NA session kicks off with govt post approvals, socio-economic report

The eighth ordinary session of the National Assembly (NA) got underway on Thursday and will debate important issues including the approval of draft and amended laws, with the sitting scheduled to run until December 6.
The opening day of the session was attended by President Bounnhang Vorachit, Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith, cabinet members, members of parliament, retired state leaders, and invited guests.    

In her address, NA President Mrs Pany Yathotou highlighted the progress made in the 8th five-year National Socio-economic Development Plan for 2016-2020, the challenges posed by the global economy, the trade war, natural disasters, and climate change, which all affected Laos’ economic growth.
But under the leadership of the Party and State in cooperation with local authorities, officials are finding ways to address and resolve these difficulties and improve the living conditions of people throughout the country step by step.
Highlights of yesterday’s opening session were the approval of two appointments to government posts after they were proposed by Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith. The appointments were finalised after a majority vote by Assembly members.
National Assembly members approved the appointment of Dr Sonexay Siphandone, who is also a Deputy Prime Minister, to a second post as Minister of Planning and Investment, following the retirement of Dr Souphanh Keomixay. 
Also approved was the appointment of Prof. Dr Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune as Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, following the retirement of Prof. Dr Bosengkham Vongdara. Dr Kikeo was previously Head of the Party Central Committee’s Propaganda Training Board.
The session also included a report by Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith on the government’s achievements during 2019 and plans for 2020.
Mr Thongloun said the key focus of the government next year would be to maintain political stability, security and social order, aiming to create a solid foundation for socio-economic development.
Dr Sonexay gave a report on the implementation of the socio-economic development plan, state budget and fiscal plan, macroeconomic difficulties, and the impact of the recent floods, as well as the government’s plans for 2020.
This was followed by a report from the State Audit Organisation and the State Inspection Authority on the progress of their work and plans for next year.
According to the schedule, Assembly members will next debate a draft of the Law on Cinema and the draft Law on Gender Equality. Draft amendments to six laws already promulgated will also be debated. These comprise the Law on Bankruptcy, Law on Hygiene, Disease Prevention, and Health Promotion, Law on Insurance, Law on Securities, Law on Sports and Gymnastics, and the Law on Investment Promotion.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update November 8, 2019)