VientianeThe First National English Language NewspaperTimes  friDAY april 7, 2017 ISSUE 82 4500 kip SEZ management decree under scrutiny, aiming to draw more investors

Times Reporters The government is creating new decrees to ensure the sustainable development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in ways that yield strong benefits. Special Economic Zones are economic development areas set up to attract large-scale investors, both Lao and foreign, to spur economic growth and create job opportunities for local Dr Khamlien Pholsena. people. Government officials at simplifying procedures from central and provincial for investors, making them agencies yesterday gathered faster, more transparent in Vientiane to discuss a draft and fair, and ensuring that Local visitors enjoy making sand stupas to bring good luck at the riverside, one of the activities during Pi Mai Lao decree on the promotion and investors have confidence festivities in Luang Prabang province. (File photo tourismluangprabang.org) management of SEZs. in the system and are not Also up for discussion taken advantage of by the was a draft decision on the authorities, Deputy Minister work of SEZ Management of Planning and Investment Luang Prabang arranges special Committees that would Dr Khamlien Pholsena said. ensure the directives The decrees would contained in the Investment also help the management Lao New Year activities Promotion Law were committees in each area to effectively carried out. better promote and develop Keoviengkhone Bounviseth as it focuses on promoting the organising committee spoke to Vientiane Times via These decrees are aimed CONTINUED PAGE 3 Visit Laos Year 2018 and has designed large tourism telephone on Wednesday. Luang Prabang province attracting more domestic promotion banners to join She said activities for has added more activities and foreign visitors. the Miss Lao New Year Pi Mai Lao festivities Solid growth expected for Laos to Lao New Year (Pi Mai For this year’s Pi Mai Lao procession on 15 April, would begin with a fair on Lao) festivities this year in Luang Prabang province which will highlight various 10 April at the That Luang this year and 2018: ADB outstanding tourist sites in Ground, which included each of Laos’ provinces. traditional dancing and Times Reporters Gross Domestic Product The organising performances by popular (GDP) growth for Laos is committee has also arranged local artists. Laos’ economic growth forecasted to reach 6.9 percent The Miss Lao New is picking up in 2017 and in 2017 and 7.0 percent several tourism promotion We offer quality offset printing booths to let visitors know Year 2017 beauty contest 2018, supported by the in 2018, a slight increase - All kind of Books, Magazines. - Leaflet, Brochure, Newspaper, Business card, Invitation cards..... more about tourist sites in is scheduled for April 11-12 expansion of production and from the 6.8 percent growth - Calendars, Security printing, Cheque book, Bank books, Bank forms... Luang Prabang province. with various food and drink sale of electricity, buoyant recorded in 2016, according - Taxes Invoice, Paper Bags, Boxes..... services sector growth, and to the ADB’s flagship annual For more information please contract us. Deputy Director of the stalls operating. Tel: 021 254 118; 021 520 723. Fax: 021 254 117. Mob: 020 55 689 471 Luang Prabang provincial On 13 April, the elephant construction of the cross- economic publication, Asian Email: [email protected]. www.laouniprint.com Information, Culture and procession will set off from border railway, according to Development Outlook

We Provide Quality and Fastest with Latest Offset Printing Technology Tourism Department, Ms Vat Mai to Vat Xiengthong, a new report from the Asian 2017, which was released in Soudaphone Khomthavong CONTINUED PAGE 3 Development Bank (ADB). CONTINUED PAGE 2 2 Home news Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times Asean peoples need more understanding of social-cultural pillar Asean Economic Community, Vientiane Declaration on but we need to emphasise Reinforcing Cultural Heritage the ASCC, the Asean Social- Cooperation; and the Asean Cultural Community, as Declaration on Strengthening it is all about the people, Education for Out-of-School the people of Asean,” Mr Children and Youth. Vongthep said. Pertaining to the adoption He pointed to the ASCC as by Asean leaders of the the people’s pillar, which he Vientiane Declaration on said stressed the importance Reinforcing Cultural Heritage of human development. Cooperation, Mr Vongthep “The economic said this would not only Mr Khamping Sengtannalat shakes hands with Ms Tomiko Yashiro after signing a Memorandum of Understanding in Vientiane yesterday. community will certainly promote the idea of the enhance our region …, but preservation of both tangible it must be emphasised that and intangible cultural Japanese grant helps provide job Mr Vongthep this whole effort has to be heritages, but it was also about Arthakaivalvatee speaks powered and propelled by the how Asean as a community to Lao media. people,” Mr Vongthep said. addressed issues such as the opportunities for disabled people –Photo Somxay He pointed to the illicit trafficking of cultural importance of youth and intellectual property. Times Reporters will teach various occupational forward and get involved in Times Reporters development and the Asean was formally skills to disabled people so providing jobs for disabled workforce for economic declared an Economic Japan’s Ministry of they are better equipped to run people and the project will Asean countries should teach integration, which he said Community in December Foreign Affairs and a small business. continue to provide training their citizens more about the were all about the people of 2015 and the AEC is Asian Development with The project will be run for trainers on suitable significance of the Asean Asean in various aspects. familiar to most people in Disabled Persons (ADDP) in Viengxay district, starting occupational skills. Social-Cultural Community Mr Vongthep added that the region, including in have provided more than now and continuing until The project will attempt to (ASCC) as an important pillar Laos and other Asean member Laos. Citizens know about US$286,000 (2.3 billion kip) September 30, 2018. provide disabled people with in driving cooperation with countries were placing the freer transboundary for the development of work Ms Yashiro said ADDP jobs and lighten the burden on the bloc’s other pillars in the importance on cooperation flow of goods and labour, opportunities for disabled had received suggestions their families. The number of push for prosperity. under this pillar, pointing and easier border crossing people in Huaphan province. from authorities in Huaphan people in Laos who had been The ASCC tends to be to the adoption of several within the region. A Memorandum of province about possible disabled for more than five ignored by the region’s documents by Asean leaders The Asean Secretariat Understanding (MoU) on the activities for people with years amounted to 2.8 percent citizens even though they concerning cooperation under official spoke about Laos’ project was signed yesterday disabilities including making of the population in 2015, Mr benefit from various forms of the ASCC. chairmanship of Asean, by a representative of the biscuits, gardening, making Khamping said. cooperation. Some of the documents saying Laos wanted to Ministry of Labour and Social handicrafts, and caring for Huaphan is in the north Deputy Secretary General signed by the Asean make the transition from an Welfare, Mr Khamping Sakura Park. The project of Laos and is home to many of Asean for the Asean Social- leaders are: the Asean informal economy to a formal Sengtannalat, and President will focus on women with disabled people, some of Cultural Community, Mr Declaration on One Asean, economy. of Asian Development with disabilities in order to help whom have been maimed Vongthep Arthakaivalvatee, One Response: Asean This would promote the Disabled Persons, Ms Tomiko them earn an income. in accidents caused by highlighted the matter Responding to Disaster concept of decent work for Yashiro. Workshops will be held unexploded ordnance. when talking to the Lao as One in the Region and labourers, who will have The project aims to on the provision of jobs for The ADDP has been press on Wednesday on the Outside the Region; the security through social improve the skills of the disabled people and there will operating in Laos for about sidelines of a meeting on Vientiane Declaration on protection schemes, and their trainers of disabled people be inspections of the progress 20 years. It is an international Asean cooperation on natural Transition from Informal human rights will be upheld and teach them the basics of of individually run businesses non government organisation disaster response. Employment to formal in line with the standards small and medium enterprise by people with disabilities. which seeks to help disabled “Most people are very Employment towards Decent identified by the International management. There will be meetings to people find work by acquiring familiar with the AEC, the Work Promotion in Asean; Labour Organisation. Besides that, the project encourage sponsors to step useful skills.

2015 to 2.5 percent in 2016 prices, an expanding services Solid growth expected... from page 1 due to improved weather in sector, construction workers the latter part of the year. on the Laos-China railway, Vientiane yesterday. retail trading, hotels and The current account deficit power plants, commerce and “Despite fiscal constraints restaurants, financial services slightly improved from 16.8 real estate will help strengthen and weaker global demand for and telecommunications. percent of GDP in 2015 to growth in 2017 and 2018. minerals in recent years, the The industry sector also 14.1 percent in 2016 but Expected stronger Lao economy remains one maintained sturdy growth at is projected to widen to 19 domestic economic of strong performers in the 8.0 percent, though mining percent this year and to 20 activities and higher oil region with an average growth output declined slightly. This percent next year, due to prices resulting in rising above 7.0 percent for the last sector was boosted by higher expected large imports of inflation will put pressure decade,” said ADB Country electricity generation, notably construction materials and on the trade balance. The Director Mr Yasushi Negishi. at the Hongsa Lignite Power machinery for the Laos-China inflation rate is likely to rise According to the ADB Plant, and the development railway. gradually, from 1.6 percent Outlook, the services sector of residential and commercial Meanwhile foreign in 2016 to 2.5 percent in 2017 posted strong growth at 9.0 buildings. exchange reserves are unlikely and 3.0 percent in 2018. A Asian Development Bank Country Director Mr Yasushi percent, supported by the Growth in agriculture to see much improvement development challenge for Negishi (second right) speaks about the growth of the Lao expansion of wholesale and edged up from 2.0 percent in soon. Better commodity Laos is how to make growth economy in Vientiane yesterday. more inclusive and poverty reduction keep pace with were inconsistent. ADB’s economists also Correction the rate of economic growth. “To stimulate and boost stressed that diversifying the Vientiane Times wishes to correct a mistake in the fifth paragraph of the article titled ADB’s Public Management the rate of poverty reduction, sources of growth toward “Massive land area awaiting UXO clearance” on page 1 of issue No. 80 published Specialist Mr Rattanatay the government should more labour-intensive on April 5. The second sentence should read: “One third or about 87,000 square Luanglathbandith said the encourage employment at manufacturing and services kilometres of the country’s territory is contaminated with bombs.” rate of economic growth and industrial production bases or is key to making growth more the rate of poverty reduction value-added chains,” he said. inclusive.

