 thursday may 3,

Vientiane Times
2012 ISSUE 100
The First National English Language Newspaper
www.vientianetimes.la 4500 kip

Inside Thousands join International Workers’

Development targets
‘achievable’, but MDGs
‘a challenge’: senior
official
page 3
France’s Le Pen won’t
endorse anyone for
president
page 7
Day walk in Vientiane
Ounkham Pimmata
Thousands of Vientiane
residents wearing white
T-shirts walked along Lane
Xang Avenue on Tuesday to
show their solidarity with
workers around the world on
International Workers’ Day.
Many took the opportunity
to call for better working
conditions in Laos, while
others enjoyed spending time
with their families and friends
on the public holiday.
Deputy President of the
Lao Federation of Trade
Unions (LFTU), Mr Tong Li
Yang, made an address on
the occasion, calling on Lao
workers to continue to improve
their skills in response to the
country’s development needs.
Speaking at Patouxay
Monument, he stressed that
workers played an important
role in developing nations and
driving economic growth, so
it was necessary that workers
upgraded their skills to meet
future industrial needs.
He also assured workers
that trade unions would
Lao citizens march in support of workers’ rights on International Workers’ Day.
continue to strive to protect
workers’ rights as well as
improve their healthcare
entitlements.
The LFTU will represent
victims of workplace
accidents, helping them to
negotiate with companies,
factories and contractors to
receive compensation for
medical treatment, physical
impairment and even loss of
life.
Many workers in Laos
believe they are not adequately
compensated for their labour.
Mr Somchit, an ordinary
worker, said he wanted the
government to take better care
of workers, particularly in
relation to healthcare.
He said living costs were
rising rapidly but workers’
salaries were not appreciating
by the same amount, meaning
they see little from the present
economic growth. He hoped
to see the LFTU lobby the
government to increase
salaries and benefits in line
with the overall economic
situation.
Many workers are so
concerned with working hard
to earn money to improve their
living conditions that they
don’t take into consideration
the threat of the long-term
health problems that may
result.
Last year, LFTU President
Mr Khamla Lorlonesy told
Vientiane Times that only 20 to
30 percent of private employees
and general workers have access
to health insurance, compared
to almost 100 percent of state
employees.
The LFTU has advised
factory owners and private
firms to protect the rights of
ordinary labourers, and is
trying to encourage workers
to insist on a safe and healthy
environment by educating
them about their rights and
entitlements.

Hailstorm strikes villages in Luang Prabang Disease, heat

Climate change and its
impact on the Lao and
Cambodian people
page 17
Laos to host Asia-
Europe Business
Forum
page B
Times Reporters
Ngoi and Viengkham districts
in northern Luang Prabang
province were hit by severe
hail and thunderstorms twice
at the end of last month,
leaving more than 2,000
people stranded in temporary
accommodation.
Eleven villages in the
two northernmost districts of
the province were among the
worst affected, with severe
damage to people’s houses
and property, leaving them no
choice but to stay in makeshift
shelters until their houses can
be rebuilt.
A hailstorm on April 21
hit Ngoi district, damaging
houses, schools, animals,
crops, and public property
worth more than 500 million
kip. More than 330 families
or some 1,900 people in total
were affected to varying
degrees.
The hailstorm smashed or
blew the roofs and walls off
hundreds of houses, damaged
three schools and killed
livestock and poultry in the six
villages of Phonxay, Houaya,
Xang, Phonsavanh, Phoukham
and Done. Eighteen people
were injured, but luckily no
one was killed, according to
Ngoi district authorities.
Continued page 2
kill livestock in
Luang Prabang
Khamphone Syvongxay
Almost 100 cattle and
buffaloes in Phonxay district
of Luang Prabang province
have died from an outbreak of
haemorrhagic fever.
District livestock unit head
Ms Somchit Vongpaset told
Vientiane Times yesterday that
100 cattle and buffaloes had
died by the end of the April
and they expect the toll to rise
in May.
People in Ngoi district are in the process of rebuilding after severe Most of the livestock
hail and thunderstorms struck last month. Continued page 3

