Savannakhet: Australian Ambassador to Laos, Megan Jones, embarked on a two-day visit to Savannakhet Province from March 25-26 to advocate for strengthened trade and investment ties between Australia and Laos under the Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy.

According to Lao News Agency, Ambassador Jones toured the Savan-Xeno Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and engaged in discussions aimed at bolstering cooperation between SEZ stakeholders and Australian businesses. She emphasized the potential for Australian investment in sectors such as logistics and agriculture, while also building connections with key businesses in the province.

The visit saw the participation of Mr. Charles Olsson, Australia’s Business Champion for Laos, who joined the Ambassador to explore investment opportunities and network with developers and investors within the SEZ. This provided Mr. Olsson insight into the investment landscape, policies, and ongoing and future development projects in the region.

While in Savannakhet, Ambassador Jones met with Governor Bounchom Oubonpaseuth to discuss Australia’s support for Laos’ socio-economic development and its role as a reliable and effective partner. The Ambassador reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to expanding two-way trade and investment, particularly in agriculture, natural resources, and green energy sectors in Laos.

Furthermore, the Ambassador highlighted Australia’s interest in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities within Savannakhet’s investment environment, stressing the importance of public-private collaboration for regional economic growth and investment.

During the visit, Ambassador Jones also held discussions with Vice Governor Lingthong Sengtavanh, focusing on enhancing cooperation and fostering people-to-people connections between Australia and Laos. The visit facilitated Mr. Olsson’s engagement with Australia’s alumni in the local business community, members of the Savannakhet Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Young Entrepreneur Association of Laos, providing him with insights into their roles in supporting businesses in Savannakhet.