Australian Parliamentary Delegation visits Laos
An Australian Parliamentary Delegation led by Senator Claire Moore, Senator for Queensland, paid an official visit to Lao PDR from 30 August to 2 September. The visit was an excellent opportunity for the Australian Parliamentarians to meet with their counterparts at the Lao National Assembly and witness first-hand Australian Government development assistance projects being implemented in Laos.
Senator Moore and delegation called on HE Dr Xaysomphone Phomvihane, Vice President of the National Assembly, to exchange views on the significant bilateral relationship Laos and Australia share. The visit was an opportunity to acknowledge the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Lao PDR and Australia and discuss the recent increase in parliamentary cooperation.
Senator Moore and delegation also called on HE Madam Khemmani Pholsena, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce to discuss the Australian Government’s role in assisting Laos’ preparations for accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The delegation also viewed the Lao Government’s new internet trade portal.
In addition, the Australian Parliamentary delegation visited Australian aid development projects, such as the 1st Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge and new facilities at the Lao Disabled Women’s Development Association. The delegation, along with Vice Governor of Luang Prabang, HE Mr Saysamone Khomthavong, attended the opening of a new school building funded by the Australian Government’s aid program, in Luang Prabang province. Lastly, the delegation witnessed the significant impact of UXOs in Laos by viewing the impressive work of UXO Laos including the detonation of bombies in Pak Ou district.
“During their visit, the Australian Parliamentary delegation learnt a lot about Lao PDR and the benefits accruing from Australia’s aid program here” said the Australian Ambassador, Lynda Worthaisong. Annual development assistance provided by AusAID to Lao PDR (AUD$54.9 million in 2012-13) currently focuses on strengthening basic education, supporting trade in areas that contribute to poverty reduction, and improving rural livelihoods.
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Kimberly Radford
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