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2 Thursday May 3, 2012
Home news
More First Aid volunteers needed
Ounkham Pimmata
President of the Lao Red
Cross (LRC) Dr Snivourast
Saramany yesterday called
on young people to become
volunteers in the area of First
Aid, to help the nation be
better prepared to cope with
natural disasters.
Dr Snivourast was speaking
at an event to mark World Red
Cross and Red Crescent Day
on May 8 with the theme
“Youth on the Move” to
highlight the important role
that youth could play to help
society while also using their
time beneficially. The theme
is intended to inspire young
people to help those involved
in road accidents and natural
disasters, by applying to be
Lao Red Cross volunteers.
First Aid is defined as the
immediate medical assistance
given in an emergency
situation. A ‘first aider’ is the
term used to identify a person
who is qualified to render first
aid to others.
At present, there are only
800-1,000 first aid volunteers
Ministry checks cement quality
Times Reporters
A team from the Ministry
of Science and Technology
recently went to inspect the
quality of cement produced in
Somsavan village, Xaythany
district, Vientiane.
The team was led by
Acting Director General of
the Measurement Standards
Department, Mr Sisomphet
Nhoybouakong, and included
officials from the Vientiane
Department of Science and
Technology.
The aim of the inspection
Hailstorm strikes villages...
The same day, strong winds
from the same storm system
ripped through four villages in
Viengkham district, including
Vangbong 1, Vangbong 2,
Nakang, and Sopxang. Some
136 houses inhabited by more
than 780 people were affected,
with the damage bill estimated
to exceed 100 million kip.
On April 27, a second
storm struck Viengkham
district, damaging houses and
property in the three villages
of Phousanam, Phoukham, and
Nokvat. On this occasion 126
families were affected with 20
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Dr Snivourast Saramany.
out of 10,000 volunteers in
seven provinces of Laos.
The Lao Red Cross is
now training two volunteers
in every village across the
country to help accident
victims and provide First Aid
in their communities.
The LRC is also
encouraging women in remote
areas to become volunteers in
providing birthing women
with emergency aid, in a bid
to lower the high maternal and
infant mortality rates.
The organisation is also
was to encourage the
production of quality products
in line with national standards
stipulated in the Standards
Law passed by the National
Assembly in 2007.
Laos is currently preparing
to join the World Trade
Organisation (WTO) and is
hoping to be admitted as a
member at the end of this
year. Standards are of key
importance for Laos’ accession
to the WTO and to realise
socio-economic development
goals. The Measurement
Standards Department has so
suffering heavy losses. Luang
Prabang authorities said local
officials are still quantifying the
damage.
Luang Prabang authorities
have provided an initial
assistance package to help with
the rebuilding process, including
zinc roof sheeting and food aid
worth over 230 million kip.
Luang Prabang provincial
Governor Dr Khampheng
Saysompheng also visited the
worst affected areas and met
with local people suffering in
the wake of the storm. He said
the authorities will mobilise
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encouraging young people
in six secondary schools in
Vientiane to learn First Aid, so
they can help accident victims
and lower the incidence of
death and disability arising
from road accidents, and also
pass on their knowledge to
their friends.
The LRC has teamed up
with the International Red
Cross to provide overseas
volunteers to train locals
how to help the victims of
natural disasters, especially
by providing First Aid.
The LRC hopes the
government will realise
the importance of First Aid
and increase the budget for
activities in this field, as well as
partner with the International
Red Cross to increase funding
for the development of First
Aid youth volunteers.
According to a recent LRC
report, only 0.5 of Lao people
have access to information about
or are able to practise First Aid.
People in Savannakhet and
Luang Prabang provinces know
the least about First Aid among
all the provinces in Laos.
far allowed 14 companies to
use national trademarks and
has registered the products of
107 other companies.
The department plays an
important role in promoting
local production and
ensuring that product quality
corresponds to national and
international standards.
If quality can be assured,
Lao products will be very
competitive on international
markets and will enable Laos
to move further along the
path to modernisation and
industrialisation by 2020.
From page 1
monetary assistance and
construction materials from
public and private sources in
the province to help the affected
families. Last month, a storm
also hit Xaythany district in
Vientiane, with the roofs of
more than 120 houses damaged
in the gusting winds.
The Hydrology Department
has warned that the storms will
continue until temperatures
drop with the onset of the rainy
season, saying people should
make sure their roofs are in
good condition and properly
nailed down.
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Agriculture staff learn
advocacy skills
Times Reporters
Officials from the Ministry of
Agriculture and Forestry have
attended a two day training
course to improve their
advocacy skills and help them
lobby relevant departments
and international donor
organisations.
The training course,
which ran in Vientiane from
May 2-3, was attended by
25 ministry officials from
various departments including
livestock and fisheries,
agriculture extension, forestry,
inspection and planning. It was
attended by Deputy Director
General of the Planning
Department, Dr Somphanh
Chanphengxay, and other
officials.
The course was supported
by the United States
Agency for International
Development and National
Emerging Infectious Diseases
Coordination, to improve
general advocacy skills with
a specific focus on avian
influenza and other infectious
diseases.
It is envisioned that the
training course will improve
the skills of a core group of
staff in various departments
Lao Red Cross arms Champassak
communities against flooding
Dr Snivourast Saramany (right) presents equipment to Mr Samly Kaenmanivong at the Mounlapamok
district office.
Sisouphan Amphonephong
The Lao Red Cross (LRC)
last week donated emergency
equipment to six villages
in Mounlapamok district,
Champassak province, to help
local communities better cope
with flooding.
The donation included
three boats for Xanva village,
to take students to school when
rivers flood.
The LRC also installed two
groundwater systems with the
help of the Disaster Reduction
Management Project for
Thakhor and Phonedou
villages, which will enable
villagers to have clean water.
The equipment is worth
more than 94 million kip and
will enable rural communities to
cope with weather extremes.
Mounlapamok district
Deputy Governor Mr Samly
Kaenmanivong said these
six villages are particularly
vulnerable to flooding. Thakhor,
Veun, Donnangloy, Houynhang,
Phondou and Xanva have all
suffered flooding in the past, so it
Dr Somphanh Chanphengxay (right) attends the advocacy training
course.
who will then be able to
provide technical support to
the communication needs
of the ministry in the longer
term.
The course was designed
to raise awareness about
various issues and possible
solutions, especially among
targeted audiences. Staff
learned how to use relevant
data and information to make
a case about an issue, develop
messages and materials,
select appropriate information
channels and media outlets and
enlist credible spokespeople
to press their case.
is important that they are well
prepared for future disasters.
LRC officials chose village
volunteers to work with
them, and residents of the six
villages learned how to carry
out rescue operations. They
also learnt how to mitigate the
effects of natural disasters.
Mr Samly thanked the
LRC for supporting them and
urged the villagers to take care
of the equipment for long-
term use and to pull together
as a strong community.
Speaking at the
presentation ceremony, LRC
President Dr Snivourast
Saramany said “The work of
the Lao Red Cross and Red
Crescent Society is driven
by key principles that focus
on effective and responsible
disaster management related
to global warming.”
The LRC continues to focus
on community-based disaster
risk reduction. It also supports
other activities relating to
disasters. Restoring family
links and the management of
human remains will soon be
Vientiane Times
Key ingredients to
advocacy include targeting
influential people or groups
that can affect change, they
were told, because strategic
communication can change
public perceptions and
influence policy decisions,
including funding priorities.
Dr Somphanh said this
training was invaluable to
government officials who
will now better understand
advocacy techniques and be
able to put this knowledge
to work in their departments
as well as pass it on to their
colleagues.
included as part of the Lao Red
Cross Disaster Preparedness
Plan.
The plan provides a
framework for the LRC as it
continues to strengthen work
in four core areas: disaster
management; healthcare in
the community; fundamental
principles and humanitarian
values; and organisational
development. These aim to
reduce the risk of disasters
and mitigate their impacts by
improving the plan’s response
capacity and mechanisms.
The LRC began the
project in six villages of
Mounlapamok district in 2010
and expects it to end in 2014.
Local authorities will
continue to use the methods
recommended for community
empowerment, to help with
disaster preparation, response,
and risk reduction.
The project has since
expanded to 137 villages in 14
districts of seven provinces. If
further funding is available,
similar work can be undertaken
in other areas.
Vientiane Times
Development targets ‘achievable’, but
MDGs ‘a challenge’: senior official
Times Reporters
Laos’ ambitions to graduate
from the UN’s list of least
developed countries by 2020
and reduce poverty to not
more than 10 percent by 2015
are achievable, a senior Party
official has said.
Currently the poverty
rate in Laos stands at almost
18.9 percent, and it should be
possible to halve this figure by
2015.
Head of the Propaganda
and Training Board of the
Party Central Committee, Mr
Cheuang Sombounkhan, made
the comments yesterday, but
cautioned that achieving all the
UN’s Millennium Development
Goals (MDGs) by 2015 will
prove to be challenging.
Mr Cheuang, who is also a
Secretariat member of the Party
Central Committee, spoke at a
half-day lecture in Vientiane to
explain the Resolution of the
9th Party Congress and national
development targets to authors,
artists and media personnel.
He said the MDGs
relating to proper nutrition
among children, and greater
school enrolment for girls in
rural ethnic groups remain
somewhat of a challenge and
Laos needs to exert greater
effort to overcome them.
“The school enrolment gap
between ethnic boys and girls
remains large,” Mr Cheuang
told the participants.
Also, children in
poor families suffer from
malnutrition, which affects
their physical and mental
development processes, he
added, observing that “many
High hopes for experimental UXO
clearance vehicle
Khonesavanh Latsaphao
Technicians working for a
pilot programme in Xieng
Khuang province to test the
effectiveness of a specialised
Japanese-made Komatsu
UXO clearance vehicle have
given a largely positive report
to the National Regulatory
Authority (NRA).
Japan Mine Action Service
(JMAS) project manager Mr
Khammaly Luangaphay told
Vientiane Times on Tuesday
that technicians spent about
two hours reporting on the
operation of the vehicle after
trials that ran from January to
April.
The vehicle was
successfully tested on fake
bombs in Nahoy village, Paek
district. Technicians then
tested the vehicle in a field
100m wide and 100m long
The Japanese-made Komatsu UXO clearance vehicle at work.
Mr Cheuang Sombounkhan.
malnourished children are
found to be stunted”.
The prevalence of
underweight children in the
under-five age group has
remained relatively unchanged
over an extended period, having
stood at 40 percent in 1990 and
fallen to only 37.1 percent by
2006, a survey revealed.
In 2006, the prevalence of
stunting and wasting among
under-fives were 40.4 percent
and 6.5 percent respectively.
Although a significant
reduction in wasting both among
urban and rural children was
made over the past five years,
there has been no progress in
the reduction of underweight
and stunted children, which
reflects chronic under-nutrition,
according to the survey.
Low rates of exclusive
breastfeeding and low intakes
of energy and nutrient rich
complementary food is the
major cause of malnutrition
in children under five years of
age and a common factor that
may cause various disabilities
in later life.
However, Mr Cheuang
containing live cluster sub-
munitions.
“The vehicle performed
well in clearing the sub-
munitions but needs some
improvement if it is to be fully
effective for UXO clearance
in Laos,” Mr Khammaly said.
The specialised vehicle
was designed for clearing
mines mainly in Cambodia.
Now it remains to be seen if
the vehicle can be modified to
clear cluster bombs in Laos,
which is heavily contaminated
with the devices.
A full assessment of
the vehicle’s usefulness in
work with real bombs will
be carried out by the JMAS
and NRA today. Nobody can
predict whether the specialised
clearance vehicle will continue
its work in Laos until the
project ends this month.
The NRA’s annual meeting
said it was still possible for
Laos to achieve the targets
envisioned in relation to child
nutrition and school enrolment
if a concerted effort was made
by all those concerned.
Laos also has good prospects
of achieving its development
targets including advancing
from least developed country
status, as well as reaching the
poverty reduction goal, he
emphasised.
These targets will be
‘achievable’ if Laos is able
to register economic growth
of at least 8 percent a year
as planned in the 7th five-
year national socio-economic
development plan, he said.
“When we look at our
economic structure and
foundation plus those projects
already approved that will
be operational in the years
to come, there is a high
possibility of reaching the
targets,” he told attendees.
“If there is no severe
economic crisis to disrupt our
current growth, we will be able
to achieve our development
goals,” he reiterated.
Achieving economic
growth targets will also mean
Laos will be able to increase
per capita income from
slightly more than US$1,000
to US$1,700 by 2015.
Laos is also aiming to
achieve a national average life
expectancy of 68.3 years, and
ensuring universal primary
school enrolment and graduation
by 2015. To achieve these
targets, the Party has devised
four breakthrough approaches
to spur success, Mr Cheuang
said.
in February reported that the
Lao government is seeking
new clearance methods such
as that provided by the JMAS.
It hopes the use of specialised
vehicles will enable the faster
clearance of UXO, towards
helping the government
achieve its targets.
By 2020 the government
aims to clear UXO from
200,000 hectares of land,
removing ordnance from
20,000 hectares each year.
The vehicle provided
by JMAS takes one hour to
clear one hectare of all cluster
bombs, the pilot project
determined.
The Lao National UXO
Programme (UXO Lao)
employs 22 people to clear one
hectare each month, meaning
only 5,000 hectares of land
can be cleared each year.
So far, almost 30,000
hectares of UXO-contaminated
land have been cleared since
1996.
It is estimated that out of
the 2 million tonnes of bombs,
including 288 million cluster
bombs, that were dropped
on Laos between 1964 and
1973 about 30 percent did not
detonate.
During this period, a total
of 580,000 bombing missions
were conducted, which
averages out at one bombing
mission every eight minutes
around the clock for nine
years.
Mr Bounkeuth Sangsomsak (fourth right) Mr Sanjay Singh (fourth left) and Lao and Indian officials
pose in a group photo.
Laos, India enhance
political ties
Times Reporters
Laos and India are about to lift
their bilateral cooperation from
the current comprehensive
status to that of a strategic
partnership.
The elevation of relations
was one of various issues
raised at a political dialogue
between the foreign affairs
delegations of the two nations
in Vientiane yesterday, which
was led by Lao Deputy
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Mr Bounkeuth Sangsomsak
and Secretary (East) of the
Ministry of External Affairs of
the Government of India Mr
Sanjay Singh.
“Both sides were pleased
to discuss the issue and raise it
with the highest leaders of both
countries for consideration,”
said a press release from the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting reviewed
the bilateral relations and
cooperation between Laos
and India in past years and
looked forward to further
strengthening relations into
the future.
The discussions covered a
wide range of areas including
trade, investment, soft loans,
agriculture, communication,
Disease, heat kill livestock ...
deaths occurred in six villages
including Chomchieng and
Shobhoud but if effective
measures aren’t put into place
the outbreak is expected to
spread, she said.
Ms Somchit also said her
family had personally lost
more than 30 poultry due to
the hot weather, with other
families in the area facing
similar losses.
Livestock and poultry
were particularly vulnerable
to outbreaks of disease at this
time of year, when weather
changes occur, she added.
Staff from the livestock
and fisheries office will
work with village group
veterinarians to help farmers
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Email: info@vientianetimes.org.la
Thursday May 3, 2012
national defence, education,
culture, health, science,
technology, and international
cooperation.
Both sides highly valued
the cooperation and friendship
between the two countries
over the past 55 years since the
establishment of diplomatic
relations on February 2, 1956,
since which time there have
been regular visits between
the two sides.
Lao President Choummaly
Sayasone visited India from
August 26 to 30 in 2008,
which was the first meeting
to take place between the two
heads of state in 33 years.
India’s President Pratibha
Devisingh Patil then made
a visit to Laos in September
2010 on the invitation of
President Choummaly.
The two visits marked an
important strengthening of the
relationship between the two
countries.
Laos is grateful to the
Indian government and people
for the assistance they have
provided, such as the provision
of soft loans, tax exemptions
for Lao agricultural products
and disaster relief funding.
They have also provided
valuable assistance with
treat sick livestock, vaccinate
healthy animals to contain
the outbreak, and remind
people not to eat sick or dead
animals.
Maintaining livestock
health is a constant challenge
in Laos, and more than 200
cattle and buffaloes in the
district died earlier in the year
due to cold weather and rain,
Ms Somchit said.
Buffaloes and cattle in
neighbouring Xieng Khuang
province meanwhile have been
safe from disease outbreaks.
Only a few older cattle in
some districts have died due
to a lack of feed, but with the
wet season on the way there
should soon be plenty of grass
Home news 3
scientific and IT development,
communications, defence
cooperation, and human
resource development.
“All these things
have contributed to socio-
economic development in
Laos and improving people’s
livelihoods,” the press release
said.
Bilateral trade between
Laos and India reached US$7.2
million in the 2009/2010 fiscal
year, an increase of almost
8.5 percent compared to the
previous year.
According to the Ministry
of Industry and Commerce
last year, Indian entrepreneurs
have committed to invest
between US$350 million and
US$600 million in various
projects including pulpwood
plantations, iron ore mines
and agarwood projects.
On the same day Mr
Sanjay Singh and his
delegation met with Deputy
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Mr Alounkeo Kittikhoun
to discuss the Asean Auto
Rally to be organised later
this year.
He also called on Deputy
Prime Minister and Minister of
Foreign Affairs Dr Thongloun
Sisoulith.
rom page 1
to sustain livestock herds.
High temperatures have
affected many areas of Laos
this month but so far have
caused more problems in
neighbouring Thailand, with
farmers in many provinces
affected by drought.
The Meteorology and
Hydrology Department
predicted that temperatures will
remain high for about a week or
so, but the weather will become
more humid with the build up
to the wet season.
The highest temperature
recorded so far this year
is 39.5 degrees Celsius in
Attapeu province, the same as
last year’s high in Vientiane
recorded on April 23.
4 Home news Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times

News in Brief
Dry season rice shortfall in Khammuan
Dry season rice production in Khammuan province has fallen short of expectations this
year, with shortages in Bualapha and Xaybuathong districts.
Only 9,200 hectares out of a planned 10,000 hectares of rice were planted this dry season,
according to the provincial Agriculture and Forestry Department.
Yields amounted to an average of 4.36 tonnes per hectare, which was 0.24 tonnes less than
the planned 4.6 tonnes. Officials attributed the shortfall to damaged irrigation systems,
which have yet to be repaired after typhoons Ketsana and Nock-ten struck the area.
So far farmers have harvested rice crops on 3,910 hectares, according to the department.
Bualapha and Xaybuathong districts were the only two out of nine districts in Khammuan
province that failed to achieve their planting targets.

