Remarks on Infrastructure Asset Management Enabling Environment Roadmap Launch Event

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Development Partners, Colleagues and Friends –

It is a privilege to join you today for the launch of the Infrastructure Asset Management Enabling Environment Roadmap, a critical step in advancing Lao PDR’s sustainable development. This roadmap represents not only a strategic vision but also a tangible commitment to ensuring that infrastructure investments contribute to long-term resilience, prosperity, and inclusion for all.

At the centre of any nation’s development lies infrastructure. It is the foundation upon which economies grow, societies thrive, and people access essential services. Infrastructure connects communities, facilitates trade, and underpins climate resilience. Yet, its true value is realized not only in its construction but in its long-term management and sustainability. This is where the Government of Lao PDR has demonstrated remarkable leadership—by prioritizing the diagnostic and development of a systematic and life-cycle approach to infrastructure asset management.

The roadmap presented today is the result of a collaborative effort between the Government of Lao PDR, UNOPS, UN DESA, UNCDF, and key stakeholders across national and local levels. It builds upon existing strengths, aligns with national development strategies, and reinforces Lao PDR’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Recognizing Progress To Date

Lao PDR has made significant strides in infrastructure development, aligning with its commitment to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). The country has expanded its transport networks, energy systems and digital connectivity. These advances reflect Lao PDR’s ongoing efforts to build resilient, inclusive and future-ready infrastructure that supports national development, economic growth and social well-being.

Addressing Key Challenges

However, as with all ambitious development agendas, challenges remain. The absence of a Strategic Asset Management Plan, gaps in institutional capacity, and the need for improved coordination mechanisms, pose obstacles to optimizing infrastructure investments. Strengthening public-private partnerships, advancing climate-smart infrastructure and enhancing technical expertise at the local level are all crucial steps toward addressing these gaps.

Moreover, ensuring that infrastructure management is inclusive—reaching the most vulnerable and marginalized communities—is key to achieving a truly sustainable development. The roadmap offers concrete, evidence-based solutions to these challenges, and provides a clear path forward for mobilizing finance, fostering collaboration, and embedding resilience into every aspect of infrastructure development.

A Call for Partnership and Action

The successful implementation of this roadmap hinges on sustained commitment and strategic investment from all stakeholders—government, development partners, the private sector and civil society. While this roadmap provides a solid foundation, translating its recommendations into tangible results will require not only technical expertise and institutional strengthening,

but also dedicated funding mechanisms to scale up impact. To sustain and expand this initiative, increased investment in infrastructure asset management is essential, ensuring that every infrastructure investment maximizes its long-term benefits for the people of Lao PDR.

Today’s event marks a defining moment in Lao PDR’s infrastructure development journey. Let us seize this opportunity to reaffirm our collective commitment, strengthen our partnerships, and work together to create an infrastructure that serves generations to come.

Once again, congratulations to the Government of Lao PDR and all partners on this important milestone. Let us continue to move forward with determination and shared purpose.

Thank you.