Vientiane: From 14-19 December, Australian Ambassador Megan Jones visited the southern provinces to reaffirm Australia's commitment to education, the 5th Population and Housing Census, and broader development and economic cooperation with the Lao PDR. The Australian Ambassador visited Savannakhet and Champassak provinces, accompanied by Minister of Finance Santiphab Phomvihane, before making her first official visit to Saravan and Xekong provinces.

According to Lao News Agency, Ambassador Megan Jones emphasized Australia's support for socio-economic development through various initiatives during her visit.

In Savannakhet, Ambassador Jones visited the Kaysone Phomvihane Memorial Museum and met with Bounchom Ubonpaseuth, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee. The visit highlighted Australia's economic engagement and support for the province. Ambassador Jones and Minister Santiphab visited Na Deua Primary School to showcase Australia's support for education through the Basic Education Quality and Access in Lao PDR (BEQUAL) program, which focuses on professional development for teachers to enhance inclusive education.

In Champassak, the visit to Costa Blueberry Farm underscored Australia's commitment to agricultural modernization. Costa Group plans to invest AUD100 million in this berry farming initiative, creating approximately 2,000 jobs. The visit demonstrated how Costa, as a leading Australian business, contributes to rural development and export competitiveness in Laos.

Ambassador Jones and Minister Santiphab also observed the implementation of the 5th Population and Housing Census, with Australia contributing AUD5.45 million to its success. The Ambassador highlighted the census's importance for informed policy decisions and resource allocation, supporting inclusive development under the Laos-Australia Comprehensive Partnership.

In Xekong province, the Ambassador marked the 35th anniversary of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) in Laos by visiting a cassava disease-resistant research station. She engaged with researchers, farmers, and industry representatives, and handed over medical equipment to Xekong Provincial Hospital under Australia's Small Grants Programme.

In Saravan province, the Ambassador visited a Community-Based School Readiness Programme, observing the impact of Australia's partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports and UNICEF.