On July 20, the provincial People’s Committee issued Decision No. 1791/QD-UBND approving a plan to formulate the project. Following the assignment, the provincial Department of External Affairs promptly directed and coordinated the implementation of relevant tasks, ensuring the necessary legal foundation, implementation conditions and progress in line with the requirements of the provincial People’s Committee.

The project covers 13 border communes of Son La province bordering Houaphanh and Luang Prabang provinces of Laos, namely Muong Leo, Sop Cop, Muong Lan, Chieng Khoong, Muong Hung, Chieng Khuong, Phieng Pan, Yen Son, Phieng Khoai, Long Phieng, Long Sap, Chieng Son and Xuan Nha. The study focuses on major economic sectors and fields in border areas; socio-economic infrastructure; border trade, tourism, logistics and international cooperation; as well as mechanisms, policies and resources for development investment.

To date, the project has been developed in accordance with prescribed procedures and the plan of the provincial People’s Committe, as well as the schedule set under the contract signed with the consulting unit. Preparatory work, contractor selection, contract signing, field surveys and the first draft of the project have basically been completed. The consulting unit is now consolidating survey findings, updating data and completing the second draft in accordance with the set schedule.

To complete the project before September 30, the Department of External Affairs is focusing on finalising and standardising sector-specific data, while reviewing and updating socio-economic development indicators, planning documents, strategies and newly issued regulations to ensure consistency and coherence throughout the project.

It is also coordinating with relevant departments, sectors and localities to finalise mechanisms and policies, key programmes and projects, and plans for mobilising resources for implementation. In addition, the department is working with Houaphanh and Luang Prabang provinces to organise surveys and consultations and reach agreement on cooperation areas in accordance with regulations governing external relations.

Speaking at the event, Vice Chairman Hau asked the Department of External Affairs to continue coordinating with relevant departments, sectors, localities and the consulting unit to urgently finalise the project.

He called for continued surveys, working sessions and consultations with the Lao provinces, as well as conferences and workshops to gather opinions from experts, scientists and relevant agencies. He also urged the department to fully consolidate the results of surveys, investigations and consultations to complete the project’s second draft, ensuring both quality and progress as scheduled.