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Use any 336047 Graphic Designer/IT: Mobile: 020 55599209 QR code scanners to scan it Editor-in-Chief: Deputy Editor-in-Chief: Fax: 021 336046 Malaythong Phayanouvong [email protected] and it will take you directly to Thonglor Duangsavanh Phonekeo Vorakhoun [email protected] Tel: 021 336048, 020 55729209 https://www.facebook.com/ vientianetimesonline/. Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 Home news 3 Laos marks World Health Day, President extends deepest focusing on depression prevention sympathy to Russia Times Reporters President of the Lao PDR Bounnhang Vorachit on April 5 extended deepest The Ministry of Health condolences and sympathy to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin over the and the World Health Metro blast that occurred in St. Petersburg. Organisation to Laos are The message reads: “I have learned with profound sadness of the Metro blast marking World Health Day, that occurred in St. Petersburg on April 3, perpetrated by a terrorist act which which is observed annually caused numerous deaths and injuries to innocent people.” on April 7. “On behalf of the Lao people and on my own behalf, allow me to extend my The day provides a deepest condolences and sympathy to Your Excellency and the people of the unique opportunity to Russian Federation as well as to the bereaved families of the victims affected by mobilise action around this barbaric act of violence.” a specific health topic of “The Lao PDR strongly condemns this terror attack and stands side by side concern to people all over in solidarity with the Russian Federation to cooperate with the international the world. The theme for the community in the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.” 2017 World Health Day is depression: #LetsTalk. “Depression can affect anyone, people of all ages, Associate Prof. Dr Bounkong Syhavong (right) and Dr Juliet Attracting more tourists the from all walks of life, in all Fleischl address the World Health Day event this week. countries,” said Minister of Health Associate Prof. difficult life events, such suicide. key to aviation growth Dr Bounkong Syhavong, as losing a partner; and a Health workers need speaking at an event to mark reduced ability to do things to understand depression, Somsack Pongkhao attractions. in July. World Health Day. due to injury, or financial how it can be prevented and Some developers say Months later, Lao Airlines According to new difficulties that can lead to treated. If you are living with The lack of tourists is they are interested but in decided to cut the route from estimates released by the depression. someone with depression, among the main reasons fact they just want to hang its schedule due to a decline World Health Organisation, The United Nations make it clear that you want for the closure of Attapeu on to them so they can in passenger numbers. the number of people General Assembly on to help, listen without International Airport in sell the project to another Experts say that living with depression has September 25, 2015 adopted judgement, and offer support. recent months, according to business,” Ms Bounnan attracting more tourists to increased by more than 18 the promotion of mental You should encourage senior officials. said. Attapeu is critical for the percent between 2005 and health and well-being to the them to seek professional Infrastructure and tourism Nong Fa Sky Lake is development of aviation. 2015. Sustainable Development help when available by development serve as the about 170 kilometres from It’s also important to stage Depression is an illness Goal Agenda, within the offering to accompany them foundations for developing the provincial capital, but regional events to draw characterised by persistent health goals. This is in line to appointments. When the main draw-cards in one section of road about government officials, sadness and a loss of interest with the WHO definition medication is prescribed, Attapeu if authorities want 70km long is difficult to business leaders and in activities that you normally of health “where physical, remind them to take it as to attract more tourists to the negotiate in the wet season tourists to the province. enjoy, accompanied by an mental and social well-being prescribed. Be patient; it province. because it is unpaved. Ms Bounnan said road inability to carry out daily is assured”. usually takes a few weeks to Director of the provincial Ms Bounnan said the access is the key for tourism activities for at least two SDG 3.4 requests feel better. Department of Information, provincial authorities need to development and that weeks. that countries “By 2030, The support of family, Culture and Tourism, Ms learn from Champassak and Attapeu should be promoted People with depression reduce by one-third friends and caregivers Bounnan Bounnaseng, said Luang Prabang provinces as a transit route for tourists normally have several of premature mortality from will facilitate recovery on Thursday that Attapeu how to develop and promote visiting the region. the following symptoms: noncommunicable diseases from depression. You can has huge untapped tourism tourism as these two The province is working a loss of energy; a change through prevention and help those suffering from potential, but lacks the provinces have successfully with Thailand, Vietnam in appetite; sleeping treatment and promote depression simply by talking funding to develop it. built up a flourishing tourism and Cambodia to explore more or less; anxiety; mental health and well- or listening to them. Stay “We have a lot of exciting industry. tourism routes in order to reduced concentration; being.” connected with your friends historical, cultural and Every day, dozens of link visitor attractions and indecisiveness; restlessness; Dr Juliet Fleischl, WHO and family, keep up with natural tourist attractions, flights from foreign countries package tours. feelings of worthlessness, Representative to Laos, said activities that you have but people are reluctant to arrive in Luang Prabang, Attapeu is a relatively guilt, or hopelessness; and depression can be prevented always enjoyed and exercise visit them due to a lack of Laos’ first World Heritage poor area located in the far thoughts of self-harm or and treated. “Overcoming regularly if you can, even if infrastructure, notably road Site, and in Champassak south of Laos. suicide. the stigma associated with it is just a short walk. access,” she said. province, drawn by their Only about 100,000 Suicide is a serious public depression and suicide can There is a lot that can Among these rarely special charms. tourists visit the province health problem. Close to lead to more people getting be done to prevent and treat visited attractions are the In May last year, Lao annually despite the fact 800,000 people die due help. Talking with people depression, with talking Chao Xaysettha stupa, the Airlines began flights that it has several places of to suicide every year, an you trust can be a first step therapies and antidepressant Ho Chi Minh trail, Nong from Vientiane via Pakxe interest to explore. estimate of 500 suicides per towards recovery from medication or a combination Fa Sky Lake, and dozens of International Airport in The number of Westerners day. It is the second leading depression,” she added. of both. Seek advice from waterfalls. Champassak province to visiting the province is cause of death among young To date, only a few your health-care provider. “We face a lot of Attapeu International Airport small and the majority of people aged 15-29. However, countries have included On World Health Day, challenges in attracting twice weekly and increased tourists are Lao, Thai and older people are also at a suicide prevention among the theme of Depression companies to develop tourist that to three times a week Vietnamese. higher risk of suicide. their health priorities and #LetsTalk reminds us that Depression in older only 28 countries reported individuals, communities people is often overlooked having a national suicide and societies play a critical SEZ management decree... from page 1 and left untreated. It may prevention strategy. Raising role in suicide prevention. be associated with physical community awareness and We need to change our the areas under their responsibility. It was more than 19,600 hectares. The value of conditions, such as heart breaking down the taboo is attitudes and break down learnt that they had struggled in the past investment has reached US$1.6 billion, disease, high blood pressure, important for countries to taboos, through depression, due to misunderstanding on the part of of which US$24 million is invested by diabetes or chronic pain; make progress in preventing #LetsTalk. various sectors. the government, US$1.27 billion by The draft decree on the promotion developers, and US$349 million by retail and management of SEZs comprises 13 investors. Luang Prabang arranges... from page 1 chapters and 62 articles. The total number of domestic and The decree has three parts: establishing foreign companies is now 318 companies and visitors can join the local and go to the river beach to street from Thatnoy temple and investing in Special Economic Zones, and businesses. Of these, 57 companies food and textile exhibition at make sand stupas to bring to Xiengthong temple. investment promotion policy for developers are privately owned Lao concerns, 239 That Luang Ground. good luck along with a Basi On 16 April, an alms and investors, and organisational structure companies are foreign owned, and 22 are On 14 April, a fair ceremony. giving ceremony will be at the macro and micro levels. joint ventures between Lao and foreign featuring a traditional On 15 April, a textile held at Sene Soukkharam Decisions concerning the allocation companies. textile show, plus local and exhibition at Phanom temple and climbing of Phou of specific areas to investors are also The service sector accounts for 40 provincial products will be village, a tradition of the Si Mountain to pay respects. the responsibility of SEZ Management percent of SEZ operations, 32 percent are set up on the main street Tailue ethnic group, will be Ms Soudaphone noted Committees. industrial and 28 percent are commercial. between the old stadium and followed by a Basi ceremony visitor numbers during Pi SEZs were first established in Laos in Jobs have been created for about 15,544 Royal Palace. for international and local Mai Lao festivities increased 2002, starting with the Savan Seno Special people, of whom 7,180 are Lao nationals Visitors can enjoy guests. from about 26,870 people Economic Zone (Savan Seno SEZ) which and 8,364 are foreign. a traditional sports Then, the Hae Vor in 2013 to 30,583 in 2014, was the testing ground for this form of SEZs have yielded US$16 million for the competition; join in the (Buddha images and monks and to 34,692 in 2015, with economic development, Dr Khamlien said. national budget and it is expected this figure watering of Buddha images parade) will be followed most visitors coming from Since then the number of SEZs in Laos will more than double in the future as many for blessings at every temple by the Miss Lao New Year nearby provinces as well as has grown steadily, he added. factories have been built and some are now in Luang Prabang province procession along the main Vientiane. Laos currently has 12 SEZs covering starting production. 4 Home news Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times News in Brief Ministry, WWF agree to strengthen Young woman handed 16 year jail term for wildlife law enforcement arranging killing The Vientiane court on Monday sentenced a 23-year-old Times Reporters woman to 16 years in prison after she was found guilty of hiring a man to kill a relative she disliked. She was also The Department of Forest fined 5 million kip, theKhuamsangob newspaper reported. Inspection and the World Wide The woman was identified as Ms Anisa, of Nongbouathong Fund For Nature (WWF) village, Sikhottabong district. The woman’s accomplice, Mr yesterday signed a Memorandum Somphong, 27, of Phonsavard Neua village in Sikhottabong of Agreement initiating the district was sentenced to 10 years in prison and fined 2 implementation of a new project million kip. The victim was named as Mr Keo Oudom, 31, of aimed at supporting efforts Sibounheuang village, Chanthabouly district. Ms Anisa told to strengthen wildlife law police she hired Mr Somphong to arrange to have Mr Keo enforcement and cross-border killed because she was angry that he had insisted she stop cooperation. gambling. Police said Ms Anisa paid Mr Somphong 82 million The agreement was signed kip (US$10,000) to carry out the deed. He in turn hired two by Director General of the Thai nationals to dispatch Mr Keo, who was shot and killed. Department of Forest Inspection of the Ministry of Agriculture Hot weather forecast through the weekend and Forestry, Mr Khamphout The Meteorology and Hydrology Department is forecasting Phandanouvong, and Country a rise in temperatures from today until at least April 9, the Director of WWF-Laos, Mr Mr Khamphout Phandanouvong (left) shakes hands with Mr Somphone Laophatthana newspaper reported. Temperatures in the Somphone Bouasavanh. Bouasavanh (right) at a signing ceremony in Vientiane on Thursday. northeast are forecast to rise 1-2C and will range from 14- Recently, Laos has received 27C, while temperatures in the northwest are forecast to rise increased international attention to run until June 30, 2018. With bilateral cooperation, to address 1-3C and will range from 19-33C. In Vientiane and the central with regard to the issue of illegal a budget of US$85,500 (over wildlife trafficking issues in Laos provinces, temperatures will range from 20-33C. wildlife trading. Laos has been 701 million kip), funded by and the Greater Mekong Region. identified by many observers as a WWF-Switzerland and WWF- WWF is one of the world’s Tanmixay-Sikeuth road 15 percent complete transit country for the illegal trade Singapore, the project will support largest and most respected Construction of a 9-km road linking the traffic lights in of wildlife products coming from the Lao government, in particular independent conservation Tanmixay village, Xaythany district, to the junction in Sikeuth Africa, ultimately destined for the LAO-Wildlife Enforcement organisations, with over 5 million village, Naxaithong district, is now 15 percent complete, the China and Vietnam, according to Network (LAO-WEN), in supporters and a global network Khuamsangob newspaper reported. Construction of the road a press release from WWF-Laos. combating wildlife trafficking. active in over 100 countries. began in November last year at a cost of more than 368 billion kip Recent reports have also In particular, the initiative will WWF’s mission is to stop the and is expected to be complete next year, the newspaper reported, identified that Laos has seen an focus on prioritised species within degradation of the earth’s natural citing the Vientiane Public Works and Transport Department increased domestic demand for Laos as identified in the CITES environment and to build a future items such as ivory, rhinoceros (Convention on International in which humans live in harmony LaoVietBank donates to Vangvieng school horns, and tiger products, which Trade in Endangered Species) with nature, by conserving the The LaoVietBank last week handed over supplies and are predominantly purchased agreement, to which Laos became world’s biological diversity, construction materials to a school in Nakhuang village, by tourists coming from a party in 2014. ensuring that the use of renewable Vangvieng district, Vientiane province. The items including neighbouring Thailand, China, The project will provide natural resources is sustainable, clothing and drinking water, and 5,000 bricks and 5 tonnes of and Vietnam. support in the capacity building of and promoting the reduction cement to build new classrooms complete with educational The new project, which began Lao government authorities with of pollution and wasteful equipment, the Socio-Economic newspaper reported yesterday. on March 14, 2017, is scheduled respect to law enforcement and consumption. Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 Photo news 5

Marketing Manager of Lao Press in Foreign Languages, Mr Phoutthasack Inthakoummane A representative of Lao Press in Foreign Languages’ marketing team, Mrs Latdavong (second right), yesterday presents a basket of flowers to the Fleet Sales Manager of Lao Yommalath (second right), yesterday presents a basket of flowers to Mrs Somchan Ford City, Mr Vilaysack Borliboun (right), as a gift for Pi Mai Lao. Phengxay on behalf of the TISSOT marketing and sales team, to mark Pi Mai Lao.

