VientianeThe First National English Language Newspaper established in 1994 Times  FRIDAY AUGUST 27, 2021 ISSUE 167 www.vientianetimes.org.la and www.vientianetimeslao.la 4500 kip Inside Feasibility study scheduled for new Queues form early for Triangle Special Economic Zone free masks Times Reporters on morning Phongsaly provincial of Temasek Media must provide authorities have given the better quality green light to a Chinese Foundation’s information: panelists business group to carry [Page 3] out survey and a feasibility fifth study on the development of a new Triangle Special distribution Economic Zone (SEZ), local media reported. exercise If approved, the zone would be located in the SINGAPORE (The Straits province’s Nhot-ou district Times/ANN) -- People at the shared border between began queueing for free Laos, China and Vietnam. masks early on Thursday Schools take action A Memorandum of morning (August 26) as against rising Understanding (MOU) Temasek Foundation kicked pandemic-linked was signed on August 24 off its fifth Stay Prepared student suicides between a representative initiative. [Page 5] of the business group and Each household can provincial authorities, Phongsaly provincial authorities and a Chinese investor shake hands after signing a collect 50 medical-grade permitting the investors to Memorandum of Understanding. --Photo Lao Economic Daily surgical masks and 25 N95 carry out the survey and respirator masks at selected feasibility study in relation reported. for the project, Deputy the remaining 150 square malls and supermarket to the project. Under the MOU, the Director General of the kilometres would be used outlets islandwide from Witnessing the investor is required to begin provincial Planning and for agriculture and industry Thursday to September 26. signing at the provincial the survey and feasibility Investment Department, development. The exercise was Administration Office were study within 30 days of Mrs Khammala Souvong, The precise areas announced earlier this month Luang Namtha provincial Governor Mr signing the agreement, told those attending the allocated for development and initially scheduled to continues strict Khamphoy Vannasarn, the which is valid for 18 months. signing ceremony. will be more clearly start after National Day. Covid-19 prevention group’s executives, and The Chinese group will The site would include defined after the survey is However, it was pushed [Page 11] officials from both sides, survey an area of about 100 square kilometres for complete. A report in this back to August 26 to give the Lao Economic Daily 250 square kilometres services and tourism, while CONTINUED PAGE 3 participating organisations more time to test the distribution system. On Thursday morning, Luang Namtha bans travel to and from Bokeo over at Lot One shopping mall in Choa Chu Kang, Times Reporters authorities are now ramping signs were placed in the up Covid testing for people mall to direct people to The move comes after who have come into contact a collection point at the it was learnt that people with individuals known customer service counter on from Bokeo provincial to be infected, and will the second floor. who were infected with quarantine them, the Bokeo the virus travelled through Newspaper reported on Some people began Luang Namtha and came August 25. queueing for the masks into contact with numerous In Luang Prabang, before 10am, and mall staff people in the province. provincial authorities could be seen directing the Now no one from Bokeo have placed Khomkhuang early birds to come back will be allowed to enter village in the provincial later, or to scan a QR code Luang Namtha until the capital under lockdown until and join a virtual queue. travel ban is revoked. September 8 and classified it One such early bird was Bokeo provincial as a red zone, after locally- retired typist Madam Tan, authorities have ordered transmitted cases were who arrived at the mall a lockdown in the Golden identified in the area. around 9.30am. Triangle Special Economic Entry to and exit from “I came because I thought Zone in Tonpheung district Khomkhuang village is people may be kiasu, I was until August 30 after banned and checkpoints worried people would come locally-transmitted cases have been set up to and queue early,” said the Luang Namtha authorities have banned travel to and from Bokeo province until September were identified in the area. prevent people travelling retired typist, who declined 8 in a bid to prevent the spread of Covid as cases surge in Bokeo. Luang Namtha provincial CONTINUED PAGE 3 to give her full name. She said that when she had previously tried August 26, 2021 to collect free Vitamin D supplements during Temasek 9,590 9,596 1,496 1,526 Foundation’s distribution 348.72 351.00 6,816 6,952 exercise in March this year, 11,240 11,296 86.33 88.05 supplies had run out by the 12,851 13,108 0.489 0.499 second day, so she thought 6,771 6,906 2,189 2,242 7,391 7,539 7.84 8.00 it best to arrive early for this 9,890 10,088 1,185 1,209 month’s mask distribution exercise. Other seniors in the CONTINUED PAGE 5 2 Home news Friday August 27, 2021 Vientiane Times Savannakhet in need of supplies for quarantine centres On Wednesday, 631 new infections were reported in Savannakhet province, comprising 80 imported cases and eight that were transmitted locally, as well as 543 cases among prisoners. Following a rise in the number of locally-transmitted Covid infections, provincial authorities have ordered a Representatives of the government and development partners attend the launch of the Legal lockdown of the province Aid Webpage. until September 5. Provincial authorities have People prepare a quarantine facility in Savannakhet province. classified certain villages as Justice ministry, partners --Photo Savanphathana News red and yellow zones, with entry to and exit from red zone Times Reporters items in support of efforts to areas temporarily banned. bolster access to legal aid contain the virus outbreak, Dr Travel in Kaysone Times Reporters government will pay for modern way. While there are now Sengdao said. Phomvihane city between lawyers’ fee if people in these “The launch of the Legal sufficient quarantine centres There are now 11 the hours of 8pm and 5am The Ministry of Justice categories need legal aid. Aid Webpage demonstrates and makeshift hospitals in quarantine centres that is also banned, except for a is continuing cooperation Mr Bountha said that in the United States’ firm Savannakhet province to can house more than hospital visit or in the event of with its partners to develop the past, when there was a commitment under the accommodate returning 10,000 people, and four an emergency such as a death, channels that encourage dispute or a lawsuit, many US-Laos Comprehensive migrant workers and makeshift hospitals that can although people wishing to vulnerable people to access people were reluctant to Partnership to promote the rule people who test positive for accommodate at least 2,000 travel must get permission legal aid. seek legal aid because they of law in Laos by increasing Covid-19, there is a shortage people. from the provincial Covid-19 Speaking at the launch of didn’t know how to go about access to justice for the of beds and other essential Schools, factories taskforce. the Legal Aid Webpage on it, meaning that reaching people of Laos,” said USAID equipment. and other buildings have Gatherings of more than August 26,Deputy Minister out for help was frustrating Country Representative Director of the Health been converted for use as 10 people are banned. Schools of Justice Mr Bountha and sometimes unjustly Michael Ronning. Department and Vice quarantine facilities and and the university, clinics, Xongyhethao said the addressed. The website will provide Chairman of the province’s makeshift hospitals. gold shops, money exchange government is working with One of the ministry’s a greater number of Lao Taskforce for Covid-19 One of these is a garment units, shops, spas, tourist sites, the United States Agency for priorities now is developing citizens with access to Prevention and Control, factory in Nonsavath village, internet cafés, snooker clubs International Development the Legal Aid Webpage important legal aid services, Dr Sengdao Sidalay, said Kaysone Phomvihane city, and sports facilities have been (USAID) in partnership with www.moj.gov.la) to provide including information and local authorities are trying which is being turned into a closed. the Asia Foundation, through citizens with information referrals for advice and to resolve the situation and quarantine facility. Restaurants may remain the Legal Aid Support about legal aid services. documentation. sourcing additional supplies. The National Taskforce open but must serve food on programme. Using this website, members The Legal Aid Webpage “We now have enough for Covid-19 Prevention a takeaway basis only. The programe aims to of the public can send will also support the Legal facilities but lack essential and Control announced Vehicles that are used help vulnerable people such questions and request advice Aid Decree’s purpose to materials to care for people on Thursday that 195 to transport goods, have a as the poor, disadvantaged, from the ministry. increase access to justice for being accommodated new infections had been valid business licence and people living with disabilities, This will play an all and ensure equality before at quarantine centres and reported across the country. are not based in a red zone children in need of special important role in furthering the law, with the aim of hospitals,” he said. Savannakhet province can continue to transport protection, victims of Laos’ economic growth and building a more secure, just However, several state recorded 41 new infections, goods between districts and violence, and victims of society’s needs by creating and prosperous society in and private entities are comprising 32 imported cases provinces, but drivers must human trafficking to get conditions that enable people Laos, including information providing medical experts, and nine locally-transmitted comply with the standard access to justice. of all ethnic groups to access and referrals for advice and equipment and other essential cases. virus prevention measures. For example, the legal services in a fast and documentation. Laos records one of the highest inflation rates in Asean Somsack Pongkhao rely on the parallel market to the Asean region. Laos’ potential to stimulate buy foreign currencies, notably Land-locked Laos commercial production to Laos has recorded one of the Thai baht and US dollar, imports more than it exports, export to Chinese market. the highest inflation rates in that they need to import goods. posing a great challenge for Boosting productivity Southeast Asia, driven by In July, the price of the government to manage for exports is one of the food prices and fluctuating imported goods surged by exchange rates. government’s measures exchange rates. 2.02 percent month-on-month At the cabinet monthly outlined in a national agenda Rising product prices and 6.86 percent year-on-year. meeting held during August designed to address economic ramped up pressure on local The cost of food and 23-24, the government and financial difficulties. residents already reeling from non-alcoholic beverages vowed to further manage The agenda, approved by the impact of the Covid-19 surged by 4.44 percent year- macro-economy and stabilise the National Assembly earlier pandemic. on-year, while prices in the exchange rates. this month, seeks to encourage According to the Lao communication and transport The cabinet agreed to focus participation of all sectors, Statistics Bureau, the year- Boosting productivity for exports is one of the government’s category rose by 6.78 percent on creating new sources of particularly private companies, on-year inflation rate rose to measures to address economic difficulties. year-on-year. The increase in revenue in parallel with the to produce for exports. 4.7 percent in July, up from this category is linked to the employment of an electronic One of main challenges the 3.96 percent year-on-year the Philippines (4 percent), percent, Japan -0.3 percent and rising price of cars, motorcycles system to collect revenues. is that Laos has to import a reported in June. Singapore (2.5 percent), Republic of Korea 2.6 percent. and fuel. The price of fuel rose Besides, the government lot of agriculture products, The Lao Statistics Bureau Malaysia (3.4 percent) and Economists say rising by 25.44 percent year-on-year. pledged to promote domestic including machinery, fertilisers cited Trading Economics as Vietnam (2.64 percent), inflation has ground down Rising inflation will productivity, both for supplying and animal feed. Fluctuating saying that inflation in Laos was Inflation in China was purchasing power in Laos continue to drive up the cost local markets and for exports exchange rates always result higher than the rates reported recorded at only 1 percent, and put more pressure on the of living in Laos, and it is no while managing import in the rising cost of products, in Indonesia (1.52 percent), while the rate for India was government to control products surprise that the country is processes. forcing producers to sell at Thailand (0.45 percent), 5.59 percent, Australia 3.8 in markets. Businesses often ranked as an expensive one in It is also essential to analyse relatively higher prices.

