VientianeThe First National English Language Newspaper established in 1994 Times  THURSDAY AUGUST 26, 2021 ISSUE 166 www.vientianetimes.org.la and www.vientianetimeslao.la 4500 kip Inside Party’s propaganda body urged to work harder Times Reporters and policies. Mr Thongloun told the AIPA adopts resolutions The Party and state leader Party Central Committee’s to strengthen Asean has told the propaganda Propaganda and Training community building body of the ’s Board to work with the Party Revolutionary Party [Page 3] Central Committee’s Theory Central Committee to be Council and other bodies more diligent in properly to study various theories Govt tackles safe use advocating the Party’s and practices in order to of chemicals guideline and policy. assist the Politburo and [Page 7] Secretary General of the Party Central Committee Party and State President in shaping the Party’s guidelines and policies in outlined the agendas the coming years so that that the Party Central they matched the current Committee’s Propaganda circumstances. Training Board should The leader asked undertake, according to the board to streamline the newspaper. and strengthen its Addressing the fifth organisational structure congress of the board’s in order to improve its Party Committee on performance to meet the August 24, Mr Thongloun changing needs of modern told meeting participants times. to do more to ensure that During the congress, propaganda and training Secretary of the Board’s matters are more efficient Party Committee and Head and thorough. This President Thongloun Sisoulith addresses the congress. --Photo Pasaxon newspaper of the Board, Khamphanh includes dissemination of Pheuyavong, outlined the the resolution adopted by board to properly grasp In addition, the Party effectively and promptly. board’s achievements over the 11th National Party the mindset, thoughts and chief underlined the need The president suggested the past five years (2016- Congress, in creative and desires of people of all for the board to fully the diversification of 2020). Plant extracts available various ways. social strata. Then, the understand the strengths dissemination channels, The congress also in capsule form for To ensure the quality board’s officials should and weaknesses of hostile including use of the mass discussed the next five-year Covid treatment of propaganda and formulate the content of groups in order to devise an media and lectures and plan for 2021-2025 as well training affairs, the propaganda and training action plan to handle and [Page 11] seminars, to advocate the as the board’s development president advised the to suit each target group. respond to these groups Party and state’s guidelines strategy until 2030. US will stick to its Afghanistan withdrawal date WASHINGTON ( for the withdrawal of its any change to the agreed to be extended. deadline and allow further He said the G7 Daily/ANN) -- US military from Afghanistan deadline, but has asked for A Taliban spokesperson evacuation flights. has agreed on a “joint President Joe Biden has in line with a Pentagon contingency plans to be confirmed that all foreign Following the meeting, approach” to dealing with said Washington will stick recommendation. made to stay longer should citizens would be allowed Johnson said the main the evacuation but there to its August 31 deadline Biden has resisted it be necessary, Reuters to leave the country by priority set by the G7 is is also a “road map for news agency reported. Aug 31. for safe passage, beyond future engagement with John Kirby, the He added that the the deadline, for those that the Taliban”. In a joint statement, August 25, 2021 Pentagon press secretary, Taliban is “not in favour” want to leave. told a media briefing on of allowing Afghans to The prime minister said the G7 leaders expressed Tuesday: “There’s been leave and insisted all the UK has taken 9,000 “grave concern about the 9,591 9,597 1,496 1,526 situation in Afghanistan” 348.72 351.00 6,803 6,939 no change to the timeline evacuations should be people out of Kabul so far 11,214 11,270 86.52 88.25 of the mission, which is to completed by the deadline. on 57 flights and added calling for “calm and 12,820 13,076 0.489 0.499 have it done by the end of Britain’s prime minister, that he is “confident” the restraint to ensure the 6,752 6,887 2,189 2,233 the month,” he said. Boris Johnson, hosted an UK can “get thousands safety and security of 7,390 7,538 7.82 7.98 In a separate press emergency G7 meeting on more out”. “The situation vulnerable Afghan and 9,888 10,086 1,185 1,209 conference, the Taliban Tuesday afternoon, with at the airport is not getting international citizens said it will not allow the leaders urging Washington any better; there are public and the prevention of a West’s evacuation deadline to extend the August 31 order issues.” CONTINUED PAGE 6 2 Home news Thursday August 26, 2021 Times LJI SUSU project launched under Business Development Programme Phetphoxay Sengpseuth

The - Human Resource Development Institute (LJI) has developed a Business Development Programme as a new service to support existing companies, especially SMEs and startups, in response to changes in social needs and the business environment. The Acting Director of LJI, Dr Phonekeo Chanthamaly, addressed Candidates line up to collect their entrance exam identification cards at the National the online ceremony University of Laos in Vientiane. marking the launch of the The LJI SUSU project was launched online. “LJI SUSU” project, which will be implemented under will be two tracks of The LJI SUSU launch the Business Development business support, one to event was attended by the Universities set to accept Programme with the support support startups and another President of the National of the Japan International to support the scaling up of University of Laos, Dr Cooperation Agency (JICA) existing businesses. Oudom Phonekhampheng thousands of new students and the Department of SME Within the two tracks, and the Director General Times Reporters to September 8. the precautionary measures Promotion (DOSMEP). LJI SuSu will offer services of the Department of Small Registration for entrance recommended by the National He said the programme such as mentoring and and Medium Enterprises The National University of exams is taking place from Taskforce for Covid-19 aims to generate model advice, whereby project Promotion, Mr Bountheung Laos has asked the Ministry August 18 to September 8 Prevention and Control. companies and startups, participants will receive Douangsavanh. Major of Education and Sports to and the exams themselves No more than 20 students which materialise new practical advice and media outlets were invited allow an intake of 7,395 will take place on September should be seated in one and innovative business mentorship from experts in on-site, while other online new students in the 2021-22 11 at the university campus exam room. initiatives that develop specific areas and general participants included the academic year. in Vientiane. The examination Made-in-Lao products and business strategies from Lao National Chamber of University Vice The results are expected organising committee will services and also deal with startup to scale-up. Commerce and Industry, President Associate to be announced on October arrange more rooms than social challenges. Another service will SME Service Centre, Lao Prof. Dr Khamphong 8 and classes will begin when usual to accommodate the As part of the Business learning, information and ICT Commerce Association, Nammavongmixay said approved by the ministry large number of applicants. Development Programme, networking, and special Lao SME Association, and the figure was submitted after the results have been The country’s four other LJI launched the LJI SUSU events will be organised various banks. to the ministry for final announced, Associate Prof. universities, the University project, which will be for participants and with The Laos-Japan Human approval. The actual number Dr Khamphong said. of Health Sciences in implemented for one year successful and front runner Resource Cooperation will be announced to the Authorities will take full Vientiane, by utilising the LJI Business entrepreneurs to enable Institute was established at public after the ministry has precautionary measures University in Luang Prabang Development Studio. learning and motivational the Dongdok campus by the endorsed the proposal. to ensure the well-being province, the University The studio will be a centre opportunities. National University of Laos The university is of students and lecturers of Champassak and the for business networking and There will also be (NUOL) in collaboration arranging online registration to prevent the spread of University of , provide one-stop services opportunities for accessing with JICA. for entrance exams, with Covid-19 during the will also accept thousands of to any person who wishes financing and grants. Pitch After nearly 10 years, more than 15,000 people entrance exams, when the new students in the coming to receive the services, events will be organised as LJC was upgraded in 2010 now having registered. necessary equipment will academic year. both online and offline. opportunities to link with from the centre to the Laos- They will receive an be available to protect those The University of Health The studios manager and financiers and investors, and Japan Human Resource entrance exam identification taking part. Sciences in Vientiane is assistant, along with LJI support will be given for Development Institute with card, which is available Exam centres will be set offering application forms staff, will address the needs preparing documents required the aim of contributing to for collection from the up with social distancing for entrance exams, which are of companies and startups. by financial institutions or the economic and social university from August 23 in mind, and in line with scheduled for September 12. With LJI SUSU, there grant supporters. growth of Laos. Drug user arrested after father found stabbed to death Vientiane Times Phomphong Laoin by his son, who was later gambling. person died and two others arrested. Drug abuse is the were injured in a shooting A 34-year-old man has The official named the cause of many social ills, incident in Nongnak village in been charged with killing suspect as Mr Keophachan, especially bag snatching and in May. The dead man was Website: https://www.vientianetimeslao.la/ his father at a rice hut in 34, who they believe used a other types of theft, as well shot under his left arm and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ Phonhor village, Phonhong long knife to stab his father, as murders. Most of these the bullet caused fatal injuries. district, Vientiane province, identified as Mr Kongsy, incidents are drug-related The two injured men, vientianetimeslao/ on Tuesday evening, which aged 60. and typically involve young who received bullet wounds Vientiane Times office. Phonpapao police believe was drug- Mr Keophachan was and unemployed people. in the arm and foot, both Village, Unit 32, Sisattanak district, related. known to be a drug user, Over the past year lived in Phonkham village. A district official, who he added. Police are now police have apprehended Police are questioning Vientiane. asked not to be named, told questioning Mr Keophachan several drug dealers and a suspect in the shooting P.O. Box: 5723, Vientiane Times that the before proceeding with a made numerous arrests in and believe the incident Tel: (856-21) 336042, 336048. man was killed following a prosecution case. an attempt to suppress the occurred following an quarrel and was found dead The rising murder rate in drug trade. argument between the three Fax: (856-21) 336041. with a deep cut in his neck. Laos is a cause of concern This was the second men and the gunman after For more information: A neighbour claimed and is attributed in part murder to be reported in they had been working on a [email protected] that the man had been killed to growing drug use and Phonhong district after one rubber plantation.