Students in Xaythany district, Vientiane, gather with donors at a ceremony on Wednesday to donate eyeglasses for distribution Members of the Foundation for Assisting Poor People of by a mobile clinic to students in rural areas of Vientiane. The initiative is a joint venture between the Lao Red Cross, Thai the Lao PDR Rescue 1623’s Champassak province branch Red Cross Society and the Twin Pine Group. The project aims to help about 30,000 students in 141 primary and secondary attend a training course in Vientiane to learn how to improve schools in Xaythany, Pakngum and Sangthong districts. --Photo Lao Red Cross their teamwork. --Photo Vientiane Rescue 1623 6 Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times Region

In brief from Asia News Network Four of top-five young universities in Asia Decree imposes Thailand (The Nation) fines on minerals, -- Four of the top-five water resources young universities are in violations Asia, according to the Times Hanoi (Vietnam Higher Education (THE) News) -- The latest rankings. Government has The THE Top 200 Young issued a decree University Rankings 2017 on punishments were released on Wednesday. for administrative While the Switzerland- violations in the based Ecole Polytechnique minerals and water Federale de Lausanne resources sectors, remained No 1 on the imposing fines ranging list of best young higher- from VNĐ250 million educational institutes, the (US$11,125) to VNĐ2 next four are from Asia. billion ($89,000). The Hong Kong Administrative University of Science and violations in the Technology in Hong Kong water resources sector was named second-best involve violations young university, followed in the inspection, by Nanyang Technological planning, surveying, University of Singapore, exploitation and use Pohang University of of water resources; Science and Technology violations in reservoirs of South Korea, and Korea and reservoir Advanced Institute of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in Hong Kong was named second-best young university. operations; and Science and Technology of --Photo UF Study Abroad Advisor via the Nation violations in water South Korea. resources protection, The 2017 Young Rankings, it claims less than among others. University Rankings used 3 per cent of places in this a wider range of countries next with 16, 15, 11 and 10 across 18 Asian countries the same 13 rigorous and young top 200 list. Even the than any other THE ranking, institutions respectively. including Thailand. Boy dies saving demanding performance most-represented nation in except the flagship world Asia has also been doing “It is no easy task to appear sister in South indicators as the overall the table, the UK, only takes rankings,” THE rankings well. Half of the top-10 in the 2017 Young University Jakarta landslide World University Rankings 13.5 per cent of positions. editor Phil Baty said. places are led by Asian Rankings… Institutions Jakarta (The but only well-performing The result is that universities The UK is the most universities – the best result must demonstrate high Jakarta Post) -- A universities that are 50 years from 48 countries across represented nation in the for the continent since the standards of performance 12-year-old boy called old or younger can join the Europe, Australasia, Asia, ranking with 27 universities, rankings began in 2012. across teaching, research, Hilman has died after list, THE said. North America and Latin closely followed by Australia Overall, more than a quarter international outlook and saving his 4-year-old “While the US dominates America make the table. with 23. France, Spain, (55) of the top 200 places are knowledge transfer,” Baty sister Rani from the the World University This means the list represents Germany and Italy come filled by universities from added. debris of their house following a landslide in South Jakarta. US reaffirmed commitment to Asia-Pacific region and ADB sees solid Hilman, Rani, their father Budi, 44, and bilateral defence ties with Singapore: Ng Eng Hen mother Eni, 34, were growth in developing in the house when the SINGAPORE (The Straits and plans, and vast experience President Donald Trump incident happened in Times) -- United States in the US military. since Mr Trump took office Asia this year Jagakarsa at around Defence Secretary James “He gave a reassuring on Jan 20. 4 p.m. on Monday, Mattis has reaffirmed the calm, and in his words, he’s “We thought the best MANILA (Xinhua) -- The 30 of the 45 economies in Kompas.com reported US commitment to the Asia- now become the ‘Secretary of way to do that is to meet the Asian Development Bank developing Asia, supported by on Wednesday. Pacific region and expressed Reassurance’. So I was very individuals, the ambassadors, (ADB) said Thursday that higher external demand and Jagakarsa district a desire to deepen bilateral happy with the outcome of and we lined up a significant developing Asia will continue rebounding global commodity secretary Mundari said defence ties with Singapore, that,” said Dr Ng. number of calls with old to perform well this year prices,” the report said. the land from right said Defence Minister Ng “I think it bodes well from friends of Singapore who even as recovery in the Indeed ADB chief behind Budi’s house Eng Hen. the security point, America’s understand the politics, who major industrial economies economist Yasuyuki Sawada hit the building during He also revealed in a commitment to the region, understand the history of remained weak, predicting the said the region “faces risks heavy rain, causing Facebook posting on Thursday and not only commitment to Singapore and relations with region’s economy to expand from uncertain policy the house’s walls to (April 6) morning that Mr the region, but commitment the US, and understand our by 5.7 percent in 2017 and direction in the advanced collapse onto the family. Mattis will be attending towards Asia-Pacific’s region,” said Dr Ng. 2018. economies, including the pace the Shangri-La Dialogue in stability... There is much He said it has been a very Asian Development of interest rate normalisation Third EPG Singapore, an annual security reassurance and confidence useful trip, calling it not Outlook 2017, the ADB’s in the United States.” meeting: Clause- dialogue that is usually held in that Secretary Mattis is there.” only a voyage of discovery, annual economic publication, “While short-term risks wise discussion on late May and often features Dr Ng added that both but also one of reassurance said continued expansion seem manageable, regional 1950 treaty begins top brass military and defence countries remain committed and reaffirmation by many helps developing Asia deliver policy makers should Nepal (The personnel. to the enhanced Defence strong friends and supporters more than 60 percent of global remain vigilant to respond Kathmandu Post) Dr Ng, who is making a Cooperation Agreement, of Singapore in Washington, growth. to possible spillover through -- Apr 6, 2017- The working visit to the US, met signed in 2015, which will “who have given us very good “Gross domestic product capital flows and exchange third meeting of the Mr Mattis at the Pentagon on further collaboration in new guide posts and who also gave for the region as a whole rate movements,” Sawada Eminent Persons Wednesday (US time), and areas such as humanitarian us strong assurance that you is expected to grow by 5.7 said. Group on Nepal-India described their meeting as assistance and disaster relief, can call on them if need be”. percent in 2017 and 2018, China’s economy will Relations (EPG- “warm and productive”. cyber defence, biosecurity Asked about the upcoming a tick down from the 2016 continue “to rebalance, NIR) on Wednesday “We discussed common and public communications. Mar-a-Lago Summit meeting outcome of 5.8 percent as depending more on started clause-wise security challenges including Singapore also remains between US President the controlled moderation of consumption to drive growth.” discussions on the the threat of terrorism and committed to facilitating the Donald Trump and Chinese growth in China is balanced “A further shift of 1950 Peace and ways to deal with them. I look use of Changi Naval Base President Xi Jinping in the by expected healthy growth economic activity from Friendship Treaty. forward to returning the warm and its air bases by American US, Dr Ng said it is a “good elsewhere,” said the report industry to services shows The Nepali side had hospitality when Secretary forces, said Dr Ng. development” that both released on Thursday. rebalancing progressing recommended either Mattis attends the Shangri-La He said the purpose of leaders are meeting, as it is Excluding the high- as planned. Growth in an update or revision Dialogue in June this year,” his trip from Sunday to better for both countries to income newly industrialised China now relies more on to the treaty during the wrote Dr Ng. Wednesday (April 2 to 5) be cooperating than to be in economies like South internal demand and less second meeting held in According to a transcript was to get a better feel of an antagonistic relationship. Korea and Singapore, the on exports,” the report said, October in New Delhi. of an interview with Channel how to engage the US as He said Singapore believes report said regional growth adding that China’s economy The first meeting was NewsAsia in Washington DC, there have been “several it would be healthy for the US is expected to reach 6.3 will experience “moderate held in Kathmandu in Dr Ng described Mr Mattis, a levels of uncertainty, and China to agree to avoid percent in 2017 and 6.2 deceleration” growing 6.5 July. former Marine Corps general, unpredictability, new trade wars and to help both percent in 2018. percent in 2017 and further to as someone who has strategies administration” under sides grow economically. “Growth is picking up in 6.2 percent in 2018. Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 7 World About 6 pct of Brazilian children Australia, New Zealand warn out of school: study of possible attack in Turkey RIO DE JANEIRO Priscila Cruz, chief Reasons for this alarming SYDNEY (AP) -- Australia (Xinhua) -- Brazil has executive of All for situation ranges from and New Zealand warned on over 2.48 million minors Education, considered the teenage pregnancy, financial Thursday that extremists may aged between four and 17 situation worrying, saying difficulties, violence, to other be planning an attack on the without access to school, those who cannot afford difficulties faced by the commemoration of a World according to a study schooling are the most teen’s family. War I campaign that is being published Wednesday. vulnerable social groups, Cruz believes that the held in Turkey this month. The figure represents 6 such as children from poor reform of high school Australian Veterans Affairs percent of the total number of families, children with system, which was signed Minister Dan Tehan urged the children and teenagers in that disabilities and those who into law earlier this year, nearly 500 Australians and age bracket in Brazil, said live in remote areas. may help address these New Zealanders registered to the study, which was carried The study shows that concerns and reduce school travel to Gallipoli, Turkey, to out by nongovernmental over 1.54 million of school dropouts, but it depends on mark ANZAC Day on April organization All for dropouts are aged from 15 how the new system will 25 to exercise a high degree Education. to 17. work out. of caution amid the warning, but offered no specifics about the alleged threat. ANZAC Day is an annual holiday commemorating the April 25, Australian Veteran Affairs Minister Dan Tehan, left, and 1915, landings in Gallipoli — Australian Federal Police deputy commissioner Mike Phelan the first major military action speak during a news conference in Canberra on Thursday. fought by the Australian and --Photo Parliament TV via AP New Zealand Army Corps during World War I. the commemoration was it over the last day or two. Australian Federal Police scheduled to continue as McCully urged travelers to deputy commissioner Mike planned. For the past two Gallipoli to regularly check Phelan declined to release years, Australian police have the government travel website details of what prompted the said they thwarted planned for updates. He said he had warning, saying only that the attacks on ANZAC Day confidence in how Turkish government had received celebrations in Australia. In authorities were handling information that extremists 2015, police in Melbourne security, and apologized for may attack the services arrested five teenagers on not being able to offer more being held on the Gallipoli suspicion of plotting an information. peninsula. Phelan said there Islamic State group-inspired “It’s not an area in which was no specific plot linked to attack intended to coincide they encourage ministers to let the alert. with the city’s ANZAC their imaginations wander,” “It is just that terrorists service. In 2016, police he said. “We very carefully may indeed try to carry out arrested a 16-year-old and have to follow the steps and a terrorist attack during the charged him with planning script of the officials who give celebrations,” Phelan told an attack on an ANZAC advice in this area.” reporters in the nation’s ceremony in Sydney. Many New Zealanders capital, Canberra. “That is New Zealand Foreign feel a strong bond with all we have got at this stage.” Minister Murray McCully Gallipoli, McCully said. Tehan said Australia said he could not be more “The fact that so many and New Zealand were specific about the nature of the New Zealanders go to working closely with threat or where the information Gallipoli at this time of year Turkish authorities on had come from. He said he’d speaks volumes about the security arrangements and been getting advice about significance it holds,” he said. Greek PM calls for emergency summit if Eurogroup bailout review not sealed

ATHENS (Xinhua) -- Greek in any case in April, even if During talks with Prime Minister Alexis we need to convene a euro Greek President Prokopis Tsipras on Wednesday zone summit,” he stressed. Pavlopoulos earlier, Tusk called for an emergency Tusk also expressed appeared cautiously euro zone summit in April the hope that deal could be optimistic about the if the Eurogroup meeting on reached on Friday. conclusion of the review Friday does not conclude a “I hope that we will be soon. bailout review. able to reach a deal this “I really feel that we are The remarks were made Friday at Eurogroup. I would very close to the conclusion during joint statements like to underline that all sides of this phase of the procedure. here with visiting European participating in this process I believe that this grand Council President Donald are sharing the responsibility finale will come thanks to Tusk. to reach this agreement,” the determination of Greek According to a press said the European Council people and their sacrifices,” release issued by the Greek president. Tusk said. prime minister’s office, Tsipras blamed creditors for the delay in the closure of the assessment. According to the initial timetable agreed in 2015, the second review should have concluded in February 2016. The Greek prime minister said Athens expects an agreement during the Eurogroup meeting in Malta this Friday, otherwise it will seek initiatives at a higher level to resolve the issue. “We must have a positive development before Easter, 8 Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times New education projects to boost human resource development, feed growing skilled labour demand

Dr Mithong Souvanvixay shakes hands with Ms Keoamphone Souvannaphoum at the MoU signing ceremony in Vientiane recently.