Ho Chi Minh City strengthens ties with Savannakhet

Prof. Dr Eksavang Vongvichit (sixth left) hands over a symbolic vehicle key.
Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City and Savannakhet province in Laos have great potential for
promoting cooperation in various fields.
The point was emphasised by Secretary of the HCM City Party Committee Le Thanh Hai
and Savannakhet Governor Dr Souphanh Keomixay at a meeting held in HCM City on
April 28. Mr Hai praised the great socio-economic achievements Laos has made in recent
years and affirmed that the Savannakhet delegation’s visit to Vietnam will help tighten
ties between the two localities. He proposed that both sides develop specific cooperative
programmes in economics, education, culture, and people-to-people diplomacy. They
should also strive to create the best conditions for businesses from both countries to
meet and seek opportunities for cooperation, he said. Dr Keomixay briefed his host
on Savannakhet’s socio-economic situation and comparative advantages, including

ADB revs up aid to health

agriculture, forestry and minerals, saying he hopes more businesses from Ho Chi Minh
City, and Vietnam in general, will invest in these fields.
He thanked HCM City for its support and also for granting scholarships to students from

sector with vehicle donation

Savannakhet, to enable them to study in the city.

Ten people injured in Borikhamxay bus crash

Bounfaeng Phaymanivong
The Asian Development
Bank (ADB) has provided 16
four-wheel-drive vehicles to
bolster healthcare provision in
eight northern provinces.
The 16 Nissan 4WDs are
valued at almost US$540,000
and were provided through
the Ministry of Health’s
Health Sector Development
Programme.
The vehicles are intended
to help administrative
staff to improve healthcare
programmes designed to
achieve the Millennium
Development Goals (MDGs).
They will be particularly
valuable in terms of allowing
provincial officials to access
more remote areas where
healthcare needs are greater.
Two vehicles each
will be given to the health
departments in Luang
Prabang, Xieng Khuang,
Phongsaly, Oudomxay, Bokeo,
Xayaboury, Luang Namtha
and Huaphan provinces.
Minister of Health Prof.
Dr Eksavang Vongvichit
handed over the vehicles to
provincial representatives
yesterday, witnessed by
ministry officials.
Prof. Dr Eksavang said
the health sector is working
hard to put the policies of
the government into practice
towards achieving health-
related MDGs by 2015.
The vehicles will enable
health departments in northern
Laos to access more remote
areas and provide healthcare,
which will help local people
to move out of poverty.
Women and children in
the respective provinces are
expected to benefit the most
from the improved access the
new vehicles will allow.
More than 10 people were injured when a bus rolled over in Laokhar village, Thaphabath
district of Borikhamxay province on April 24. The accident occurred when the Pakxan-
Vientiane bus heading toward Vientiane lost control and overturned. All the injured
passengers were taken to Pakngum district hospital for treatment. A passenger said the bus
was travelling at high speed when the driver swerved to avoid a car. He lost control of the
bus, causing it to overturn when it hit the kerb.
Small hydropower dam in the pipeline for Xekong
Xekong provincial Planning and Investment Department recently signed a memorandum
of understanding with a local company to conduct a feasibility study for a 5MW
hydroelectric dam in Huay Trai village, Kaleum district.
The MOU was signed by Department Director Mr Nouphone Khemphilay and
Panyaphone Agriculture Development Company representative Mr Chanthanom
Phommany, and witnessed by provincial Deputy Governor Mr Lieng Khamphoun.
Speaking at the ceremony Mr Lieng said Xekong has many rivers suitable for building
small, medium and large dams but construction capital is still limited.
The small dam in Kaleum district has been identified as a development target which will
generate electricity for supply to local people.
Vientiane Times Thursday May 3, 2012 Photo news 5

Young women perform a traditional dance at the Patouxay Monument in Vientiane, as part of
events to mark International Workers’ Day. Deputy Prime Minister Asang Laoly (right) leads participants in a walk on International Workers’
Day on Tuesday.

Workers cool off with family and friends at Hinkhanna waterfall on the May Day holiday on
Tuesday. Villagers in Champassak province dry fish that they will store and eat.
6 Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times

Region
In brief from Asia
News Network
China eyes launches of
more Beidou satellites
CHINA (China Daily)
-- China launched two
satellites for its Beidou
global navigation and
positioning system into
space atop a carrier rocket
on Monday, and will see
similar launches in the
future to reduce costs and
save time, a rocket scientist
said. The two satellites - the
12th and 13th satellites for
the Beidou system, China's
version of the US Global
Positioning System - were
launched aboard a Long
Cambodia faces labour scarcity
PHNOM PENH (Xinhua)
-- Cambodia has been facing
labour shortages in sectors such
as agriculture, construction
and industry, Prime Minister
Hun Sen said on Tuesday,
calling employers to pay more
attention to employees’ well-
being and salaries.
“The country currently
is facing the shortages
of labourers everywhere,
especially in agriculture,
construction and industry,” he
told about 1,000 labourers at
the Sihanoukville Autonomous
Port on the Labour Day
celebration. The port is
situated some 230 kilometres
southwest of Phnom Penh, the
to their workers through
building dormitories for them
and offering them competitive
salaries.
“In the agriculture sector,
a worker is paid up to US$3
and three meals a day. Yet it
is still difficult to find doers,”
he said.
Meanwhile, Hun Sen also
asked Cambodians who plan
to illegally cross border for
employment in Thailand to
give up this kind of plan and
turn their eyes on local jobs.
“It is not a good way to
work illegally in another
country. Of course, you
get higher pay in Thailand,
Secretary General of the United Nations Ban Ki-Moon (left) and leader of the National League for Democracy
Aung San Suu Kyi meet the press after their meeting at her residence in Yangon. --Photo Xinhua
but you enter that country

UN chief meets Aung San Suu

March-3B carrier rocket capital of Cambodia. illegally and live away from
from the Xichang Satellite He said in order to tackle your families,” he said. “It is
Launch Center in Sichuan the labour scarcity, investors better that we work in our own

Kyi for first time

province early on Monday should pay more attention country.”
morning.

Singaporeans will
always be top priority
SINGAPORE (The
Straits Times) -- Prime
Minister Lee Hsien Loong
promised Singaporeans on
Tuesday that they would
always take top priority
in employment policies.
Whether it was adjusting
the supply of foreign
workers or the pursuit of
economic growth, he said
the Government seeks to
maximise the advantages
for its citizens, and to
provide them with jobs
and a share of the nation's
success.
Obama signs strategic pact
with Afghanistan
KABUL (Xinhua) -- US
President Barack Obama
signed the strategic partnership
agreement with his Afghan
counterpart Hamid Karzai in the
wee hours of Wednesday shortly
after he arrived in the Afghan
capital Kabul for a surprise visit,
local TV channels reported.
According to local Tolo
News, the agreement will
grant stay for some US troops
after 2014 when most of the
foreign soldiers withdraw.
Previously US officials
have said as many as 20,000
US troops may remain in
Afghanistan after the combat
mission ends, but Afghan
officials said it still has to be
negotiated. The surprise visit
and the signing of the US-
Afghan strategic partnership
pact coincided with the first
anniversary of the killing of al-
Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden
by US special forces in Pakistan.
The controversial agreement
has been welcomed by local
analysts as a security stabilising
factor in the militancy-ridden
Afghanistan.
YANGON (Xinhua) – human rights which might be
Secretary General of the difficult and be irreversible.
United Nations Ban Ki-moon He invited Suu Kyi to visit
met with Aung San Suu Kyi, UN headquarters in New York
leader of Myanmar's National at appropriate time.
League for Democrcy (NLD), Ban arrived Myanmar on
for the first time at her lakeside Sunday for the historic visit
residence on Tuesday, the last in light of significant changes
day of Ban's three-day official taking place in the country.
visit to the country. While in Nay Pyi Taw
Ban hailed Suu Kyi's on Monday, Ban met with
efforts to advance democracy President U Thein Sein and
in Myanmar, congratulating speakers of the two Houses
her for being elected as a Thura U Shwe Mann and U
parliamentarian and admiring Khin Aung Myint.
her decision to prepare for They discussed a wide
parliament debut despite range of issues relating to
oath word issue. He voiced promotion of cooperation
UN's support of the process between the UN and
to improve democracy and Myanmar. An agreement was
signed between the UN and
Myanmar on providing the
latter with technical assistance
and helping mobilise financial
support for the country's first
census since 1983.
Addressing the parliament
in Nay Pyi Taw on the day,
Ban urged the international
community to go further in
lifting, easing and suspending
trade restrictions and other
sanctions on Myanmar.
Before meeting with Suu
Kyi, Ban had toured eastern
Shan state and looked into
the ongoing project of drug
elimination implemented by
the UN Office on Drug and
Crime (UNODC).