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 Thursday August 26, 2021 Home news 3 Army expands sheep farm AIPA adopts resolutions to strengthen Asean community building in Xieng Khuang Times Reporters Times Reporters Khambounheuang and Laos and Mongolia has officials from the Embassy been heralded as the two Some 28 resolutions have A battalion of the Lao of Mongolia to Laos. countries mark the 59th been adopted at the 42nd People’s Army in Xieng The group visited the anniversary of their official General Assembly of the Khuang province has sheep farm at Phou Keng ties this year, after they Asean Inter-Parliamentary expanded a flock of sheep Mountain in Paek district. established diplomatic Assembly (AIPA) which that was donated by the Colonel Bounnam said relations on September 12, wrapped up on Wednesday. Mongolian government in that since 2018 his staff 1962. The resolutions are linked 2018. and technicians had put a Authorities in Xieng to the capacity building of The battalion has lot of effort into the sheep Khuang province are women entrepreneurs, cyber increased the size of the breeding project and taken working to boost agricultural security, human security, flock by 195 sheep from heed of the advice given by output with an emphasis on parliamentary diplomacy, the original 1,050 animals Mongolian farmers. They livestock production, with the promotion of SMEs, and received to 1,245 at present. had made adjustments to the aim of reducing poverty, post-pandemic economic This is an indication that adapt the animals to the enhancing food security, recovery. the province’s terrain and local climatic conditions, and creating sustainable Other resolutions Dr Xaysomphone Phomvihane. climate have the potential which had been successful. incomes. concern mitigation of to support further sheep The flock was carefully In addition, the Laos- the impacts of climate Asean digital master plan accelerating digitalisation, breeding, with the meat to managed, with fodder being Japan Agro Development change and localising the 2025 to modernise Asean ensuring stable growth, and be made available for local stockpiled and vaccinations Xieng Khuang Company sustainable development community building and fostering sustainable Asean consumption and export. being given to protect the Limited is a joint venture goals. narrow development economic recovery. Deputy Director of the sheep against disease. between Laos and Japan TheAIPA videocon- disparities among Asean The Vietnamese leader Agriculture Division of the Laos and Mongolia that was set up to raise cattle ference, which took place member states. urged AIPA Member army’s General Logistical have benefited from after over 300 Australian from August 23-25, also The president said Parliaments to complete the Department, Colonel mutual assistance in many cattle were donated to Laos approved Georgia, Ukraine the AIPA provided an legal framework and remove Bounnam Bounnadee, areas over several years, by Japan in 2015. and Pakistan as observers of opportunity for Asean barriers to facilitate the reported on the success especially in the fields of It is hoped the farm the AIPA. parliamentarians to implementation of digital of the sheep farming education and agriculture, will acquire Production The conference took exchange their views transformation policies project during a visit on which has led to closer and Certification that will enable the theme “Forging on various issues and in order to build digital August 21 by Deputy more fruitful cooperation. the export of fresh organic Parliamentary Cooperation discuss ways to strengthen e-governments. Minister of Agriculture and The well-recognised milk products to in Digital Inclusion towards cooperation for their mutual In recent years, the Forestry Dr Bounkhuang close cooperation between and other countries. ASEAN Community 2025”. benefit. world, including the Asean A message delivered National Assembly region, has faced enormous from Lao President President Dr Xaysomphone challenges because of Thongloun Sisoulith at Phomvihane led the Lao the Covid-19 pandemic, the conference reaffirmed delegation attending the resulting in fatalities and Laos’ support for Asean 3-day conference. disruptions to the regional cooperation frameworks On Monday, Dr supply chain. to contain the spread of Xaysomphone called for In Laos, the Covid-19 Covid-19 and revitalise the the AIPA to strengthen outbreak has severely region’s economies. cooperation in research impacted economic growth President Thongloun and development, applying and prevented many poor said in his message that digital inclusion towards people from rising above the theme of the meeting Asean Community building. poverty. highlighted the need for In his speech at the However, the epidemic the AIPA to push for the meeting, the Chairman is also a catalyst for Asean’s 10-nation bloc to accomplish of Vietnam’s National endeavours to accelerate its goals as outlined in the Assembly, Vuong Dinh economic digitalisation, Asean Community Vision Hue, said the theme of the effectively harness the to 2025. conference emphasised the 4th Industrial Revolution, He also called for need to further build on the narrow the digital gap, member countries to vital role of the AIPA and and ensure digital equality further implement the its Member Parliaments in across the region.

Sheep are farmed in Xieng Khuang province. Thunderstorms, squalls forecast nationwide until August 29 Times Reporters will range from 23-33C. People living in Vientiane will have mountainous areas and on Temperatures will rise thunderstorms, rain and wind riverbanks should prepare to slightly throughout the gusts, while temperatures move their belongings and country, accompanied by will range from 25-34C. animals to safe places, and thunderstorms and gusting The provinces of should take note of forecasts wind in some areas until Vientiane, Borikhamxay, issued by the Meteorology August 29, while flooding Khammuan and and Hydrology Department. and landslides are also Savannakhet will have ’s Meteorology possible, the Department of thunderstorms, heavy rain Department has forecast Meteorology and Hydrology and occasional strong scattered to fairly widespread Department has warned. winds, with temperatures thundershowers and isolated The northeast will have ranging from 24-34C. heavy rain in provinces thunderstorms, occasional Champassak, Saravan and close to Laos, namely Nong strong winds and heavy rain Xekong provinces can also Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon with temperatures ranging expect thunderstorms and Thani, Sakon Nakhon and from 19-32C. squalls, with temperatures Nakhon Phanom, from The northwest will also ranging from 24-34C. August 25-30. have thunderstorms, with People should avoid Temperatures will range rain and wind gusts forecast spending time outdoors from 22-35C and winds for some parts of Luang during thunderstorms and will be southwesterly Namtha, Bokeo, Oudomxay in high winds and stay away with a speed of 10-20 km/ and Luang Prabang from large trees, unsound hour, according to the provinces. Temperatures buildings and billboards. department’s website. 4 Home news Thursday August 26, 2021 Vientiane Times Excerpts from the Lao Media Photo Scenes Sikhottabong denies entry of heavy vehicles during rush hours Sikhottabong district in Vientiane will not allow entry of heavy vehicles during the morning and evening rush hours. Many roads in Vientiane are experiencing traffic congestion and jams during the rush hours and officials are working hard to redress this. Accordingly, officials in Sikhottabong district have decided to not allow heavy vehicles on this route. The acting head of traffic police office in Sikhottabong district, Major Bounkhong Phatthalangsy, said that during the rush hours heavy vehicles cause jams. If any driver fails to obey the rules, he will be fined under decree No. 188, of the Prime Minister. Major Bounkhong added that the district traffic police is coordinating with officials from the Public Works and Transport office of Sikhottabong district to check the entry of vehicles. The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism and the Lao Journalists’ Association, Major Bounkhong urged motorists to respect traffic rules to avoid jams at peak hours. together with UNICEF staff, on Wednesday gather for a third orientation workshop on --Vientiane Mai Daily, August 25 Guidelines for Media Reporting on Children. The workshop is taking place in Pakxan district, Borikhamxay province, from August 25-27 to enhance reporters’ understanding of children’s rights and their capacity to ethically report on child rights issues. Present at the opening ceremony were the President of the Lao Journalists’ Association, Mr Savankhone Razmountry (seated, centre), Communication Specialist with UNICEF Vientiane court Laos, Mr Tabongphet Phouthavong, and other officials. sentences drug dealer A Vientiane people’s court has handed down a 5-year prison term to a drug dealer, Mr Lordkeo, and fined him 10 million kip. The case of Mr Lordkeo, 26, a worker from Nahay village, Hadxaifong district, Vientiane, was recently heard in the court. In the court meeting room it was reported that Mr Lordkeo was dealing in drugs. In 2013, a Vientiane people’s court had handed down a six-year prison term to him on the same charges. On March 20, 2019, Mr Lordkeo was released from prison, but earlier this month he was caught dealing in drugs again. He bought drugs from Mr Sy in Salakhamneua village, Hadxaifong district, many times each time buying 30 amphetamine tablets. Mr Lordkeo said that he would consume some tablets and sell off the rest. At 11 pm on August 6, Mr Lordkeo bought 30 amphetamine tablets from Mr Sy. He consumed two tablets and sold six tablets to Mr Inpone and some teenagers. He was arrested the same day and 22 amphetamine tablets were seized from him. Later, police also arrested Mr Sy and Mr Inpone. A Vientiane people’s court will Governor of Huaphan province Mr Vanxay Phengxoumma (right) and members sentence Mr Sy. However, Mr Inpone will be let off with a warning. of various organisations on Tuesday attend the opening ceremony of a photo-video --Lao Security News, August 25 exhibition to mark the 30th National Constitution Day on August 15. --Photo Pathetlao Road accidents continue to kill people in Champassak Road accidents are on the rise in Champassak province. Around 50 people were killed in the first six months of the year. According to information from the Traffic Police Department of Champassak, 513 road accidents occurred during this period in which 852 people were injured and 868 vehicles damaged. A majority of the road accidents occurred due to not respecting traffic rules, especially drinking and driving or speeding. Although traffic police is working hard and are on standby to facilitate traffic along junctions, crossroads, and roundabouts and in front of markets, road accidents continue to occur because some motorists do not respect traffic rules. Traffic police will continue to use measures to warn and punish drivers for not respecting traffic rules and to reduce road accidents. Representatives of Mitr Lao Sugar Co., Ltd. and Savanh Fertiliser Company Limited Besides, traffic police will take steps to ensure there are no jams or congestions on Wednesday present medical equipment worth 2.5 million baht to the Governor of around busy roads. Mr Santiphab Phomvihane (right) for use in the response to the The traffic police have urged all motorists to respect traffic regulations for