ecently, the Australian Government, European Union (EU) and ChildFund Australia Ragreed to support Basic Education Quality and Access (BEQUAL) Projects in Huaphan Province. Dr Mithong Souvanvixay from the Ministry of Education and Sports, and Ms Keoamphone Souvannaphoum, Country Director from ChildFund Laos signed on 28th March 2017 a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the implementation of the BEQUAL NGO Consortium Project in Houaphan Province. Basic Education Quality and Access in the Lao PDR (BEQUAL) is a ten-year program led by the Government of Lao PDR and Australia, with additional support from the European Union, to support educationally disadvantaged children Dr Mithong Souvanvixay and Ms Keoamphone Souvannaphoum sign agreement documents for Basic Education Quality and Access to complete quality basic education. in the Lao PDR Project at the MoU signing ceremony in Vientiane recently. As part of the overall BEQUAL program, the BEQUAL NGO European Union and and ChildFund ChildFund Laos will implement level hygiene promotion activities. Consortium (comprising of Plan Australia with a budget of US$ specific activities to improve Lao This project will enable an International, Save the Children, 1,312,505 and will run until the end language acquisition and children’s improvement in quality of the World Vision and ChildFund Laos) of the project in September 2018. A reading habits such as training for education delivered as well as is responsible for implementing total of 57 primary schools have been teachers of Grade 1 to better support gradually reduce the education gap activities that support increased selected to promote education access non-Lao speaking students upon between urban and rural areas. access to and participation in and participation in the 2 districts. school entry, provision of reading “ChildFund attaches great primary school. The BEQUAL NGO The project will be carried out in close books to schools, and reading importance to collaboration Consortium project aims to ensure partnership with schools, the District promotion activities with schools and with the Ministry of Education that all children, particularly non- Education and Sports Bureau in each communities. Increased enrolment and and Sports. Synergies with the Lao speakers, girls and children with district and the Provincial Education participation in school by all children BEQUAL NGO Consortium also disabilities, in 171 disadvantaged and Sport Service in Houaphan to plan, will be promoted through training substantially expand the prospects schools, enroll in and complete a implement and monitor the different for Village Education Development of our increased information sharing quality primary education, supported activities. Committees and teachers on inclusive and effective engagement for by their parents and communities. The main objectives of this project education, and activities for students to countrywide inclusive and quality Under the MoU signed recently, are to address the quality of teaching increase their awareness of key issues education”, Ms Keoamphone said. ChildFund Laos will start to of early reading and Lao language affecting participation. Sanitation and For more information on the deliver activities in Huameuang acquisition in schools, and to enable hygiene improvements at primary ChildFund BNC Project or activities and Xamneua Districts, Houaphan community engagement in supportive schools will be addressed through the please contact Oulath Saengouthay, Province. The project is supported learning environments. As part of installation of hand-washing facilities, [email protected], by the Australian Government, the the BEQUAL NGO Consortium, plus training for teachers and school- 021-412966, 020 54424204 Vientiane Times 9

Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.laBusiness Friday April 7, 2017 IMF paints positive picture for global economic growth Somsack Pongkhao United States after a weak first half of 2016, and the conomic activity economy is approaching full is projected to employment, according to pick up its pace the IMF. in 2017 and 2018, The outlook for advanced Eespecially in emerging economies has improved markets and developing for 2017–18, reflecting economies, according to somewhat stronger activity the International Monetary in the second half of 2016 Fund (IMF)’s recent as well as a projected fiscal World Economic Outlook stimulus in the United Update. States. The report also predicts Growth prospects improved economic growth have slightly worsened amongst Laos’ major trading for emerging markets and partners, Asean and China. developing economies, The economic growth where financial conditions of the Asean 5 (Indonesia, have typically tightened. Malaysia, Philippines, Near-term growth prospects Thailand and Vietnam) is were revised up for China projected to expand from due to expected policy 4.8 percent in 2016 to 4.9 stimulus but were then percent in 2017 and 5.2 revised down for a number percent in 2018. of other large economies The economic - most notably India and The Lao economy is projected to grow by 7 percent this year. improvement in Asean and Brazil. China could also create greater The growth rate in Oil prices have increased in the United States, prices of a stronger-than-expected movements, and the risk of momentum for stronger China was a bit stronger in recent weeks, reflecting for base metals have also performance during the capital flow reversals. economic growth in Laos this than expected, supported by an agreement among major strengthened. latter part of 2016. Economies with large year and next, helping to drive continued policy stimulus producers to trim supply. Growth projections for Last year, the Lao and rising nonfinancial debt, regional integration. but activity was weaker With strong infrastructure 2017 have also been revised economy grew at a rate un-hedged foreign liabilities, Among advanced than expected in some and real estate investment upward for Germany, Japan, of 6.9 percent while Lao or heavy reliance on short- economies, activity Latin American countries in China as well as Spain, and the United economists say the country’s term borrowing to fund rebounded strongly in the currently in recession. expectations of fiscal easing Kingdom, mostly on account economy will continue to longer-term investments grow at about 7 percent this must adopt stronger risk year as many new mega- management practices ADB sees solid growth in developing Asia this year projects that have been and contain balance sheet MANILA (China Daily, delayed in past years have mismatches. ANN) -- The Asian now commenced. In low-income countries Development Bank The IMF said that that have seen their fiscal (ADB) said on Thursday emerging markets and buffers decrease over the that developing Asia will developing economies last few years, the priority continue to perform well this also face diverse cyclical is to restore those buffers year even as recovery in the positions and structural while continuing to spend major industrial economies challenges. efficiently on critical remained weak, predicting The IMF recommended capital needs and social the region's economy to that enhancing financial outlays, strengthen debt expand by 5.7 percent in resilience can reduce the management, improve 2017 and 2018. vulnerability to a tightening domestic revenue Asian Development of global financial mobilisation, and implement Outlook 2017, the conditions, sharp currency structural reforms. ADB's annual economic publication, said continued Exchange rates as of April 6, 2017 expansion helps developing Asia deliver more than 60 Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao Public percent of global growth. Foreign Currencies Buying Selling "Gross domestic product for the region as a whole US Dollar 50-100 8,189 8,229 is expected to grow by 5.7 percent in 2017 and 2018, a tick down from the 2016 Construction workers take a break outside a construction site in Beijing, China. Thai Baht 237.99 239.77 outcome of 5.8 percent as --AP PhotoNg Han Guan the controlled moderation of Euro 50-500 8,732 8,776 growth in China is balanced commodity prices," the rate movements," Sawada "moderate deceleration" by expected healthy growth report said. said. growing 6.5 percent in 2017 elsewhere," said the report Indeed ADB chief China's economy will and further to 6.2 percent in released on Thursday. economist Yasuyuki Sawada continue "to rebalance, 2018. Excluding the high- said the region "faces risks depending more on After slowing down income newly industrialised from uncertain policy consumption to drive in the first half of 2016, economies like South direction in the advanced growth." the report said the United Korea and Singapore, the economies, including "A further shift of States, the euro area and report said regional growth the pace of interest rate economic activity from Japan are forecast to grow is expected to reach 6.3 normalisation in the United industry to services shows collectively by 1.9 percent percent in 2017 and 6.2 States." rebalancing progressing in both 2017 and 2018. percent in 2018. "While short-term risks as planned. Growth in The report predicted "Growth is picking up in seem manageable, regional China now relies more Japan's economy to continue 30 of the 45 economies in policy makers should on internal demand and to recover "but may lose developing Asia, supported remain vigilant to respond less on exports," the report some steam unless export by higher external demand to possible spillover through said, adding that China's growth maintains its new and rebounding global capital flows and exchange economy will experience momentum." 10 Business Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times In brief Prudential opens new Sharp to boost workforce at key plant in July OSAKA (Kyodo News) -- Sharp Corp. is set to boost the number of employees at its mainstay Kameyema factory in the central Japan prefecture of Mie to reinforce branch in Luang Prabang the production of profitable camera parts for smartphones, a senior company Times Reporters official said on Thursday. Sharp, restructuring under the wing of Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., will raise Prudential Life Assurance the number of its workforce to around 4,000 in July from the current 2,300 at the (Lao) Company Limited plant. The Osaka-based electronics maker previously reduced its workforce at the (Prudential Laos) recently key plant amid a sluggish performance in its liquid crystal display panel business launched a new sales unit but the company has again begun expanding its business since coming under the branch at the ACLEDA ownership of the Taiwanese firm known by its trade name Foxconn. Bank branch in Luang Prabang province, aiming Cabinet nod for French technical cooperation in civil aviation to offer products that better New Delhi (The Statesman, ANN) -- The Union cabinet on Wednesday suit customers’ needs. approved an agreement for technical cooperation between the civil aviation The opening of the authorities of India and France, according to an official statement. new branch is in line “The Union cabinet has given its approval to the memorandum of understanding with Prudential’s credo of between the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Civil Aviation Authority “Always Listening, Always (DGAC) of France, to implement Technical Cooperation Programme in the civil Understanding”, which is aviation sector,” a Civil Aviation Ministry statement said here. available throughout the country at ACLEDA Bank Lao Ltd. The event was attended Lao and foreign business operators gather at the opening by representatives from the ceremony of the sales unit branch in Luang Prabang province. company and provincial authorities along with other future. Kingdom), comprising its invited guests. Prudential Corporation life insurance operations Prudential opened its Asia, part of the UK-based in Asia, and its asset representative office in Prudential plc, has now management business, Vientiane in March 2015 started its life insurance Eastspring Investments. It and has since received a business in Laos. is headquartered in Hong licence from the Ministry Operating here as Kong. of Finance to begin business Prudential Life Assurance Prudential is a leading operations. (Lao) Company Limited life insurer that spans 13 Prudential has (“Prudential Laos”), markets in Asia, covering established a strategic and Prudential offers life Cambodia, China, Hong exclusive “bancassurance” insurance products that meet Kong, India, Indonesia, partnership in Laos with the protection and savings Republic of Korea, Laos, ACLEDA Bank Lao, a needs of the Lao people. Malaysia, the Philippines, reputable commercial bank Prudential has been Singapore, Taiwan, with more than 40 branches operating in Asia since 1923 Thailand and Vietnam. across the country. and owns a pan-regional Prudential has a robust Prudential Laos is now distribution platform that multi-channel distribution distributing its products serves the diverse financial platform providing a to customers of ACLEDA needs of Asian families in comprehensive range of Bank Lao through the 13 markets. savings, investment and branch network, starting in Prudential Corporation protection products to meet Vientiane before expanding Asia is a business unit of the diverse needs of the nationwide in the near Prudential plc (United Asian people. Boost for airlines, REITs as more tourists head for Malaysia

More tourists, especially from China, heading to Malaysia. KUALA LUMPUR (The “This figure could Korea in retaliation for Star, ANN) -- Total tourist be conservative as it has the latter deploying the arrivals to Malaysia this not accounted for recent Terminal High Altitude Area year could jump by over promotional efforts by the Defence missile system. 4percent on-year after airline government. Business intelligence bookings from China to “This development group ForwardKeys Malaysia surged 72percent reinforces our positive view reported that China to on-year from March 16 to on the tourism industry,” the Malaysia airline bookings Aug 31, 2017. research house said in a note. from March 16, 2017 to This was after China It said the direct August 31, 2017 surged discouraged its citizens beneficiaries to the positive 72percent, and ranked from visiting South Korea, growth in tourist arrivals Malaysia as the prime Asian Maybank Investment Bank whih it had existing BUY beneficiary from the move Research said on Thursday. call on were MAHB, by CNTA. “If we assume that AirAsia, Genting Bhd, Al- The research house said Chinese tourist arrivals for Salam REIT, Sunway REIT beneficiaries from higher the whole of 2017 grow by a and IGB REIT. tourist arrivals were the narrower 50percent on-year, The China National aviation (airlines, airport), we estimate that this will Tourism Administration hospitality (hotels, theme lift total tourist arrivals by recently discouraged parks, casino) and consumer 4percent on-year. Chinese tours to South (retail, F&B) sectors. Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 Business 11

Lao stock market report Asean Economic Community

Trading Summary LSX’s index was up 12.17 points or 1.13 percent to 1,089.88 points with 3,800 shares traded, worth around 18 million kip from the increase of EDL-Gen and BCEL, which rose 50 kip and 300 kip respectively. EDL-Gen edged up 50 kip to close at 5,450 kip with small trading volume of 300 shares only, while BCEL added 300 kip to close at 5,200 kip with 3,100 shares. In the meantime, PTL and SVN were stable at 2,000 kip, 3,000 kip with 300 shares, 100 shares traded respectively. LWPC stayed unchanged at 9,100 kip with no trading.

