Lao PDR and UN Boost Sustainable Infrastructure with New Infrastructure Asset Management Roadmap

The roadmap, formally handed over to the Ministry of Finance during the event, outlines strategies to ensure that infrastructure assets—such as roads, schools, and hospitals—deliver resilient, inclusive, and sustainable services nationwide. The launch drew government officials, UN representatives, and stakeholders who pledged support for its implementation, reinforcing Lao PDR’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator, highlighted the collaborative milestone and called for partnership and action in his opening remarks: “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.”

L-R , Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Phouvong Kittivong, Deputy Finance Minister, Mr. Pierre-Yves Jousseaume, Senior Project Manager UNOPS

Pierre-Yves Jousseaume, Senior Project Manager of UNOPS in Lao PDR, echoed this sentiment: “This roadmap is a crucial step towards ensuring that infrastructure investments are delivered efficiently and sustained over time, maximizing their impact for communities across Lao PDR. UNOPS is proud to support the Government of Lao PDR in strengthening infrastructure asset management through technical expertise, project implementation, and sustainable solutions. ”

Daniel Platz, UN DESA Senior Economic Affairs Officer, highlighted infrastructure’s broader impact, saying, “Infrastructure is more than a physical investment—it is an investment in people, resilience, and the future. Through the UN DESA, UNOPS, and UNCDF’s ongoing support in Lao PDR, we are strengthening the foundations of sustainable infrastructure management. By providing technical assistance, sharing global best practices, and empowering local governments, we are ensuring that infrastructure is not only built but built to last—serving communities efficiently and equitably for generations to come”.

The event concluded with a call for sustained collaboration, laying the groundwork for the roadmap’s implementation at both national and local levels. Deputy Finance Minister Phouvong Kittivong expressed confidence that 2025 will mark the beginning of the priority action plan’s rollout, driving meaningful progress in the country’s infrastructure development.

The successful launch of the IAM EE Roadmap marks a key moment in Lao PDR’s infrastructure development journey. Moving forward, the government and its partners will focus on mobilizing resources, enhancing institutional frameworks, and embedding best practices in asset management. Ensuring that infrastructure remains resilient and sustainable will require continuous collaboration and investment.

The roadmap’s implementation will be a joint effort between national and local government entities, development partners, and the private sector. As Lao PDR strengthens its infrastructure asset management approach, the roadmap will serve as a guiding framework to enhance service delivery, drive economic progress, and support the country’s sustainable development goals.