their own Covid-19 outbreak. --Photo Pathetlao safety and help bring down number of road mishaps. Vientiane topped the list of road accidents in the first six months this year, reporting 568 road accidents that killed 98 people, followed by Champassak province. --Lao Security News, August 25 During a visit to Borikhamxay province on Tuesday, President of the Lao Red Cross, Associate Prof. Dr Phouthone Muongpak, shows his support for the provincial branch of the Red Cross. He met with the province’s Deputy Governor, Mr Khamvaen Panyanouvong. Red Cross and provincial officials discussed the work of the Red Cross and ways to help people living in remote areas. Dr Phouthone also presented virus prevention supplies Students line up to get their registration cards at the National University of Laos in Vientiane to students in Pakxan before sitting entrance exams for courses at the university this academic year. --Photo NUOL district. Vientiane Times Thursday August 26, 2021 5 World World news in brief Funding on decline, challenges up ISIS-K militants look to BANGLADESH (The currently IOM Bangladesh’s Rohingya camps in Teknaf attack US forces and its Daily Star/ANN) -- As senior adviser on migration and Ukhia, home to nearly allies in Afghanistan international funding for and humanitarian policy. one million refugees, are WASHINGTON DC the Rohingyas declines, Concerned over funding now much better than before (TASS) -- ISIS-K militants, Bangladesh faces increasing shortage, the Bangladesh when they had fled the members of the Islamic challenges to manage the government has been calling brutal military crackdown State, a terrorist organisation displaced people amid little for the UN to start their in Myanmar’s Rakhine state outlawed in , are prospect of repatriation operations in Bhashanchar, in 2017. looking for ways to attack anytime soon. where the government However, newer US forces and their allies in The fund for sheltered 18,000 Rohingyas challenges have emerged. Afghanistan, US President humanitarian assistance since last December as part Those include crimes like Joe Biden said while that ranged between 72 of its plan to relocate one extortion by Rohingya gangs speaking at the White House and 75 percent of the total lakh of them from the camps in the camps, conflicts over on the Afghanistan situation requirement in the first three in Cox’s Bazar. power between different on Tuesday. Biden said years since 2017 came down Mostly the local NGOs are Rohingya groups, lack of that he is “determined” to to 65 percent in 2020. Until now providing humanitarian education and jobs. ensure the implementation Russian President Vladimir Putin. --Photo Tass July this year, US$366 assistance to the Rohingyas Rohingyas coming out of of his mission to leave million has been committed in Bhashanchar with their the camps and taking risky Afghanistan. He said that he or disbursed, which is only own funds. But that is not sea journeys for Malaysia knows of the increasing risks Russia not to draw its 34 percent of the required going to last long if major or have also and that they must be taken amount of around US$1 international donors do not increased in recent times. into account. Among those army into all-against-all billion for this year. fund them, NGO officials In the last two years, risks Biden called the danger Now, along with the said. more than 1,300 Rohingyas of an attack by the ISIS-K, a conflict in Afghanistan global pandemic comes “We have almost were rescued in 11 districts branch of the Islamic State in MOSCOW (TASS) -- Russia another humanitarian crisis finalised the protection while being trafficked, said Afghanistan. Afghan capital within a following the takeover of policy of Rohingyas in police in Cox’s Bazar. is keeping a close eye on the few hours. Afghanistan’s Afghanistan by the Taliban, Bhashanchar and the UN According to the 20 fully-electric public situation in Afghanistan but President Ashraf Ghani which has already displaced is likely to start operations UNHCR, at least 2,413 buses with faster will not let its armed forces said he had stepped down millions of Afghans both in there by September,” Rohingyas took sea journeys charging to be deployed be drawn into an all-against- to prevent any bloodshed and outside the country. Disaster Management and to reach the two Southeast on roads all conflict in that country, and subsequently fled the “Funding for the Relief Secretary Md Mohsin Asian countries last year. SINGAPORE (The Straits Russian President Vladimir country. Vice President Rohingyas will definitely said. Of them, 218 died or were Times) -- From Wednesday Putin said on Tuesday. Amrullah Saleh said that drop because of Afghanistan Humanitarian aid missing, making it the (August 25), commuters “You know how difficult under the constitution, he and other crises in the officials operating in Cox’s deadliest year on record for travelling from Bedok and and alarming the situation becomes “the caretaker coming days,” said Md Bazar said food rationing, refugee journeys in the Bay Bukit Panjang will be able in Afghanistan currently is. president” in the absence of Shahidul Haque, former housing, roads, water and of Bengal and Andaman Sea to catch a ride on the first We are keeping a close eye the president and called for foreign secretary and sanitation facilities in since 2015. 20 fully-electric three-door on this situation, actively armed resistance against the single-deck buses to ply the cooperating with our allies Taliban. roads here. These buses will in the Collective Security The northern province be progressively deployed on Treaty Organisation of Panjshir is the only routes served by Services 38 (CSTO),” he said at a pocket of resistance to the and 40 run by SBS Transit congress of the ruling United Taliban. It is led by Ahmad from Bedok Interchange, Russia party. “Naturally, Massoud, a son of Ahmad as well as those served we will not interfere in by Services 176 and 976 Shah Massoud (1953-2001), Afghanistan’s domestic operated by SMRT from a once influential leader Bukit Panjang Interchange, affairs, neither will our of Afghanistan’s Tajik said the Land Transport armed forces be drawn into community who fought Authority (LTA). this all-against-all conflict. against the Taliban back I think this is what is going in the 1990s. A source Syria refutes US on there.” in Panjshir told TASS on accusation of chemical He recalled that the Saturday that Massoud had attack in 2013 conflict in Afghanistan has embarked on talks with the DAMASCUS (Xinhua) been smoldering for decades. Taliban on the establishment -- Syria’s Foreign Ministry “The former of an inclusive government on Tuesday slammed the has its own experience in that and on settling political US State Department’s country. We have learned the contradictions. File photo of a refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar. --Photo Anisur Rahman recent statement accusing lesson,” Putin said. the Syrian government of After the Biden carrying out a chemical administration announced attack in a former rebel-held the end of its US military area in 2013, according operation in Afghanistan to the Syrian state news and the launch of its agency SANA. The ministry troop pullout, the Taliban dismissed the US statement embarked on an offensive as “baseless allegations... against Afghan government through which the US tried to forces. On August 15, distort facts and spread lies” Taliban fighters swept into about the alleged chemical Kabul without encountering attack in the Eastern Ghouta countryside of the capital any resistance, and gained Damascus in 2013. full control over the 6 World Wednesday August 25, 2021 Vientiane Times Sanitation workers volunteer to stay in lockdown areas to keep environment clean (Vietnam News/ duties include collecting School and Ly Thuong Kiet million. ANN) -- Twenty sanitation domestic waste, have Primary School. In spite of risks from workers from Hanoi volunteered to stay in the Do Quynh Giep, one of the lockdown areas, Trang Urban Environment quarantine areas of the two the workers of Van Mieu is still ready to take on the Company (URENCO) have wards to carry out their jobs. Ward, said twenty workers duty. volunteered to stay in two None of them want to let included nineteen women Diep said “The decision lockdown wards in Hanoi to garbage accumulate, causing and only one man. of working in lockdown keep the areas clean. foul smells and pollution as Most of the female areas is such a hard one to More than 1,400 well as increasing the risk workers have difficult make. No one wants to stay households with over 4,700 of spreading the virus in the backgrounds and hail from far away from their children residents in Van Mieu community. other localities. to work in the pandemic’s and Van Chuong wards After the lockdown Nguyen Thi Trang, hotspots for 14 days. in Dong Da district have order was made on Saturday for example, is from the “Responsibility has been locked down since last night, the sanitation workers northern province of Nam encouraged us to enter the Saturday after a series of had only one night to pack Dịnh and has four children. lockdown areas which are US President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the situation COVID-19 positive cases their personal belongings She is living in a rented also the places we have been in Afghanistan, in the Roosevelt Room at the White House were detected. and move to the quarantine house in Thanh Tri district, working for many years. We in Washington, US, August 24, 2021. --Photo Agencies More than 40 tonnes areas. very far from Van Chuong all want to ensure safety for of garbage are estimated Twenty workers are Ward. the capital city.” FROM PAGE 1 to be discharged by local divided into two teams, Every day she travels a She said environmental US will stick... people, putting pressure on working in two wards on far distance from where she workers play an important humanitarian crisis.” safe passage out of both day and night shifts. lives to her workplace in role, only behind medical, environmental workers. The leaders also Afghanistan. We will Twenty workers of Their accommodation Dong Da district collecting military and public security URENCO whose daily is at Huy Van Secondary a monthly wage of VNĐ6 forces, in the fight against called for “adherence continue to coordinate COVID-19. to obligations under closely on this, and we “The environment is the international human expect all parties to life and breath for everyone rights law, including the continue to facilitate so it should be always kept rights of women, girls, this, and to ensure the clean,” she said. and minority groups, safety of humanitarian Environment workers and that international and medical personnel, have to wear protective humanitarian law is upheld and other international suits and are equipped with in all circumstances”. service providers.” disinfectants. The statement also China’s foreign Diep added: “On normal said: “Our immediate ministry spokesman, Wang days, we have to suffer from the trash smell. Now priority is to ensure the Wenbin, said on Tuesday we have to work under safe evacuation of our that the United States the heat in protective suits citizens and those Afghans and its allies should draw covering head to toes, not to who have partnered with lessons from what they mention the smell from the us and assisted our efforts have done in Afghanistan disinfectant chemicals. Our over the past twenty years, and “seriously reflect on work is harder.” and to ensure continuing “their behaviour.

