Vientiane: UNICEF's Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Mr. Sanjay Wijesekera, engaged with senior officials of the Lao PDR government in Vientiane this week, advocating for continued investment in the nation's children as the country approaches its graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in November.
According to Lao News Agency, Mr. Wijesekera's visit emphasized UNICEF's enduring partnership with the Lao PDR, spanning over five decades. Discussions centered on safeguarding the progress made for children and ensuring they continue to reap the benefits from the nation's developmental strides. A significant part of his visit involved a meeting with Mrs. Aly Vongnobountham, President of the Lao Women's Union, focusing on the Union's community outreach and its pivotal role in the upcoming Country Programme (2027-2031). The programme targets areas such as immunization, parenting support, and adolescent wellbeing, reinforcing the mutual commitment to advance the rights of women and children in the country.
The future Country Programme for 2027-2031 aligns with the Government's 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, concentrating on four key areas: the initial 1,000 days of life, learning and skills development, adolescent empowerment and inclusion, and ensuring a safe and clean environment for children.
Additionally, Mr. Wijesekera met with Mr. Anouparb Vongnorkeo, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, discussing the upcoming UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2027-2031) and the Lao PDR's current involvement with UNICEF's Executive Board.
At the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Wijesekera held talks with Deputy Minister Mr. Soulivath Souvannachoumkham about maintaining public investments for children as the country prepares for LDC graduation. Despite a reduction in national poverty from 18.3 percent in 2019 to 15 percent in 2025, child poverty remains a concern, with 22.9 percent of children under five living in poverty.
Mr. Wijesekera remarked, "The Lao PDR has made real progress in reducing poverty. What matters now is making sure every child shares in it, including the very youngest. Sustained investment in children, through this transition and beyond, is what is now needed. UNICEF will continue to support the Government to help protect and build on the gains made for children."
During his visit, Mr. Wijesekera also engaged with young members of UNICEF's Youth Advocate Network, whose efforts include preventing child marriage, promoting climate action, and enhancing digital skills. He also observed health support services provided to children and mothers at a local hospital.
