The government of the Republic of Korea has increased the quota for skilled Lao nationals seeking jobs in Korea this year, where at least 8,000 Lao citizens are currently working, enabling them to boost their incomes and further improve their skills.
It is hoped that Korea will continue to increase the quota for Lao workers in the coming years and expand the range of employment opportunities, particularly in industry and agriculture, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Phongsavanh Sisoulath said when addressing the 6th High Level Policy Consultation Meeting held between Laos and the Republic of Korea last week.
The meeting was chaired by Mr Phongsavanh and Korea’s Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Chung Byung-won, with talks centred on possibilities for expanding the scope of relations and cooperation between the two countries and aiming for greater results.
The meeting took place as Laos and Korea are celebrating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, and reaffirms the commitment of both countries to enhancing friendly ties and cooperation, leading to further development and progress.
Korean entities have invested about US$759 million in 271 development projects in Laos to date, making it the fifth largest foreign investor in Laos. These investments involve the sectors of electricity, construction, services, agriculture, industry, handicrafts, hotels, restaurants, banking, mining, trade, education, wood processing and garment manufacturing.
This significant investment emphasises the strong role played by Korea in Laos’ development. The two sides discussed the opportunities for closer cooperation in human resource development, infrastructure development, climate change mitigation, cultural affairs, labour, consular affairs, and other fields.
Mr. Phongsavanh thanked Korea for the assistance and support extended to Laos in the past, including for public health development, unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance, rural development, and human resource development.