Sanitation workers in quarantine areas of Van Mieu Ward discuss their working schedule. --Photo Vietnamplus Number of blacklisted firms nearly doubled last fiscal year NEPAL (The Kathmandu 100 firms were blacklisted because they could not Post/ANN) -- The Public and so many in a year since complete their work within Procurement Monitoring the monitoring office started their last extended deadlines. Office blacklisted more than blacklisting firms in 2007, According to the 10th 100 contractors and suppliers when only six had been amendment to the public in the last fiscal year 2020-21. blacklisted. procurement regulations, The number is almost double “One of the main reasons the government offices were what it was a year earlier. behind the surge in blacklisted allowed to extend the contract The procurement firms is that about two dozen deadline by a year in the case monitoring office, which firms were associated with of the contracts signed before monitors the public- sick projects,” said Rajesh April 27, 2020, and such sector procurements, also Kumar Thapa, director at contractors and suppliers had blacklisting firms that are the procurement monitoring sought deadline extensions. found to be violating the office. “A number of But, contractors have been Car For Sale public procurement law contractors and suppliers asking for further extension Landcruiser GXR and such firms are barred also failed to complete their of the deadline citing the from participating in public work owing to the pandemic unforeseeable situation 2019, white, 42800km procurement for a certain but such firms also have been created by the Covid-19 in good condition period. blacklisted.” pandemic. in auction. Please According to its Annual As per the Public In the last fiscal year, contact Mr. Huang Report 2020-21 released late Procurement Act-2007, a some of the contractors and from Union Resources last week, the monitoring blacklisted firm can be barred suppliers who are known for office blacklisted 104 firms from one year to three years their political connections & Engineering contractors and suppliers from participating in public were also blacklisted. Representative Office. to the public entities for contracts. For example, Omni Wechat: hcsppkdc; failing to work as per their Chakravarti Kanth, joint Business Corporate WhatsApp: contract agreements, failing secretary at the procurement International, Pappu to sign agreements after being monitoring office, said the Construction and Shailung +856209593680, and awarded contracts, and for new public procurement Enterprises are some of the please sending the other breaches. In the fiscal regulations have set a limit enterprises whose promoters quote to following year 2019-20, only 54 firms on the number of times a have direct political Email: [email protected] had been blacklisted. contract can be extended so connections but still have This is the first time over several firms were blacklisted been blacklisted. Vientiane Times 7

Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.laBusiness Thursday August 26, 2021 Govt tackles safe use of chemicals Most of the chemicals used in Laos are needed by the processing industry, energy, mining, agriculture and public heath sectors, with the amount used increasing each year. One of the issues posing challenges at present is that the approval of imported chemicals does not comply with the Law on the Chemicals, while the storage and management of their use is inadequate. The Law on the Chemicals was enacted in 2016, but its Mr Somchit Inthamith. enforcement has encountered Kita figures show that - trade amounted to US$884.88 million in 2020, numerous issues, especially from US$1.032 billion in 2019. Times Reporters Chemical Weapons, and a with regard to the regulations, worldwide assessment of the macro-management, incorrect he government is situation around the incorrect information and reporting, Trade deficit with South Korea imposing more controls use of chemicals is now taking and the treatment of chemical Ton the importation and place, Mr Somchit said. waste. widens 43 percent use of prohibited chemicals, Surveys by international The law spells out the in line with Law on the organisations show that principles, regulations and CAMBODIA (The Phnom was an encouraging sign, some consolation, even Chemicals, to reduce the developing countries are using measures on the management, Penh Post/ANN) -- Bilateral saying growth is expected if growth rates and the harmful impacts on the more chemicals, including monitoring, inspection, trade between Cambodia to accelerate when the two trade balance lean in South environment, the economy, prohibited chemicals, he implementation and use of and South Korea was worth countries ratify a bilateral Korea’s favour. and the general public. added. Waste treatment chemical activities for the US$552.1 million in the free trade agreement (FTA) With a trade deficit The Ministry of Industry of dangerous chemicals purpose of encouraging and first seven months of this after negotiations concluded encroaching on 50 percent, and Commerce on Tuesday discharged by factories often promoting quality to ensure year, growing by nearly 11 early this year. the Kingdom must go all- held a consultation meeting does not comply with the that chemicals are used percent on a yearly basis from He shrugged off the out to diversify its products to discuss enforcement of the regulations and there are efficiently and effectively and US$498.75 million, according widening Cambodian trade and gear up to capitalise Law on the Chemicals in past a limited number of waste in ways that protect people’s to the Korea International deficit with South Korea on the opportunities and years and an action plan for treatment sites in Laos. health, lives and property, Trade Association (Kita). as an inconsequential advantages presented by the future. Laos requires many kinds and the environment, and In the January-July statistic, pointing out that the FTA when it comes into The meeting was chaired of chemicals for use in various contribute to economic and period, Cambodian exports a substantial proportion of force, he emphasised. by Deputy Minister of Industry processes but they have social development. to South Korea were valued imports from the East Asian “In order to narrow and Commerce, Mr Somchit varying levels of potential The management of the at US$188.2 million, inching country are raw materials or the trade gap, Cambodia Inthamith, and attended by harmful effects. If their use is use of chemicals refers to up by 0.2 percent year-on- components used in industry should further consider government officials and not properly managed, they the enforcement of measures year from US$187.80 million, to process goods for export increasing cooperation with business representatives. Laos can affect people’s health governing business operations while imports were US$364.0 to markets around the world. stakeholders, domestically is a party to the Convention as well as the environment, and the use of chemicals in million, surging by 17 percent “A concern would be not and in Korea, to identify on the Prohibition of the especially those substances ways that ensure the safety from US$310.94 million. to have enough money to and explore Cambodian Development, Production, specified in the Law on the of people’s health, lives and This means that the trade import key items to support products that can be Stockpiling and Use of Chemicals of Laos, he added. property, and the environment. deficit widened nearly 43 production and export to exported to South Korea,” percent on a yearly basis international markets,” Heng Vanak said. from US$123.1 million to said. Meanwhile, Hong Vanak, Kita figures show India antitrust regulator slaps US$176 million. director of International that Cambodia-South Kita listed Cambodia’s Economics at the Royal Korea trade amounted to US$27m fine on Suzuki subsidiary main exports to South Korea Academy of Cambodia, US$884.88 million in 2020, NEW DELHI (Kyodo News) anti-competitive conduct” imposition of penalties as garments, footwear, travel said the concurrent surge in from US$1.032 billion in -- India’s Competition in the passenger vehicle upon the dealership and its products, beverages, electrical imports and exports offer 2019. Commission has slapped segment. employees, accompanied and electronic components, a fine of 2 billion rupees It found that the Maruti in some cases by the threat rubber, pharmaceuticals (about US$27 million) on Suzuki had a “Discount of stopping supplies, the and agricultural products; automaker Maruti Suzuki Control Policy” in place watchdog said. and major imports as August 25, 2021 India Ltd., a subsidiary of whereby its dealers were It said the company sent vehicles, electronics, kitchen Japan’s Suzuki Motor Corp., discouraged from offering people posing as customers appliances, beverages, for engaging in unfair trade discounts or freebies to the to dealerships to check pharmaceuticals, raw 9.575 9.597 practices. customers beyond those whether they were offering materials and finished plastics 0,4942 0,5041 The antitrust regulator prescribed by the company. additional discounts. and products. said in a press release If a dealer wanted to offer The regulator deemed Cambodia Chamber of 339,86 342,41 Monday that the fine on additional discounts, prior this conduct to have “resulted Commerce vice-president India’s biggest carmaker, approval of the company in appreciable adverse effect Lim Heng told The Post 11.219 11.276 which has about a 50 was mandatory. Any dealer on competition within on August 24 that the 1.477 1.507 percent market share, was found violating the policy India” in violation of the simultaneous increase in imposed for “indulging in