The Australian Government signed an agreement with UNDP today to provide AUD2.5 million to support the Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Programme. The funds will be channelled through the Trust Fund for Support to the Full Implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions in Lao PDR. The contribution is un-earmarked and will help to scale up clearance operations and mine risk education as well as providing quality assurance and control over a two-year period.

Speaking at the hand over ceremony, H.E. Ms. Lynda Worthaisong, Ambassador of Australia to Lao PDR said, “We expect that this contribution will improve the lives of affected families by giving them safer access to land for farming and other daily activities”. Also present were Mr. Minh Pham, UNDP Resident Representative, Mr Bounpone Sayasenh, UXO Lao National Program Director, and Lao Government officials.

Read more