VACANCY ANNOUCEMENT
Lao Brewery Co., Ltd seeking a dynamic and analytical sales planner
LBC is the leading beverage company in Laos. Our strong brands and operation
are experiencing constant growth, this results in a need to expand our support
functions. We currently wish to hire a dynamic and hard working person to join with
Beerlao family.
Position: Sales Administration Executive
Location: Vientiane
Main responsibilities
• Be responsible for yearly and monthly sales forecast of all the company
products
• Participate and prepare sales documents using in the PSS meeting for
business planning
• Do detail sales planning by sales rep, area and provinces
• Participate in sales evaluation
• Prepare daily/monthly and yearly sales reports
• Check and manage rebates, wholesalers and distributors stock
• Perform sales reports as requested
• Performs all related work as assigned by the company
Qualifications and competencies
• At least a Bachelors Degree in business or any related field. Possession of
Masters Degree will be advantages.
• Advanced computer skills (particularly Excel, PowerPoint, Word, previous
experience with databases an advantage)
• Strong analytical and planning capabilities and mindset
• Ability to cooperate and communicate across functions
• Minimum 3 years experience in similar role
• Independent and able to work without high level of supervision
• Good in written and spoken English
Please submit a letter of interest, CV with recent photo, degree, experiences
certificate and other concerned documents to:
Beerlao Head Office in Vientiane. Km12, Salakham Village. Tel: 1898 or 021 812 000
Selected people will be contracted for an interview and will have chance to
work with the Beerlao professional teams and get highest benefits.
Closing date: 18/5/2012
Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) is an International NGO working to support development
projects in Laos since 1989. According to NCA’s Strategic Plan 2011-15, our program priority
areas in Laos are: Gender-based Violence, Livelihood and trade, Climate change adaptation,
Social mitigation of HIV and AIDS and Access to quality Health Care.
JOB ANNOUNCEMENT LAO NATIONALS
Position : Provincial Manager
Duties Station : Long district, Luang Namtha Province
Starting Date : June 2012
As part of our Integrated Livelihoods Program for the Empowerment of Ethnic Minorities in
Long District, Luang Namtha province NCA is looking for a highly qualified national staff to
fill the position as Provincial Manager with the overall responsibility for the implementation of
NCA’s programs in Luang Namtha province.
Key responsibilities:
• Overall responsibility for the implementation of program activities in the province
including agriculture, animal husbandry, forest management, gender empowerment,
health and education .
• Ensuring effective implementation of the various program activities applying a rights
based approach through timely provision of inputs, effective backstopping, timely and
efficient delivery of outputs, and monitoring and evaluation of activities in accordance
with NCA policies and program strategies as well as administrative and financial
procedures.
• Lead effort for continued development of program interventions to ensure the most
efficient delivery of support to the programs rights holders and duty bearers.
• Direct supervision of more than 20 local staff and government and Government
counterparts.
Qualifications/Selection criteria:
• University degree or diploma in Agriculture, or related field.
• A minimum of 7 years proven senior program management experience.
• Proven experience in support and supervising staff
• Excellent communication skills and relevant experience working with Ethnic groups is
an advantage.
• Extensive experience in working with Government counterparts and other development
partners.
• Good communication skills in English and Lao both oral and written
All tasks are carried out in close cooperation with local authorities, District and Communities
targeted.
NCA offers accommodation in office compound, competitive salaries and excellent benefits
package including health insurance and pension scheme.
All interested candidates are invited to submit an application letter and CV to NCA Office:
338 Donpamai Road, Thaphalanxay Village, Sisattanak District, PO Box: 4804, Vientiane,
Lao PDR, Tel: (856-21) 315812, 354017,
or e-mail Address: nlov@nca.no
The closing date for applications in Friday 11th May, 2012 at 17.00 hours.
Vientiane Times
UNICEF reports declining
breastfeeding rates in East Asia
UNITED NATIONS (Xinhua)
-- The United Nations
Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
on Tuesday voiced alarm at
the decline of breastfeeding
across East Asia, and stressed
the need to ensure that
mothers understand the long-
term benefits of this important
practice for the survival and
development of their children.
According to the UN
agency, evidence shows that
exclusive breastfeeding for
the first six months of a baby’s
life not only improves their
future growth and educational
achievement, but also
significantly reduces national
health costs and helps prevent
chronic malnutrition.
The low breastfeeding
rates across East Asia result
from economic developments
that enable more women to
enter the workforce, as well
as “aggressive” marketing of
infant formula in the region,
UNICEF said in a news release
issued here.
“The falling rates of
breastfeeding across East Asia
are alarming,” said UNICEF’s
nutrition advisor for East Asia
and the Pacific, France Begin.
As little as five percent
of all mothers breastfeed in
Thailand, while around 10
percent do so in Vietnam.
In China, only 28 percent of
babies are breastfed.
“Mothers across the region
face increasing demands on
their time, often have to return
to work early after childbirth,
and may have limited
opportunities to breastfeed
or express their milk in the
workplace,” said Begin.
“At the same time, baby
food companies are targeting the
fast- growing economies in East
Asia with aggressive marketing
campaigns, persuading mothers
to give up breastfeeding and
purchase their products
despite the drawbacks for their
children,” she added.
To help stem the decline
in breastfeeding rates in the
region, UNICEF is calling on
baby food companies to adhere
to the International Code
of Marketing of Breastmilk
Substitutes. The Code does not
ban the sale of formulas, only
the marketing practices that
entice mothers to replace their
breastmilk with commercial
substitutes.
“When companies adhere to
the Code of Marketing it will be
easier for mothers to make an
informed choice,” noted Begin.
“No formula can substitute the
importance of breastmilk for
children’s survival, growth and
development.”
UNICEF is also working
closely with businesses in the
region to ensure that women
can enjoy the right to adequate
maternity leave and nursing
breaks. Founded in 1946,
UNICEF is the driving force
that helps build a world where
the rights of every child are
realised.
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
France’s Le Pen won’t endorse
anyone for president
protest ballot on Sunday. She
has set her sights are on June
legislative elections. To her
thousands of supporters, she
said, “vote according to your
conscience.”
Le Pen assailed the
conservative Sarkozy, who has
borrowed some of Le Pen’s
rhetoric about immigrants,
Muslims and the inhuman face
of Europe with its rules and
regulations in his campaign,
accusing him of impoverishing
the French and giving up
too much sovereignty to the
European Union.
Polls have consistently
suggested that Socialist
candidate Francois Hollande
will defeat Sarkozy in Sunday’s
final vote. The incumbent,
whose brash style has offended
many French, is trying to win
over the more than 6 million
voters who supported Le Pen,
who came in third in the first
round vote April 22.
Le Pen’s score in the first
Far-right National-Front party leader and candidate for the round, nearly 18 percent, was
presidential elections, Marine Le Pen, leading the party’s
traditional May Day march to honor the birth of Joan of Arc
the best ever by a candidate
in Paris. –Photo AP of the National Front, a party
widely viewed as xenophobic.
PARIS (AP) -- The leader likely to deprive President It propelled the party back
of France’s resurgent, anti- Nicolas Sarkozy of some onto the French political stage,
immigrant far right, Marine sorely needed votes. where for decades Le Pen’s
Le Pen, said on Tuesday she Le Pen, speaking at father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, had
would not endorse either her National Front party’s played the spoiler in elections.
candidate in the country’s traditional May Day rally, In the 2002 presidential vote,
presidential runoff, a move said she will cast a blank the elder Le Pen reached the
Thursday May 3, 2012 7
World
final round, shocking France
and the world.
“What effect does that
have on you, my dear friends,
to go from the role of idiot
who votes for Marine Le
Pen to that of arbiter in the
presidential election?” she
asked the crowd in front of
the ornate Paris Opera house.
“What effect does it have to go
from the status of racist fascist
and xenophobe to that of
French with real concerns?”
The National Front holds
a May Day rally each year to
honor Joan of Arc, the teen
age warrior born 600 years
ago who fought to oust the
English from France. Le Pen
laid a wreath at a gilded statue
of Joan of Arc on the path of
the march to the square in
front of the Opera.
Across town, Sarkozy
held a campaign rally of
his own Tuesday where he
reached out once again to the
far right, evoking France’s
Christian roots and a heritage
that must be dearly guarded -
a theme dear to the National
Front which fears that Muslim
immigrants are intent on
destroying old France.
In a radio interview
Tuesday morning, Sarkozy
was asked whether France has
too many immigrants, and he
answered, “yes.”

Vacancy Announcement
(Announcement No. 12/30)
Re-advertised

OPEN TO: All interested candidates

Vientiane Times
POSITION: Shipping Clerk (OBO), FSN-6
OPENING DATE: April 20, 2012
CLOSING DATE: May 4, 2012
WORK HOURS: Full-time; 40 hours/week
CONTRACT: Two Years
SALARY: Actual salary will be based on the qualifications of the applicant. Positions available
NOTE: THIS IS A LOCAL POSITION. THE SELECTED CANDIDATE WILL COME UNDER LOCAL LABOR LAW,
AND BE PAID ACCORDING TO THE EMBASSY’S LOCAL COMPENSATION PLAN. ALL ORDINARY RESIDENT
APPLICANTS MUST BE RESIDING IN LAOS AND HAVE THE REQUIRED WORK AND/OR RESIDENCY PERMITS
TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION. 1. Secretary (2 positions)
The U.S. Embassy in Vientiane is seeking an individual for the position of Shipping Clerk in OBO. The position is temporary, for
two years.
- Lao nationality, female (aged below 25, single).
BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION: - Advanced university degree in English (Secretary Diploma required)
The incumbent is responsible for tracking, clearing, and receiving at the Vientiane New Embassy Construction (NEC) Project Site - Good communication in spoken English and writing.
all diplomatic and commercial shipments intended for use on the project. He/she also assists with resolving any customs clearance
issues and overseeing the progress of local utility installation. - Computer skills in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Full position description is available in HR Office.
- Good character and friendly disposition.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- Able to work overtime if necessary.
1. Education: Completion of Secondary School is required.
2. Prior Work Experience: Two years experience in managing logistics, freight forwarding, and customs clearance for a
major corporation or government entity is required.
3.
4.
Language Proficiency: Level III (good working knowledge) of English and level IV (fluent) Lao.
Knowledge: Must develop knowledge of the Department of State regulations and procedures governing the shipment
2. Finance and accounting (1 position)
of household and personal effects, POV, and other private property, US Embassy Construction Materials, and U.S.
Government property. Must have detailed knowledge of the Lao government’s custom clearance, immigration and border - Lao nationality, aged below 30.
regulations and procedures. Must have knowledge of the abilities, general procedures, and quality of work of local shipping
carriers and transfer companies. Should have knowledge in design and construction practices, preparation of engineering - Advanced university degree in finance and accounting with 1 year
drawings and specification. Must have general knowledge of vehicle operation and safety.
5. Skills and Abilities: Must have a valid Lao driver’s license. Must have good organizational and interpersonal skills. Must
be tactful, yet effective, in dealing with host country customs, immigration, border and other officials, and with officials
experience.
of shipping, packing, and transfer companies, and with US Embassy and other project personnel. Ability to negotiate best
prices and services. Must be a MS Office package and engineering management software user. Ability to review utility - Experience in statistics and planning will be advantage.
construction drawings for code compliance.
- Computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and Accounting
HOW TO APPLY
Interested applicants for this position must submit the following for the application to be considered:
1. Universal Application for Employment (Form DS-174). Download the form at:
programmes.
http://laos.usembassy.gov/job_opportunities.html
2. Candidates who claim U.S. Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD-214 with their application. - Able to work overtime if necessary.
3. Any other documentation (e.g., essays, certificates, awards, copies of degrees earned) that
addresses the qualification requirements of the position as listed above.

