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The Star
09-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Laos–Korea Agro Fair marks 30 years of growing partnership
VIENTIANE: The Laos–Korea Agro Fair 2025 took place in Vientiane from June 6-7 to celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations between Laos and the Republic of Korea, while also highlighting achievements in agricultural cooperation and rural development. The event provided a platform to strengthen ties in sustainable agriculture and rural income generation between the two nations. Jointly organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), the fair brought together Lao villagers, Korean NGOs, the Korea Programme on International Agriculture, the Saemaul Foundation and agro-food companies. Exhibitions focused on rural development, community empowerment, farmer income generation, and business linkages between Lao and Korean agri-food enterprises. KOICA showcased results from its flagship project, 'Establishment of an Action Plan for Rural Income Generation in the Northern and Central Regions of the Lao PDR (2021–2025)'. Villagers from 14 communities participating in the project displayed and sold locally grown and processed goods, demonstrating the commercial potential of regional specialities and smallholder farming. The project, implemented with the Department of Rural Development under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Korea Development Strategy Institute (KDS), supports community-led development in 14 villages across Vientiane, Borikhamxay and Xieng Khuang provinces. Meanwhile, KOTRA facilitated the import and customs clearance of Korean agri-food products, which were sold by Lao buyers at 11 booths. Local distributors such as GUBI Co., Ltd. and NEXUS SOLE Co., Ltd. marketed items including health supplements, beverages and snacks, while gathering feedback from consumers. In a special initiative, the top three winners of the Korea–Laos Food Pairing Idea Contest signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with the 33 Tteokbokki franchise. Their Lao–Korean fusion dishes will launch at the franchise's store opening in July. The winners also presented their creations in live cooking demonstrations, which drew enthusiastic responses from attendees. In recognition of booth performance, KOTRA presented awards to three of the 11 participating booths at the fair. First prize went to Nexus Sole Co., Ltd., followed by the Vone brand name with second prize, while AK Trading Co., Ltd. was awarded the third prize. The fair helped to raise the profile of Korean agri-food brands in Laos. KOTRA plans to continue supporting buyer-led operations and demand-driven export models for sustainable market expansion. The opening ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Laos, Yungsoo Jung; Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Dr Linkham Douangsavanh; KOICA Laos Country Director, Sungsoo Oh; KOTRA Vientiane Director, Jungwe Park; and the Deputy Governors of Xieng Khuang and Vientiane provinces. Ambassador Jung said, 'Marking 30 years of diplomatic ties, Korea and Laos are celebrating their upgraded comprehensive partnership through sectoral events—June highlighting agriculture and rural development as both countries pursue a mutually beneficial partnership.' Minister Dr Linkham noted, 'The Laos–Korea Agro Fair is a platform for farmers and institutions to exchange knowledge and innovations. It is also a meaningful occasion for the peoples of Korea and Laos to showcase their strengths and reflect on 30 years of close cooperation.' KOICA Director Oh Seong-su said, 'This fair was a meaningful occasion to reflect on our journey of agricultural and rural development cooperation and to chart a shared path forward. KOICA is committed to field-based collaboration that supports community-centred rural growth.' Jungwe Park of KOTRA added, 'This fair served as a valuable opportunity to understand the markets and cultures of both countries through various programs and to lay the groundwork for practical business cooperation. We look forward to the continued expansion of agricultural collaboration and economic exchange between the two nations.' The two-day fair attracted more than 3,000 visitors, offering a diverse selection of agricultural products and processed goods from both countries. The event is seen as a milestone in advancing sustainable agricultural development and expanding public–private partnerships in the agri-food sector. - Vientiane Times/ANN
Kuwait Times
27-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Representative of Amir receives Asian leaders
Representative of Amir receives Asian leaders KUALA LUMPUR: Representative of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah meets with Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Li Keqiang, His Majesty Sultan Haji Al-Bulqah Mu'izzaddin Wal-Dawla of Brunei, Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) Dr Sonexay Siphandone, Singaporean Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Lawrence Wong on the sidelines of the 2nd ASEAN-GCC summit and the 2nd ASEAN-GCC-China summit in Kuala Lumpur. Discussions also covered the close bilateral relations between the countries and ways to enhance and develop them to achieve the common interests of the countries and peoples. — KUNA photos Representative of His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince met with Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Li Keqiang on the sidelines of the 2nd ASEAN-GCC summit and the 2nd ASEAN-GCC-China summit. Representative of His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince receives with His Majesty Sultan Haji Al-Bulqah Mu'izzaddin Wal-Dawla of Brunei on the sidelines of the second summits of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the People's Republic of China. Representative of His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince holds talks with Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) Dr Sonexay Siphandone on the sidelines of the 2nd ASEAN-GCC summit and the 2nd ASEAN-GCC-China summit. Representative of His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince on Monday met with Singaporean Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Lawrence Wong, on the sidelines of the 2nd ASEAN-GCC summit and the 2nd ASEAN-GCC-China summit.
