11-10-2023 (VIENTIANE) Laos and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have teamed up to accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Laos and FAO recently signed an agreement that aims to provide technical support to the National SDG Secretariat, reported the Lao News Agency.
The collaboration between the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs and FAO is focused on enhancing multi-stakeholder engagement at both national and provincial levels for SDG localization, monitoring, and reporting. FAO, as the custodian UN agency for 21 SDG indicators, brings its expertise to support SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 14 (Life below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
The achievement of SDGs requires concerted efforts and transformative changes. The support provided by FAO, in collaboration with the wider UN system, to the National SDG Secretariat is considered strategic. It aims to bring together stakeholders at various levels, including national, sectoral, provincial authorities, and local communities, to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. Director General of the Department of International Organization under the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Daovy Vongxay, emphasized the importance of clearly defining roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder. Strengthening capacities, providing appropriate information, and equipping stakeholders with the necessary tools are crucial aspects of this collaboration.
FAO is committed to fostering collaboration and partnerships with governments, civil society, the private sector, UN agencies, development partners, and other stakeholders. The goal is to ensure that all sectors have the knowledge and skills required to contribute effectively to the achievement of the SDGs.