SUBMIT APPLICATION TO
Human Resources Office
All interested candidates are invited to submit an application letter
American Embassy
Rue Bartholonie, That Dam and CV to Vientiane Times office during official working hours until
PO Box 114, Vientiane, Laos
(Hardcopy or e-mail attachments are accepted) May 25, 2012.
POINT OF CONTACT
Telephone: 856-21-267176
Fax: 856-21-267140
E-mail: VientianeHR@state.gov * Vientiane Times corner of Pangkham and Setthathirath Roads,
Interested persons should contact Embassy Human Resources Office for more information. Blank application forms may be picked Vientiane, Lao PDR.
up from the cabinet inside the Embassy entrance.
Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
CLOSING DATE FOR THIS POSITION: May 4, 2012 Tel: 021 216364
An Equal Opportunity Employer
8 Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times
Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Peace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
FOR INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANCIES IN THE PREPARATION OF
THE FOREST INVESTMENT PROGRAM
PROJECT 3: SCALING UP PARTICIPATORY SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT
Lao PDR is one of eight countries worldwide selected in October 2010 as a pilot country for the Forest
Investment Program (FIP), which is a targeted program of the Strategic Climate Fund (SCF), one of two
funds established under the Climate Investment Funds (CIF).
The Department of Forestry (DoF) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF), on behalf of the
Government of Lao PDR (GOL), presented a proposed $30 million FIP Investment Plan to the FIP Sub-
Committee (SC) for consideration on October 30, 2011 and received the SC approval on January 30,
2012. The approved FIP Lao Investment Plan which consists of 3 projects will be implemented under two
Ministries (MAF and MoNRE) in partnership with the international agencies as follows:
Project 1 ($13.34 million): Protecting Forests for Ecosystems Services – to be implemented by the
Department of Forest Resources Management (DFRM) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and
Environment (MoNRE) in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB);
Project 2 ($3.33 million): Smallholder Forestry – to be implemented by DoF under MAF in
partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC); and
Project 3 ($13.33 million): Scaling-up Participatory Sustainable Forest Management (PSFM) –
to be implemented by DoF under MAF in partnership with the World Bank.
In preparation of the FIP project under MAF, DoF, in collaboration with the World Bank (WB), has begun a
process to prepare the FIP Project 3: Scaling up Participatory Sustainable Forest Management (SUPSFM).
Based on a participatory and consultative process, the preparation of Project 3 will build on the experience
of the Sustainable Forestry for Rural Development Project (SUFORD), which is currently being implemented
in 16 Production Forest Areas (PFAs) located in 9 provinces. This new FIP funding to the government of Lao
PDR will be used to co-finance with the World Bank and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland (MFAF)
resources to scale up PSFM to as many of the remaining 35 PFAs. Other activities that will be financed by
this project are piloting Village Forestry (VF) and Smallholder Forestry (SHF) in forest land adjoining PFAs,
and contributing to enhancing various enabling frameworks including legal and governance, FLEGT (Forest
Law Enforcement Governance and Trade), REDD+ public awareness and MRV (Monitoring, Reporting and
Verification) with a focus on law enforcement, inter-ministerial coordination, and engagement of provincial
authorities in land-use planning and village forest allocation.
DoF is therefore seeking individuals to fill the following positions for four (4) short term international
consultants and four (4) national consultants in preparing the detailed components of Project 3 based on
the broad concepts identified in the approved FIP Investment Plan as described below:
1. SENIOR FORESTRY SPECIALIST AND TEAM LEADER (International) to lead a Team of Consultants
and work with GOL counterparts and various stakeholders in the Capital and in the provinces and
rural areas, including liaising with donors and coordinating with the MFAF Project Preparation Team,
in formulating SUPSFM. The preparation process will include assessing and collecting additional
information on past implementation of PSFM in PFAs and in potential project sites, analyzing different
issues affecting the implementation of PSFM, generating options to resolve those issues, and
consolidating the analytical work and various other inputs (recently approved government policies and
legislations) in preparing SUPSFM and its documents to a standard that is acceptable to GOL, the FIP
Sub-Committee, and the World Bank.
Experience and Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in forestry or natural resource management;
• Extensive experience in preparing and leading natural resource management projects;
• Minimum 15 years experience in managing projects financed by multilateral development agencies,
especially World Bank/IDA projects;
• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development; having prior experiences
working in Lao PDR, including Southeast Asia will be an advantage;
• Significant experience in working closely with and transferring capacity to local counterparts;
• Knowledge of climate change issues and related international processes will be an advantage;
• Proficiency in oral and written English.
The total duration of the assignment will be 8 months between May and December 2012. The duty station
will be at DoF in Vientiane, Lao PDR.
2. SOCIAL DEVELOMENT SPECIALIST (International) to lead in (i) identifying the potential social
impacts from the planned SUPSFM investments; (ii) preparing the stakeholder consultation plan, as
well as assisting DoF in conducting the consultation processes with the active participation of all key
stakeholders including line government ministries at the central and local levels, development partners,
ethnic communities, mass organizations (Lao Women’s Union), Lao Front for National Construction,
and civil societies organizations (CSOs); (iii) formulating village development and poverty alleviation
strategies and approaches, including participatory land-use planning and communal land titling; and
(iv) based on the outcomes of the potential social impact analysis, assisting DoF in the preparation of
social safeguards documents for the project including the ‘Social Management Framework’, ‘Ethnic
Group Development Framework’, and ‘Resettlement Management Framework’.
Experience and Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in social sciences, rural development, and related subject areas;
• Minimum 15 years experience working on social impact assessment, community development issues
related to communal land tenure, livelihood of ethnic minorities and other local population in relation
to forestry and natural resources, and on formulation of various social safeguard instruments following
World Bank policies and practices;
• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development, including related work experience
in Southeast Asia particularly in Lao PDR;
• Significant experience in working closely with and transferring capacity to local counterparts;
• Proficiency in oral and written English.
The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months between May and July 2012. The duty station will be
Vientiane, Lao PDR.
3. ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARD SPECIALIST (International) to support (i) identification of the
main environmental risks associated with the proposed investments as laid out in the proposed FIP
Investment Plan and detailed activities, linking the environmental risk identification to that of key social
risks identified by the Social Safeguard Specialist; (ii) stakeholder consultation processes toward the
formulation of the environmental management framework of SUPSFM; (iii) providing recommendations
on mitigation to minimize the risks/impacts, as well as developing the Payment for Ecosystems Services
mechanisms that are relevant to the proposed project areas; and (iv) the formulation of environmental
safeguards documents related to natural habitats, forests, physical cultural resources, access restriction
process, and pest management.
Experience and Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in environmental sciences and related subject areas;
• Minimum 15 years experience working on ESIA in relation to forestry and natural resources and on formulating
environmental safeguard frameworks following World Bank safeguard policies and practices;
• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development, including related work experience
in Southeast Asia particularly in Lao PDR;
• Significant experience in working closely with and transferring capacity to local counterparts;
• Knowledge of climate change issues and related international processes will be an advantage;
• Proficiency in oral and written English.
Thursday May 3, 2012 9
The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane,
Lao PDR.
4. PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOMENT SPECIALIST (International) to support the (i) analyses of issues
related to current practices in timber harvesting from production forests; (ii) review of relationships
among MAF, MOIC, and MOF to address the gaps in and identify opportunities for defining clear
roles, improved coordination, sharing records and information, and reviewing development (including
legislation and practices) in timber processing businesses, as well as programs to promote forest
products value chains.
Experience and Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in forest industries and business management and related subject areas;
• Minimum 15 years experience working in the forest industry covering different aspects including timber
harvesting; locating, tooling, and operating processing plants; industry business management; and
marketing of forest products.
• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development, including related work experience
in Southeast Asia particularly in Lao PDR;
• Knowledge of non-timber forest products will be an advantage;
• Proficiency in oral and written English.
The total duration of the assignment will be 1 month from May-June 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane,
Lao PDR.
5. ECONOMIST AND FINANCIAL ANALYST (National) to assist the Team in economic and financial
assessment of the components and sub-components of SUPSFM, particularly in analyzing and
estimating project benefits and costs, formulating the project financing plan, and assessing risks and
their mitigation.
Experience and Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in resource economics and related subject areas;
• Minimum 7 years experience working in forest or natural resources management, particularly in
preparing projects in their economic and financial aspects.
• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development;
• Knowledge of climate change issues will be an advantage;
• Proficiency in oral and written English.
The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane,
Lao PDR.
6. AGROFORESTRY AND NTFP SPECIALIST (National) to support (i) the identification of criteria for
zoning PFAs, particularly Agroforestry and NTFP management zones; (ii) assessing the suitability of
degraded land in PFAs for sustainable agroforestry-based livelihoods and enterprises; (iii) generating
and assessing the suitability of sustainable agroforestry-based livelihood options; (iv) assessing the
potential of PFAs for sustainable management of NTFP resources and developing village enterprises
based on NTFP processing and marketing; and (v) incorporating the results of analyses in the
preparation of SUPSFM.
Experience and Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in agriculture/agroforestry/forestry and related subject areas;
• Minimum 7 years experience working in areas related to agroforestry and NTFP based livelihoods and
enterprises development;
• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development;
• Proficiency in oral and written English.
The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane,
Lao PDR.
7. SOCIAL AND ETHNIC GROUPS SPECIALIST (National) to work with the Team particularly the
(International) Social Development Specialist in (i) development of the consultation plan and
conducting stakeholder consultation processes toward strengthening the participation of women, ethnic
communities, and mass organizations/civil society/non-governmental organizations; (ii) analyses of the
potential social impacts of the proposed investments and implementation of the SUPSFM; (iii) assisting
DoF in the formulation of village development and poverty alleviation strategies and approaches; and
(iv) providing inputs to the preparation of social safeguards documents.
Experience and Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in social science, rural development, and related subject areas;
• Minimum 7 years experience working in areas related to the analyses of social issues in village
development and participation of villagers, especially women and ethnic groups.
• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development;
• Proficiency in oral and written English.
The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane,
Lao PDR.
8. BIODIVERSITY AND FOREST ECOSYSTEMS SERVICES SPECIALIST (National) to work with
the Project Preparation Team in aspects related to biodiversity and forest ecosystems services
in production forestry situations, and support the Team particularly the Environmental Safeguard
Specialist in (i) participation in stakeholder consultation processes toward the formulation of the
Project’s environmental management framework; (ii) analyses of potential environmental impacts, with
special focus on biodiversity, of proposed investments and implementation of proposed activities; (iii)
providing recommendations on mitigation to minimize the risks/impacts, as well as developing Payment
for Ecosystems Services mechanisms that are relevant to the proposed project areas; and (iv) providing
inputs to the preparation of various environmental safeguards documents.
Experience and Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in environmental sciences and related subject areas;
• Minimum 7 years experience working in areas related to conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems
services in production forestry situations and to environmental safeguards.
• Knowledge of and experience in developing Payments for Environmental Services will be an
advantage.
• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development;
• Proficiency in oral and written English.
The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane,
Lao PDR.
Expression of Interest including CV and description of similar assignments must be submitted not later than
Friday, 26th of May 2012 to the person and address below.
Attention:
Mr. Khamsene Ounekham
Planning Division, Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
P.O Box 2932, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Tel/fax: + 856 21 219561
Email: ounekham_k@yahoo.com
10 Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times

