Representatives of UNOPS and Ministry of Public Works and Transport sign a Memorandum of Understanding.

UNOPS, MPWT partner to strengthen infrastructure, sustainable development

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the  Ministry of Public Works and Transport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in developing sustainable, resilient, and inclusive national infrastructure.
The partnership directly supports Laos’ 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan and the nation’s goal of graduating from Least Developed Country status.
It formalises a framework for UNOPS, an organisation with a core mandate in sustainable infrastructure, procurement, and project management, to provide specialised technical assistance and capacity-building support.
This aligns with the Ministry’s mission to improve the infrastructure that is vital for economic growth and the well-being of Lao citizens.

Eda Kraja, UNOPS Country Manager for Cambodia and Lao PDR.

The collaboration will focus on several key areas. This includes improving priority infrastructure projects by providing technical and implementation support for feasibility studies, design, quality control, and contract management.
The partnership will also strengthen the Ministry’s capacity to plan, manage, and finance public infrastructure projects.
Furthermore, it will assist in preparing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects to attract investment and will enhance public procurement systems by providing end-to-end support to ensure value for money, transparency, and accountability.
 Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport, Mr Litta Khattiya, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the new partnership, saying “On behalf of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, I reaffirm our commitment to the principles and provisions of this MoU, and delivering the outcomes of our Five-Year Development Plan for the benefit of the sector  as well as the government priorities.”
“Together with UNOPS, we will prioritise projects that are resilient, inclusive, and sustainable; strengthen the systems and skills that make good projects possible; and mobilise the partnerships and financing necessary to bring these projects to life.”
UNOPS Country Manager for Combodia and Laos Eda Kraja, said “UNOPS is honoured to formalise our partnership with the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. We are committed to supporting the government’s vision for a prosperous and resilient future.”
“This MoU lays the foundation for a deeper collaboration that will help turn strategic plans into tangible projects that improve lives, create opportunities, and support the sustainable development of Laos for a resilient future for every citizen.”
The partnership is set to play a pivotal role in Laos’ development journey by fostering infrastructure that is efficient, inclusive, and resilient, and designed to meet needs while withstanding the challenges of the future.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update October 22, 2025)