People wait for trains at Manggarai Station in South Jakarta. Indonesia, Australia discuss transportation cooperation enhancement JAKARTA (The Jakarta according to a press release The new funding scheme Post, ANN) -- Indonesia and issued prior to the start of the for cooperation projects Australia are discussing ways meeting on Thursday. between two countries will to enhance their cooperation “One of the important be implemented through in the transportation sector in issues that will be discussed consultation between the a meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, is the finalisation of the new Australian Department of from April 5 to 7. MoU in the transportation Foreign Affairs and Trade, Representatives of the sector which aims to the National Development two countries will discuss accommodate the interests Planning Board (Bappenas) issues such as priorities in of the two countries,” the and the Indonesian the transportation sector, statement says. Coordinating Economic infrastructure investment, The result of the meeting Ministry. The discussions will security and safety and in Nusa Dua is considered be jointly led by Indonesian regional maritime pollution important for when the Transportation Ministry preparedness and response. agreement between Indonesia secretary-general Sugihardjo The two countries will and Australia under the and Australian deputy explore a cooperation scheme of the Indonesia secretary of infrastructure arrangement in the Transportation Safety and regional development, transportation sector, Assistance Package ends. Shane Carmody. 12 Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times

Lao People’s Democratic Republic Peace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity

Bank of the Lao PDR Office No: 215/office Vientiane, date: 04 April, 2017 Announcement

To: State and private organisations and people across the country Title: Ceasing operations of one leasing company and three pawnshops

- Pursuant to Prime Ministerial Decree on leasing No 11/PM, dated 18 February, 1999 - Pursuant to Prime Ministerial Decree on pawnshop No 248/govt, dated 26 July, 2016.

The Office of the Bank of the Lao PDR would like to inform you about the revocation of business operation licenses of one leasing company and three pawnshops, thus ending the operations of these businesses, which are detailed as follows:

1. Phiewvongsaen Leasing Company was granted a business operation license from the Bank of the Lao PDR No 30/BoL, dated 29 October, 2013. The company’s office is located in Savang village, Chanthabouly district, Vientiane. 2. Vientiane Motor Market Pawnshop was granted a business operation license from the Bank of the Lao PDR No 509, dated 9 October, 2003. The shop is located in Sibounheuangthong village, Sikhottabong district, Vientiane. 3. Bouathip Pawnshop was granted a business operation license from the Bank of the Lao PDR No 210, dated 13 July, 2006. The company is located in Saimoungkhoun village, Naxaithong district, Vientiane. 4. CK Pawnshop., Ltd. was granted a business operation license from the Bank of the Lao PDR No 420, dated 29 August, 2003. The shop is located in Chormmanitai village, Xaysettha district, Vientiane.

Therefore, the Bank of the Lao PDR issues this announcement to inform you about this fact.

Head of Office

Phetsathaphone Keovongvichit Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 13

CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST JOB VACANCY for National Consultant on Antimicrobial Resistant Contract duration: 9 months (with possible extension) Vacancy No. 2017/002

Deadline for Applications: 12 April 2017 Duty station: Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR Tasks and responsibilities: 14 Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times

5.520.0005.520.000 LAKLAK 675675 USDUSD ເນື່ອງໃນໂອກາດປີໃໝ່ລາວໃກ້ມາຮອດນີ້ສະກາຍຊີຕີ້ອາພາດເມັນ ຂອງພວກເຮົາຈື່ງ ໄດ້ຈັດໂປຣໂມຊັນໃຫ້ແກ່ບັນດາລູກຄ້າທຸກທ່ານ ຮັບສ່ວນຫຼຸດເຖີງ30% ເລີ່ມຕັ້ງແຕ່ ວັນທີ່ 01/04/2017 ນີ້ໄປຈົນເຖີງວັນທີ 30/04/2017 ທ່ານໃດສົນໃຈຕ້ອງການຈັບ ຈອງຫ້ອງພັກກັບສະກາຍຊີຕີ້ອາພາດເມັນຂອງພວກເຮົາສາມາດຕິດຕ່ຫາພວກເຮົາ ໄດ້ທີຢູ່ຂ້າງລຸ່ມນີ້: ສະກາຍຊີຕີ້ ອາພາດເມັນ ໂທ: +856 21 850 999 ,021 850 275 ມືຖື: +856 20 24289695 ອິເມວ: [email protected]; [email protected] ທີ່ຢູ່: ຖະໜົນໄກສອນ, ບ້ານ ສີບຸນເຮືອງ, ເມືອງ ຈັນທະບູລີ, ນະຄອນຫຼວງວຽງຈັນ

On the occasion of Lao New year 2017 is coming soon , Sky City Apartment has a Promotion for customers for best discount 30% as special priority on the occasion of lao new year from the date 01 April 2017 to 30 April 2017,please note that the promotion room are limited available. Sky City Apartment Tel: +856 21 850 999,021 850 275 Mobile: +856 20 28249695 Email: [email protected], [email protected] Add: Kaisone Road, Sibounhueng Village Chanthabuly District, Vientiane Capital City Lao PDR

Environmental / Social Consultant (National) Earth Systems is currently seeking to employ an environmental / social specialist with experience in environmental / social impact assessment. In this role you will be responsible for helping to develop the company’s business and deliver projects for a wide range of public and private sector clients across the Mekong Region. The successful applicants will: • Possess relevant tertiary qualification(s) in environmental science, environmental engineering, social science or related field (preferably postgraduate level); • Have experience in the environmental sector, particularly in the areas of ESIA and planning, water resource management, community development or other related fields; • Be able to identify and develop new opportunities for Earth Systems in the Mekong Region; • Have exceptional English and Lao language communication skills; • Be passionate about the environment; and • Have an interest in / be able to travel domestically and regionally when required.

The position will be based in Vientiane and an attractive salary package will be provided depending on qualifications and experience. Interested applicants should email their resume and a short cover letter to: [email protected]. Please do not apply for this position if you have previously applied for a position with the company in the last 12 months.

Further information about Earth Systems can be found at www.earthsystems.com.au. HEAD OFFICE: EARTH SYSTEMS, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

BRISBANE l PERTH l BRISTOL l DAKAR l KIGALI l BAMAKO l SHANGHAI l VIENTIANE Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 15

Lao People’s Democratic Republic Ministry of Industry and Commerce Second Trade Development Facility Project ID No: P130512

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST National Trade Facilitation Specialist

1. Background to the assignment The Second Trade Development Facility (TDF-2) is a multi-donor program financed by Australia, the European Union, Germany, Ireland and the World Bank focusing on improving trade and private sector development in Lao PDR. The development objective of the TDF-2, which is implemented by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, is to support the implementation of government’s trade and integration priorities outlined in the 2012 Diagnostic Trade Integration Study (DTIS) Roadmap, and in particular to contribute to improved competitiveness and diversification, focusing outside the natural resource sectors. TDF-2 has three main components : (a) trade facilitation, trade policy and regulations; (b) diversification ansd competitiveness; and, (c) mainstreaming aid for trade. The appraised value of the project is US$ 14.0 million, with implementation to take place over a period of four years, starting in April 2013. Technical responsibility for implementation of the Trade Development Facility lies with the National Implementation Unit (NIU), based within the Planning and Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. 2. Objective of the assignment The objective of the assignment for the National Trade Facilitation Analyst is to support the National Trade Facilitation Secretariat of the TDF-2 of the Lao PDR Ministry of Industry and Commerce. The main responsibilities of the consultants include: • Managing the implementation of the different activities related to the Lao PDR National Trade Facilitation Strategy (NTFS) and Action Plan; • Helping in coordination between DIMEX, other relevant government agencies/ ministries, and relevant donor and development agencies in the design and implementation of the TDF-2 NTFS Action Plan; • Dissemination of work on NTFS Action Plan to interested parties, including the private sector.

3. Key qualification requirements • Minimum Bachelor degree in law, economics, business, public policy, political science, international relations, or related discipline. • Minimum two years working experience in an international/multinational organization or in the government/public sector on an international project or in trade facilitation/ related area. • Knowledge of work with/in government organizations, in particular in connection with the public sector is an asset. • Knowledge of customs policy and non-customs procedures (e.g. SPS, transport, etc) is an asset. • Fluency in Lao and English are mandatory (spoken and written). Strong interpersonal skills to facilitate dialogue with various government agencies, engage with senior and technical staff, and the private sector. • Ability to work in a team and have good communication skills. • Willing to work alongside and assist national counterparts in a practical and proactive way. • Sound policy development and research skills are an asset.

This assignment is designed for a full-time engagement over a period of 2 years with annual contract extensions subject to satisfactory performance. There is an initial probation period of three (3) months. The majority of inputs will be delivered in Vientiane, Lao PDR, working alongside government officials. The expected commencement of services is expected as soon as possible. The full text of the ToR can be accessed at the NIU’s website: www.t4dlaos.org The NIU now invites interested eligible consultants to provide information indicating that you are qualified to perform the services (curriculum vitae with expression of interest and references). Interested consultants may obtain further information at the address below. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) by 21st April 2017, 16:00 o’clock.

Attn: Mr. Phouvieng Phongsa, NIU Director, CC: Mr. Keophouthone Inthivong, Procurement Officer. Ministry of Industry and Commerce, National Implementation Unit (NIU), Ban Phonxay, Xaysettha District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR. Tel: +856 (21) 41 39 16 – 45 39 82; Fax: +856 (21) 41 39 16 E-mail: [email protected] Note: Only Short-listed candidates will be contacted. 16 Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 17 18 Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 19 Lifestyle Bakers transform Western fare to Lao taste Times Reporters several years. In 2000, he and his wife For many years, we heard Ms Saengdao Silisouk that bread was Western food started making bread for and not very popular among sale. They started building Lao people. But today one a brick oven with the aim entrepreneur who is now of making traditional bread making bread is delighted using their own two hands. with the steady income he Ms Saengdao made earns. bread whenever she had Even though his bread is time, while her husband popular among customers in earned money by making Vientiane and the northern items from scrap wood. provinces, SBS bread But he saw that making factory owner Mr Somboun bread had better earning Silisouk continues to potential than the furniture improve the quality of his he was producing. But with products in a bid to expand no experience in baking and his customer base. lacking marketing skills, for He always makes new a long time their bread was designs and fillings for not customers’ first choice. his bread, hoping to give They learnt that the customers different eating quality must be improved, opportunities every year. with customer feedback Today, the factory informing their production A worker readies bread for packing. --Photo by S. Bouapha produces 40 types of methods. filling, including coconut, Mr Somboun decided So they went in search screwpine fruit of the genus to give up woodwork and of quality ingredients, Pandanus (bayteui), cream, began helping his wife to especially wheat flour. They taro, sesame and vanilla. find ways to improve the went to China, Thailand and It costs 700 to 3,000 quality of their bread so that Vietnam to study baking kip to make a loaf at the it satisfied their customers. methods. bakery, depending on size. They realised that the raw They also learned how But before his bread found materials must be the main to determine the quality of favour with customers, Mr problem and were causing the wheat flour produced in Somboun lost money for their bread to be inferior. these countries.

A woman prepares savoury bread for sale. They decided to buy ingredients. lower and his bread would bread-making machines Most of the ingredients be able to compete with from Thailand. And at the have to be imported as Lao imported products same time they learnt the farmers don’t grow the kind Import tax reductions right way to bread from of grain needed to make would directly support small the owner of the machine wheat flour. The cost of raw businesses, creating more manufacturer and a producer materials such as the filling job opportunities for local of wheat flour. ingredients and the wheat people. They both underwent flour is high. Today, the SBS factory training in Bangkok and To lower costs, Mr employs more than 10 also at home, learning from Somboun began growing permanent workers, who expert Thai bakers. Slowly taro and screwpine of earn a monthly salary. It but surely, they progressed the genus Pandanus and also employs 10 temporary along the road to bread other plants in his garden, workers who are students making. As the quality of so he could use them as and earn a daily wage. They their bread improved, the ingredients in his bread. work at the factory when products they turned out But it was some years they are not in school. in the SBS bread factory before these plants bore Mr Somboun says the in Vientiane grew in fruit. factory’s products are popularity, starting in 2008. Mr Somboun would like always in line with customer Then people in the the government to lower the demand. This means that all northern provinces began import tax on raw materials the bread sold in markets is ordering bread from the so he can compete with always new and fresh. He factory so they could sell it. similar imported products. and his wife continue to Bread is associated High taxes mean the come up with new designs with foreign food but Mr factory has to keep bread and fillings for the bread so Somboun has adjusted the prices high. If the tax on raw that their customers don’t taste to suit Lao people materials was lower, the cost get bored with the same old and uses only the best of the end product would be flavour. 20 Friday April 7, 2017 Special Supplement Vientiane Times

