Australian Ambassador to Laos, Megan Jones (third right), hands over humanitarian relief supplies to Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, Leepao Yang (third left), at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane on Tuesday (Oct 29). - Photo: Vientiane Times/ANN
VIENTIANE: The Australian government delivered an additional 28 tonnes of humanitarian relief supplies to Laos on Tuesday (Oct 29), aiming to support people affected by recent floods and help the country prepare for future emergencies.
The supplies, valued at US$224,000 (3.2 billion kip), include essential relief items such as 468 hygiene kits, 2,016 kitchen kits, 3,400 blankets, 3,200 mosquito nets, and 2,250 sleeping mats, which are expected to benefit over 3,000 families affected by recent floods or be used for emergencies.
Australian Ambassador to Laos, Megan Jones, handed over the new round of aid to Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, Leepao Yang, during an official ceremony at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane.
Expressing gratitude for Australia’s ongoing support, the Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare said, "The timely support from Australia through the delivery of pre-positioned humanitarian supplies is essential for enhancing Laos’ capacity to respond quickly to disasters and emergencies.
"These supplies will play a vital role in protecting and supporting Lao families during times of crisis, and we deeply appreciate Australia’s ongoing partnership in this important work."
The supplies mark the second delivery of humanitarian relief supplies to Laos this year, with the country seeing continued support from the Australian government.
The supplies are delivered through the Indo-Pacific Endeavour, a whole-of-government initiative led by the Australian Defence Force to strengthen cooperation on defence and other related areas with countries across the region, including Laos.
Emphasising the importance of Laos’ preparedness efforts, the Australian Ambassador to Laos said, "Australia is proud to continue our strong partnership with the Lao government in disaster preparedness and emergency response.
"Pre-positioning humanitarian supplies is critical to ensuring swift support to families in need when disaster strikes.
"Our collaboration through initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Endeavour highlights the importance of readiness and resilience across the region."
Australia is said to be committed to supporting the Lao government’s efforts in disaster preparedness to ensure a rapid and effective response when emergencies occur. - Vientiane Times/ANN
