VIENTIANE, July 27 (Xinhua) -- The Lao government opened its monthly meeting for July on Monday, bringing together cabinet members and provincial leaders to review recent developments and set priorities amid an increasingly tense, complex and unpredictable regional and international landscape.
The meeting, held in Lao capital Vientiane, reviewed progress in implementing the resolution of the 12th Party Congress and the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, as well as preparations to elevate rural development and poverty eradication to a national agenda, Lao News Agency reported on Monday.
In his opening remarks, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone highlighted growing uncertainty in the global economy, citing continued geopolitical tensions, including conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, along with other regional security challenges.
He said Laos must closely monitor their potential impacts, particularly rising fuel prices, exchange rate volatility, higher import costs and natural disasters that could disrupt production, transportation, businesses and household livelihoods.
During the meeting, participants will assess socio-economic performance in July, set priorities for August, review regional and international developments, evaluate national defense and security, and discuss measures to address fuel-related challenges. ■