Lao Press in Foreign Languages Tel: 021 336042 News Editor: Copy Sub-editor: If you have a problem accessing the website, please call directly to [email protected] Somsack Pongkhao Elizabeth Winch Tel: 020 55794447, Tel: +856-21 336041; Vientiane Times Deputy Editor-in-Chief: 021-336045, Fax: 336046 Finance Manager: 020 22235266, Phon Thikeo [email protected] Somphone Vongsa Established in 1994 Email: [email protected] Tel: (856-21) 336042, fax: (856-21) 336041 Tel: 55624351, 021 336042 Business Editor: Tel: 336040, 020 55647291 [email protected] Manichanh Pansivongxay P.O.Box: 5723; Postal Code: 01000 Tel: 020 55607017, 021 Marketing Manager: www.vientianetimes.org.la; [email protected] Features Editor: 336047, Fax: 021 336046 Phoutthasack Inthakoummane Supervisor: Tel: 021 336042 Ekaphone Phouthonsy [email protected] Tel: 021 336042, Savankhone Razmountry [email protected] Tel: 020 92827415, Graphic Designer/IT: Fax: 336041 021 336047, Fax: 021 336046 Souknilundon Mobile: 020 55599209 Vientiane Times Facebook page is available now. Use any QR code Editor-in-Chief: Deputy Editor-in-Chief: [email protected] Southivongnorath [email protected] scanners to scan it and it will take Thonglor Duangsavanh Phonekeo Vorakhoun Tel: 021 336048, 020 56464263 you directly to Vientiane Times Friday August 27, 2021 Home news 3 Laos-China railway to be powered up next month Times Reporters railway. for the official opening of People are warned not the Laos-China railway Electricity will be installed to come within two metres line. in the Boten Tunnel to power of electricity transmission The railway project railway operations between lines, not to climb electricity operators will bring Boten and the Vientiane poles, and not to play around in locomotives, electric Railway Station, which will transmission lines. multiple unit (EMU) trains be used as a locomotive The warning has been and other equipment to depot when the railway issued to prevent an accident conduct the first trial run of becomes operational in that could cause injury or the railway in October. Panelists share their thoughts on the development of the media industry at the forum held December. death due to an electric The railway connects in Vientiane on Thursday. Power will be officially shock. Vientiane to the Chinese commissioned at 9am on In addition, everyone border through the September 18, according to is forbidden to touch or provinces of Vientiane, Media must provide better the Socio-economic Daily approach objects such Luang Prabang, Oudomxay newspaper. as cables or spare parts and Luang Namtha and quality information: panelists Project operators warn hanging on power lines and passes through 75 tunnels National Chamber of all concerned parties and transmission lines along the with a combined length of Times Reporters Journalists Association, Mr Commerce and Industry, Mr people living alongside the railway. 197.83km. Savankhone Razmountry, Daovone Phachanthavong, railway to take care and stay The government has Construction of the Informative content that highlighted the importance of pledged to help the media alert to the possibility of approved December 2, US$5.986 billion (37.4 meets the needs of the general the gathering, which he said overcome challenges amid danger, while also ensuring which marks the Lao billion yuan) railway began public is the most important was an opportunity for media shrinking revenue. proper maintenance of the National Day, as the date in December 2016. consideration when looking representatives to discuss at ways to ensure the survival opportunities and challenges “I think the government of media outlets, panelists as well as ways to move needs to allocate a larger have said. forward. budget to the media so that Lao news organisations Head of China Radio news organisations can fulfil should improve their International Mrs Mo their duty and provide better content and standards of Xiaoling said the forum was quality information and help professionalism by creating an important platform for Lao people earn a living,” he said. products that deliver value to media and Chinese media “If journalists continue audiences. operators in Laos to further to get paid the paltry salaries This was the message promote cooperation between they currently earn, how can from a panel comprising the two countries. they be expected improve the former diplomats and business Vice President of the quality of news content?” he leaders, who shared their Lao National Chamber of asked. thoughts on the development Commerce and Industry, Mr Former Lao ambassador of the media industry along Bounleuth Luangpaseuth, to Thailand Mr Ly Bounkham with the opportunities and said news organisations said mainstream media outlets challenges facing the media, needed to provide information must improve their content at a forum held in Vientiane that satisfied people’s actual to counter the growing on Thursday. needs. popularity of new media The forum was organised “Many people want platforms such as Facebook. by the Lao Journalists information on agricultural President of the Laos/UK A section of the under-construction Laos-China railway. Association and China Radio production and animal Friendship Association, Mr --Photo Socio-economic Daily newspaper International to mark the 71st husbandry, including how Xayakan Sisouvong, said the anniversary of Mass Media they can raise ducks for media plays a significant role and Publishing Day (August commercial purposes,” he in promoting Laos to the rest Taskforce announces 12th Covid death 13, 1950 - August 13, 2021) said. of the world. “Lots of people grow “Our media plays an on August 23 but died the The additional infections and the 60th anniversary of Times Reporters crops for their own use but important role in the two following day. A positive drive up the total number to the founding of diplomatic ties between Laos and China. don’t know much about strategic tasks of national The death of a man in test result was confirmed on 14,104, with 5,885 people More than 100 journalists how to cultivate crops on a defence and development, Savannakhet province after August 25. currently in hospital for and editors-in-chief from commercial basis, so more but I acknowledge that media he contracted Covid-19 Meanwhile, the number observation and treatment. media organisations across information about this issue officials need to provide more raises the total number of of new Covid cases remains Among the new the country attended the is necessary.” data (figures) to better explain deaths from the virus to 12. high, with 195 new cases community-acquired forum via videoconference. Meanwhile the Executive various issues to the general The 35-year-old man reported by the National cases, Bokeo province President of the Lao Vice President of the Lao public,” he said. was an inmate at a prison Taskforce for Covid-19 recorded the highest in the province and was Prevention and Control on number with 15 people originally from Namao Thursday, of which 46 were testing positive. Vientiane Luang Namtha bans... FROM PAGE 1 village in Xayphouthong locally-transmitted. The reported 14, Savannakhet district. new cases were reported province recorded nine, unnecessarily. Those who will not be allowed in the locally-transmitted cases. He felt unwell and after 3,267 samples were Luang Prabang province have to leave or enter the province for the foreseeable To slow the virus was tested for Covid-19 tested for Covid. identified three new cases, village for essential reasons future because of the high outbreak, the government Champassak and Xayaboury must get permission from risk of a Covid outbreak, is rolling out the vaccination provinces each reported the local Covid-19 taskforce, Lao Youth reported on programme as quickly as two cases, and Oudomxay Luang Prabang News August 26. possible in the hope of province recorded one case. reported on August 25. On Thursday the immunising 50 percent of Health authorities and Shops and restaurants in National Taskforce for the adult population by the other entities are doing their the village have been closed. Covid-19 Prevention and end of this year. best to control the spread of If no new cases of the virus Control announced 195 Meanwhile, people who the virus. are reported within the next new cases of Covid-19 have been vaccinated are People who believe they 14 days, authorities will countrywide, bringing the encouraged to continue have come into contact declassify the village as a total to 14,104. to comply with the virus with someone who has red zone. Luang Prabang recorded prevention measures laid tested positive for Covid Meanwhile, Luang 2 new imported cases and 3 down by the National are advised to also get tested Prabang authorities have told locally-transmitted cases, Covid-19 Taskforce, at locations specially set up ministries and provincial while Tonpheung district in especially with regard to for this purpose. officials that meetings Bokeo province recorded 15 social distancing. In Vientiane, the place to go is Beungkhayong village in Sisattanak district. Feasibility study scheduled... FROM PAGE 1 According to the World Health Organisation, as regard will be submitted road linking Yai-ouneua The feasibility study of Wednesday over 213 to provincial authorities village to the planned and survey will be used million cases of Covid-19 and the government for development site. A social as a reference to draw had been reported consideration. and environmental impact up a master plan for worldwide while 4,448,352 The investors will assessment will also be the development of the people have died. also survey and design a carried out. Triangle SEZ. 4 Home news Friday August 27, 2021 Vientiane Times Excerpts from the Lao Media Photo Scenes Oudomxay court sentences five drug dealers Oudomxay provincial people’s court has handed down prison terms to five drug dealers. The cases of Ms Ven, 30, from Phonxay village, Houn district; Mr Khamdeng, 39, from Huaylom village, Nga district; Mr Xiengchit, 41, from Homxay village, Namor district; Ms Phian, 31, from Xayxana village, Pakbaeng district; and Ms Serm, 40, from Samkang village, Baeng district, were heard in the court recently. In the court meeting room, it was reported that Oudomxay police detained drug dealer Ms Ven, and seized 515 amphetamine tablets from her on December 1, 2020. The court handed her a 5-year prison term and slapped on a 10 million kip fine. Police detained drug dealer Mr Khamdeng and seized 202 amphetamine tablets from him on November 13, 2020. The court gave him a 5-year prison term and fined him 10 million kip. Police detained drug dealer Mr Xiengchit and seized 179 amphetamine tablets from President of the Lao Journalists’ Association (LJA) Mr Savankhone Razmountry, him on November 9, 2020. The court handed down a 5-year prison term, and fined him Ambassadors, business people, senior offcials from the media organisations and 10 million kip. Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, and representatives of China Radio On the same day, in the court meeting room, it was reported that police detained drug International, on Thursday gather for a meeting to discuss the future development of dealer Ms Phian and seized 80 amphetamine tablets from her on January 12, 2020. The new media in Laos. court handed her a 5-year prison term and fined her 10 million kip. Police also detained drug dealer Ms Serm and seized 52 amphetamine tablets from her on November 25, 2020. The court handed her a 5-year prison term and fined her 10 million kip. --Lao Security News, August 26 Fish sales can help earn millions of kip Rearing fish has helped Mr Phoumy Syvanhla’s family in Nammo village, Anouvong district, Xaysomboun province earn up to 142 million kip per month. Mr Phoumy Syvanhla’s family in Nammo village has been rearing fish to banish poverty. Mr Phoumy, a retired official, said his family started rearing fish in 1999, but that was China Radio International reporters interview senior Lao media officials during a only enough to consume and the little surplus was sold off. meeting to discuss the development of the media in Laos. Later, he noticed a shortage of fish in the markets, and his family decided to rear fish in 10 fish ponds spread over 2.8 hectares. Mr Phoumy said that he invests three months in rearing fish, and Phu Bia Mining Limited is their main customer. They buy fish twice a week. The rest is sold to people at his pond or transported for sale in markets. Fish rearing has helped his family earn up to 142 million kip per month. He said technicians from Phu Bia Mining Limited taught them the skills to rear fish. Besides, Mr Phoumy’s family grows a variety of vegetables, which helps them earn 8 million kip per month. Mr Phoumy’s is a model family in Nammo village and local villagers are learning from them to improve their living conditions and step out of poverty. --Socio-Economic Daily, August 25 Luang Namtha police educates teenage boys The traffic police in Sing district, Luang Namtha province, has educated a group of teenage boys who had illegally modified their motorcycles. On August 4, traffic police in Sing district during a random check found eight teenage boys driving around on modified motorcycles disturbing everyone. Police detained them A representative of the Swiss Red Cross in Laos (left) on Wednesday presents to make them aware of the laws. supplies worth more than 130 million kip to a member of the Lao Red Cross for use The head of traffic police in Sing district, Major Syvanhxay Chanthaphixay, said that in the response to the Covid-19 outbreak. The supplies comprise personal protective equipment, sanitiser, soap, face masks, gloves and other items and will be distributed to we informed the boys about the traffic rules and how they were disturbing the peace with branches of the Red Cross in seven provinces. --Photo Pathetlao their noisy motorcycles. Major Syvanhxay added that eight modified motorcycles were seized and eight teenage boys aged 17 and 20 years educated before sending them back home. Major Syvanhxay urged all drivers to not modify their motorcycles, or race on roads, and to follow traffic rules. --Lao Security News, August 25 NOTICE The management and staff of Lao Press in Foreign Languages would also like to inform you that the advertising and subscription rates in the coming year 2021 will be the same as in 2020. If you see higher rates, please let us know, and thank you in advance. Customers can make payments online via our Website: www.vientianetimes.org.la to Vientiane Times bank accounts at the Bank pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao, including those who hold cards: BCEL China UnionPay, VISA, MasterCard, JCB, American Express, China UnionPay and QR Codes: BCEL Onepay, UnionPay, WeChat Pay and Alipay. Or, make checks payable to our office or transfer your payment to the Vientiane Times Bank Account (US$) A/c 010110100989471001 or (kip) A/c 01011000098947100 at BCEL. Vientiane Times, Phonpapao Village, Sisattanak District, P.O. Box 5723, Vientiane, Lao PDR. Tel: (856-21) Education and sports officials in Thoulakhom district, Vientiane province, meet with 336042, 336048, Fax: (856-21) 336041, Website www.vientianetimes.org.la Email: [email protected] teachers on Wednesday to prepare for the opening of secondary schools in the district at the start of the new academic year next month. --Photo Pathetlao Vientiane Times Friday August 27, 2021 5 World World news Schools take action against rising in brief pandemic-linked student suicides All defense ministry importance to seek help is planes return spreading,” Fujita said. to Russia after Osaka’s education board evacuating people introduced in April a software from Afghanistan application titled “Weather of MOSCOW (TASS) -- Two the Heart” to check students’ more Russian defense mental health. The app is ministry’s Il-76 planes loaded onto tablet computers with people evacuated used by all children at from Afghanistan have elementary and junior high landed at Chkalovsky schools run by the city. Tatyana Bakalchuk. --Photo Tass airport near Moscow. The In the morning assembly, two first planes landed students can choose one at Chkalovsky earlier on option out of “sunny,” Wildberries CEO tops Thursday, Il-62 and Il-76. “cloudy,” “rain” and There were around 100 “thunder” to indicate how rating of Russia’s people, mostly Russian they feel that day. The results nationals of the Afghan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga (centre) and health minister are automatically sent to richest women origin, onboard the Il-76 Norihisa Tamura (right) visit a nonprofit organisation in Tokyo teachers’ devices, informing MOSCOW (TASS) -- daughter of the second plane. working to prevent suicides in March. --Photo Pool/Vvia Kyodo them about changes in the Founder and CEO of the largest shareholder of Lukoil, mood of students who picked Russian e-commerce Leonid Fedun, ranks fourth Cash aid distribution JAPAN (Kyodo) -- Schools The counselor Eriko a different option from before. company Wildberries Tatiana on the list with a fortune of in NCR now 80 across Japan are stepping up Fujita, 54, who is also a “It can be helpful for Bakalchuk has become US$900 mln. percent complete measures to reduce student certified psychologist, advised young teachers with less the new leader of Forbes’ Valentina Schneider, MANILA (Philippine Daily suicides that have been on the second graders to look out teaching experience,” said annual rating of Russia’s co-owner of the Svetofor Inquirer) -- The distribution the rise amid the coronavirus for changes in habits, such a member of the education richest women. The list was supermarket chain, and her of “ayuda” or cash aid pandemic, holding sessions as eating more sweets and board. published on the magazine’s family occupies the fifth in the National Capital about mental health and using spending more time with pets. By month, the highest website on Wednesday. position in the rating with a Region (NCR) is now technology to help students “You can learn about your number of student suicide According to Forbes, fortune of US$650 mln. 80 percent complete, the report their moods. mental condition by noticing cases in 2020 was reported in Bakalchuk’s fortune has Entrepreneur Olga Department of Interior and Japan logged a record- changes in your physical August at 65, followed by 55 skyrocketed by 1,200 Belyavtseva, who owns Local Government (DILG) high 499 student suicides health and behaviour,” Fujita in September, the data showed. percent over the year. Based 35 percent of Progress, a announced on Wednesday. last year amid the pandemic, said. The figures suggest students on this indicator, she ranked mineral water and baby foods producer, is in sixth place. DILG Secretary Eduardo with many believed to have A high school girl who feel most under pressure second among all the world’s Her wealth is estimated at M. Año said that as of felt lonely during school was invited to join the session psychologically when they billionaires from the Forbes 2021 ranking. Her fortune is US$600 mln. Tuesday, 80.96 percent closures that lasted for months to speak about her experiences return to school after the long estimated at US$13 bln. Evgenia Guryeva, spouse or P9.1-billion out of the to prevent the virus from said she had reached out to summer vacation. P11.2-billion cash aid from In 2020, Wildberries’ of Andrei Guryev, Deputy spreading. The figure for the local authorities when she Tetsuro Noda, a professor turnover amounted to 437.2 Chairman of the Board of the national government first half of 2021 was higher felt her mental health was at Hyogo University of has been distributed to bln rubles (US$5.9 bln). Directors of the Phosagro than a year ago, government deteriorating. Teacher Education, said, fertilizer producer, is in cushion the economic As of end of May, 53,000 data showed. “It is not embarrassing to “While it is important to seventh place with a fortune impact brought about by worked for Wildberries on At a mental health send out an SOS,” she said. facilitate an environment so a permanent or temporary US$600 mln. the two-week enhanced educational session organized Since the session, more students can easily send out an basis. Tatyana Kovalchuk, who community quarantine in by a junior high school in students at the school, which SOS, schools must prepare a Since the beginning of the together with her husband Metro Manila.