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            
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          
         
         
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           
          
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

 • 
•            
 • 
•           • 
 
 

 


• 
•     
• 

• 
• 
• 
•          


• 
•          

•          

 
 

              
           
            


                          
              

           

             

 • 

•            



• 
           

               

           
• 

• 

• 
 

 

 


             


            
               
         

              




 


• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 
• 
• 

• 










  

  
 
 
Vientiane Times Thursday May 3, 2012 11
12 Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times Thursday May 3, 2012 13
14 Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times

Opinion

What the Lao papers say

Take care of your health
in the hot season
The hot season is upon us
once more and it’s causing
difficulties as far as eating and
sleeping are concerned.
In the winter, we closely
watched our health to avoid
illness and we should do the
same now that the weather is
hot.
People should be wary of
diseases and conditions such
Roadside adverts can
cause traffic accidents
as diarrhoea, typhoid, fever, weather tends to dry up Roadside advertisements suitable as warning signs. special occasions such as
dizziness, and cholera. This leaves which in turn can can cause accidents if they I am also concerned about Lao New Year and are then
means we need to be more easily spread a fire if ignited. are inappropriately placed or signs that advertise public taken down. But sometimes
careful about the food we eat The heat also dries up the designed. events, which are put up along signs are left up for a long
and should avoid eating raw soil and turns it to dust, Over Lao New Year, this roadsides and footpaths. These time. Their message becomes
or uncooked food because it which can lead to breathing writer was pleased with the signs can distract drivers, faded and the signs can be
can easily lead to diarrhoea. problems. It’s also important road safety signs that were who may be tempted to turn blown over in strong winds,
Drinking too much cold water to keep our houses clean if put up because their content their heads to read them, get stuck in trees, or fall to
and eating sour fruit can also we want to stay healthy. was short and concise. Their which could easily lead to an the ground.
have the same effect. --Vientiane Mai Daily, size and appearance were accident. Many of these signs are a
In addition, the hot April 30 appropriate, and they were In a recent case, a young danger to road users, so I call
placed high up. motorbike rider crashed into on the relevant officials to

Vacant plots of land unsightly I have talked about this

Vacant lots play a strong
part in the appearance and
cleanliness of Vientiane.
The government has set
regulations and called on the
public to address this issue,
but these efforts have not
resolved the problem.
Some lots, especially
alongside main roads, have
no buildings on them. Many
are vacant and are ignored by
their owners, who do not use
or maintain them, creating
problem before. Some signs
don’t convey any meaningful
a car while he was looking at
a sign.
Road safety signs are
address this issue to prevent
further accidents.
--Vientiane Mai Daily,
message and thus are not sometimes put up over May 1
pockets of unsightliness and Meeting (ASEM) Summit,
disorder. the Mayor of Vientiane has
In some cases, the issued an order calling on land Attention Vientiane Times subscribers
authorities are unable to owners to take responsibility
identify the owners of these for maintaining their land.
empty plots of land. This is one The order states that
of many issues in Vientiane if an owner violates the
that need addressing. Land in regulation, they will be
many areas has been ignored, given a warning, and if they
with weeds and trees growing ignore it further, they will be
We at Vientiane Times would like to inform our subscribers that we now offer
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Vientiane Times Thursday May 3, 2012 Opinion 15

Restructuring the planet’s food system

WASHINGTON (IPS) -- Thirty
percent of food is wasted globally,
while one billion people go hungry
and another billion are obese.
The current food system is broken
and is failing to meet the world’s
nutritional needs, says Danielle
Nierenberg, “Nourishing the Planet”
project director at Worldwatch
Institute.
Worldwatch and the Barilla Center
for Food & Nutrition recently released
“Eating Planet 2012” to highlight the
challenges faced by today’s food and
agricultural system and the benefits of
making the system more sustainable,
accessible and fair.
“While we talk a lot about the bad
news (in the report), the focus is on how
agriculture can be the solution for some
of the world’s most pressing problems,
whether it’s hunger and obesity or
youth unemployment. We really think
that food and how we produce it and
how we eat it is a significant solution,”
Nierenberg said.
Excerpts from the interview
follow.
Q: Farmers don’t make much.
Can they afford to be sustainable?
Will they be able to mass-produce
without the usual fertiliser?
A: I think what we are seeing as fuel
prices continue to rise, it’s becoming
harder and harder for farmers all over
the world to afford agriculture inputs
that are highly fossil fuel intensive like
fertiliser, pesticide and other chemicals.
And there really are no signs of fuel
prices going down soon.
So I think the whole issue of
whether organic or sustainable
agriculture can feed the world is not
really the question, it’s whether we
can continue the food system based
on fossil fuel intensive resources. I
don’t think it can.
We have one billion hungry
people in the world and we have an
industrialised agricultural system
that’s supposed to be feeding these
people, but it’s not. (Various studies)
comparing the two show that the
industrial system is not making that
much more in yield and, in some
cases, yields are lower.
We are not feeding with the current
system, anyway. So we have to figure
out less fossil fuel intensive methods
to make sure everyone is fed.
Q: What are some of the
solutions you propose?
A: In “Eating Planet”, the focus
is on nutrition. There is a lot of talk
in agricultural development on how
to improve yields and what kind of
agricultural system is best but there
are only a few people who bridge
the gap between agriculture and
nutrition.
It’s not just about how much food
we are producing, but what kind of
food we are producing. Are we trying
to introduce more varieties of highly
nutritious beans, vegetables and fruit?
There’s so much focus on the amount
of calories we are producing, but no
focus on nutrients that are present
in those calories. This is why we
are seeing things like obesity and
diabetes as a global epidemic, not just
happening in rich countries but also in
poor countries. How can we make the
agricultural system more nutritious?
At the World Bank, the nutrition
people are not talking to the
agricultural people. That sort of thing
needs to change. We need to make
sure that public health professionals
and nutritionists are talking to farmers,
food processors and food businesses
to make sure the food is as nutritious
Danielle Nierenberg --Credit:Courtesy of Danielle Nierenberg
as it can be.
Q: Let’s consider the US for
example. Here nutritious organic
food can be expensive and people
might not want to pay that much
or are able to. How can that be
changed?
A: A lot of subsidies that have
existed in American agriculture in the
last 50 years have been focused on
industrial agriculture and producing
commodity crops like corn and
soybeans. Organic food is expensive
because farmers are growing it on a
smaller scale.
One reason for this is because it’s
still not receiving the subsidies the
big farmers have. To help small- and
medium-scale farmers, we can funnel
more of the agricultural funding for
farmers who are more sustainable,
using less fertiliser and more organic
compounds. It’ll help struggling
farmers and make it more affordable
for consumers.
Q: Fast-food restaurants like
McDonalds are now exporting to
other countries, changing the eating
habits of those people. How would
you address that?
A: Factory farming or concentrated
operations, this agricultural system
really started here in the US and in
Europe, (and) is now spreading to
the Philippines, Sub-Saharan Africa,
South Asia. The environmental,
public health and animal welfare
impact of this is really extreme. You
have huge amounts of waste that
can’t be utilised by farmlands, surface
fertiliser is becoming toxic waste,
there’s tropical water pollution,
surface water pollution.
The impact of this fast-food diet
in developing countries they weren’t
exposed to 30 or 40 years ago is
leading to the same types of problems
- diabetes, obesity, heart disease and
sometimes types of cancer.
The thing about this system is,
whether it’s industry farming or the
fast-food culture, is that it’s very
dependent on cheap sources of grain…
Agriculture can’t be seen as sort of an
industry, it’s part of the landscape.
More than any other industry it relies
on clean energy and water.
What we are calling for is a
restructuring of the entire food
system. One that is more regional and
local and relies on resources already
available.
Q: How realistic is that? What
would you suggest as the basic
foundation for a system like that?
A: This transition isn’t going to
happen overnight. It requires actions
from all levels - businesses so that
they make their production systems
more sustainable, and action from
consumers, knowing where food
comes from and demanding safe,
fairly produced food. We want food
that is more animal-welfare friendly.
Finally, policymakers need to
push a lot of these changes, without
that we won’t see huge investments
in agriculture. Really, for the last 30
years agriculture has been ignored by
the international donor communities.
Now, because of the food crisis, we
are seeing a shift to ‘oh gosh, we need
to invest in agriculture or we are going
to be in a lot of trouble.’
We can’t ignore agriculture any
longer whether we are policymakers or
soccer moms. We really need to make
sure that agriculture is something that
sustains and not just some extractive
industry.

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16 Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times

Feature

How cool can you get?

