August 6, 2024
VIENTIANE – In a significant step towards combating climate change and fostering sustainable development, Laos and the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Green Economy Framework.
The agreement was formalised on July 26 during a bilateral meeting held at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane, coinciding with the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
The MOU was signed by Laos` Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Saleumxay Kommasith, and the UK’s Secretary of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Rt Hon David Lammy MP.
This pivotal agreement underscores the shared commitment of both nations to address the urgent issue of climate change through collaborative and strategic actions.
Central to the MOU is the promotion of decarbonisation, aimed at reducing carbon emissions in economic activities of mutual interest. This initiative is expected to pave the way for cleaner, more sustainable industrial practices, and significant advancements in environmental protection.
The agreement also emphasises the importance of climate-risk based decision making. By incorporating climate risk assessments into policy and planning, both countries aim to enhance their resilience against the adverse effects of climate change, ensuring more robust and sustainable development outcomes.
Job creation is another key focus of the MOU, with both nations recognising the potential for green economy initiatives to generate new employment opportunities.
Strengthening community resilience forms a critical component of the MOU. The partnership seeks to empower communities, enhancing their capacity to adapt to and withstand the impacts of climate change, thereby improving overall societal well-being.
Additionally, the agreement highlights the importance of enhancing energy security and economic growth through green initiatives. By reducing dependency on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy sources, both countries aim to secure a more stable and sustainable energy future.
The MOU also reaffirms the importance of upholding open, connected, and rules-based markets within the green economy. This approach is intended to ensure fair and transparent market practices, fostering international cooperation and economic stability.
This landmark agreement between Laos and the UK marks a crucial step forward in global climate action, reinforcing the obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement.
The signing of the MOU signifies a strong and enduring partnership between Laos and the UK, one that is poised to drive significant progress in the global effort to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.