VIENTIANE, March 13 (Xinhua) -- The Lao government and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) have convened here to assess progress and align future strategies to address emerging challenges for children in Laos.
The meeting highlighted the progress made in crucial areas affecting children's welfare, including health, nutrition, education, and protection, underscoring the success of collaborative efforts between the Lao government and UNICEF, according to a Lao News Agency report on Wednesday.
Speaking at the meeting on Tuesday, Lao Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Phonevanh Outhavong said, "Our focus remains steadfast on creating resilient frameworks that safeguard the well-being of our children and boost the country's human capital."
The meeting set the stage for an in-depth discussion on strategic shifts required to adapt to the multifaceted challenges facing children in the Southeast Asian country, particularly in the areas of nutrition, environment and climate change, learning, gender, among others.
It provided a platform for stakeholders to contribute insights and recommendations, ensuring that the revised country program remains aligned with national priorities and the overarching goal of sustainable development.
Also speaking at the gathering, UNICEF Representative to Laos Pia Rebello Britto reiterated UNICEF's dedication to supporting Laos' journey towards inclusive growth and development.
The Lao government and UNICEF reaffirmed their commitment to a brighter future for every child in Laos, navigating through challenges and towards opportunities with renewed vigor and collaborative spirit, according to the report. ■
