Australian Ambassador to Laos Megan Jones met Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Santiphab Phomvihane on 3 July to congratulate him on his recent appointment and reaffirm Australia’s commitment to supporting Laos’ economic development priorities under the Australia–Laos Comprehensive Partnership.
During the meeting, Ambassador Jones welcomed the Deputy Prime Minister’s update on Laos’ economic outlook and reform agenda, including the government’s plans to prioritize poverty reduction and rural development.
She said Australia’s development partnership closely aligns with these goals by supporting more resilient livelihoods, stronger institutions, and sustainable, inclusive economic growth.
The Ambassador also highlighted Australia’s estimated AUD 64.4 million (USD 42 million) Official Development Assistance (ODA) program for Laos in 2026-27, which includes bilateral, regional, and global investments.
Australia’s support spans key sectors including public financial management, agriculture, education, health, energy, climate resilience, and governance, helping create conditions for sustainable development and high-quality private sector investment.
Ambassador Jones also highlighted Australia’s long-standing partnership with the Ministry of Finance to strengthen public financial management through support for fiscal and budget reforms, official development assistance coordination, and institutional capacity building.
She said these efforts are helping improve economic governance, strengthen public service delivery, and build investor confidence.
The Ambassador also thanked Deputy Prime Minister Santiphab and the Ministry of Finance for their continued support for Australia’s development cooperation program and Australian businesses operating in Laos, recognizing the role of responsible investment in promoting sustainable economic growth and job creation.
The meeting also highlighted Australia’s broader regional engagement through the Mekong-Australia Partnership and the Invested: Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, initiatives aimed at deepening economic cooperation, strengthening regional resilience, and supporting sustainable growth across Southeast Asia.
Deputy Prime Minister Santiphab expressed his appreciation to the Australian Government and the Australian people for their longstanding partnership and continued support for Laos’ development priorities.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening cooperation in support of a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for Laos.
Editor’s Note: This article is part of The Laotian Times Public Diplomacy section and was contributed by the Australian Embassy in Laos. Views and information presented are those of the contributing organization.