OPINION NEIGHBOURS BOC organizes Globalization a cross-border trend that must be matchmaking sustained service in Laos Zhang Jianhua As China's central bank developing countries such governor Zhou Xiaochuan as China and offer the short- The Bank of China (BOC) said during the 2017 term prescriptions for their held the “BOC Global SMEs Boao Forum for Asia, economic and social ills. Cross-border Matchmaking globalization is a reality Instead of accelerating Services” roadshow in the Lao capital of Vientiane a for all countries, and is their economic restructuring few days ago. not a matter of choice. to better allocate resources According to the Lao Policymakers across the and rebalance their domestic Ministry of Industry and world should keep in mind wealth distribution, they are Commerce, SMEs accounted that although we are not threatening to close their Lao students sample Yuxi delicacies for 99 percent of Lao in a perfect global village, doors and resort to anti- A group of 39 Lao students participated in the 2017 China Yuxi Rice Noodle Cultural Festival enterprises, which are in urgent need of international globalization has benefited free trade measures. What recently. They sampled all sorts of Yuxi delicacies, including rice noodles with soybean paste, and promotion. The institutions numerous people; and what they are doing can only fried pork with pickled vegetables. In 2009, Yuxi City of Yunnan Province and Pakxe of Cham- and customer resource centres we should do is cooperate jeopardize global trade and passak Province became “sister cities.” In July 2016, the two parties officially signed a secondary at BOC all over the world can with each other to improve hold back the already bumpy professional talent training cooperation agreement. Photo by Yu Hong help Lao SMEs expand outside the global trade system. global economic recovery. of the country. In the past decades, The Chinese leaders AMAZING YUNNAN Chen Keqin, vice president globalization has benefited have been strongly of the BOC Vientiane branch, both the developed and championing globalization hopes that cross-border match- making services can bring developing countries. In in recent months, and in a Yunnan continues new ideas and opportunities to the developing countries, congratulatory letter to the Lao and Chinese enterprises people's incomes have been opening ceremony of the operating and developing in raised and many have been annual forum, President improving Laos. He also hopes to promote lifted out of poverty. In the Xi Jinping called on the Laos’s import and export trade developed world, companies attendees to jointly push and investment and economic have taken advantage of the forward a more dynamic, environmental quality development. In recent years, BOC has globalization tide to reach inclusive and sustainable located, 98.3 percent of projects for soil pollution been helping Chinese SMEs beyond their home country economic globalization Hu Xiaorong invest in other countries to invest and profit in almost process. days reached good air treatment and restoration. while attracting foreign all corners of the globe. This is not just in China's Since last year, the Yunnan quality, which is a one Major heavy metal pollutant investment through cross- However, the sluggish interest, but in the interest of provincial party committee percent increase compared emissions decreased border matching services. To global recovery after the the entire world. The world’s and Yunnan government with the previous year. significantly. Environmental date, BOC has held 28 cross- financial crisis has resulted major trade players should have been attaching For water pollution quality in the areas of heavy border matching service events all over the world, attracting in growing angst among refrain from any beggar- great importance to control, last year Yunnan metal pollution control environmental protection of Province implemented the is generally stable and the participation of more than those most affected and a thy-neighbor practices, cast 15,000 Chinese and foreign growing backlash against away their differences, and the whole province. Yunnan Provincial Water improving. enterprises. These efforts have globalization in some better communicate with one Yunnan has further Pollution Prevention Work To strictly control helped corporations achieve a countries, most notably in another to enhance mutual implemented its air Plan. Each prefecture and pollution emissions last series of business cooperations the developed economies. confidence and realign the pollution control action plan city worked out its own year, relevant departments in trade and the introduction of Regrettably, policymakers world economy on the track by strengthening control water pollution prevention at each level of provincial investments and technology. in these countries have chosen of shared growth. of industrial air pollution, implementation plan and government carefully to point accusing fingers at (China Daily) urban dust pollution and signed target responsibilities supervised sewage For more motor vehicle emission at each level. Construction treatment plants and information, please visit our INDUSTRY supervision. The province of key projects for the nine strengthened supervision website. eliminated 136,000 heavy- lakes’ prevention has been of key emission reduction Yunnan Express: polluting cars and old cars, proceeding, with 5.338 projects. Among 609 english.yunnan.cn Yunnan is a land of improving air quality. For billion yuan invested. emission reduction projects the 16 cities where with For soil pollution at the provincial level, Editor: Han Chengyuan abandance prefectural governments control, last year Yunnan 587 or 96 percent were E-mail: [email protected] and municipal governments implemented five pilot completed.

ECOLOGICAL PROTECTION Yunnan breeds first Asian elephant

Dai Zhenhua elephant, ‘Future’, fall in love. The Centre provided Recently, a female elephant the two elephants with a named ‘Future’, living at the comfortable mating place. China Asian elephant breeding Eventually, ‘Future’ became base at the Wild Elephant pregnant and smoothly Valley in Xishuangbanna delivered a 106-centimetre- Dai Autonomous Prefecture, long male calf after 22 months Yunnan Province, smoothly of meticulous care. At present, Zhang Tong tables of Yunnan. gave birth to a healthy male the calf’s vital signs are They come in 600-some calf. The birth marked normal. Just like messengers of varieties. Through intensive a breakthrough in Asian Over the past ten years, spring, edible leaves pollution-free cultivation elephant breeding technology. the female elephants living at and flowers such as toon on farms, and the rational In 2015, in order to the Asian Elephant Breeding leaves, cardoon leaves development and utilization explore and master the Asian and Rescue Centre have and gorse flowers can be of wild resources, they elephant breeding methods, given birth to three calves by spotted at local markets have promoted forestry the Asian Elephant Breeding natural mating. This is the and on dining tables. These efficiency and are bringing and Rescue Centre decided first time in which the Centre edible leaves and flowers in new incomes for farmers. to use human intervention has successfully bred a calf in China’s Asian elephant and practical experience are traditional “mountain The photo shows farmers to make the male elephant, through human intervention. breeding technology, which for the breeding of Asian treasures” on the dinner selling cardoon leaves. ‘Parent’, and the female The success has filled a gap will provide technical support elephants in the future. Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 21 Opinion What’s your opinion of the work Streetwise done by the security forces? Security Forces Day was observed on April 5, with this year being the 56th anniversary of the founding of the protective body (April 5, 1961-April 5, 2017). Organisations nationwide held activities to mark this important occasion and Vientiane Times asked some local residents for their thoughts on the work of the security forces. Visith Teppalath need them and want them work slowly and never to continue to work in arrive on time when there’s Mr Chantha Xayasarn, our interest. If we didn’t an incident of some kind an employee in Sisattanak have a police force, there and that they can’t catch district, Vientiane: It is could be many problems the thieves after a robbery, good to hold activities and so forth. Many people to mark this day because say that if they could act it means we are doing a bit more quickly the something to honour our thieves would be arrested security forces. As we all and the situation resolved know, security officers, more efficiently. They especially the police, are a should also use more very important force and modern equipment like the protect people from danger police in other countries and disorder, incuding do. Having more and better theft, terrorism, traffic equipment would enable problems, drug abuse and them to better monitor the like. They also help people to solve many and our lives would not be so good. So on this important occasion each Police contribute to the celebrations on special occasions. year all organisations has become modernised are still lacking in quality providing money to buy and individuals should and we can see that they and don’t have enough the equipment they need acknowledge the security resolve problems daily. modern equipment because to improve their work. In forces and give flowers But they must work fairly of budget constraints. So this way, they might be and other gifts to the and act in line with the all sectors, companies, and able to work more quickly police to thank them and rules and laws. In terms of businesses are required and more efficiently in the spur them on to greater improvement, I think they to support them by future. achievements. 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A traffic Please return this form with the following information to Vientiane Times policeman FULL NAME: ______keeps ADDRESS: ______vehicles TEL: ______FAX:______EMAIL:______FOR ONLINE: Name:______PREFERRED PASSWORD______moving (Password not more then 8 characters) at a busy junction. Mail this completed form with your cheque to: Payment in advance Vientiane Times, Kamphaengmeuang Rd, Phonpapao Village, Please request rates for other destinations at Unit 32 Sisattanak District, Vientiane Lao PDR [email protected]. Make your payment to PO Box 5723. Tel: 021 336042, Fax: 021 336041 Vientiane Times bank account at the BCEL (US$) A/c Website: www.vientianetimes.org.la 010110100989471001 or (kip) A/c 010110000989471001 Email: [email protected] 22 Opinion Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times The next generation of corporate banking Ernest Saudjana economic profit generation, highly capable sales forces. and overhaul all key levers. However, the players Jakarta (The Jakarta Now is the time for are facing increasing Post, ANN) -- The corporate corporate banks to evolve, competition, declining banking sector is in the throes to reinvent themselves, and interest margins and of profound disruption — to innovate for both survival revenues, surging regulatory and it’s happening whether and growth. costs, spiking loan or not banks are fully ready. According to the losses, and rising capital Banking leaders face an Corporate Banking requirements. urgent need to radically Performance Benchmarking These, amid an optimize performance and survey, by Boston environment where digitally commit to a continuous Consulting Group (BCG), enabled business models are digital transformation. leading corporate banking redefining the movement In other words, there is divisions excel in four of data and money, an impending need for the ways – they’re dramatically are challenging banks’ incumbent banks to embrace less credit-centric; deliver traditional advantages and deep, systemic digitization higher risk-adjusted lending the economics of corporate to stay relevant, open up margins; excel in managing banking. BCG’s benchmark new paths to sustained operating costs; and have data also confirms the

A building of the Development Bank of Singapore (DBS). --Photo DBS.com

hazards of clinging to industry-specific value to boost corporate banking traditional credit- centric chain. value creation and generate revenue models and Advances in digital the profits needed to static, inflexible operating technologies and the support far-reaching practices. growing readiness and digital transformation, We don’t know precisely ability of companies of all including nextgeneration what corporate banking sizes to participate in such corporate bank models, will look like in 20 years, an ecosystem, however, will such as industry-specific but we’re getting clear soon usher in a significant ecosystems. indications of where the increase in adoption as firms The trouble, of course, industry is heading. These learn about the ability of such is that such evolution takes indications come from every platforms to improve the significant investment region of the world and all operational performance of and, right now, banks are kinds of players, including each ecosystem participant. straining to keep up with aggressive incumbents, Banking with the Internet current demands. fintechs and fast-growing of Things: A more ambitious Although all corporate Asian banks that are in many future could be built on banks have taken at least ways leapfrogging brand- the Internet of Things. For tentative steps on the path name Western corporate instance, the bank will to digitization, launching banks. increasingly be seen as a a long-term strategic Though there are many trusted provider and fraud transformation can be possible scenarios, we risk manager, generating daunting, therefore, rather envision three main ones new service opportunities than focusing on specific that have strong potential and revenue streams. projects or products, it to emerge, whether In the near term, is important to identify individually or collectively. banks can gain significant a transformation-path Industry 4.0: The rise improvement by digitizing comprising of five key of Industry 4.0 shows how three areas that our research elements. technology changes both and client’ work show to be Determine the bank’s the business ecosystems and core revenue drivers. digital aspirations and the financial services used. Apply advanced future strategy; review Industry 4.0 will connect analytics to increase share client journeys and redesign buildings, vehicles, sensors, of wallet and generate leads. the most important ones; and machines. Our casework with corporate consider which potentially These connections make banks has shown that RM- game-changing disruptive it possible to gather and centric advanced analytics businesses to invest in, and analyze data, predict failure, dramatically accelerates at what level; develop a and adapt to changes, crossselling and improve comprehensive plan to fund enabling faster, flexible prospecting. the journey; and commit to a and efficient processes that Digitally enable rigorously executed change- can generate significant RMs, to support RMs in management program. increases in productivity. increasing share of wallet Corporate banking These capabilities and acquiring new clients, divisions have emerged changes relationships a bank in Southeast Asia from the financial crisis only among banks, suppliers, created an analytics engine to be hit by a massive digital producers, and customers, that scanned hundreds data disruption. To stay viable, and introduce radical new sources for specific client, they need to understand the business models. market, and industry trends. client journeys that matter Ecosystem Banking: Digital apps, for instance most, invest in continual It’s no accident that digital can improve collaboration in client-centric innovation, leaders in many industries account planning and sales adopt agile ways of are often also platform execution between RMs workingw and create more leaders; think Amazon, for and product specialists; effective and collaborative example. In the future, many improve the end-to end cultures. parts of the economy will be credit process, provide alerts The example of early marked by industry-specific to facilitate communication movers makes clear that value chain platforms, and data sharing. the next-generation bank is operated by many suppliers Adjust pricing to fund the around the corner. The only and distributors. journey. Greater discounting question is, which banks The result would be a discipline and related will be among them? powerful ecosystem that pricing improvements Ernest Saudjana, allows corporate banking deliver significant returns Partner and managing divisions to support in the near term. director of The Boston a diffused network of Top players are already Consulting Group for the companies in a particular using digital approaches Jakarta office. Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 23 Arts & Leisure Entertainers to celebrate Lao New Year with festivals Sisouphan Amphonephong