was threatened with the 2002 Competition Act. value of imports and exports 8 Business Thursday August 26, 2021 Vientiane Times US$51 billion in foreign aid still remains stuck in the pipeline BANGLADESH (The The major reason for the the amount of foreign aid Financial Express/BRNN) grants not being released is commitment. But as they could -- A significant part of the the failure to implement the not keep pace in releasing the foreign funds committed projects by a specific deadline. money, the pipeline grew,” to Bangladesh by different On average, Bangladesh has said former ERD Secretary countries and development signed loan or aid contracts Monowar Ahmed. partners for implementing worth US$10 billion each “In order to ensure the development projects has year for the past seven years. faster release of foreign funds, got stuck in the pipeline, However, they only managed the ERD decided to increase bdnews24.com reports. to release about US$5-7 billion the implementation speed The amount stands at a year, an ERD official said. of the projects financed by US$51.6 billion or Tk 4.34 As the projects are not foreign donors. It prepared trillion at the end of fiscal implemented on time, the a fast-track project list and Motorists in Vientiane and other provinces are expected to rush to fill their tanks after the 2020-21, which is almost 72 government cannot get the began to monitor those prices of all types of fuel were slightly decreased. percent of the current national targeted amount released projects. Currently, the budget. Until the 2019-20 in time. Meanwhile, the implementation bodies, ERD fiscal year, the size of the government continues to sign and donors hold a tripartite Govt slashes retail prices of fuel foreign grants pipeline was new contracts every year, meeting every three months.” US$49 billion and US$2.24 adding almost US$3 billion to All these initiatives allow billion more was added to it in US$5 billion to the pipeline. authorities to implement the the 2020-21 fiscal year. This is how the committed projects faster, leading to to curb domestic expenses In total, US$51.06 billion amount grows every year. further release of foreign is still committed as of ERD data shows the funds, he said. In the last two Times Reporters prices will give slight relief more than their counterparts June 2021, according to the government has managed years, more than US$7 billion to many motorists as they in other provinces as the Economic Relations Division, to get a commitment of was released per year. he reduction of can now save some money price of premium grade or ERD. The ERD has been around US$9.35 billion in “The COVID-19 pandemic fuel prices by the to spend on other necessary fuel is 12,840 kip per litre, calculating the funds committed fiscal 2020-21, but could has affected our ability to TMinistry of Industry items. while regular fuel will sell by different countries and release only US$7.1 billion. implement projects to a certain and Commerce (MoIC) In Vientiane, the new for 11,100 kip per litre and development partners since This added a new amount extent. It’ll be better when the has brought smiles to the price of premium grade fuel diesel for 9,350 kip per litre. fiscal 1971-72. A huge amount of US$2.25 billion to the pandemic ebbs.” The former faces of many motorists in is 12,200 kip per litre (a Petrol stations across the committed to Bangladesh as pipeline in the last fiscal year. secretary hoped that larger Laos, especially Vientiane, decrease of 240 kip a litre nation have been advised to loans and donations to run Similarly, a US$9.55 billion amounts would be released where people are currently from the previous price of implement the new prices the development projects, finance contract was signed from the pipeline by then. struggling to manage with 12,440 kip per litre), while from 6 am on August 26. however, has got stuck. in fiscal 2019-20 with only “Authorities must speed expenses. regular fuel will sell for This is only the second Every year the government US$7.27 billion of it released. up the implementation of A huge surge in Covid-19 10,460 kip per litre (a cut of time that fuel prices have signs contracts with its This added US$2.28 billion to foreign financed projects cases in the country has 200 kip a litre from the old reduced this year after the development partners to the pipeline that year. if they want to reduce the brought suffering and price of 10,660 kip per litre). rates continued to climb finance different projects. “The present government size of the pipeline,” said Dr anxiety to a lot of people The new price for diesel over the past few months. Once a contract is signed, it took on major infrastructure Zahid Hussain, former lead who are already grappling is 8,710 kip per litre (a cut of Many motorists said they is considered a commitment, projects after it came into economist of the World Bank with other responsibilities, 200 kip a litre from the old are hoping that fuel prices ERD officials said. power, which increased office in Dhaka. especially payments for rate of 8,910 kip per litre). will continue to decline as consumer goods, electricity According to the they have already suffered and water bills, fuel and latest adjustment of the because of their limited household items. fuel prices, motorists in earning capacity due to the The decline in retail fuel Phongsaly province will pay Covid-19 lockdowns. Abu Dhabi announces 22 new industrial facilities at total investments of AED286.4 million ABU DHABI (WAM/ contribute to achieving self- Food Safety Authority, as BRNN) -- The Abu Dhabi sufficiency in many targeted well as Rafed for Collective Department of Economic industrial fields including Purchasing to enhance the Development and the medical, food and electrical efforts of the Department Industrial Development industries. He also indicated represented in the Industrial Bureau (IDB) has revealed the that ADDED has identified Development Bureau (IDB) success of the Basic Industrial 725 industrial activities that to achieve the objectives of Project by introducing new are available for 100 percent the basic industries project. 22 industrials licenses in the foreign ownership, which in He also stated that the first year of the project. These turn contributes to attracting manufacturing industries in licenses include the medical, further foreign direct Abu Dhabi have spurred the food and electrical sectors investments in the industrial growth rate to 4.8 percent with a total investment of fields targeted by the project. and raising the share of the AED286.4 million. Furthermore, he non-oil GDP by 13 percent at Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, commended the level of the end of 2020, according to Chairman of the Department, partnership and collaboration Statistics Centre-Abu Dhabi. said that the basic industries between the Department Al Shorafa pointed out that project contributes to the self- and its strategic partners the Department has launched sufficiency of the industrial in enhancing the basic the industrial commodities commodities across Abu industries self-sufficiency self-sufficiency plan in Abu Dhabi, and promotes the fields system. As these partnerships, Dhabi in the early last year. of local industrial investment contribute to attracting new It also has identified the within key sectors, including investments and promoting list of investment activities medical, food and electrical the existing basic industries for the targeted sectors by industries. As well as other within the emirate’s local adding 29 new activities in important industries such as economy ecosystem through partnership with the Abu steel, aluminum and cement, focusing on basic industries, Dhabi Investment Office, in order to achieve the self- empowering and promoting to develop a plan to attract sufficiency of the emirate their competitiveness. In additional foreign investments in terms of basic and the addition to realising self- to the emirate. most commonly consumed sufficiency in food, medicine, A recent achievement commodities at the local level. energy and vital industries. report indicated that the Al Shorafa stated that He also highlighted the local share of the industrial the Industrial Development role of the Department of commodities in the fields of Bureau seeks to add 50 new Health, Department of Energy, medical, food, and electrical local industrial facilities Abu Dhabi Investment Office, industries will be raised to over the next three years to Abu Dhabi Agriculture and over 25 percent. Vientiane Times Thursday August 26, 2021 Business 9 Banks continually cut lending rates to aid pandemic affected customers HANOI (Vietnam News/ Ca Mau, Kien Giang is 0.3 to VND150 trillion. ANN) -- Commercial percent per year. Agribank has also banks have continuously Previously, Vietcombank continued to spend VND5.5 announced lending interest implemented a policy of trillion to cut lending rates rate reductions to support reducing interest rates worth for customers until the end of and accompany customers to up to VND1.8 trillion to support this year. overcome the adverse impacts customers affected by the Many other banks such of the COVID-19 pandemic. pandemic nationwide from as ACB, SeABank, MSB, Vietcombank was the July 15, 2021 to December 31, HDBank, Sacombank have latest to announce a rate 2021 with a reduction of 0.5-1 also announced a popular cut for loans from August percent per year depending on interest rate reduction of 1 18, 2021 to December 31, the customers. percent per year for customers 2021 for all businesses and BIDV has announced to with difficulties, applied from individuals severely affected set aside up to VND1 trillion July 15, 2021. Regarding the by the pandemic in 19 to reduce lending