Madam President,

Madam Executive Director,

1. The Lao PDR highly values its longstanding partnership with UNICEF, which for more than five decades has played a vital role in advancing the rights and well-being of children and delivering tangible results for children and families across the country.

2. Through successive Country Programmes implemented in close collaboration between Government, UNICEF, and other development partners, these programmes have made significant contribution to improving maternal and child health and nutrition, quality education, adolescent empowerment, and the promotion of safe, clean, and sustainable environment for children.

3. Building on these achievements, the new UNICEF Country Programme Document (CPD) for the Lao PDR for 2027–2031 is the outcome of an inclusive and consultative process involving line ministries, development partners, civil society organizations, youth representatives, and other stakeholders. Accordingly, it reflects national priorities and responds to the evolving needs of children across the country.

4.The CPD is fully aligned with the Lao PDR's 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2026–2030) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for 2027–2031. It will also support the country's efforts to achieve a smooth, sustainable, and irreversible graduation from LDC status while advancing the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

5. Going forward, this CPD prioritizes equitable access to quality health, nutrition, early childhood development, inclusive education, strengthened child and social protection systems, and the empowerment of adolescents and young people. It will also integrate climate resilience and disaster risk reduction across all programme areas.

6. The Lao PDR welcomes and fully supports the new CPD and looks forward to its endorsement by the Executive Board. The CPD’s full implementation will contribute to the progress towards achieving the SDGs and ensure that every child fully enjoys their rights and realizes their full potential.

7. Finally, we extend our sincere appreciation to UNICEF, including its Country Office and Regional Office, for their continued partnership, technical expertise, and steadfast support. We are committed to continuing working closely with UNICEF and other development partners for improving the lives of children in the Lao PDR.

I thank you.