Artists from various fields and entertainment companies will join forces to celebrate Pi Mai Lao by performing at a number of water festivals around Laos. The artists will perform on the main stage of the “Beerlao Music Zone” both in Vientiane and various provinces to ring in the New Year. Kob Kiengkai is set to Ms Saengmany Xayakone. Soft Drink Manager of celebrate the New Year at the Lao Brewery Company the Wet and Wild Festival in music zone stage in Luang Autistic children perform songs at the event. Ms Saengmany Xayakone Luang Prabang. Prabang. He said he would says they have created the perform a variety of styles Beerlao Music Zone to with many entertainment as well his own tracks. Fashion event held in support celebrate the New Year activities scheduled and Boy band Xtreme, Tot where the company will many product booths on Vilouna and Ms Souliphak of autism association provide booths, a stage and display as well as party - a newcomer to the music Sisouphan other entertainment. foam being unleashed on scene - will also join the Amphonephong Lao and foreign artists audiences to create a fun event in Luang Prabang for as well as DJs will entertain atmosphere. three days. Models from First festival goers under the The winner of the 2016 Mr Kob said he hoped Modelinglao joined together theme “Wet and Wild” while Pepsi Singing Contest Mr the people of Luang Prabang on stage for a fashion show Beerlao will advertise this Kob Kiengkai said he and would come out and have last week, to raise money to year’s safety message, his friends will also join fun with the songs and music support the Association for “Drink but Don’t Drive. the show with scheduled that he and other artists will Autism. Enjoy Responsibly.” singing performances on the be providing. First Modelinglao The music zone will Agency Manager Mr feature a main stage where Viengsamone Chittarath leading local and foreign said the models were asked artists as well as DJs will to celebrate World Autism perform. The stage will be Awareness Day as well as open from April 14 to 16 to raise money in support Ms Phokham Douangdala (left) and Mr Somsanouk Mixay at Chao Anouvong Park of the association, which (right) release balloons to open the fashion show, which in Vientiane, in the area helps supports children with was held to raise money in support of children with autism. of Dernthat’s in Luang autism. Prabang, at the Savan He said the agency was not yet finished counting the and the entertainment ITECC in Savannakhet proud to be a part of such an proceeds. activities and to help province, and in Salakham event and that they had also A model from the First celebrate World Autism near the Chitpasong Bus provided product booths Modelinglao team, Mr Awareness Day. Terminal in Champassak with souvenirs and T-shirts Alaem Boutdavong, said Ms Phokham thanked the province. marking the occasion to sell the fashion show was a lot of sponsors for their support as Events will start at in support of the association. fun and that it felt great to be well as teachers from the 11:30am each day and the Singing and dancing able to be able to contribute Association for Autism in winners of this year’s Pepsi performances by children to such an event. Vientiane and the dancers Singing Contest will join the from the Association for Vice President of the from the QA team who show, performing some of Autism were also featured Lao Journalists’ Association helped to train the children the songs and music for the on the night as well as Mr Somsanouk Mixay and that performed during the celebrations. dancing by the QA Dancers Director of the Association evening. This year’s events will be and singing by some of the for Autism Ms Phokham The pair also presented bigger than in previous years A poster promoting the upcoming Wet and Wild Festival. models present. Douangdalaboth opened congratulations certificates to Mr Viengsamone said he the show and welcomed each sponsor, thanking them was not yet able to reveal the public and officials in for their financial support to how much money was attendance, asking them to the Association and to the Plan to revitalise traditional crafts raised as the committee had enjoy the fashions on display night’s fashion event. CHINA (China Daily, ANN) be diversified. The country is In the meantime, further -- A new plan aimed at further also set to establish a national efforts should be made to Zareen starts preparing for Vikram Bhatt’s film promoting traditional Chinese catalog of traditional crafts enhance the promotion crafts, especially those listed and increase the number of and sales of traditional MUMBAI (The Statesman, as part of the country’s intangible cultural heritage products, the document ANN) -- Actress Zareen intangible cultural heritage, inheritors. said, recommending displays Khan, who is set to explore has been issued by the State Migrant workers are and roadshows at popular the horror genre for the Council, China’s Cabinet. being encouraged to return to tourism sites. first time with filmmaker The Plan on Revitalising their hometowns to develop The document also Vikram Bhatts 1921, has China’s Traditional Crafts, traditional crafts and grow called for universities, been preparing for her role released on March 24, aims their local cultural industry, enterprises and institutions by watching some horror to inject momentum into the with favourable polices being to host seminars and training series and films every night. protection of Chinese culture put in place to help them. sessions for inheritors and “I have never done a and heritage. More efforts will be practitioners of famous horror genre so, it’s very Zareen Khan. It calls for better made to improve the design, traditional crafts. challenging for me. But I management of the industry production and quality of In addition, the country am really looking forward before she starts shooting. collaboration with Reliance and increased market traditional products, as will support eligible to this one,” Zareen said in The film will revolve Entertainment. competitiveness, with higher-quality materials universities to set up majors a statement. around students of music Zareen will also be seen substantial improvements to and a modern management and courses in traditional The actress’ role in the and will be set in a university in Aksar 2, a sequel to the be made by 2020. system are introduced. crafts and cultivate film has not been disclosed town. It will go on the 2006 film Aksar. Ananth According to the The document also professional talent. The yet. floors in May and will be Mahadevan, who helmed the document, traditional encouraged enterprises and country will continue to Zareen, who was last extensively shot in London. 2006 thriller Aksar, which crafts are set to play a more practitioners of traditional promote intangible cultural seen on the big screen in 1921 will be Bhatt’s starred Emraan Hashmi, significant role in creating crafts to protect their secrets, heritage education in director Vishay Pandya’s fifth movie after Raaz, Udita Goswami and Dino jobs, with the incomes of apply for trademarks and universities, and in middle Hate Story 3, would also be 1920, Haunted and Hate Morea, will be directing the practitioners to be increased know their intellectual and primary schools, in an attending a few workshops Story under his banner in sequel too. and industrial structures to property rights. effort to enhance awareness. 24 Friday April 7, 2017 Classified Vientiane Times

