The Lao government has convened a high-level meeting in the capital to discuss strategic planning, institutional reforms and pressing national issues requiring coordinated action.

The session, chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, brought together deputy prime ministers, cabinet members and senior officials to review progress and set priorities for the months ahead.

According to Lao National TV, the meeting followed the recent election of members of the Lao National Assembly’s 10th legislature and the fifth Provincial People’s Councils.

A key agenda item was the prime minister’s draft statement on the 10th Five-Year National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2026 to 2030), which will guide the country’s development strategy over the next five years.

Participants also reviewed the 10-year National Socio-Economic Development Strategy (2026 to 2035) and Vision 2055, reaffirming long-term goals of sustainable growth, resilience and economic self-reliance.

Officials assessed the tourism sector’s performance in 2025 and discussed measures to stimulate further expansion.

They also reviewed implementation of a resolution to promote electric vehicle use, proposing additional steps to accelerate the transition to cleaner transport.

Legal and regulatory reforms were also highlighted, including draft decrees on the transport of dangerous goods and the regulation of international non-governmental organisations, aimed at strengthening governance and public safety.

Mr Siphandone pointed to a complex regional and global environment marked by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, calling for close monitoring, timely responses and coordinated efforts to safeguard national development.

(Xinhua/NAN)