting environmental sustainability through climate resilience, natural resource management and green economic growth.
It also includes 10 priority action plans focusing on sustainable development, poverty reduction and ensuring a sustainable transition from least developed country status.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Thongsavanh expressed appreciation for the UN’s longstanding partnership with Laos and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to effective coordination, transparent implementation and the delivery of tangible benefits for the Lao people.
Mr. Burkhanov reaffirmed the UN system’s commitment to supporting Laos’ national development priorities and its efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Following the endorsement, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Anouparb Vongnorkeo and Mr. Burkhanov co-chaired the final High-Level Joint Steering Committee meeting for the 2022–2026 cooperation framework.
The meeting reviewed progress and key achievements during the outgoing five-year period and discussed priorities for the transition to the new framework beginning in 2027.
The new framework is expected to strengthen cooperation between Laos and the United Nations in addressing development challenges, reducing poverty and advancing the country’s sustainable development goals.
KPL