interest rates implementation of interest southern provinces and cities for existing loans, and deploy rate reduction and free and currently applying social new loan packages with low banking services provision to A technician works on a chip production line in Suining, Sichuan province. distancing according to the interest rates from this month support customers affected by Government’s Directive 16. to December 31, 2021. the pandemic, the State Bank This was Vietcombank’s Specifically, BIDV’s of Vietnam (SBV) recently ninth interest rate reduction to interest rate has been reduced issued Official Dispatch No. Chipmakers helping support businesses and people by 0.5-1.5 percent per year 5901/NHNN-TD, requiring affected by the pandemic and for existing outstanding commercial banks to reduce natural disasters since the loans up to July 15, 2021 of lending interest rates as per beginning of 2020. enterprises whose business their previous commitments. Specifically, Vietcombank and production have faced Previously, under the solve global shortage has continued to reduce difficulties due to the impact SBV’s direction, the Vietnam interest rates of up to 0.5 of the COVID-19 pandemic. Banks Association held a CHINA (China Daily/ANN) For instance, SiEn Last month, China set percent per year for all The maximum reduction has meeting with the participation -- Chip-making companies (Qingdao) Integrated Circuits out key economic policy outstanding loans of customers been applied for loans that of 16 commercial banks in China are working hard to Co, a foundry founded by directions for the second half in HCM City and Binh Duong have been heavily affected who voluntarily agreed to help solve a global shortage Richard Chang, an industry of this year, highlighting that Province. The decreasing in industries including cut interest rates of about of semiconductor products, veteran and founder of the resilience of scientific rate for customers in other transportation, healthcare, VND20.3 trillion from now as can be seen from the record chipmaker Semiconductor and technological innovation, southern provinces and cities education, accommodation until the end of this year, output of integrated circuits, Manufacturing International as well as industry and under the application of social services, restaurant services, depending on the size of the or ICs, in the country in July, Corporation, recently kicked supply chains, must be distancing including Dong hotels and resorts. bank, to support the economy industry insiders said. off production of 8-inch further harnessed, and Nai, Can Tho, Binh Phuoc, Meanwhile, at VietinBank, amid the pandemic. SBV’s China’s output of chips wafers in Qingdao, Shandong fundamental research should Tay Ninh, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, a VND20 trillion preferential Deputy Governor Dào Minh surged by 41.3 percent year- province. be strengthened as well. Tien Giang, Long An, Vinh credit package with an interest Tú said the central bank on-year to a monthly record To meet the skyrocketing A special action plan for Long, Dong Thap, Ben Tre, rate of 4.0 percent per year has would strengthen supervision of 31.57 billion units last global demand for personal industry and supply chains, Hau Giang, An Giang, Bac just been added, increasing of the implementation of the month, according to data from computers amid the with measures to resolve Lieu, Soc Trang, Tra Vinh, the total value of the package dispatch. the Ministry of Industry and COVID-19 pandemic, China bottleneck problems quickly, Information Technology, the has also exported 130 million will likely be released nation’s top industry regulator. units of PCs from January to sometime this year, according The surge helped bring July, up nearly 41 percent to a statement released after China’s total IC output in the year-on-year, confirming that the July 30 meeting of the first seven months of this year PCs are back to the centre of Political Bureau of the to a hefty 203.6 billion units, digital lives. Communist Party of China up 47.3 percent year-on-year. The PC refreshment Central Committee. China exported 178.5 cycle has shortened and the Qiao Biao, deputy billion units of ICs from penetration rate has increased, head of the China Centre January to July, up 35 which has motivated more for Information Industry percent year-on-year, official Chinese companies to enter the Development, a Beijing- data showed. Fu Liang, an PC sector, experts said.In July, based think tank, said a independent technology the output of China’s electronic more resilient and flexible analyst, said that as the global information manufacturing industry chain is an important shortage of semiconductors sector increased 13 percent year- foundation for the growth continues to affect automobile, on-year. The growth rate itself of China’s economy, as smartphone, PC and other increased by 1.2 percentage uncertainties continue amid sectors, Chinese chipmakers points year-on-year, according the COVID-19 pandemic. are beefing up their production to the top industry regulator. “China’s efforts to ensure capacities. As the outbreak continues the stable operation of Strong demand for to affect the global supply industry and supply chains semiconductors and the chain, China is working hard will contribute to the whole addition of new production to leverage its manufacturing world, given the nation’s capacity have helped fuel the powerhouse to ramp up position in the global industrial rise in output of chips, Fu said. production. economy,” Qiao said. SMS news service on mobile phone by Vientiane Times How to get daily news from our service:  For Lao Telecom (LTC) users:  Type R in SMS, send to 1135 to register.  For Enterprise Telecom Lao (ETL) users:  Type ON in SMS, send to 2246 to re gister.  Service fees are 500 kip/day.  Charged from your mobile account day to day. We provide 6 news clips per day including exchange rates and world news. 6 days a week; Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. 10 Thursday August 26, 2021 Vientiane Times Vientiane Times Thursday August 26, 2021 11 Feature Plant extracts available in capsule form for Covid treatment Viengdavanh Banphahaksa

ollowing centuries of use of medicinal plants to treat a wide range of Failments in Laos, plants are now being used in the treatment of Covid-19. The Institute of Traditional Medicine run by the Ministry of Health has produced capsules made of Andrographis paniculata (la xa bee). extracts from heartleaf (phak khao thong), Andrographis paniculata (la xa bee), and fingerroot (ka xai khao). They will be Dr Bounleuane Douangdeuan. administered to 450 patients in the southern provinces government has been Heartleaf will be given added. to treat the early stages of developing plant remedies to boost the body’s immune Six capsules of the virus, but are not yet since 1967, based on President system and help fight the Andrographis paniculata available to the general ’s virus. Fingerroot helps to will be given to patients public. knowledge of and interest slow the development of each day, along with four Trials of these plant in medicinal plants as well Covid-19, Dr Bounleuane capsules a day each of extracts in the treatment of as broader knowledge of said. heartleaf and fingerroot. people who had contracted modern medicine. “These substances are Minister of Health, Covid-19 proved successful, Andrographis paniculata not on sale to the general Prof. Dr Bounfeng according to the institute. will be administered for 5-7 public because they are only Phoummalaysith outlined The institute’s Director days to reduce fever and available for the treatment the steps being taken to General, Dr Bounleuane ease sore throat, coughs and of people with the early tackle the virus outbreak Douangdeuan, said the other symptoms of the virus. stages of Covid-19,” he when addressing the recent Heartleaf (phak khao thong). extraordinary session of the National Assembly. is recommended in Laos treatment of Covid-19 in Plant extracts from the because of the abundance local communities. institute are being used in of naturally occurring The initiative is an the treatment of Covid-19 medicines found in forests extension of the health sector as advised by the Institute and plant compounds. development plan for 2016- of Traditional Medicine, These are commonly used 2020 on the promotion, use he said. by people living in rural and preservation of natural The experimental areas and provide them with medicinal resources. treatment is part of the a cheap source of treatment Most Asean countries government’s overarching for various ailments, Dr have seen success in the goal to strengthen health Bounfeng said. use of plant extracts to services in Laos in line with The government’s treat the early stages the national health policy to policy is to encourage of Covid-19, including promote treatment methods the integration of modern Thailand, Vietnam and using natural remedies. and traditional forms of Myanmar, which have The use of plant remedies medicine in primary centres for the study of in the treatment of Covid-19 healthcare facilities for the traditional medicine.

Fingerroot (ka xai khao). 12 Thursday August 26, 2021 Vientiane Times Opinion What’s your reaction to the prime minister’s ruling StreetwiseStreetwise on cost cutting concerning state vehicles? The prime minister has told the National Assembly that cutting spending on vehicles is one of the measures being taken to ease the country’s financial woes. Retired senior officials will no longer be given a vehicle or vehicles as before. The spending cut comes amid growing pressure for the government to rein in expenditure. Vientiane Times asked members of the public for their opinions on this controversial issue.