“This is the Wakayama Prefecture in is affiliated with Wakayama system to carefully respond to year, the number of registered Yuri Kovalchuk controls 32.3 fastest distribution we’ve March, a school counselor, University’s Faculty of such calls.” “The government users has soared by six million percent of the Sogaz insurance had in NCR since the explained to around 140 Education, have consulted needs to expand assistance totaling 46 million. company, ranks eighth with a start of the pandemic and students how to spot signs with teachers about mental at schools by increasing Forbes put ex-President fortune of US$600 mln. we did this with people they may be developing health. the number of teachers or of Inteco Management Elena Co-owner and founder complying with minimum mental health conditions. “Awareness of the counselors,” Noda added. Baturina in second place. of the Sodruzhestvo Group health standards,” Año said She recently managed to of companies Natalya in a statement. boost her capital by selling Lutsenko took ninth place Queues form early for... FROM PAGE 1 Inteco to Mikail Shishkhanov. with US$600 mln. Waste water treatment Baturina’s fortune is estimated Elena Rybolovleva, ex- technology brings at US$1.3 bln. Over the past wife of a billionaire, owner hope for India’s year, foreign media wrote and president of the French polluted rivers about her 1,391 times. football club Monaco, INDIA (The Statesman) General Director of Dmitry Rybolovlev, ranks -- In a significant Russian meat producer tenth (US$600 million). breakthrough, Indian Cherkizovo, Lidiya At the end of the list is scientists have developed Mikhailova and her family Larisa Belobrova, the spouse a wastewater treatment rank third on the Forbes list. of Sergey Darkin, the former technology that can treat all Her fortune is also estimated governor of the Primorsky Region. The Nakhodka types of waste water in an at US$1.3 bln. In 2019, the Cherkizovo Group produced Active Marine Base fishing efficient and cost effective 1.16 mln tonnes of meat in enterprise and the Primorye manner thus maximising live weight, which is 7.6 bank are registered in her its industrial reuse and percent of all meat produced name. Last year, her worth minimising the discharge in Russia, the magazine says. totaled 12.5 bln rubles of polluted water into the Ekaterina Fedun, the (US$169 mln). country’s rivers. The technology called People collect masks at NTUC Xtra at Hougang 1 on August 26, 2021. --Photo Ong Wee Jin ‘advanced oxidation’ or ‘TADOX’ that uses UV- queue could be seen telling but it’s troublesome, so we Most of those in line were Photocatalysis is likely one another about their might as well stay here,” seniors, some of whom were to be a game changer for experiences with previous she said, adding that she was unhappy about having to India’s effort to keep its distribution exercises and happy to wait. wait to collect their masks. major rivers including why they were staying to Meanwhile at Junction 8 Retiree Mr Low, 68, said Ganges clean and healthy wait. mall in Bishan, the situation he felt that communication by ensuring large scale Retired seamstress Chong was less organised. Checks by about where to collect the treatment of highly Fong Xing, 71, said she felt The Straits Times found only masks had been poor. He polluted toxic industrial the distribution exercise was one generic banner placed added that staff should have waste water and its a convenient way for people along the main walkway, with been more flexible about maximum reuse instead to get their masks. no clear instructions on where allowing people to collect of discharging them into “The staff told us to go people should go to pick up the masks before the 11am rivers. home and come back later, the masks. collection time. 6 Friday August 27, 2021 Vientiane Times

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Vacancy Notice Department of Planning and Finance Strategic Support for Food Security and Nutrition Project (SSFSNP) or Agriculture for Nutrition Project (AFN) Vacancy Announcement

The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) has received a Loan from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) towards the cost of the Strategic Support for Food The World Health Organization has a vacancy for the position of: Security and Nutrition Project (SSFSNP). The Project goal is to contribute to reduced extreme poverty and malnutrition in poorest communities. The development objective is “improved and diversified agricultural production and household nutrition enhance life prospects. The Technical Officer (TB/HIV) timeframe of the Programme is from 2016 to 2022. The project will be implemented in 12 districts and approxiamately 400 villages in Oudomxai, Phongsaly, Xieng Khouang and NO-B, Fixed-term appointment; 2 years Houaphan provinces in Nothern Laos. (i) there are higher levels of poverty in the northern mountains; (ii) the opportunities for convergence with nutrition initiatives are greater in the selected northern provinces; (iii) the FNML and other Development Partner supported projects Closing Date: Sep 8, 2021, 4:59:00 AM in the south are already providing substantial assistance to the poorest districts in southern Location: Lao PDR, Vientiane provinces; and (iv) the opportunities for “pro-poor and pro-green value chain development” is greater in the north, where Chinese and Vietnamese investors are more focused. Schedule: Full-time SSFSNP/ AFN is currently seeking qualifiedLao professionals for following positions: 1. One Translator/ Interpreter based in MAF, Vientiane. For 12 (twelve) months to project closing in December 2022. OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME 2. One Knowledge Management and Learning Officer based in MAF, Vientiane. For 12 Coordinate and provide technical assistance for WHO-supported (twelve) months to project closing in December 2022. The selection process will be in accordance the Lao PDR and IFAD Procurement Guidelines. TB, HIV and hepatitis-related activities to the Ministry of Health and Any individual expressing interest in more than one position must demonstrate complementary. Interested individual should send their Application Letter with clearly indicating the proposed other implementing partners with specific emphasis to strengthen positions and updated CV electronically to [email protected] and copy to sisombath.o@ health facility-based information and its integration into the national gmail.com or hard copies to following address: Mr. Sisovath PHANDANOUVONG, health management information systems, as well as the use of National Project Coordinator, this data for evidence-based decision-making at national and National Project Coordination Office, Department of planning and Cooperation, subnational levels. Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Vientiane capital city, Lao PDR, Tel/Fax 021-416 556. For the submission of the application and more details about the The full TORs of these positions can be obtained by contacting above email: [email protected] position, please visit link below Closing time and date for application is at 17:00 o’clock on 06 September 2021 (Only short list candidate will be contacted for interview) https://careers.who.int/careersection/jobdetail.ftl?job=2103779&lang=en Vientiane Times 7

Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.laBusiness Friday August 27, 2021 New batch of little LNCCI launches app giants to champion SME cause to boost Lao Thiao Lao campaign CHINA (China Daily/ANN) listed in the A-share market -- China unveiled its largest- boasted total market value ever batch of 2,930 “little of over 2.96 trillion yuan giant companies”innovative (US$457 billion). The 10-year small and medium-sized average net profit growth rate enterprises or SMEsrecently, of such companies is about 28 which shows the country’s percent, significantly higher strong determination to than that of companies in mold such firms into future other sectors. champions in bottleneck By 2025, China aims sectors, industry experts said. to grow 10,000 little giant According to the Ministry companies and 1,000 single- of Industry and Information product champion enterprises. Technology, little giant This goal marks an important companies refer to leading strategic step aimed at SMEs that specialise in niche boosting the resilience of the sectors, command a high manufacturing industry chain market share, boast strong to be more self-supporting and innovative capacity and core competitive in the bottleneck technologies. Industry experts sectors. Officials participate in the launch of a new application to promote the Lao Thiao Lao campaign. said that they are comparable As of now, the country to “hidden champions” of has already identified 4,762 Times Reporters with the assistance of paid Laos app is an important coming weeks and months to Germany small-sized leaders such little giant companies. promotions, has averaged a step towards keeping up the lay the groundwork to keep in highly specialised global More than one-fifth of them he Lao National reach of 1.7 million people momentum of Lao Thiao Laos on the radar for tourism markets. have a market share of 50 Chamber of per month since its launch. Lao and paving the way for a when the world opens up MIIT data showed 90 percent each in the domestic Commerce and ‘The new app will campaign of greater regional again.” percent of the third batch market. They can be found in T scope. major national-level projects, Industry (LNCCI) intends to function as a directory The What’s Up Laos of little giants are from the give a push to the Lao Thiao allowing domestic and Formerly known as app is available on the manufacturing sector, with including space exploration Lao campaign by launching international tourists to “What’s Up Luang Prabang” Google Play Store, and can 80 percent of them topping and high-speed railways, the a new mobile phone app