Vientiane: The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and The Asia Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to implement Phase II of a project aimed at strengthening Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) capacity for Department of Environment personnel. The agreement was signed on February 23.According to Lao News Agency, the signing ceremony was attended by Vice Minister Xaynakhone Inthavong, along with representatives of development partners and relevant stakeholders. The initiative is focused on enhancing technical expertise in reviewing Environmental and Social Impact Assessment reports. This effort aims to ensure investment projects comply with national environmental laws and standards, while promoting sustainable development.The cooperation is expected to strengthen environmental governance by improving risk assessment, mitigation measures, and monitoring systems for investment projects across the country. The project seeks to bolster the capacity of Department of Environment personnel, thereby reinforcing the nation's commitment to sustainable and compliant development practices.