The Government of Japan is handing over equipment worth approximately USD 1.8 million for further enhancement of the fisheries sector in Laos through its Economic and Social Development Programme.
This grant aid from Japan to Laos has provided equipment including tilapia hatchery facilities to enhance aquaculture capacity. The facilities in both Xieng Khuang province and Savannakhet province will boost capacity to produce more farmed fish for human consumption.
The handover ceremony was attended by Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Pet Phomphiphak, Ambassador of Japan to the Lao PDR, Mr. Kenichi Kobayashi.
“Freshwater fish has long been one of the nation’s most important sources of animal protein and an important source of nutrition, accounting for about half of the main animal protein intake in Laos,” said Ambassador Kenichi Kobayashi.
“Securing protein sources and other nutritional needs remains an urgent issue to address in Laos. However, in the fisheries sector, facilities for the cultivation of juvenile fish are inadequate.”
“Therefore, Japan hopes that this project will promote further development and strengthening of the aquaculture industry in Laos and thereby improve its nutrition status.”
“I am very honoured to attend the handover ceremony today,” said Minister Pet.
“The equipment received today will be used to enhance fisheries capacity in Laos. I am confident that the equipment will be utilized efficiently. This aid represents a good friendship between our two countries.”
“The Government of Japan has been providing Laos with much assistance in the fisheries sector since 2001. In 2015 we received support for the renovation of the Fisheries Centre, where we hold this ceremony,” he added.
The Government of Japan has been providing significant support for cooperation in the fisheries sector in Laos which is set to continue.
In addition to support for necessary facilities and equipment, JICA’s Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) is contributing to human resource development and technology transfer in the fisheries sector.
Source: Lao News Agency