find information on what and used very effectively in be directly downloaded by the market share in a certain MIIT said. called What’s Up Laos. the domestic promotion of visiting ‘whatsuplaos.la’ or by vertical niche in their own The CITIC Securities Following the success the “12 Days of Christmas” scanning the QR code. provinces. report noted that the ROE, or of the private sector-led to get domestic travellers to At the same event, LNCCI A report from CITIC return on equity, rates of listed tourism marketing campaign visit Luang Prabang over released the song “Laos Tour Securities found that listed little giant companies saw a over the past year, the app the holiday period, the app Laos” by its Executive Vice little giant companies have steady increase since 2015 was launched on Thursday has been redesigned, with President, Mr Daovone outperformed other types and had reached 10 percent by LNCCI Board Member, additional functionalities Phachanthavong. of companies in terms of on average. Mr Inthy Deuansavanh, added, and expanded to This song highlights the revenue growth and potential At the same time, the who is spearheading the cover all of Laos. traditions and culture of the profitability. The former combined gross profit rate Lao Thiao Lao campaign, The app comes with Lao people and beautiful will likely become the of such companies also alongside other guests. two possible user accounts: locations across the country. future hidden champions exceeded that of those listed Speaking at the event, one for guest users that The song, composed and like those in Germany, and on the ChiNext board of the Mr Inthy said, “The Lao Users can scan a QR code to is targeted towards arranged by Mr Sengkham might even go on to make big Shenzhen Stock Exchange, Thiao Lao campaign has install the What’s Up Laos App. consumers who want to Phinid, showcases an image contributions to the nation’s reflecting that the core had an undeniable impact on find out about the latest that is important to promote manufacturing sector. competitiveness of such the tourism and hospitality businesses are open at each events and hotel deals in tourism, and will also help As of last week, more than companies has improved sector, both for customers destination, local events, their specific locations, and stimulate domestic tourism 300 little giant companies greatly. and businesses. special offers and much one for business owners and promote marketing “More than five million more,” Mr Inthy said. who want to showcase their campaigns in various fields. unique users have been The LNCCI President, services, special promotions The Lao Thiao reached since September Mr Oudet Souvannavong, and packages. Lao campaign and the August 26, 2021 2020, and private sector said the promotional Business users can upload development of the What’s Up businesses contributed over campaign reached the logos, photos, their location Laos app were supported by 400 million kip of services, regional markets of Thailand, and contact details, while the Skills for Tourism Project 9.574 9.596 which were used to support Vietnam, Cambodia and guests will have the possibility (LA0/029), which is co- popular online influencers China, even though they to make in-app bookings at financed by the governments 0,4942 0,5041 to visit and promote were not targeted. more than 200 businesses that of Laos, Luxembourg and 340,37 342,92 destinations, and to run bi- “This was unexpected, are registered on the app. Switzerland, and implemented monthly competitions.” but it showed to us that The Vice President of by the Ministry of Education 11.244 11.301 The Lao Thiao Lao page, the campaign has a lot of LNCCI, Ms Chanthachone and Sports and LuxDev, the 1.477 1.507 he said, has accrued more potential to grow,” he said, Vongsay, said, “We expect to Luxembourg Development than 75,000 followers, and noting that the What’s Up add many more users over the Cooperation Agency. 8 Business Friday August 27, 2021 Vientiane Times Business operators face delays in getting licences Times Reporters level’s expectations. operating licence, in 2019 the Foreign companies wanting ministry issued the Adoption usiness operators in to set up a business in Laos of the Industry and Commerce Laos are still finding it still have limited access to Activities that require Bdifficult to get operating information on investment operating licences, meaning licences from the relevant and business registration that activities not included ministries even though the procedures, especially new in the list of industry and government has taken steps to regulations and legislation, and commerce can operate after address this issue. the minimum registered capital getting a business registration Some line agencies requirement for each sector. certificate, and no longer need have not provided specific The Ministry of Industry to obtain an operating licence. guidelines or clear steps and and Commerce on behalf of The ministry is working Members of the Association of the Lao Garment Industry and trainees on Wednesday attend predictable timeframes for the government is working with line ministries on issuing the opening of a workshop on the response to Covid-19. issuing licences, resulting in with the relevant departments operating licences, targeting delays, it was noted at the Lao to appoint their own staff to the 30 priority licences (out of Business Forum this year. In Committee for the Revision of more than 200), taking into Garment factories strengthen addition, the application form Business Licences to compile consideration international accepting system and reporting a list of activities under its best practices to speed up system within the ministry in responsibility to submit to the the issuing procedure for Covid preparedness charge of issuing operating Department of Registration the selected 30 licences. Times Reporters virus outbreak. the world and in Laos and licences is too complicated. and Enterprise Management. At present, industry and “Courses on this topic getting practical advice For example, an application In addition, the Department commerce is the only sector All garment factories, most are taking place this month about emergency Covid-19 form is submitted to the ministry of Registration and Enterprise that specifies an activity list of which are located in to ensure that all garment preparedness and response. for consideration, after which Management is drafting four as a requirement for licensing. the form is passed to the relevant guidelines for the issuing of The ministry is also Vientiane, are strengthening factories are able to handle Specialists are department. After this, the business licences. These are working to consolidate the measures to respond to a the situation in the event explaining the best ways application is then returned to a guide to revising licences, whole list of activities that Covid-19 outbreak and deal that an employee should to prevent and control the ministry. a guide to issuing business require licensing from line with cases of the virus on contract the virus,” a the virus so that more Ministry officials then licences for start-ups, a guide ministries to streamline the factory premises. representative of ALGI factories implement health submit a report to the minister to revising business licences procedure of obtaining an A workshop on the topic said. and safety measures. requesting that a business based on business risk, and operating licence. After the took place in Vientiane on “This workshop During the workshops, licence be issued, following a guide to revising business dissemination of the new form Wednesday and Thursday will serve to strengthen participants are discussing which the minister passes licensing application forms. of enterprise registration, 18 and was attended by over 20 Covid-19 prevention and their concerns and ideas on the application to the line In addition, the ministry provinces have acknowledged people from seven garment preparedness in relation with others in attendance sectors in charge of issuing is setting up a Business this new form. factories in Vientiane, as to occupational health and and with the speakers. licences. Furthermore, the Portal to provide information If any locality is still found well as other individuals safety,” he added. According to ALGI, procedure to obtain a business on procedures, legislation to be operating differently involved. registration certificate and documents relating from the central level, the This week’s workshop no cases of Covid-19 and operating licence at to the issuing of business business sector should notify The event was chaired on appropriate methods have been reported in the provincial level is not licences in Laos. Regarding the Registration Department by the Vice President of of response to cases of garment factories due to consistent with the central the procedures to obtain an directly to correct it. the Association of the Covid-19 in garment the rollout of effective Lao Garment Industry factories was the fourth virus prevention measures, (ALGI), Mr Phimmasone of five to be held. while 70-80 percent of Philippines seeks China financing for Aminthalath. The meetings are all employees in the Attendees learnt supported by Germany’s garment sector have been about the best ways to Federal Ministry for vaccinated. US$1.9B worth of infra projects prevent and respond to an Economic Cooperation Most cases of Covid-19 PHILIPPINES (Philippine government. of Finance (DOF) was satisfied with the outbreak of Covid-19 in and Development and recorded in Laos are found Daily Inquirer/ANN) -- The Finance Undersecretary Mark Dennis Joven said pace of these projects’ the workplace. the International Labour among migrant workers Philippines has pitched to China four more big-ticket the Export-Import Bank of implementation and the Several courses are Organisation, and returning home from infrastructure projects worth China (China Eximbank) amount of ODA extended being held to advise organised by ALGI. Thailand, but the number US$1.9 billion for financing, was currently evaluating by China to the Philippines, factory workers