Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone met local residents of Attapeu province during his trip from March 10 to 12.

PM backs sustainable development alongside environmental protection

Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has called for stronger efforts for economic development, environmental protection and social welfare in Attapeu province while touring development projects in the region.
During his trip along with a delegation, Mr Sonexay emphasised the need to com-bat drug-related issues, illegal logging and misinformation. He also promoted sustainable agriculture, responsible mining and improved livelihoods for local communities.
The Prime Minister and his delegation, while touring the province during March 10-12, worked closely with provincial authorities to review key development projects. He was welcomed by the Attapeu Governor, Lieutenant General Vanthong Kongmany, and other officials.
The discussions focused on progress in the first three phases of the southern Laos’ revolutionary stronghold development project and preparations for national celebrations of three historic days of the nation and the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party.
A major focus of the trip was Sanxay district, where the Prime Minister met residents of the focus area of Vangtad village group, which has a total of six villages, 3,693 residents, 631 households (including 43 poor families), and more than 750 hectares of agricultural land. 
Mr Sonexay acknowledged local efforts in farming, rearing livestock and small-scale industries, and urged authorities to prioritise environmental protection, clean water conservation and responsible land use.
To support the community, he donated rice, essential supplies and school materials to the people.
In the afternoon, Mr Sonexay visited the Vangtad Mining Group’s gold mining project, which has significantly contributed to state revenues.
The President of the Vangtad Mining Group Company, Mr Phongxaysana Xayasena, informed the delegation led by Mr Sonexay that his company signed a con-tract with the government in April 2019 to mine and process gold ore in an area of three square kilometres. This agreement was valid till April 2022, and an extension contract was signed to expand the mining area for gold and related minerals by 18 km.
The implementation of this project has proceeded according to the set roadmap, especially the amount of ore to be mined, ore sorting, and metal production after the sorting.
At the same time, the company fulfilled its obligations to the state budget in 2023 by paying an amount of 72.8 billion kip and US$3.1 million. The company also paid 222.5 billion kip and US$10.37 million in 2024.
In addition, the company has provided social assistance worth more than 31 billion kip.
The Prime Minister instructed local authorities of the province and district and the company’s officials to ensure compliance with regulations, and to enhance the creation of local jobs and investments in infrastructure, education and social welfare.
The Prime Minister stressed that development efforts must gradually improve the livelihoods of the local people while simultaneously ensuring environmental sustainability.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update March 13, 2025)