Government of Lao PDR Convenes 14th High-Level Round Table Meeting to Advance National Development Priorities and Launch Vientiane Declaration III

The HL-RTM, held once every five years, was officially opened by H.E. Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao PDR, followed by a video message from H.E. Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General.

“For Lao PDR’s smooth graduation from LDC status, we are preparing the country’s economic infrastructure foundation, building quality human resources, enhancing domestic production capacity and efficiency to increase regional and international competitiveness,” said the Prime Minister. Senior officials presented progress on the 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP 2021–2025), priorities of the 10th NSEDP (2026–2030), and the country’s readiness for Least Developed Country (LDC) graduation in 2026.

A landmark achievement of the 2025 HL-RTM was the launch and signing of the Vientiane Declaration III (2026–2035)—the next-generation framework that will guide development partnerships over the coming decade. Signed jointly by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Lao PDR and the United Nations Resident Coordinator to Lao PDR, along with Development Partners, VD III renews commitments to country ownership, effective development cooperation, inclusive partnerships, and strengthened accountability. In line with this year’s theme, VD III places renewed emphasis on transitioning from an aid-driven model toward sustainable, diversified, and nationally-owned development financing, including domestic resource mobilization, innovation, resilience, climate action, and a smooth transition following LDC graduation.

Throughout the Meeting, thematic presentations and plenary discussions highlighted Lao PDR’s progress and remaining challenges in macroeconomic stability, human capital development, governance, social services, green growth, and public financial management. Delegates underscored the importance of stronger data systems, enhanced domestic financing mechanisms, and more effective engagement of civil society and the private sector—key steps in reducing dependency on traditional aid modalities.

In concluding, David McLachlan-Karr, Regional Director of the UN Development Coordination Office and co-chair of the HL-RTM, said: “Investments in human capital remain critical. With children and young people making up nearly half of the population, decisions taken today will shape development trajectories for decades to come. Strengthening small enterprises, advancing competitive industries, and rethinking skills development will be critical to expanding economic opportunities.” 

His remarks echoed the Meeting’s call to align development cooperation with Lao PDR’s long-term vision for self-reliance and sustainable financing.

A Development Cooperation Exhibition, showcasing contributions from all Sector Working Groups, demonstrated innovations and field-level results across sectors. Senior leaders visited the exhibition and engaged with technical teams and development practitioners.

The 14th HL-RTM concluded with a strong collective commitment to work toward sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development in Lao PDR. The Government expressed appreciation to all national and international partners for their continued cooperation and reiterated that the Vientiane Declaration III will serve as a cornerstone for a more coordinated, effective, and less aid-dependent development partnership in the decade ahead.

On 20 November, a small number of heads of delegations will pay a courtesy call on the President of the Lao PDR to debrief on the HL-RTM proceedings and hear from the President on his strategic guidance for translating HL-RTM outcomes into action.

For media inquiries:
Round Table Process Secretariat
Email: rtpsecretariat@gmail.com