Khetsirin Pholdhampalit
THAILAND (The Nation,
ANN) -- You could beat this
blistering summer heat by
strapping a pair of ice packs
on either side of your head, but
a far more socially acceptable
method would be to tuck into
the Ice Cream Festival. And
you wouldn’t look like you
borrowed a hat from Lady
Gaga.
The Ice Cream Festival
is now underway at Central
Ram Indra in Bangkok and
is floating among the chain’s
other branches through most
of May.
You can have all the vanilla,
chocolate and strawberry
ice cream you want, but get
festive instead and dare to
try something new. Among
the unusual concoctions on
offer is papaya ice cream
with sweet, salty and tangy
salad toppings. There’s also
a sorbet made with not-quite-
ripe mango and nam pla waan
dipping sauce.
And “dare” is the operative
word when it comes to tonkatsu
ice cream. Yes, it involves a
deep-fried pork cutlet.
More than 30 different
purveyors of sweets are
participating in the festival.
We conducted thorough
investigations of three of them
but were soon too full to carry
on.
It’s siblings Panjarat and
Navarat Wongnapapan who
came up with the “som tam
ice cream” with the salad
ingredients. At Onemore Ice
Cream, they just couldn’t
resist piling dried shrimp,
hot chillies, shredded carrot
and chopped guava on top of
papaya sorbet. It’s only 59
baht (US$1.91) and comes in
a little terracotta bowl you can
take away.
Meanwhile a miniature
terracotta boat transports
papaya ice cream topped with
guava, pomelo, pineapple,
kiwi, dragon fruit, carrot,
roasted peanuts and sweet-
and-salty sauce.
“We don’t just create
unusual flavours and unique
presentations - good taste is
always the first priority,” says
Panjarat. The shop’s name
is Onemore, she points out.
“One is never enough.”
The siblings - who’ve
studied ice cream “cow-to-
cone” at various institutes -
came up with a new invention
for the festival: mieng kham
ice cream. You get all the usual
mieng kham ingredients - lime,
ginger, shallot, peanuts, dried
shrimp and coconut wrapped
in a green cha plu leaf with
roasted-coconut sauce - but with
ice cream! And it’s great!
Over at i-maru, run by
Foodie Plus, Marut Chalotorn
has addressed the fundamental
paradox of ice cream - that it’s
meant to cool you down in the
heat but can’t withstand the
heat itself.
The ice cream in Marut’s
15-inch Mochi Cream is made
from Thai jasmine rice flour,
soybeans and milk. You can
pile it up as high as its name
suggests and it will stay up
there, even when hot chocolate
is poured on top.
This is the kind of
brainstorm that gets attention
at the Thai Rice Foundation
and the National Innovation
Agency, which gave Marut
the runner-up Rice Innovation
Award last year. (The winning
idea unfortunately had nothing
to do with ice cream.)
The Mochi Cream has a
texture similar to that of chilled
pudding, with the chewiness
of mochi, the Japanese rice-
cake dough. It costs 25 to 30
baht (US$.97) for a 70-gram
cup and you can decorate it
with brown sugar, soy powder,
berries, corn butter, kiwi fruit
or the aforementioned hot
chocolate.
Marut explains that his
dessert is fully half jasmine
rice flour. “The ice cream can
hold its form overnight, but
the cold gradually dissipates.
“There are more options
these days when it comes to
rice grains, and this goodie
will appeal to people who
don’t insist on straightforward
plain rice.”
Marut is the man behind
the successful two-year-old
brand i-maru, which offers
egg- and breast-shaped ice
cream. The wrapper - made
from the same rubber they use
to make baby pacifiers - serves
as both mould and container.
Miluku is the “breast”
ice cream, made with rich
Hokkaido milk in 10 flavours,
including Lemon Cheese,
Japanese Melon, Banana Milk
and Vanilla Butterscotch. You
can suck one up for 39 or 49
baht (US$1.5) . You just cut
off the nipple (careful, it might
spurt) and drink the contents.
Marut’s 39 baht (US$1.2)
“eggs” hold tamago ice cream
made with durian and mango.
You “peel the egg” by gently
rolling it to warm the surface
and then tap it with a pointed
stick. The rubber wrap pops
off. Again, be prepared for a
possible explosion if the ice
cream has softened.
Feeling wholesomely
nurtured, we waddled finally
to Teppan Ice. The name on
the kiosk is also the name of
its only dish, a soymilk ice
cream formed in a severely
chilled skillet.
The milk is poured into
a pan that’s been cooled to
minus-10 degrees and freezes
in about two minutes. The idea
is to reduce the cholesterol
content, and the healthy ice
cream gets even healthier with
the toppings.
You can have Soymilk
flavour, Ginger Soymik,
Dango (like the Japanese
dumpling), Wasabi and Green
Tea, each 129 baht (US$4).
The toppings range from
whipped cream and soybean
powder to mochi, dango and a
crispy rice cake.
The Vanilla Group, known
for its chic Vanilla Cafe, runs
Teppan Ice, but so far it has
no permanent outlets of its
own. Keep an eye out for a
Teppan Ice booth at events
showcasing frozen desserts
and Japanese culture. Then, if
you know at least 150 people
willing to try some, you can
ask about catering a party.
The Ice Cream Festival
continues until May 7 at
Central Ram Indra, then
moves to Central Chaeng
Wattana from May 11 to 17
and Central Pinklao from May
18 to 24. Visit www.Onemore-
IceCream.com.

Vacancy for Lao National: Projects Manager (based in Oudomxay)

POWER International has been working in Lao PDR since 1995 to support people
with disabilities and promote their rights, in close partnership with national and
provincial Disabled People’s Associations. Power International is recruiting a Lao
National to manage projects aimed at improving
1) access to education for children with disabilities, and
2) employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, in Oudomxay province.
The position is based at the POWER office in Oudomxay with frequent field work
to the districts.

Responsibilities:
• Manage all aspects of project cycle,
• Plan, monitor and report on project activities,
• Implement all activities in target areas (7 districts of Oudomxay province),
• Manage staff and budgets,
• Work with government partners and negotiate at provincial, district and village levels,
• Work closely with the Oudomxay Disabled Peoples Association,
• Report regularly to Vientiane Office Programme Manager.

Qualifications / Experience:
• Higher education in relevant field.
• At least 3 years experience in development work, preferably in the education and/
or disability sectors,
• Good experience in preparing project plans and budgets and managing
implementation,
• Significant experience in staff management and supervision, community
development and participatory approaches with children and communities,
• Understanding of human and disability rights issues,
• Good knowledge of English (speaking, writing),
• Computer knowledgeable in Windows MS Office including Word, Excel and email.

Please send detailed CV along with a letter of interest (don’t send copies of
diplomas)
by Friday 25 May to: Recruitment, Power International Laos,
Ban Thongkhang, Lao-thai Road, Soi 5, Vientiane, Lao PDR.
Email: thongsy51@hotmail.com

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview

People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Vientiane Times
Climate change and its impact on the
Lao and Cambodian people
Phoonsab Thevongsa
W
hen we refer to
climate change,
we immediately
think of the
impacts it has on the livelihoods
of large numbers of people, and
the habitats of aquatic species
on all continents.
As climate change
intensifies, so do the threats
to the environment and
ecosystems because they are
affected by variations in the
weather such as temperature,
rainfall and river flow. In
recent years these have led
to widespread flooding and
drought, especially in the
Mekong Basin countries.
Among the lower Mekong
Basin countries, Laos and
Cambodia have been identified
as the most vulnerable, in
part because of their limited
capacity to cope with climate
related risks.
Climate change is affecting
the sustainable development
of most developing countries
in Asia. It compounds the
pressures on natural resources
and the environment, which
in turn have profound effects
on people’s health, safety and
livelihoods - especially where
poor people are concerned.
“Recently, researchers
have told us that the most
noticeable changes in the
weather have been the
increasing number of hot days,
with higher temperatures,
whereas the numbers of cold
days have been decreasing.
This will have an effect on
ecosystems, especially the
lives of animals and plants, as
well as leading to an increase
in disease,” said Dr Robert
Mather of the International
Union for Conservation of
Nature (IUCN) Southeast
Asia.
He said that while Laos is
considered to be vulnerable to
the impacts of climate change,
the situation here is not as
serious as in coastal countries
like Thailand, Vietnam and
Cambodia.
The IUCN runs a project to
strengthen the ability of local
governments and communities
to prepare for and adapt to
future climate risks in some
coastal provinces, especially
in the Mekong Delta region,
which is one of the areas of
the world that is predicted to
be most affected by the rising
sea level.
According to the National
Disaster Management Office,
for decades Laos has been
experiencing small-scale
weather extremes, which
affect over 10 percent of the
population. Recurrent floods
and droughts are considered
to be the main natural hazards
in addition to fires, landslides,
erosion, tropical storms, and
disease epidemics, while
floods mostly occur during the
Larger boats that ply the Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia are having trouble making the crossing because
of the low water level.
Whenever it
turns very hot or
cold, the lives of
the inhabitants
of Tonle Sap’s
floating village
get even more
difficult. This
photo shows a
woman washing
her face in dirty
water taken from
the lake.
monsoon season from May-
September.
People became especially
aware of the impacts of
climate change in 2008 when
the Mekong River rose and
Vientiane suffered flooding
not experienced since the city
was inundated in 1966. In the
dry season, the Mekong was
so low it was easy to cross the
border to Thailand.
In 2009-2011, several
typhoons struck Laos, notably
Ketsana, Haima and Nock-ten.
They brought torrential rain,
high winds and widespread
flooding, which took the lives
of many people. Furthermore,
thousands of people were left
homeless and large numbers
of livestock died, while
many hectares of crops were
severely damaged.
This has led the government
and Non-government
Organisations to set up
projects that address planning,
coping and raising awareness
among local communities, to
help them adapt to climate
change.
One of the major ongoing
projects in Vientiane is
riverbank protection. Sand is
being taken from the exposed
Mekong riverbed to build up
the riverbank along Fa Ngum
Road, to prevent further
flooding of the city.
According to the World
Fish Centre, climate change
is directly affecting fishery
production along many
pathways. Fish reproduction,
growth and migration
patterns are all affected by
temperature, rainfall and
hydrology. Changes in these
parameters will therefore shift
patterns of species abundance
and availability.
Mrs Chanthone, a 57 year
old fisherwoman living on
Khone Island in Champassak
province, says that in the past
she could catch more than 30-
40 kg of fish per day, but now
it’s hard to catch just 7 or 8kg
per day.
“I don’t know what
‘climate change’ means, but I
do realise that the weather is
getting hotter every day and
the rain sometimes comes at
the wrong time. The level of
the Mekong is falling rapidly,
especially in the dry season,
which is affecting fish breeding
because fewer fish can migrate
upstream to the places where
they traditionally breed.”
Mr Sitthisone, who
works on a fish farm in
Sikhay village, Sikhottabong
district, Vientiane, has similar
concerns about the fluctuating
level of the Mekong, because
the poor quality of the water is
causing fish to die.
Just across the border,
Cambodia is considered to
be more affected by climate
change than Laos, because it
Thursday May 3, 2012 Feature 17
A Cambodian fishermen helps his family to prepare their nets for
the next day’s catch. They say it’s getting more difficult to catch
large amounts of fish because of the lower water level in the
Mekong and competition from large-scale fisheries.
has a coastline. According to
the Cambodian Ministry of
the Environment, the direct
impact of climate change is
reflected in changes to the
natural rainfall pattern, higher
temperatures and the rising sea
level, which result in flooding
or drought.
Extreme weather conditions Mrs Chanthone says that in the past she could haul in 30-40 kg
can harm fish production in of fish every day but now her daily catch has dropped to just 7 or
8kg.
Cambodia by depleting stocks,
and destroying fishery and
aquaculture infrastructure.
Changes in fishery production
are likely to have the greatest
impact on the people who
depend on fishing because
it is their primary livelihood
activity.
As these people are often
poorer and more marginal
than those who own land and
have other primary sources of
income, the effects of climate
change on fisheries can harm
those who are least equipped
to cope.
Two boatmen named
Bmoby and Vanna said they During the high heat of summer, boys cool off in a waterway
grew up in the Chong Kneas that pumps run-off from the Mekong River to a canal in Kaoliew,
floating village, just 20 Sikhottabong district.
minutes drive from central
Siem Reap. They can clearly it difficult for larger boats to the lake for their livelihood.
see environmental changes in cross the lake. The dirty water The future impact of
the floating village on Tonle results in smaller fish stocks, climate change in Laos and
Sap. In the past the water in and the larger species are Cambodia will depend on the
this huge lake was fresh and increasingly difficult to catch. readiness of the two countries
there were plenty of fish that The men said that rising to adapt, including reducing
they could easily catch. temperatures made the lives of vulnerability and building
However, the water level people in the floating village their capacity to cope with the
has now fallen, which makes harder, since they depended on risks.
18 Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times
Art & Entertainment
Behind the glamour: S.M. stars What’s On
Vientiane

