The meeting was chaired by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Mr. Sounadeth Soukchaleun, Deputy Director General of the Department of Planning and Cooperation, and co-chaired Ms. Veerle Smet, head of Cooperation from the European Union in Laos (EU). The meeting was attended by representatives from various sectors, including Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), government stakeholders and implementation partners from Vientiane Capital and Luangprabang Province.
The primary objectives for the IMC meeting are to review lessons learned by assessing insights and key takeaways from the annual progress report to identify successes, challenges, and areas for improvement. Provide strategic recommendations and offer guidance and actionable recommendations to refine and strengthen the annual plan for 2026, ensuring alignment with project goals and priorities.
After the meeting, participants visited the project field sites to monitor progress and engage with key stakeholders, including Mettachit Foundation (MTCF) which works closely with local authorities, schools, and community groups to address environmental and public health challenges, with a strong focus on education, youth engagement, and sustainable waste management as an informal group.
Following with The Huam Jai Asasamak Association (HJA) which was implementing the Awareness-Raising Mini Concerts in Vientiane High School, using influencers and popular culture to promote waste awareness and environmental responsibility.
Lastly with Lao Culture Preservation and Promotion Association (LCPPA) in Chanthabouly District in promoting upcycling as a practical and creative solution through the initiative “From Indigo Offcuts to Wonder”.