VIENTIANE, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The Lao government and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) convened a meeting to deepen cooperation in developing sustainable agriculture, enhancing food security, and strengthening rural resilience.
An annual review and planning meeting to assess the implementation of the seventh Country Program Framework (CPF) 2022-2026 was held in Lao capital Vientiane, bringing together representatives from the Lao government and FAO to review 2024 achievements, and develop strategies for effective implementation in 2025 and 2026, according to a report from the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry on Wednesday.
The meeting reviewed progress made in 2024 and discussed plans for developing the eighth Country Program. Participants also finalized key activities for the 2025 work plan and shared practices and opportunities.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed challenges including reliance on natural conditions, climate change impacts, inefficient irrigation, slow adoption of modern farming, and declining soil fertility.
Speaking at the meeting on Monday, Phonevanh Outhavong, Lao deputy minister of Planning and Investment, emphasized the importance of reviewing progress in the Lao government and FAO partnership, and thanked FAO for its ongoing support in strengthening agriculture, food security, nutrition, and sustainable natural resource management.
"This meeting is a vital opportunity to reflect on progress, share lessons learned, and define priorities for the years ahead," she said.
Phonevanh also highlighted significant progress across the CPF's three strategic focus areas -- people's livelihoods, inclusive prosperity, and environment, climate change, and resilience -- despite ongoing economic challenges.
The Lao government and FAO reaffirmed their partnership to advance the country's agriculture, aiming for improved production, nutrition, environment, and livelihoods. ■