and Participants are being transmitted among to add to the US$4.6 billion possible commercial loans Finance Secretary Carlos managers about emergency learning about the communities in Vientiane worth of projects currently for the following projects: Dominguez III said: responses to a possible Covid-19 situation around and the provinces is rising. being implemented by the Davao-Samal bridge, “The Chinese projects, Mindanao flood control, once they get approved, Subic-Clark railway, and get implemented rather three bridges in Metro quickly.” Manila. “You can see it in the Joven said that last year, [Pasig River] bridges and US$620 million worth others. We are happy with of official development them, because they are assistance (ODA) loans according to terms that are and grants from China were beneficial to us. We pay a very disbursed out of the US$4.6 good interest rate, the terms billion in existing projects, are good, and the projects are which were undergoing okay,” Dominguez said. procurement. The Finance chief Among the projects said the perception that financed by China were implementation of Chinese- bridges crossing Pasig financed projects had been River being built by the slow came on the back Department of Public Works of a mismatch from the and Highways (DPWH); the recent “massive” deals with Department of the Interior and China and bureaucratic red Local Government’s (DILG) tape. “We did encounter Safe Philippines phase one; some difficulties in getting Metropolitan Waterworks approvals and basically and Sewerage System’s understanding each other,” (MWSS) New Centennial he admitted. But Dominguez Water Source-Kaliwa Dam; said the amounts of ODAs and the National Irrigation from China and Japan could Administration’s (NIA) not be compared “because Chico River Pump Irrigation we’ve been dealing with the project. Japanese far, far longer than Asked if the Department the Chinese.” Vientiane Times Friday August 27, 2021 9 10 Friday August 27, 2021 Vientiane Times Vientiane Times Friday August 27, 2021 11 Feature Luang Namtha continues strict Covid-19 prevention Visith Teppalath

uang Namtha province is continuing their Lintentions on Covid-19 prevention in order to protect its residents. Although the number of infections in Luang Namtha has decreased, the provincial Taskforce Committee on Covid-19 Prevention and Control are strictly continuing to prevent the virus. The Health Department in Luang Namtha province is working actively in cooperation with many related sectors on the prevention and control. Authorities are working hard on controlling the Dr Keo Inthavong explains to reporters from Vientiane about situation by strictly monitoring Covid-19 prevention in Luang Namtha province. A nurse vaccinates a woman at Luang Namtha provincial hospital. the people who travel in and out of the province and our work by handing over the wearing the mask and washing prohibit people to travel if not budget and materials for our the hands with gels.” necessary. task force committee.” The Luang Namtha Health workers are “Of course it isn’t easy provincial Department working hard to convince to prevent the virus and of Health told reporters the residents within the protect the people from the from Vientiane visiting province to follow the rules infection because there are the province recently that and regulations of Covid-19 some difficulties and some Luang Namtha had received prevention. They also people don’t understand well more than 92,000 doses of welcome the residents to take about the prevention and they Covid-19 vaccines including part in getting vaccinated and don’t follow the rules and Sinopharm, AstraZeneca and an added health check. regulations properly.” the Johnson & Johnson. The Head of the provincial “There are also challenges The current target for Health Department, vice for authorities because of vaccinations is 202,399 head of provincial Taskforce people illegally coming or people, equal to 50 percent of Committee on Covid-19 returning from neighbouring the total population of Luang Everyone gets a health check before getting vaccinated. Prevention and Control, Dr countries still happening. Namtha province. So far, Keo Inthavong, said that the However, we will continue 51,268 people have received department is working hard our work on [ the] prevention a first dose of a Covid vaccine on preventing and controlling and control strictly.” and 44,081 people have had Covid-19 together with other Deputy Director of the two doses. related sectors especially Luang Namtha provincial Last month, the United through policies and the hospital, and member States government donated assistance of the military. of provincial Taskforce 1,008,000 doses of the “Our department has been Committee on Covid-19 Johnson & Johnson/Janssen working with other sectors Prevention and Control, Dr Covid-19 vaccine through on prevention and control Phouvieng Douangdala, said the COVAX Facility, giving [of] the virus and we will “Our hospital has contributed a significant boost to Laos’ continue to work until the on prevention of the Covid-19 vaccination programme. situation returns to normal,” by campaigning people with To observe the ongoing Dr Keo said. healthcare and follow the rollout of COVAX- “We have prepared the rules and regulations.” supported vaccines, with quarantine and isolation “The doctors here have UNICEF support, the centres, and the field hospitals worked hard with other sectors Centre of Communication for receiving the people,” he on providing the information and Education for Health said. related to Covid-19 and arranged group for reporters “We regularly campaign vaccinations to people. We from Vientiane to visit Luang the public and disseminate the daily campaign people to Namtha province recently. information about Covid-19 prevent the virus, protect COVAX is a partnership infection and its danger [and] themselves and take part in co-led by the Coalition for the ways of prevention and vaccination sessions,” Dr Epidemic Preparedness benefits of vaccination. Most Phouvieng said. Innovations, Gavi, the Vaccine of people understand well “I would like to ask all Alliance and the World Health about this issue and they people in Laos especially Organisation, with UNICEF cooperate with authorities in Luang Namtha province as the key delivery partner. to follow the rules and to continue to prevent the COVAX also works regulations.” Covid-19 and protecting in partnership with the “Importantly, many themselves by following the World Bank, civil society sectors, businesses and new normal rules by staying organisations, manufacturers, individuals have supported at home, keep social distance, and other partners.

People in queue for their vaccination at Luang Namtha provincial hospital. 12 Friday August 27, 2021 Vientiane Times Opinion What should be done to address water pollution in Vientiane? StreetwiseStreetwise Foul-smelling drainage channels are a chronic problem in Vientiane and have long bothered people who live near these channels and wastewater reservoirs. The Vientiane Administration and other bodies are looking at ways to resolve this issue, so Vientiane Times asked around for people’s opinions on the situation. Lamphone Pasanthong disposal so that water Ms Touy, an employee in chemicals and solid doesn’t get contaminated. Saravan province: The waste that is discarded by Ms Khampheng And there should be more authorities employ households. In addition, Phomalungsy, a resident wastewater treatment plants there is so much dirt and of Xaythany district, or systems to ensure that rubbish on our streets now Vientiane: It’s true that water is treated before it and they look a mess. I water pollution is getting enters our rivers. urge people not to sweep worse in Vientiane and all their rubbish into drains Mr Sithone because it obstructs the Southammavong, an flow of water and leads to employee in Luang pollution. It would be better Prabang province: I’m if everyone showed more glad that the authorities responsibility in this matter are discussing this matter and made sure the streets because the dirty water in and drains stayed clear of our towns mostly flows people to clean the water dirt and other waste. into rivers, harming but local residents need to aquatic creatures and be more responsible Ms Bee Phommavong, plant life. In addition, and make sure their rubbish a college student in dirty water has a bad doesn’t get into drains. If Vientiane: The best way smell and is unpleasant everyone did this it would for people living nearby. ease water pollution and sometimes the smell is very Unfortunately, no one flooding and help reduce the bad. I think the authorities seems to care about this amount of waste and dirt on should give residents advice problem and we still our roads and in drains. The on the things they can do don’t have a system to authorities need to pay more to ease the problem. The treat wastewater so that attention to drains and do a simple everyday things impurities are removed better job of clearing them trash out of drains. It’s in waterways. So it’s we do may be harmful, before it goes into our before the rainy season also important to keep important that everyone such as disposing of rivers. Water channels begins each year. rubbish out of yards and does what they can to keep chemicals, motor oil, grass around the city are full streets. Litter can flow from water clean. This would clippings and fertiliser. of plastic bags and other Ms Phou Inthivong, a yards and streets to nearby reduce the impacts of water The authorities should rubbish. Specialists should resident of Naxaithong to protect streams from drains and streams when it pollution on our health and also set rules and make share their knowledge about district, Vientiane: Of pollution is to prevent it rains. And chemicals and the appearance of the city, sure residents comply how we can tackle this course, it’s essential at the source. This means other pollutants harm the as well as mitigate any other with restrictions on waste problem. to properly dispose of keeping litter and other environment and wildlife unpleasant consequences.

