VIENTIANE, May 31 (Xinhua) -- A tree-planting event was held in Lao capital Vientiane on Sunday to mark Laos' National Arbor Day and International Children's Day, highlighting the importance of forest conservation and promoting nationwide efforts to protect, restore, and sustainably manage forest resources.
The event was attended by Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Lao Minister of Agriculture and Environment Linkham Douangsavanh, as well as government officials, development partners, business representatives, youth, and members of the public, according to the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.
Speaking at the event, Linkham highlighted the country's achievements in tree planting and forest conservation. He said National Arbor Day serves to raise public awareness, especially among children and young people, of the vital role forests play in environmental sustainability, while encouraging broader participation in forest protection, restoration, and sustainable management.
For 2026, Laos has set a target of collecting more than 121,000 kilograms of seeds, producing over 25 million saplings, and reforesting more than 50,000 hectares nationwide as part of its ongoing efforts to expand forest cover and promote environmental sustainability. ■