Singapore to launch new leadership training programme for Laos government officials next year: PM Wong

EFFORTS IN SUSTAINABILITY

Mr Wong, who is in Laos for the ASEAN summits, said energy connectivity and resilience is a major pillar of cooperation between the two countries, calling for “win-win projects” that benefit both sides.

He cited the Lao PDR-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore Power Integration Project as an example of the effort, noting that “good progress” has been made on the project.

“Step by step, we are putting together an ASEAN power grid which will enhance our collective security and accelerate our respective green transitions,” he said.

Mr Wong added that both sides are building upon the memorandum of understanding on carbon credits collaboration signed during Mr Siphandone’s visit to Singapore in July, with officials currently working towards a legally binding implementation agreement.

“When concluded, it will help Singapore meet our climate targets while catalysing new green investments into Laos,” said Mr Wong.

Both countries have also started collaborating on food security, and are also strengthening their public health systems together, he added.

BOOSTING CONNECTIVITY

Mr Wong also highlighted the connection between the people of the two countries.

He said that plans by low-cost carrier Scoot to increase its Vientiane-bound flights from three to four per week from December will “boost two-way travel and forge lasting friendships between our peoples”.

Many Singaporeans travel to popular tourist destinations like Luang Prabang and also visit the country for community and volunteer work, he noted.