Vientiane Capital, 5 November 2025 - The National Assembly of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and with support from the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation (RLF), convened a two-day Policy Dialogue on 4 and 5 November 2025 in Vientiane, ahead of its 10^th Ordinary Session, which will take place from 6 to 8 November. The Policy Dialogue brought together all members of the National Assembly, Government ministries and UN Agencies in Lao PDR for a series of presentations and discussions on the draft 10^th National Socio-Economic Development Plan 2026-2030. The objective was to help MPs gather information and evidence, consult with experts and engage in a pragmatic dialogue to prepare for the formal deliberations on Lao PDR’s national development priorities for the next five years.

In his opening remarks, H.E. Sommad Pholsena, Vice President of the National Assembly of the Lao PDR, underlined that “The National Assembly is committed to ensuring that the next National Socio-Economic Development Plan reflects the needs and aspirations of the Lao people”. “Through open dialogue with government ministries, development partners, and experts, we can identify solutions that strengthen our economy, protect our environment, and improve the lives of our citizens.”

Lao PDR’s 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP) for 2026–2030 is an ambitious roadmap for people-centered, inclusive, and sustainable development. Building on lessons from the 9th NSEDP, it emphasizes economic diversification and quality growth, human capital development and poverty reduction, climate resilience and environmental sustainability, and governance reforms (including digital transformation). Discussions will focus on ensuring that the plan effectively addresses Lao PDR’s key development challenges and aligns with long-term national development goals, including achieving a smooth graduation from Least Developed Country status and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Financing Strategy for the plan will also be discussed.

The Policy Dialogue underscored the National Assembly’s critical role in shaping and approving the NSEDP, monitoring and holding the government accountable for its implementation, and providing oversight on the state budget and large investments. It reinforced the role of the Assembly system as a bridge between the public and national priorities, ensuring planning is inclusive and responsive and delivers tangible results for all citizens.  It was the second edition of the Policy Dialogue with the United Nations system in Lao PDR.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) served as the lead coordinating agency in supporting the organization of the Policy Dialogue, working closely with the National Assembly Secretariat and the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator. The policy dialogue was organized with financial, logistical, and technical contributions from FAO, ILO, IOM, the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, UNDP, UNDRR, UN-Habitat, UNICEF, WFP, WHO, and the World Bank.

Through this joint effort, the United Nations reaffirms its commitment to accompanying Lao PDR in its journey toward graduation from Least Developed Country status and the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Martine Thérer
UNDP Resident Representative, Lao PDR

Bakhodir Burkhanov
UN Resident Coordinator, Lao PDR

About UNDP: 

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet. Learn more at undp.org or follow at @UNDP. 

About the National Assembly of Lao PDR

The National Assembly is the supreme representative body of the Lao people and the highest organ of state power. It exercises legislative authority and oversight functions, ensuring that national development plans and policies reflect the aspirations and needs of the people.

About the United Nations in Lao PDR

The UN in Lao PDR works with the Government and people of Lao PDR to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals through joint programming, policy support, and capacity development. The UN Country Team includes 25 agencies, funds, and programmes working across governance, social development, environment, and economic transformation.

For media inquiries:

• UNDP Lao PDR Communications Unit: Armaan Khan (armaan.khan@undp.org), Governance Communications Focal Point
• Office of the UN Resident Coordinator: Aksonethip Somvorachit (aksonethip.somvorachit@un.org), Communications and Advocacy Officer