Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 27.

ASEAN accelerates SDG implementation, PM tells UNGA

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is actively working towards realising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of Laos, the chair of the bloc for 2024, told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27.
In his address to the UNGA’s 79th session in New York, the Prime Minister highlighted that this year, ASEAN is focusing on developing strategic plans and the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, aimed at creating “a Resilient, Innovative, Dynamic, and People-Centered Community.”
He emphasised that the focus also aims at advancing “the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Agenda.”
As Laos assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship for the third time in 2024 under the theme “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” the country is leading efforts to transform ASEAN into a more connected and resilient community.
“The theme is reflective of the Lao PDR’s national policy and objective to turn itself from being a land-locked country to a regional connectivity hub,” PM Sonexay said.
The Prime Minister also addressed developments in Myanmar, saying Laos, as the Chair, continues to uphold the ASEAN’s commitment to assisting Myanmar in finding a peaceful and durable solution to the ongoing problem in Myanmar through the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus, based on Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led process.
“The Lao PDR will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders, aiming at building a conducive environment to the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus, including the inclusive national dialogue and humanitarian assistance,” he said.
Additionally, PM Sonexay informed participants that the 10-member bloc is expediting the process to admit Timor-Leste as its 11th member.
On behalf of Laos, he expressed concern over ongoing armed conflicts in the Middle East, stating, “Therefore, we maintain our consistent support to all international efforts aimed at achieving a permanent ceasefire and cessation of violence in Gaza and the adjacent areas.”
He reiterated Laos’ support for a two-state solution for the Palestinian issue, where Palestine and Israel coexist in peace in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions.
The Prime Minister called for respect for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and urged for conditions that would allow Palestine to become a full-fledged member of the United Nations.
Furthermore, PM Sonexay reiterated Laos’ unwavering support, in line with the calls of the international community, for ending the economic embargo against Cuba and removing it from the “list of State Sponsors of Terrorism.”
In conclusion, he outlined Laos’ specific plans for graduating from Least Developed Country status by focusing on human capital development, green development, digital development, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2026.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update October 1, 2024)