A new partnership between Lao PDR and the World Bank Group

A new partnership between Lao PDR and the World Bank Group focuses on opportunities for all, sustained green growth, and improved access to human and infrastructure services.  The World Bank Group’s Board of Executive Directors discussed today the 2017-2021 Country Partnership Framework for Lao PDR, following nationwide consultations with the government and other stakeholders.

“This partnership framework builds on our existing strong relationship, ongoing for more than 50 years. It will continue to support the overarching goals of the government of Lao PDR’s 8th National Socio-Economic Development Plan.” Dr. Kikeo Chanthabouly, Vice Minister of Planning and Investment.

The theme of the new framework is Lasting Accessible Opportunities, and it will focus World Bank Group engagement in Lao PDR on four areas matching the National Socio-Economic Development Plan:

• Supporting inclusive growth, including investments in infrastructure, connectivity, agriculture, business climate and public finances
• Investing in people, including addressing malnutrition and vulnerability, and improving education and health services
• Protecting the environment, including disaster risk management and sustainable natural resources management
• A cross-cutting theme of strengthening institutions to establish a rules-based environment

The partnership framework will provide technical assistance and knowledge services, as well as financing of around $240-270 million in concessional loans from the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank’s fund for the poorest countries.