Australian transport experts share insights on infrastructure development with Lao officials during their visit. --Photo courtesy of the Australian Embassy in Vientiane

Australia backs stronger, safer roads in Laos

Australia is stepping up support for Laos’ transport sector with over A$12 million invested in climate-resilient infrastructure over the past three years to improve regional connectivity and help the country withstand extreme weather.
The funding, provided through the Laos-Australia Connectivity Partnership, supports the goals of Laos’ National Socio-Economic Development Plan and the Ministry of Public Works and Transport’s Five-Year Development Plan.
As part of the partnership, Australian transport experts worked alongside Lao officials from June 30 to July 4 to share knowledge and assess critical road corridors across several provinces, according to the media release from the Australian Embassy to Laos.
The team carried out site visits in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay and Bolikhamxay, with inspections focused on key national routes including Roads 13 North and South, Road 2 East, and flood-prone sections in Xay district.
The mission aimed to strengthen Laos’ ability to plan, design and maintain road systems that are better prepared for the impacts of harsh weather conditions.
Australian Ambassador to Laos, Ms Megan Jones, said resilient transport infrastructure is essential for ensuring inclusive development and supporting economic growth.
“Resilient transport infrastructure plays a critical role in inclusive development. Many roads in Laos, particularly in rural, mountainous, and flood-prone areas, remain vulnerable to extreme weather events, leading to service disruptions, economic losses, and safety risks,” the diplomat was quoted as saying.
This challenge was clear during the mission, as floodwaters were seen covering roads in parts of Vientiane and Oudomxay provinces.
During her courtesy visit to the new Minister of Public Works and Transport, Mr Leklay Sivilay, Ms Jones reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting Laos’ development goals.
“Improving transport connectivity is central to Laos’ strategy to transform from a land-locked to a land-linked nation, opening new opportunities for regional integration and economic development,” she said.
She added that the Laos-Australia Connectivity Partnership is helping the country respond to climate challenges by supporting the development of more inclusive and reliable transport systems.
The technical exchanges during the mission covered topics such as integrating climate resilience into road design standards, using data and modelling in infrastructure planning, and monitoring contractor performance to improve long-term quality.
The visit also identified priority areas for continued collaboration under Phase 2 of the partnership.
The Laos-Australia Connectivity Partnership is delivered through the Australian Government’s Partnerships for Infrastructure programme, in close coordination with Lao ministries and provincial authorities.
As the partnership grows, it serves as a model for sustainable and inclusive infrastructure development across Southeast Asia.

by Times Reporters
 (Latest Update July 29, 2025)