We are looking for enthusiastic, dedicated development professionals interested in long term careers with a major international children’s NGO. Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organisation that advances children’s rights and equality for girls. Working together with children, young people, our supporters and partners, we strive for a just world, tackling the root causes of the challenges facing girls and all vulnerable children. Plan, one of the world’s largest children’s INGOs, works with children and poor communities in 50 countries. Currently we work in Bokeo, Oudomxay and Saravan Provinces, in basic education, early childhood development, health and nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene, and adolescence. Plan has no religious or political aims or affiliations. Visit www.plan-international.org for more information. Plan is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from women, members of ethnic groups and people with disabilities. Plan offers competitive salaries and long-term employment opportunities for all posts. Plan Laos is looking for position:

Head of CSO Partnership Strengthening Program Duties and responsibilities: • Currently the position will directly manage one large project – the Civil Society Action to Prevent and Mitigate COVID-19 (CiSAC-19), starting in September 2020 and provide support to the CB4N project in the final 8 months of project implementation. • Undertake project planning and oversee implementation of all activities to achieve the projects results, outputs and objectives in line with the project document, Logframe and budget. • Prepare regular reports to the EU and Plan Germany in line with the donor and Plan International grant compliance standards, obligations and contract requirements of the donor. • Coordinate with the Grants team and national organization to ensure that the project implementation and management is compliant with the donor contractual requirements. • Build working relationships and coordinate with the Ministry of Health’s Department of Communicable Disease Control and the COVID-19 National and Sub-national taskforce and other Government partners. • Work with the DCD-Programmes, MERL team and Heads of Plan Laos Programmes to review organizational processes related to partnerships with CSOs (non-profit associations); including the development of a local Partnership Strategy for Plan Laos. • Be the primary point of contact for the project with Government and CSO partners, ensuring communications to CSO partners from various departments in Plan Laos are coordinated and coherent. • Supervise the monitoring of the performance of CSO’s sub-grant projects against the agreed objectives and implementation modalities. • Represent Plan International and the Project in relevant stakeholder platforms. Requirements: • 5 or more years’ experience in participatory community development with international organizations or relevant work experience with supporting CSOs • Demonstrated strong skills in capacity building and coaching for local staff and partners • Strong management, organizational and leadership skills • Good coordination, facilitation and training skills • Effective computer skills in Office applications • Excellent listening skills and interpersonal communication skills • Coordination with government partners at national and local levels FOR ALL PLAN POSITIONS: • We strongly encourage equally qualified female candidates to apply • Strong commitment to the equal rights and participation of girls and women is essential • Strong commitment to the Rights of the Child is essential • Plan does not tolerate child abuse. All Plan staff are selected and employed in line with the conditions of Plan’s Safeguarding Policy and Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Exploitation and Abuse policy. These include appropriate reference and background checks. • Applications will not be acknowledged. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. No correspondence or telephone calls will be entered into. • Short listed candidates will be required to attend panel interviews and other selection procedures. CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 01st September 2021 TO APPLY FOR THIS POST: Send your resume/CV, and cover letter. In the cover letter please state on a separate page your preferred start date, names and contact details of three referees and your salary expectations for each position, to Plan International Laos, PO Box 6026, Vientiane, Lao PDR, or to [email protected] Please state in cover letter how you learned about the job – through emails, INGO Directory, 108 Jobs, or friends. Vientiane Times Friday August 27, 2021 Opinion 13 China-Europe trains have boosted investment, trade across Eurasia BEIJING (China Daily/ we wondered whether time and avoid potential ANN) -- Most of the we had set ourselves too breakdowns of the supply 44,000 Chinese-invested ambitious a goal.” chain,” said Zhuang companies based in other But soon Zhang’s doubts Changbo, an official countries and regions are were proved wrong. That of Chinese automaker subsidiaries of large and China-Europe rail freight is Changan. medium-sized Chinese far cheaper than airfreight The China-proposed enterprises, which means and faster than sea transport Belt and Road Initiative has they have close links with cargo reaches Europe in helped boost the progress the Chinese market. 10-12 days as compared of the China-Europe rail Each day, hundreds with about 30-60 days by freight network, and vice- of giant ships carrying sea has made the sector a versa. oil, coal, timber and food win-win proposition. Last year, due to the products dock at busy By the end of last year, impacts of the COVID-19 Chinese ports. On their more than 60 Chinese cities pandemic, China’s outward way back, they carry all had been connected with 92 foreign direct investment kinds of equipment and cities across 21 countries by increased by only 3.3 daily necessities made in the China-Europe railway percent year-on-year China. Urgent orders, of network. Also, last year, albeit China was the only course, are delivered via the freight trains made major economy to achieve airfreight. 12,000 trips between China positive growth in the field This is how most susceptible to accidents it for trading tea, silk, and connect their railway and Europe, up 50 percent while its foreign direct of the cargo used to be like the recent one in the porcelain and other goods. networks, including laying from 2019. In the first two investment in the countries transported from China Suez Canal. Airfreight is But with ship transport new tracks. months of this year alone, along the Belt and Road to other countries, and fast but very costly. graining ground, thanks Eventually, on March more than 2,000 trips were increased by 18.3 percent. the other way round, until So a new transport route to the development of 19, 2011, the first China- completed, double the There are many reasons 10 years ago when some was proposed: a modern navigation technologies, Europe freight train left number in the same period for the 18.3 percent increase Chinese people asked version of the ancient Silk the Silk Road, which also Chongqing in Southwest of last year, and almost in China’s outward FDI, whether there was a better, Road that would connect brought Marco Polo to China for Europe. That every other week there but a big part of them is faster and perhaps cheaper China with Central Asia, the Middle Kingdom, was whole year, however, only have been reports of a new the China-Europe freight way to export goods to, the Middle East and Europe. eventually abandoned. 17 freight trains departed city joining the network. railway, which incidentally as well as import goods The Silk Road was first China’s proposal of from Chongqing for The China-Europe helped improve the from, other countries. Ship used 2,000 years during the linking China with Europe Europe. As Zhang Xin, freight railway provides business environment in transport is usually cheaper Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD with freight trains got who was involved in the investors, both domestic the Belt and Road countries than other modes of freight 220) and reached its peak enthusiastic response from project in Chongqing and foreign, with a more through cheaper and faster transport, but ships are during the Tang Dynasty more than 20 countries municipality, said: “At profitable option. “By transportation of goods. vulnerable to pirate attacks (618-907), when not only in Eurasia, although it that time our goal was to switching to the freight The author is the former in the Gulf waters and the Chinese but also other took some time for the ensure one train departed train service, we can save deputy editor-in-chief of the Strait of Malacca and countries’ merchants used countries to work out rules for Europe every day but about 50 days of transport China Daily.

The World Bank in Lao PDR is looking for A National Consultant to support an Assessment of Three Information Systems

I. Objective and purpose: to conduct an assessment and evaluate proposed improvements to the Personnel Management Information Management System (PIMS) of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) and the pension system of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (MOLSW), Lao PDR and another system that will be identified later (i.e. three systems all together).

II. Scope of work: support all aspects of the assessment led by an international consultant. There are four components to the assessments: (1) Overview and assessment of current systems, (2) Overview and assessment of current proposals for upgrades/improvements, (3) Advice on additional upgrades/ improvements and interfaces with other systems and (4) Review of existing training approaches.

IV. Duties and Responsibilities: the national consultant is expected to perform the following tasks/ responsibilities to deliver the shared outputs: • Support the international consultant with the overall implementation of the assignment, working under the guidance and direction of the World Bank (WB). • Contribute to achieving the assignment’s objectives by providing advice, inputs, and sharing local knowledge relevant to the four areas of the scope of work. • Provide country context perspectives about human resources, civil service management as well as socio-political economy in Lao PDR. • Meet with or contact relevant government agencies to gather information/data as suggested by the international consultant. • Provide inputs to the draft and final reports. • Provide general interpretation/translation support to the international consultant and WB, including during meetings and presentations. • Provide overall facilitation and assistance to the international consultant in terms of meetings and interviews with key stakeholders. • Translate each of the final produced outputs. • Perform any other task assigned by the international consultant and/or the WB. V. Consultant qualification and experience • At least a Bachelor’s degree in information technology, management information systems, business administration, human resources or a related field. Knowledge of human resource management and/or human resource management information systems would be an advantage. • At least 5 years’ experience with human resource management information systems or other similar systems (both off-the-shelf and/or bespoke systems), ideally in a public sector environment. • Excellent Lao language skills (written and spoken) and very good English skills (written and spoken) are essential. • Knowledge of Lao civil service and/or public sector would be an advantage. • At least 3 years’ experience providing technical advice on information technology systems, ideally on information systems and databases as well as experience in the development of such systems. • Good interpersonal skills and the proven ability to quickly build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. • Interested candidates can obtain the full detailed Terms of Reference, submit their CV and cover letter with the Job Title, no later than 17:00 hrs., September 3, 2021 to Viengmala Phomsengsavanh at [email protected] 14 Friday August 27, 2021 Vientiane Times Entertainment Netflix’s first global fan event ‘Tudum’ to release on September 25 They will join the virtual Notice’, ‘Don’t Look Up’, stage for the day full of ‘Extraction’, ‘The Harder exclusives and first-looks. They Fall’, ‘The Old Guard’ There will be special pre- and more will be showcased shows spotlighting Korean during the event. and Indian series and films, The audience will be and animation content. invited to co-stream and Glimpses of over 70 react to the event in real time films and series throughout on their Facebook, Twitch or INDIA (The Statesman/ the three-hour event YouTube channels. ANN) -- Netflix will be including some of our The virtual live stream releasing ‘Tudum’, a global most popular returning of ‘Tudum’ will broadcast fan event with stars and seasons like ‘Stranger across Netflix’s YouTube This undated photo provided by Jeongdong Theatre shows a scene from its original musical “Pan.” creators from around the Things’, ‘Bridgerton and channels worldwide, in world representing over 70 ‘The Witcher’, ‘La Casa De addition to Twitter and series, films and specials. Papel’, ‘Cobra Kai’, ‘Red Twitch on September 25. Stage musicals embrace Korean traditional music to meet diversified demand SOUTH KOREA (The audience for its blend of Korean performs a harmonious mix Korea Herald/ ANN) -- South traditional percussion, folk of traditional Korean elements Korea’s stage musicals have songs and pansori, a Korean with western style sounds in joined hands with gukak, or genre of musical storytelling, collaboration with the Gyeonggi Korean traditional music, to with modern Western genres of Philharmonic Orchestra. meet the rising demand of swing, tango and Bossa nova. The Korean original period Korean people for diversified The Gyeonggi Sinawi musical “Swag Age: Singing cross-genre shows. Orchestra’s fantasy historical Joseon!,” staged in January, was Musical “Pan” has been musical “Geumak,” meaning also recognised for its balanced gaining more-than-expected forbidden music in English, mix of traditional and modern popularity since it premiered that premiered last week, is styles. The show has won a in July at Jeongdong Theatre, also an experimental work number of awards for its fresh a state-run venue that stages for the transformation of reinterpretation of Korean traditional performing arts. Korean music. It features a rhythms and contemporary Set in the late 19th century mysterious event surrounding tunes since its first run in of the Joseon Dynasty (1392- a forbidden music score from 2019. The upcoming musical 1910), the show tells the story the ancient kingdom of Silla play “For Forgotten Heroes” of Dalsu, a nobleman who at Jangakwon, the institution at the Sejong Centre for the wants to become the best in charge of court music and Performing Arts is another storyteller in the country. dance during the Joseon Korean percussion-Western It appeals to a young Dynasty. The gukak orchestra jazz crossover piece. Artists auction paintings to raise funds for COVID-19 hospitals VIETNAM (Vietnam News/ ANN) -- More than 100 artists and art collectors have participated in a painting auction to raise funds for hospitals treating COVID-19 patients. The auction was organised recently by fine art critic Ly Doi, journalist Van Bay of The Thao & Van Hoa (Sports&Culture) newspaper, and their partner, Le Quang Dong. Doi’s staff collected the paintings donated by artists and collectors for display and auction on Facebook. They have received 90 paintings by Vietnamese artists, including veteran painters Luu Cong Nhan, Thanh Chuong and Le Trieu Dien. Famous artists such as Do Trung Quan, Dang Tien, Chinh Le, Bui Hoang Duong, Tran Thao Hien, A painting by veteran artist Thanh Chuong of Hanoi has Giang Van and Hoang Vo been auctioned online to raise funds for COVID-19 hospitals. are also included. Many paintings capture a total of VNĐ1 billion with a total area of ​​more images of women, flowers, (US$43,680). than 30,000 square metres. landscapes and historic The money will be It opened on July 22. sites. Paintings by late artist used to buy 20 hospital “Many customers sent Nguyen Quoc Thai, Nguyen beds, medical equipment, their photos to us after the Quoc Thang and Ngo Binh machinery and medicine for auction. We plan to open Nhi were auctioned on the No. 5 COVID-19 field a new auction next week,” Tuesday. hospital at Thuan Kieu Plaza said journalist Bay. The auction began in District 5. “We hope to raise money last Friday and after three The 1,000-bed field for 20 wheelchairs for days, 70 paintings sold for hospital has three floors COVI19 patients.” Vientiane Times Friday August 27, 2021 15 Classified

ໂຮງພິມ ມັນທາຕຸລາດ Manthaturath Printing Press B. Nongbouathong, Sikhottabong district, Vientiane Lao PDR Tel: 217 243, Moblie: 020 55516138 House for sale  Five-storey house equipped with modern lift, solar system, parking area, wood furniture.  Located at Nasay village, Saysettha district of Vientiane.  The house is just 200m from gas station and Unitel headquarter.  It is surrounded by many restaurants, markets & schools.