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Thonkang, R. sokpalaung 15/279 • Short term1-7 days & Long 1-12 Months. • For English call Mr. Chanh anytime • Office at Donnokkoum Village, Sisattanak • Tel: 020 555 999 00, 020 55619160, District, Vientiane. 020 52225229 • Contact: 020 2365 5464 or 020 2824 6559 • Email: [email protected] to Ms. Senglavee (Khack) • www.vpscarrental.com 26 Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times What’s On Xayaboury rocket festival Lao New Year concert Nationwide Water Festival events Everyone is invited to A Lao-Thai concert will take place over Lao New Year, People throughout the country are gearing up to celebrate Pi an annual rocket festival presented by Nakhar Media. On stage will be Lao performer Mai Lao, one of the most important dates in the Lao calendar. in Xayaboury province. Ms Dokya alongside As well as being a time of celebration and endless fun, the Thousands of rockets made by Thailand’s Ms occasion is synonymous with holidays, the reinforcing of Lao local people will be launched Lamyai, Mr Thunva identity and family bonds, and a time to reflect on the year ahead. to honour Nang Samphiew and the Choey Zaa and worship her stupa. Nang Vientiane: band. There will be Activities: There will be traditional dances, a wax castle Samphiew is recognised as the free Wi-Fi and more procession, and religious activities. There will also be concerts mother of the district. There than 2,000 free gifts. and other entertainment at Don Chan beach. There will be no will also be other activities When: April 14-16. Nang Sangkhan parade this year. starting from April 22 such as Concert from 10am Champassak: donations, almsgiving, a street to 8pm Activities: Nang Sangkhan beauty contest, traditional dance fair, and entertainment. Where:Don Chan beach, Vientiane. shows, wax castle procession, and a fair selling ‘One district, Where: Nangsamphiew Stupa One product’ goods. There will also be a concert and a in That village, Thongmixay Lao Central Bank singing contest. Vat Phou, a World Heritage Site, will have district, Xayaboury province. various religious activities, as well as a market fair selling local products. When: The festivities will start on April 22 and the rockets will The central bank requests the public to inform the bank if they be launched on April 23. Luang Prabang: encounter any suspicious activity or incident concerning illegal Activities: Street fair, traditional performances, popular Lao fundraising by calling the following numbers: 021 265713-715 singers, and a beauty contest to choose Nang Sangkhan. Football Competition or 021 265607. There is also a grand parade featuring the Prabang, one of Laos’ most revered Buddha images, which gave Luang The Lao Football Federation is calling for young people aged Prabang its name in 1512 (‘Luang’ meaning great or royal). 10-23 to try out for the C-Thru Water The statue is carried from the former Royal Palace to Vat Mai, U15 and U23 football followed by hundreds of monks in their bright orange robes. teams preparing for Asia Festival Savannakhet: Activities: Champhone, Kaysone Phomvihane and Xayphouthong Championship tournament Meet leading international DJs matches in Thailand and districts will hold traditional and religious activities. Temple monks and MCs at the C-Thru Water will take down Buddha images from their customary shelves so Korea. Festival. Featuring exciting music the public can pour water over them. A Nang Sangkhan beauty When: Tryouts April 20-30 and fun activities to celebrate Lao pageant parade will take place in Kaysone Phomvihane district. from 4pm to 6 pm. New Year. Entrance is free. There will be a special market fair at the That Inhang stupa and Where: Apply at the Lao When: April 14-16 from noon to a free concert at Savan ITECC. Football Federation, Heuy midnight. Hong Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane. Where: Vientiane Centre. For more information: 020 9970 7053, 020 5444 3133 and Gold decoration ceremony at That Luang 020 5491 8322 Everyone is invited to a ceremony to place gold on the top of 30 spires (paramy) surrounding the That Luang stupa, which Dok Champa in bloom will feature an almsgiving and traditional rituals to pay homage Lao Supermodel 2017 to the stupa. Champa Moungkhoun Garden Participants invites everyone to see the more Organisers of the Lao Supermodel contest are calling on young men and women, as well as children, to enter their should dress in than 5,000 frangipani trees and white. latest contest. 200 species on display from When: April 7, around the world, which are now Conditions: gold decoration in full bloom. Entrance free for - Males must be aged 18-28, be at least 1.75m tall ceremony at children under 10. - Females must be aged 18-28, be at least 1.65m tall 7.30am. April - Children must be aged 6-10. When:Until June 1.Open from 8 8, almsgiving at am to 6pm When: Applications are open until May 6. 6:30am. Where: Apply at LT Company in Phonxay village, Xaysettha Where: That Where:Champa Moungkhoun Luang esplanade Garden is near the National district, Vientiane Stadium at Km16 in Nakhae For more information: 020 2247 9479, or 020 9146 2699 www. village, Xaythany district. facebook.com/lao super model Summer Pool Party For more information call: 020 A fun Summer Pool Party 5675 4125, 020 5562 0109, 030 935 5603 hosted by Inpeng heralds Miss Xekong 2017 Lao New Year with songs Organisers of the Miss Xekong contest are calling on young and music from Lao and Master’s degree scholarships ladies in Xekong province to enter its annual competition. foreign performers as well Some conditions do apply: Contestants must be a woman by as DJs. The Ministry of Health and Thammasat University of Thailand birth, aged 18-25 and be at least 1.55m tall. Where: Inpeng Water Park swimming pool on Thadeua are offering Master’s degree scholarships for graduates with When: Applications open until April 4. Selection round Road. a bachelor degree in medicine. The offer is open to everyone announced on April 10. interested in applying. When: Saturday April 8, Where: Apply at the Information, Culture and Tourism from 1pm. When: Applications open until April 12 Department of Xekong, Nonmixay village, Lamam district, For more information Where: Apply at Ministry of Health, Department of Planning Xekong province. contact: 020 5400 0083 and Cooperation (Opposite Don Chan Palace hotel) Thatkhao For more information call: 038 211 024, 020 2864 4861. village, Sisattanak district, Vientiane. For more information Tel: 021 252 753, 021 242 649; Fax: 021 223 146, 021 240 032; or E-mail: [email protected] Volleyball competition A beach volleyball competition will take place over Lao New Year, Modelling contest for children while many other forms of Vietnamese scholarships The Lao Furniture Association entertainment and cultural The government of Vietnam is offering scholarships for the invites children to take part shows will also be on offer study of doctorate and Master’s degrees. in a modelling contest, with over the holiday. When: Applications open until May 13 kindergarten and primary school When: April 13-16 Where: Apply at Ministry of Education and Sports, Department children encouraged to compete Where: Donchan Island, of Student Affairs (Chao Anouvong Stadium area), Vientiane. in a Pi Mai Lao dress contest Mekong riverbank, For more informationTel: 021 255 034; or www.dsa.moe.gov.la and show off their charms. Vientiane. When: April 7-8 Where: Lao-ITECC SEA Write Award Young Designer Contest 2017 Aspiring creators of fashion are invited to enter Lao Young The Lao Writers’ Association is calling for short stories for entry in the Designer 2017 with the theme: ‘Festival of Lights’. The winner Vientiane Furniture Fair SEA Write Award competition. The aim is to promote Lao literature will have a chance to study at the ESMOD International and foster interest among Lao writers. Fashion Institute in Paris, France. The Lao Furniture Association is holding the Vientiane Where: Fashion Design Contest 2017 c/o Lao Fashion Week, Furniture Fair to promote local products and their export. Where: Send your short story to the SEA Write Award Secretary or Society Corporation, 99/01 Namphou Square, Setthathirath Visitors can buy innovative wood products made by craftsmen Vannasin Magazine on the second floor of the Tourism Building on Road,Vientiane. to suit market demand. Lane Xang Avenue. When: Closing date is April 30 When: April 1-9 When: Submit until June 30. For more information contact: 021 254 808, 021 213 776 or Where: Lao-ITECC For more information call: 021 219871 email: [email protected] Vientiane Times Friday April 7, 2017 Sports 27 Siegemund outlasts Venus Williams in 3 sets at Volvo Open CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) -- Laura Siegemund of Germany beat Venus Williams 6-4, 6-7 (3), 7-5 on Wednesday to win her second three-set match in three days and move on to the third round at the Volvo Car Open. Down match point in the second set, Williams broke Siegemund as she served for the match and rallied to easily win the ensuing Football teams from Lao Brewery Co., Ltd and the media pose at Victory sports field tie-breaker to set up the in Vientiane on Wednesday before their friendly match to welcome the upcoming Lao decisive third set. Williams New Year. In a high scoring affair Lao Brewery Co., Ltd drew with the media 6-6. was poised to complete the comeback, but Siegemund twice pulled back from Laura Siegemund, of Germany, hits a return to Venus Johnson injures back falling down a break and saved two Williams, of the United States, at the Volvo Car Open tennis match points as Williams tournament in Charleston S.C., on Wednesday. --Photo AP served for the victory at stairs on eve of Masters 5-4, winning the final three “I mean, she was all over set but struggled to convert AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) -- manager at Hambric Sports, Masters champion Bubba games to reach the round my serve today,” Keys said. break points. Stollar hit 13 Masters favorite Dustin said Johnson fell on the Watson and PGA champion of 16. “I felt like that let me down, aces to keep in front for Johnson took a serious fall stairs at the home he is Jimmy Walker. “I tried to keep up and I think she served well. most of the match. on a staircase Wednesday renting in Augusta. Johnson had been the pressure and tried to And I feel like I just stopped Also: Anastasija and injured his lower back, “He landed very hard scheduled to attend the dominate the game as well doing what I should have. I Sevastova of Latvia, defeated and his manager said it on his lower back and is Golf Writers Association as I could,” Siegemund said. feel like I did a pretty good Germany’s Andrea Petkovic was uncertain whether now resting, although quite of America annual dinner “I think I worked my way job to get back in the first 6-3, 6-4; Ons Jabeur of the world’s No. 1 golfer uncomfortably,” Winkle said Wednesday night to accept well through the match. set, and I feel like I just Tunisia, defeated Magda would be able to play the in an email. “He has been its award as male player of It was a close match, you stopped doing it. Then it Linette of Poland 6-4, 6-4; tournament. advised to remain immobile the year. He was coming off know, it can go either way. kind of all slipped away Daria Gavrilova of Australia It was a stunning and begin a regimen of anti- a season in which he won I just tried to believe in my from me pretty quick.” defeated American Alison development on an inflammatory medication the U.S. Open for his first game, and if I was down, I Kasatkina, who came Riske 6-3, 6-1; Kiki Bertens otherwise quiet day at and icing, with the hope of major, was voted PGA Tour told myself I was going to close to making the of the Netherlands defeated Augusta National, where being able to play tomorrow.” player of the year for the get more chances.” semifinals here last year, Kateryna Bondarenko of the course was shut down at What might help first time, won the PGA Tour Williams could only hit 19 winners with 18 Ukraine 6-2, 7-5; Mirjana 1:30 p.m. because of storms. Johnson is that he is in the money title and captured ponder what might have unforced errors to finally Lucic-Baroni of Croatia The real calamity struck last group for the opening the Vardon Trophy for the been. escape after just over 2 defeated Mona Barthel of a few hours later. round, scheduled to tee off lowest adjusted scoring “I tried my best to think hours on court. Puig hit Germany, 6-3, 6-2; Japan’s David Winkle, his at 2:03 p.m. with two-time average. this could be the best match more winners (25) but also Naomi Osaka defeated she’ll ever play in her life, had 41 errors, including on Zhang Shuai of China 6-4, honestly,” Williams said. “I match point. 6-4; Anastasia Rodionova basically won the match but In other matches, of Australia defeated Sara still lost.” Latvia’s Jelena Ostapenko Errani of Italy 6-2, 6-2; Irina- Elsewhere, Russian defeated Greece’s Maria Camelia Begu of Romania, Daria Kasatkina outlasted Sakkari in three sets and defeated Kristina Kucova of Puerto Rican Olympic Hungarian Fanny Stollar Slovakia 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 (6); champion Monica Puig 6-0, stunned No.4 seed Elena Lucie Safarova of the Czech 6-7 (3), 6-2, and Shelby Vesnina, 7-6 (7), 7-6 (3). Republic defeated Bethanie Rogers upset Madison Keys Vesnina, of Russia, twice led Mattek-Sands of the United 4-6, 6-1, 6-1. a by a break in the opening States 6-3, 6-3. Cavs’ Thompson injures thumb, ending NBA playing streak CLEVELAND (AP) -- will miss the Celtics game injury that will be felt even Tristan Thompson’s “Iron as well as Friday’s home more with Thompson out. Man” streak is over. The fixture against Atlanta. “It’s unfortunate. But Cavaliers’ run of bad luck “He got it bent back we’ve been in this position isn’t. going for a rebound,” Lue all year long,” Lue said. Thompson sprained said. “Guys gotta step up and be his right thumb Tuesday The Cavs said ready to play and we know and was ruled out of Thompson’s status would that. And guys understand Wednesday’s first-place be “updated as appropriate,” that. So we just gotta come showdown at Boston, leaving the possibility he together until we get Tristan ending his consecutive could miss more time as back.” games played streak at 447 the regular season enters Thompson continued to — a team record and the its final week. Thompson is play after getting his thumb longest active stretch in the averaging 8.1 points and 9.3 taped and finished with league. Thompson’s streak rebounds. just two points and three dated to Feb. 10, 2012, his His injury is another rebounds against the Magic. rookie season. tough blow for the defending Cleveland recalled Cavs coach Tyronn Lue champions, who have been center Larry Sanders from is starting Channing Frye forced to shuffle their its D-League affiliate in in Thompson’s place as lineups all season because Canton. Sanders was out Cleveland and Boston battle of key injuries. of the league for two years for first place in the Eastern J.R. Smith missed nearly before the Cavs signed him Conference and the No. 1 three months following on March 13, an addition playoff seed. thumb surgery; Kevin Love they hope can fill their need A relentless rebounder, underwent a knee operation; for a rim protector. Thompson was injured Kyle Korver just returned Sanders has played just during the third quarter of after missing 11 games four minutes in two games Tuesday’s win over Orlando, with a sore foot; and center for the Cavs, who have been and didn’t travel with the Andrew Bogut broke his keeping him in Canton to team. An MRI confirmed leg in the first minute of his work on his rhythm and the sprain and Thompson debut with Cleveland, an stamina. 28 Friday April 7, 2017 Vientiane Times Sports Chelsea back on track for Premier League title (AP) -- Chelsea re- final whistle. But with only In the 35th, Fernandinho established its position one game left against a top- brought down Pedro as hot favorite to win the six team — at Manchester Rodriguez and although Premier League trophy United on April 16 — there Caballero saved Hazard’s on Wednesday, virtually seems to be little chance penalty, the winger slotted eliminating Manchester of Chelsea throwing away in the rebound. City from the title race and enough points to give Chelsea completed the leaving Tottenham as the Tottenham an opening. double this season over only realistic challenger to The surprise 2-1 loss to City, which is fourth — four the long-time leader. Crystal Palace on Saturday points above both Arsenal On a night when the title might have been the wake- and Manchester United race could have been thrown up call Chelsea needed. having played a game more. open, Chelsea pulled off Eden Hazard has Tottenham has won its one of its most significant spearheaded Chelsea’s last five games to stay in title results of the season by revival under Antonio Conte contention — just about. beating City 2-1 at Stamford and the Belgium winger Former Spurs player Bridge to cement its seven- scored both goals to see off Wayne Routledge put point lead with eight games City. Swansea ahead in the 11th remaining. On a night to forget for minute and the Welsh team The main football stadium under construction in Xieng Khuang province, hosts for the 11th Tottenham is the only goalkeepers. Hazard put held on until the 88th, when National Games in 2018. Photo by Socio-Economic newspaper team inside 12 points Chelsea ahead in the 10th Dele Alli tapped in an of Chelsea — but only minute when his deflected equalizer. Son Heung-min Govt supporting Xieng Khuang remained in sight of the shot somehow evaded the and Christian Eriksen added leaders after a late comeback grasp of City keeper Willy further goals in stoppage stadium construction in a 3-1 win at Swansea. Caballero, who appeared to time at Liberty Stadium. Down 1-0 going into the sink to his knees too early. Tottenham moved five Sangkhomsay parking lot, plus track and with additional facilities and 88th minute, Spurs turned Chelsea goalkeeper points ahead of third-place Bubphanouvong field facilities. 18 existing sport fields are things around to keep alive Thibaut Courtois let City Liverpool and has a game “We have faced some undergoing upgrades. their faint hopes of a first back into the game, sending in hand. Swansea dropped The government plans to challenges with wet weather The province’s Premier League title. a clearance straight to David into the relegation zone in contribute 215 billion kip and installing the electricity accommodation is also Whether it turns into a Silva. The Spain playmaker place of Hull. towards construction of and water supplies for the being enhanced and by two-team race depends on ran through and his shot Arsenal’s challenge province’s main football building, however, we are November will comprise Chelsea holding its nerve, was parried by Courtois for a Champions League stadium which will host still looking to have the 18 hotels for 810 officials, like it did against a City straight into the path of qualification place is back the 11th National Games stadium complete four 69 guesthouses for 1,768 side that made the match Sergio Aguero, who tapped on after just a second win in next year from November months before the opening spectators and 17 schools tense right through to the home in the 26th. seven leagues games. 7-20. ceremony,” Daophuan for 8,580 competitors and The 11,000 seat stadium Design-Construction trainers. set on 35 hectares with Company spokesman Mr An additional four more parking for 6,000 cars is Khammany Inthavong said. sports have been added 51 percent complete and Meanwhile, other since Oudomxay province will stage the opening and construction of the indoor hosted the 2014 National closing ceremonies of the stadium and sport fields is 50 Games bringing the total to 11th National Games. percent complete, according 28 with hockey and rugby Construction began to officials with the new to be demonstration events in October 2015 and is indoor venue to be utilised in Xieng Khuang province. expected to be complete for the muaylao, boxing and At the 10th National in 2018 well ahead of the basketball events. Games in Oudomxay games. A ten-pin bowling province, Xieng Khuang The Daophuan Design- facility with eight lanes was finished in 10th place with Construction Company is completed last year while a nine gold, 17 silver and building the stadium and nine whole golf course is 91 22 bronze medals and will responsible for all aspects percent finished. be hoping to improve their of the project including the The shooting range for ranking on home soil in electrical system, plumbing, the games is being improved 2018.

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