The Star
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Khammuan province celebrates Laos' historic year with ambition and action
VIENTIANE: The year 2025 is a time of pride and reflection for Laos, as the country celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the Lao PDR, and the 105th birth anniversary of President Kaysone Phomvihane. Located in the geographic heart of Laos, Khammuan province is honouring these milestones not only with celebration, but with concrete progress. In a recent interview, Governor Vanxay Fongsavanh shared how the province is transforming national pride into lasting development by creating jobs, attracting investment and showcasing its natural beauty to both locals and the world. Situated in central Laos, where National Roads 13 and 12 intersect, Khammuan has become a vital logistics hub—connecting provinces and neighbouring countries alike. Under its current five-year socio-economic development plan, the province is focusing on three priority sectors: agriculture and forestry, energy and mining, and tourism and services. 'We're building on what makes Khammuan strong,' said Governor Vanxay. 'By focusing on our natural resources and strategic location, we are driving real development.' One of the province's flagship developments is the Asia Potash International Investment project, a large-scale foreign enterprise focused on potash fertiliser production and the development of a smart industrial park. The project is Chinese-owned. According to the company, it currently employs about 5,000 local workers and 2,000 foreign nationals. It plans to hire an additional 1,500 labourers. 'The plant produces around three million tonnes of potash a year,' the Governor said. 'It's a major contributor to the economy of Khammuan province and to national development.' Meanwhile, agro-processing industries are on the rise—turning local crops into high-value products and drawing strong interest from domestic and foreign investors. Several companies have already begun surveys and pilot operations. 'We're actively promoting agro-processing,' the Governor said. 'These ventures are helping to diversify our economy and create rural employment.' Khammuan is making concerted efforts to create a business-friendly environment. The provincial administration is easing land access, addressing bureaucratic hurdles and assisting investors with local workforce recruitment through community engagement. 'Investors are coming from many countries, with China being our largest partner,' Governor Vanxay said. 'Chinese companies are investing in industry, agriculture, and tourism.' In 2024, Governor Vanxay led a trade mission to Shanghai province in China, resulting in over US$850 million in new investment through more than ten signed Memoranda of Understanding. The province aims to expand its investment promotion efforts to other regions of China this year. One tangible result of this partnership is the recently opened Khammuan International Hospital, a Chinese-funded facility that strengthens healthcare services for both residents and foreign workers. Tourism continues to be one of Khammuan's most promising sectors. From dramatic limestone caves to pristine waterfalls, the province boasts a wealth of natural and cultural treasures. According to Governor Vanxay, Khammuan has identified 210 potential tourist sites, with 23 already open to visitors. A new attraction, Khun Khong Lang Lake, is set to open in June and is expected to draw increasing numbers of both Lao and foreign tourists. Another emerging highlight is Phou Pha Marn, developed by Green Discovery led by eco-tourism pioneer Inthy Deuansavanh. Nestled among striking karst landscapes, this site offers adventure experiences such as zip-lining, canopy walks, rock climbing, and hiking—all designed to showcase the landscape while preserving its natural integrity. 'Our province is rich in natural beauty and culture,' said Governor Vanxay. 'We're proud to share that through festivals, cultural events, and responsible tourism.' As Laos marks a year of national reflection, Khammuan stands out as a province not only celebrating its heritage but also shaping the country's future. 'This year, Laos is celebrating three historic occasions. Khammuan has been preparing and intensifying efforts to create even greater successes to mark these meaningful days,' Governor Vanxay said. - Vientiane Times/ANN
GMA Network
26-05-2025
- Politics
- GMA Network
Marcos welcomed by Anwar Ibrahim in ASEAN Summit
KUALA LUMPUR — President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. on Monday morning attended the welcome ceremony for the 46th ASEAN Summit and Related Summit. Marcos was welcomed by Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Malaysia is this year's host of the Summit and Related Summits. The Philippine leader is expected to engage other ASEAN heads of state in tackling regional and global challenges, such as developments in the South China Sea, the situation in Myanmar, maritime security, climate change, economic volatility, and digital disruption. Marcos will also attend the 16th Brunei, Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Summit, which he will chair; the 2nd ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit; and the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit. The President will also hold bilateral meetings with Vietnam, Kuwait, and Lao PDR; as well as in various leaders' engagements. This year's ASEAN Summit has the theme, "Inclusivity and Sustainability,' which highlights the region's shared commitment to progress and resilience. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
25-05-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
Marcos vows to push for ethical AI in ASEAN
KUALA LUMPUR - President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. vowed to push for an ethical and responsible artificial intelligence (AI) during the 46th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. Marcos left for Malaysia to participate in the Summit and its related meetings. He is set to have bilateral talks with Vietnam, Lao PDR, and Kuwait. "I will also highlight the Philippines' commitment to the development of a common regional framework for ethical and responsible AI or Artificial Intelligence aligned with ASEAN values," Marcos said in his departure speech. In 2023, Marcos underscored that the Philippines was ready to AI as he called on technology firms to partner with the Philippines when it comes to what he described as a "technological revolution." Marcos had said Manila is already embracing the AI revolution to augment the existing skills of Filipinos, increase the productivity of enterprises, and enhance the competitiveness of the economy. —RF, GMA Integrated News