Lamphone Pasanthong

Mr Bounthieng, an official in Luang Prabang province: I think it’s a great idea and I congratulate the prime minister on this

move because it’s clear that frugality on the part of the government is essential. The provision and management of vehicles for high- level leaders should be serious measures should state and involve use of vehicle when they retire, it is their duty to serve Mr Saytha Keovongsa, better regulated so that be taken to cut spending, the state budget. I don’t because they are no their country and not a resident of Saravan spending is cut, as well and this should start with think it’s fair that some longer working. They seek benefits from their province: Everyone is as vehicle maintenance the country’s leaders government officials should return the vehicles position. waiting to see what will costs. In the past the and other government are given a luxurious they have been provided happen and you can be government has been officials. I hope this with so that others can Mr Hongsavanh extravagant with regard suggestion will be acted use them in the course Theppanya, an employee to the amount spent on upon. of their work. I know in Savannakhet vehicles purchased for government officials help province: It is excellent state affairs, especially Ms Heung, a resident to protect and develop that this regulation has for use by state officials, of Xayaboury province: our country but they been formulated and which has placed a I agree with what the are paid a salary each promulgated, but will considerable burden on prime minister said and month which comes action be taken to actually the budget. During these I pray that his words are from people’s taxes. And put it into practice? I times of financial and realised. State vehicles they should know that, don’t think it will be easy economic difficulties, are the property of the as government officials, to change the situation sure they will be waiting to see changes. I hope all leading officials ບໍລິສັດ ເອັສເອັມທີ ໂລຈິສຕິກ ຈຳກັດ will comply with the regulation so that the SMT LOGISTICS (Co., Ltd) government can fulfil its mission to reduce unnecessary expenditure. If all government officials return their vehicles, because it’s embedded in it would free up more government practice. I’ve money for better uses. seen lots of government State departments should officials getting a car and accelerate their actions a motorbike, as well as in this regard, and I urge other items provided by the bodies involved to the state. The state has check the number of state spent a vast amount on vehicles allocated to vehicles. But if the new provinces and local areas, decree is enforced, it as it’s quite obvious that should help to save money some places do not have as well as improving the enough vehicles for their image of the government. needs. Vientiane Times Thursday August 26, 2021 Opinion 13 Resilience in a riskier world

Over the past two decades, Report. It demonstrates that often cascade, with one mean responding rapidly the Asia-Pacific region has climate change is increasing triggering another. Tropical with relief packages but made remarkable progress the risk of extreme events cyclones, for example, can anticipating emergencies in managing disaster risk. like heatwaves, heavy rain lead to floods, which lead to and creating robust systems But countries can never and flooding, drought, disease, which exacerbates of social protection that let down their guard. The tropical cyclones and poverty. will make vulnerable COVID-19 pandemic, with wildfires. Heatwaves and In five hotspots around communities safer and more its epicentre now in Asia, and related biological hazards the region where people are resilient. Fortunately, as all its tragic consequences, in particular are expected at greatest risk, the human the Report illustrates, new has exposed the frailties of to increase in East and and economic devastation technology, often exploiting human societies in the face North-East Asia while as these shocks intersect the ubiquity of mobile of powerful natural forces. South and South-West Asia and interact highlights the phones, is presenting more As of mid-August 2021, will encounter intensifying dangers of the poor living opportunities to connect Asian and Pacific countries floods and related diseases. in several of the region’s people and communities had reported 65 million However, over recent, extensive river basins. with financial and other confirmed coronavirus cases decades fewer people have Disasters threaten not forms of support. and more than 1 million been dying as a result of just human lives but also To better identify, deaths. This is compounded other natural hazards such livelihoods. And they are understand and interrupt the by the extreme climate as cyclones or floods. This likely to be even more costly transmission mechanisms events which are affecting is partly a consequence of in the future as their impacts of COVID-19, countries the entire world. Despite more robust early warning are exacerbated by climate have turned to “frontier the varying contexts across systems and of responsive change. Annual losses from technologies” such as geographic zones, the protection but also because both natural and biological artificial intelligence climate change connection governments have started to hazards across Asia and and the manipulation of is evident as floods swept appreciate the importance of the Pacific are estimated big data. They have also across parts of China, India dealing with disaster risk in at around US$780 billion. used advanced modelling and Western Europe, while an integrated fashion rather In a worst-case climate techniques for early heatwaves and fires raged than just responding on a change scenario, the annual detection, rapid diagnosis in parts of North America, hazard-by-hazard basis. economic losses arising and containment. Southern Europe and Asia. Nevertheless, there from these cascading risks Asia and the Pacific is The human and economic is still much more to be could rise to US$1.3 trillion would do far better to ensure affordable. an immense and diverse impacts of disasters, done. As the COVID-19 equivalent to 4.2 percent of that their populations and Where can additional region. The disaster risks in including biological ones, pandemic has demonstrated, regional GDP. their infrastructure were funds come from? the steppes of Central Asia and climate change are most countries are still Rather than regarding more resilient. This would Some could come from are very different from those documented in our 2021 ill-prepared for multiple the human and economic involve strengthening normal fiscal revenues. of the small island states in Asia-Pacific Disaster overlapping crises which costs as inevitable, countries infrastructure such as Governments can also look the Pacific. What all countries bridges and roads, as well as to new, innovative sources should have in common, schools and other buildings of finance, such as climate however, are sound principles that provide shelter and resilience bonds, debt-for- for managing disaster risks support at times of crisis. resilience swaps and debt in a more coherent and Above all, governments relief initiatives. systematic way principles should invest in more robust COVID-19 has that are applied with political health infrastructure. This demonstrated yet again commitment and strong would need substantial how all disaster risks regional and subregional resources. The annual cost interconnect how a public collaboration. of adaptation for natural health crisis can rapidly The author of this article and other biological hazards trigger an economic disaster is Ms Armida Salsiah under the worst-case and societal upheaval. This is Alisjahbana, the United climate change scenario is what is meant by “systemic Nations Under-Secretary- estimated at US$270 billion. risk,” and this is the kind of General and Executive Nevertheless, at only one- risk that policymakers now Secretary of the United fifth of estimated annualized need to address if they are to Nations Economic and losses or 0.85 percent of protect their poorest people. Social Commission for Asia the Asia-Pacific GDP, it’s This does not simply and Pacific (ESCAP). Vientiane Times in Lao language Website: https://www.vientianetimeslao.la/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vientianetimeslao/ Vientiane Times office. Phonpapao Village, Unit 32, Sisattanak district, Vientiane. P.O. Box: 5723, Tel: (856-21) 336042, 336048. Fax: (856-21) 336041. For more information: [email protected] 14 Thursday August 26, 2021 Vientiane Times Entertainment Concert review: Home-grown talents shine in saxophone, piano and violin SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Whether now is a good time to be a young professional musician in Singapore is debatable. While competition for performance opportunities is stiff due to the sheer number of home-grown talents, the dearth of visiting overseas artistes has also meant that locals get a better chance to Mr Inpan Borihane (second left) an actor who stars in “Pheng”, poses for a group photo be heard. after receiving the special award at the 2021 Laos-China Short Video contest. One thing is certain many of Singapore’s young soloists are excellent and seductiveness. respectively. often comparable with those Whether in lyrical The former was taken Lao Short film ‘Pheng’ of international standing. passages or young composer perfectly straight, while A shining example Jonathan Shin’s tricky the latter played strictly for is saxophonist Samuel cadenza specially written for laughs, and one admits it takes Phua, recent graduate this performance, Phua was true skill to deliberately make bags special award from Finland’s Sibelius spot on in his execution. music sound bad. Academy, who performed As if further proof of On two consecutive the Saxophone Concerto prowess were needed, the evenings presented by the Sisouphan Amphonephon of Russian composer encore of George Gershwin’s Kris Foundation, pianist Alexander Glazunov with Promenade, arranged by SSO Azariah Tan performed a A Lao short film titled the Singapore Symphony librarian Avik Chari, was solo recital and also partnered “Pheng” starring Mr Inpan Orchestra (SSO), led by stylish swagger personified. violinist Yang Shuxiang. Borihane (Touy Overdance), music director Hans Graf. The balance of the In the recital, two early Ms Piranya Thipphomvong, Not only did Phua have concert illustrated Wolfgang Romantic sonatas by Frederic and Mr Athit Silavong the requisite expertise Amadeus Mozart’s genius Chopin and Franz Schubert received a special award at to overcome the single- in two contrasting serenades. were coupled to gripping the 2021 Laos-China Short movement work’s technical Serenata Notturno and A effect. Both composers had Video contest held recently hurdles, his alto saxophone’s Musical Joke were perfect led tragically short lives, in Vientiane. creamy, smooth tone examples of how to properly prematurely curtailed by Mr Inpan Borihane told also oozed charm and craft or ruin a composition infectious diseases. Vientiane Times yesterday that he was happy to receive the Special Award, which is the biggest award at the We are looking for enthusiastic, dedicated development professionals interested in long term 2021 Laos-China Short careers with a major international children’s NGO. Video contest. The contest Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organisation that advances children’s rights which is on the theme. 