Price: US$ 679,000 (negotiable) Please contact 020 55002662 What’s on China photo contest Members of the public can take part in a photo contest with the theme “The Four Stunning Seasons of China – Your Perspective”, an activity to mark Lao-Chinese friendship year. If you enjoy travelling and photography, love sharing and chatting about stories “on the road”, attracted by the four dazzling seasons and want to show the White canvas art contest world the magnificent landscapes of beautiful China, then come along. Like the Facebook White Canvas Art Contest sponsored by the page of ccclaos China Cultural Centre in Laos), Eastern Culture Foundation is now accepting follow the activity and submit your photographs entries from Laos. Any theme is acceptable according to the requirements and process, so except political issues and unsuitable content the world may see the four stunning seasons for youth. Art works on a flat surface using of China from your perspective! The shortlisted any medium (oil, acrylic, watercolor, printing, works will each be awarded gifts and get the pastel, graphite, etc.). Prizes for the General chance to attend the final selection in China. For category: Gold Award US$500, Silver more information call 021 228898. US$200and Bronze US$100. Prizes for the Where: Facebook of China Cultural Centre in Kids category is TBA. Laos Where: Visit https://whitecanvas.pro/contest_ When: July 25 - September 15. en/. Or call 020-5560-6620 (Tom) When: Deadline on August 31 Logo competition Story writing competition The Australia Embassy in Vientiane The Moddengfai Aza invites entries in a community organisation competition to mark invites young people the 70th anniversary aged 14-17 to enter of Laos and Australia a competition titled diplomatic relations. “Learning to prevent The winner will be Covid for safe living”. selected by a panel The winner will receive for the chance to win a 10-million-kip an iPhone 11. The scholarship. winning logo will be Applications When: featured in various accepted until materials and at high-profile events throughout September 6. the 70th anniversary. Where: Apply at Whatsapp: 020 5245 5252 When: The competition will close on October 8. Where: All entries must be submitted to: [email protected] Indian scholarships For more information: https://laos.embassy.gov. au/vtan/70th_Anniversary.html Sharda University of India is offering scholarships to meritorious students to join Bachelor, Master, and PhD programmes in Year 2021-22. Classes Lao ICT contest will start in October 2021. When: Last date of application is 31 August. Everyone is Where: For further information, please go to the link invited to enter https://global.sharda.ac.in/ambassador- a competition scholarship to find the best ICT product in Laos, for further Free online computing submission for the Asean ICT and programming Award 2021. Those interested in computing and When: programming are invited to apply to join this Applications free course. The course is a self-paced and accepted until provides an introduction to computing and September 8. programming. Where: Apply Where: For more information visit https://bit. online and ly/3bXsu9i for more When: Available now. information at: www.laoictaward.gov.la 16 Friday August 27, 2021 Vientiane Times SPORT Australian cyclist Greco wins Wheelchair fencer Li Hao claims first gold for China at Tokyo Paralympics 1st gold of Tokyo Paralympics TOKYO, (Xinhua) -- and maybe grabbing a medal the gold. TOKYO (Xinhua) -- Wheelchair fencer Li Hao would already live up to my “I tend to be a bit too Australian cyclist Paige won the first gold medal for expectations.” aggressive and stubborn in Greco claimed the first gold China at the Tokyo 2020 Starting strong with a competitions,” Li noted. “I of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Paralympic Games by taking 3-1 lead in the final, things always want to rush forward. Games by winning the the men’s sabre individual then went south for Li But my coach told me to slow women’s track cycling C1-3 category A crown here on as his opponent scored down.” 3,000m individual pursuit Wednesday. consecutively to go 8-4 “I know I still have a lot to event on Wednesday. Artem Manko of Ukraine ahead. improve,” the 26-year-old said. Greco covered the distance took the silver, while another With instructions from “I didn’t win because of how in three minutes and 50.815 Chinese fencer, Tian Jianquan his coach and some self- good my skills are but for how seconds in the final at the Izu bagged the bronze. adjustment, Li managed to much I dare to fight.” Velodrome in Izu of Shizuoka, “I didn’t see that coming fight back with a 6-0 run Li will also take part in refreshing the previous C3 at all,” Li, who made his after “slowing down and the men’s foil individual class world record of 3:52.283 Paralympic debut, was trying to control the pace.” category A and men’s foil she created just hours ago in surprised when being told Li performed another team on Saturday and Sunday the qualification. Paige Greco (centre) of Australia, Wang Xiaomei (left) of China that he won the first gold 4-0 run to make it 14- respectively. and Denise Schindler of Germany pose for pictures during the for China at the Tokyo 10. After giving out two “This is my first Paralympic China’s Wang Xiaomei awarding ceremony after the Women’s C1-3 3000m Individual claimed the silver in 3:54.975, Paralympics. match-winning points, Games and I didn’t have much Pursuit final of cycling track at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Li didn’t let his winning pressure. I hope to carry on while German cyclist Denise Games in Izu, Japan on Wednesday. --Photo Xinhua “I’ve never thought hopes slip away again with Schindler bagged the bronze about winning gold,” Li said. with the same mindset in the “Making it to the semifinals a confident slash to claim upcoming competitions.” in 3:55.120. Team China at the Tokyo conversation with Xinhua, During the qualification, Paralympics, Wang said that adding that “we will make China’s Wang and her she felt very happy that she more breakthroughs in terms Li Hao (left) teammates Zeng Sini and managed to participate in the of training methods and other of China Qian Wangwei all broke the Games and take the silver aspects to challenge both celebrates winning the previous world records in medal. ourselves and our rivals.” wheelchair their respective classes. “To some extent, I have At the Izu Velodrome fencing Though only Wang regrets that I did not make on Wednesday, Australian men’s sabre made it to the final, Zeng everything perfect and cyclist Emily Petricola won individual covered the 3,000m distance there are details that can be women’s track cycling C4 Category A in 4:06.263, shattering the improved, but this silver final against 3,000m individual pursuit, Artem Manko previous C2 world record medal gives me a great deal and Dame Sarah Storey of Ukraine at of 4:07.454, while the new of encouragement for me to from Britain won women’s the Tokyo 2020 C1 world record of 4:31.476 do better in the future and win track cycling C5 3,000m Paralympic set by Qian was over eight a gold medal,” Wang said. individual pursuit. Dutch Games in seconds faster than the Wang’s coach Li Peng Paralympic cyclist Tristan Chiba, Japan on Wednesday. previous 4:40.123. expressed satisfaction Bangma won men’s track -- Photo Talking to Xinhua after with the silver medal cycling B 4,000m individual Xinhua winning the first medal for winner’s performance in a pursuit event.