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 “Stay Beside” also world’s largest children’s INGOs, works with children and poor communities in 50 countries. marks the 60th anniversary 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 of Laos-China diplomatic affiliations. Visit www.plan-international.org for more information. relations. He said “Pheng” Mr Inpan Borihane shows Award and Trophy for winning Plan is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from women, members of ethnic groups is a family film and is based Special Award promoting their short films. and people with disabilities. Plan offers competitive salaries and long-term employment opportunities for all posts. on the present times society Plan Laos is looking for position: braving the COVID-19 shooting for the film trying any award. Head of CSO Partnership Strengthening Program pandemic. it to tailor it for the contest. Mr Inpan Borihane, a Duties and responsibilities: • Currently the position will directly manage one large project – the Civil Society Action to Prevent and Mitigate “This is my first award Mr Inpan has worked in former singer for the band COVID-19 (CiSAC-19), starting in September 2020 and provide support to the CB4N project in the final 8 and very valuable! I never many other short films such “Overdance”, is also a months of project implementation. thought the film would as “Omkord Luangprabang”. known MC. He also holds • 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. receive such positive His film was screened at the post of National Director • Prepare regular reports to the EU and Plan in line with the donor and Plan International grant feedback,” he beamed. the Khaen Film Festival, of the Mister Global Laos compliance standards, obligations and contract requirements of the donor. He spent two days however, he never bagged competition. • 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 Legendary music label relaunched processes related to partnerships with CSOs (non-profit associations); including the development of a local Partnership Strategy for Plan Laos. CHINA (China Daily/ with each label operating in the history of Chinese • 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. ANN) -- Arguably the most independently. pop music,” said Sunny • Supervise the monitoring of the performance of CSO’s sub-grant projects against the agreed objectives and influential music label in Once a legend credited Chang, chairman and CEO implementation modalities. Cantonese pop’s golden era, with many iconic Cantonese of UMGC. • Represent Plan International and the Project in relevant stakeholder platforms. Requirements: PolyGram Records China, has songs, Polygram has played “According to a 2020 • 5 or more years’ experience in participatory community development with international organizations or recently returned to the Chinese a significant role in the report released by IFPI, the relevant work experience with supporting CSOs mainland as part of Universal history of Chinese pop recorded music industry in • Demonstrated strong skills in capacity building and coaching for local staff and partners • Strong management, organizational and leadership skills Music Greater China’s latest music, propelling a string China ranked No.7 globally; • Good coordination, facilitation and training skills expansion strategy. of singers to stardom, amongst the top 20 markets • Effective computer skills in Office applications Last week, UMGC - a including Samuel Hui, Alan in the world and the growth • Excellent listening skills and interpersonal communication skills • Coordination with government partners at national and local levels division of world industry Tam, Leo Lai Ming and rate in the Chinese market FOR ALL PLAN POSITIONS: giant Universal Music Group Jacky Cheung. ranked second. Revenue of • We strongly encourage equally qualified female candidates to apply • Strong commitment to the equal rights and participation of girls and women is essential - announced the establishment “In the past, EMI and streaming music in China • Strong commitment to the Rights of the Child is essential of a multi-label structure, PolyGram both entered the ranked No.4 in the world,” • Plan does not tolerate child abuse. All Plan staff are selected and employed in line with the conditions of featuring new flagships to Chinese pop music market Chang added. Plan’s Safeguarding Policy and Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Exploitation and Abuse policy. These include appropriate reference and background checks. intensify its focus on domestic thanks to the global strategy “Without a doubt, the • Applications will not be acknowledged. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. No correspondence or artists and repertoires and of their international Chinese music market has telephone calls will be entered into. local-language artists companies, both of which great development potential, • Short listed candidates will be required to attend panel interviews and other selection procedures. CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 01st September 2021 within China. Aside from are now an integral part and we are seeing more TO APPLY FOR THIS POST: Polygram, the group has of today’s UMG. These domestic talent with the Send your resume/CV, and cover letter. In the cover letter please state on a separate page your preferred start also launched Republic two labels took root in the potential to succeed, not 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] Records China, EMI China local market and became just in China, but around Please state in cover letter how you learned about the job – through emails, INGO Directory, 108 Jobs, or friends. and Universal Music China, an indispensable partner the world.” Vientiane Times Thursday August 26, 2021 15 Classified

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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 Vientiane Times Subscription 2021 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 1. DOMESTIC SUBSCRIPTION (5 issues/week) and online fee 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 66 issues (3 months) 297,000k +200,000k 497,000k category: Gold Award US$500, Silver more information call 021 228898. Regular price 132 issues (6 months) 594,000k +200,000k 794,000k US$200and Bronze US$100. Prizes for the Where: Facebook of China Cultural Centre in Kids category is TBA. Laos 264 issues (1 year) 1,188,000k +200,000k 1,388,000k Where: Visit https://whitecanvas.pro/contest_ When: July 25 - September 15. en/. Or call 020-5560-6620 (Tom) Home Delivery (City Centre) 66 issues (3 months) 363,000k +200,000k 563,000k Area: Thadeua Rd. 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The Cambodia 264 issues (1 year) 6,171,000k +200,000k 6,371,000k scholarship. winning logo will be Applications When: featured in various accepted until 132 issues (6 months) 3,927,000k +200,000k 4,127,000k materials and at high-profile events throughout Asia, Australia & New September 6. the 70th anniversary. Zealand 264 issues (1 year) 7,854,000k +200,000k 8,054,000k Where: Apply at Whatsapp: 020 5245 5252 When: The competition will close on October 8. Where: All entries must be submitted to: 132 issues (6 months) 4,488,000k +200,000k 4,688,000k [email protected] Europe (Including Russia) 264 issues (1 year) 8,976,000k +200,000k 9,176,000k Indian scholarships For more information: https://laos.embassy.gov. au/vtan/70th_Anniversary.html Sharda University of India is offering scholarships 132 issues (6 months) 5,610,000k +200,000k 5,810,000k to meritorious students to join Bachelor, Master, America and and PhD programmes in Year 2021-22. Classes Lao ICT contest 264 issues (1 year) 11,220,000k +200,000k 11,420,000k will start in October 2021. Everyone is 4. ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION FEE When: Last date of application is 31 August. The website is updated four (4) times a day and every issue is published on our website in HTML and PDF Where: For further information, please go to the link invited to enter a competition https://global.sharda.ac.in/ambassador- 3 months ( 66 issues) 200,000 6 months (132 issues) 400,000 1 year (264 issues) 600,000 scholarship to find the best ICT product in Please return this form with the following information to Vientiane Times Laos, for further FULL NAME: ______Free online computing submission for ADDRESS: ______TEL: ______FAX:______EMAIL:______the Asean ICT FOR ONLINE: Name:______PREFERRED PASSWORD______and programming Award 2021. 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Lao participants take part in the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, on Tuesday. --Photo Paralympic Games Athletes share in spectacular Paralympic Games ceremony Times Reporters The Lao team was led by and taekwondo, which have the President of the Olympics been added to the list of sports Lao runner Ken Thepthida and Committee of Laos and this year. There are 539 gold his five trainers and assistants, the National Paralympics medals up for grabs. along with athletes from more Committee of Laos, Mrs Visually impaired runner than 160 countries, on Tuesday Sengdeuane Lachanthaboun. Ken Thepthida will compete proudly took part in the grand Japan staged a spectacular in the 100-metre sprint and opening of the Paralympic ceremony featuring a will write Laos’ name in the Games in Tokyo, Japan. wide range of styles and history of the event. The Lao team was the performances, with many In April, the Ministry 152nd group to appear in disabled people taking part. of Education and Sports the parade of athletes and The ceremony reflected organised track and field officials representing their world friendship, encouraged events at the National countries, which was part of respect for people of all University of Laos for a programme of events staged nationalities, and gave hope disabled athletes, when Ken during the opening ceremony. to people around the world set a record of 24.6 seconds However, there were as they fight to overcome the in the men’s 200-metre sprint. no spectators on hand to Covid-19 pandemic. Lao weightlifter Euay witness the colourful show, The Games are attended Simay, competing in the men’s as attendance was prohibited by 4,403 athletes from 162 48kg category, won a bronze because of the Covid-19 countries competing in 22 medal at the Paralympic outbreak in Tokyo. sports, including badminton Games in China in 2008. How to access Vientiane Times products and services 1. Paper Subscription Paper subscription boasts a home delivery service in Vientiane, postage within Laos or internationally for minimum period of three months at selected prices. Additionally, our readers can purchase a copy of the Vientiane Times at minimarts and shops in Vientiane and from our branches in Luang Prabang, Champassak and Savannakhet provinces. 2. Online Subscription We offer two ways to read the Vientiane Times digitally. Subscribers can log on to our website, which is updated three times a day, or register for daily email updates. 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