retrace their beginnings - The 6th Lao Women Artists Exhibition at the National Institute of
Fine Arts in Ban Chao Anou until May 10, open until 5.30 pm.
- Action with Lao Children Library: Open Mon to Fri 9am to 6pm and
(Korea Herald) -- Ever Sat 9am to 3pm. Come in and read and borrow Lao, Japanese, Thai
wondered what it takes to be and English books. Located in Ban Saphangmor, Xaysettha district.
- Permanent UXO exhibition and the provision of artificial limbs for
BoA or a member of Girls’
victims. COPE Visitor Centre, Khouvieng Road, opposite Green
Generation?
Park Hotel. Every day: 9am-6pm.
Expect to spend at least - Chess Club meets at 1pm every Sunday at City Inn on Pangkham
seven to eight years training Road, Vientiane.
before making your debut. Contact: Gabriel_smit@hotmail.com
Forget hanging out with your - Women’s International Group. For activities and times email
friends ― you go straight to wiglaosmembership@gmail.com
singing lessons right after - Toastmasters Club meets every Sun. from 4-6pm at
school. And if you are not Khopchaideu restaurant (3F). Everyone is welcome.
from Seoul, where the vocal - Meditation at Vat Sokpaluang every Saturday, 4-5.30pm.
and dance training take place, - English Language Church Service every Sunday 10am at the
you may have to live away ARDA Language Centre (near the Mercure, formerly Novotel). Call
from your family, even if you (021) 261441, or visit http://www.the-chs.org
are only a fifth grader. - European Food Festival on May 9 at the National Culture Hall.
Korea’s major K-pop - A seminar on scholarships to study in Japan 2013 will be held on
and talent agency S.M. May 12 from 9-12am at the National University of Laos.
Entertainment has created a Luang Prabang Rules Football Club -Meet
documentary film ― titled “I
at 6.30 pm on Thursdays for
AM” ― to once again glorify
Big Brother Mouse helps training, please contact the
their New York concert at Members of Girls’ Generation pose at a press meeting promoting their upcoming non-fiction film “I
Madison Square Garden last young people practise their LE President at president_
AM” at CGV Yeongdeungpo in Seoul, Monday. –Photo Lee Sang-sub The Korea herald
year. The movie links the English at free drop-in sessions, laoelephants@laopdr.com
highly successful event to the told reporters during a press a dancer against all odds, I only four staff members at 9-11am and 5-7pm, open every for details and other meeting
idols’ years of tears and sweat. meeting on Monday. “I very wanted to explore how these 32 S.M., including the CEO day. Just come to our office at areas.
Yet it seems like the 32 often missed my parents. individuals made it through the Lee Soo-man,” Kang told 9am or 5pm in Ban Vat Nong, Buffalos Rugby - men’s
S.M. stars ― the legendary That’s when I regretted my seven to eight years of training, reporters. around the corner from 3 Nagas rugby training Tuesday
boy band H.O.T. member decision the most.” which equals about 43,800 “We didn’t have many Hotel. www.bigbrothermouse. evenings 6 - 7:30pm. All
Kang Ta, pop singer BoA, The agency unveiled a hours, just to become who things. We were trained at this com. welcome. Sunday morning
and members of S.M.’s top seven-minute trailer of the film they wanted to be. The climax house located in a residential Traditional Arts and social touch rugby - male,
idol groups Girls’ Generation, during the Monday event. It was is, of course, the New York area of Songpa district of Seoul. Ethnology Centre. Open 9am- female all ages welcome.
Super Junior, SHINee, TVXQ both refreshing and touching to concert at Madison Square There were no mirrors, so we 6pm, Tues-Sun. Free. For either, contact
and f(x) ― didn’t have to see the idols’ elementary school Garden, which has been the had to use house windows www.taeclaos.org John (020 77140176), Bob
do much extra work for the days as trainees, from Girls’ dream venue for most of the 32 at night to check our dance Ock Pop Tok (020 55510443) and Tom (020
upcoming picture. “I AM” is Generation member Seohyun’s idol members featured in the moves. The most expensive Living Crafts Centre open daily 2281111) for more information.
a cinematically edited version pudgy, baby face when she film. The movie is also about meal we were allowed to order for free guided tour. Natural Wild Hogs Rugby training
of S.M.’s 16 years of archived awkwardly introduces herself, growing up in that sense.” was jajangmyeon (Korean- dyes, weaving and batik at the Polytechnic pitch
video footage ― from the to Super Junior member Sung- Among the 32 featured style Chinese black bean drawing classes daily. 9am- in Phonpapao village,
idols’ younger days as aspiring min’s struggling moments stars, the oldest is Kang Ta, from noodles). Once my fellow 5pm. Free transfer from Ock Sisattanak, at 8pm on Tues.
stars and S.M.-trainees to the during a voice lesson, being S.M.’s first boy band H.O.T. member Tony ordered japchae Pop Tok shops in town to the and Thurs. Optional Saturday
day of the Madison Garden scolded by his trainer. The popular five-member rice and got into trouble for two
weaving centre on the Mekong. touch session at That Luang
triumph last year. Director Choi Jin-seong group, who are now often days. It wasn’t even imaginable
Call 071 212597 at 5:30pm, Sunday fitness at
“Oh, this is why they taped said the upcoming picture is considered the forerunners of to dream of performing at
us back in the days,” says f(x)- very much like “Billy Elliot,” K-pop idol bands, made their Madison Square Garden at the Royal Palace National That Luang at 5:30pm. Call
member Sulli in the trailer, as the 2000 British drama about debut in 1996 and disbanded time.” Museum. Open 8.30-11.30am 020 77615677
she watched footage of her an 11-year-old boy who dreams in 2001. Kang shared the early The S.M. singers kicked and 1.30-4.30pm from or Chris 020 77834385.
younger days as a trainee. of becoming a ballet dancer. days of S.M. Entertainment off their famous world tour in Wednesday to Monday. Lao Mahout Netball team
“I’m from Busan, so I’ve “This film is all about before the debut of H.O.T., as August of 2010, and performed UXO Visitor Centre. Open trains every Tues. at 6pm at
had to live away from my having a dream,” said Choi well as his life as a trainee back at seven major international Mon-Fri 8.30am-12 and Vientiane International School.
parents since I was a fifth during the event. “Just like in the 1990s. venues, including Zenith de 2-5pm. Right turn just before For more information contact
grader,” the girl group member how Billy somehow becomes “At the time, there were Paris and Tokyo Dome. Last President’s Monument on the Saeng on 020 77442689.
year’s New York concert Northern Rd. Lions Women’s Rugby from
was the last show of the tour, 7.30pm on Tues and Thurs at
Vacancy Announcement performed at the “dream
venue” Madison Square
Museums
Lao National Museum
the Polytechnic pitch. Contact
Noui on 020 4905090 or
Garden ― where mega pop on Samsenthai Road opposite Maggie on 020 54656153.
S J K Lao Co., Ltd stars such as Michael Jackson, National Culture Hall. Open Youth Community Rugby
Our Company Beyonce and Lady Gaga have Mon-Fri during office hours Sessions
Global Company with Top Priority Placed on our Customers held concerts. The 15,000 seats and on weekends from 9am to Training for U15 Boys and
were all sold out. 4pm. U17 Girls at the Polytechnic
 SJK Lao co., Ltd was established in 2011 as a subsidiary of Seoul Alloy Metal Co., Ltd “When I first got on the stage Horphakeo Museum pitch in Phonpapao village,
(SAM) of Korea with a purpose of exploding potential mineral operations here in Lao PDR. of Madison Square Garden, the on Setthathirat Road Sisattanak, at 7:30pm on
first thing I did was to look at Wed. Training for children of
opposite Vat Sisaket. Open
Now our company is looking for new employees many positions in the following: my feet,” said U-Know Yunho
Mon-Sun during office hours. all ages at 9am on Sunday.
of TVXQ.
Aqua-fitness Fri 10-11am;
1. / Accounting staff (01 position) 7. / Translator staff (02 Korean and 02 English) “I’ve been a huge fan of
Michael Jackson, and it was just Sports Sat 11-12. Please contact
2. / General Affairs (01 position) 8. / Marketing, Logistics staff (01 position) male. Sarah at 020 54147069 or
3. / Mine staffs (03 Surveys, 01 Drilling, 9. / Quality control staff (05 position) amazing to stand on the stage
where Jackson once performed. Luang Prabang Laos Open from nsteam @live.fr
01Mining) male. 10. / Mining processing staff (03 positions) male. May 3-6, at Luang Prabang Golf
And it was more meaningful Body Language at Vientiane
6. / Law staff (01 position) male or female. Club.
because I got to perform with Accueil, Khouvieng Rd.
Education and Experience : my label-mates at the same ANZ Vientiane Lions Class includes stretching and
- Good verbal and written communication skills in both Lao and English. time.” Women’s Rugby Club – respiratory exercises with
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Power Point, Internet, Email…. Girls’ Generation member Wednesday night fitness an oriental touch. Tues. and
- Ability to maintain direction and achieve work objectives with minimal supervision. Soo-young said the film sessions from 7:30 at VIS. Pitch Thurs. from 5.30-6.30pm.
has made her think of her trainings Thursday nights from Contact 020 5612107.
All interesting applicants please kindly bring in the following: beginnings. 19:30 and Sunday from 16:00 Aerobics at Sokpalouang
Cover Letter and CV in English, Certificate of graduation with score in English. “I recently got to see some at Polytechnic Pitch in Ban swimming pool, Sisattanak
- Copy ID card, Family book and concerned documents in all applications. parts of the movie,” said the Phonphapao. Contact Vieng district. Open every day from
girl group member. “And it on 020 54234111 or Maggie 6am-8pm.
A generous salary will be provided based upon experience. reminded me of my younger on 020 78110019 for more Vientiane Hash House Harriers
Only short-listed candidates will be contracted for interview. In order to keep contact, days as a trainee that I had information. Meet at Nam Phu Fountain
Please note down your mobile phone number in the application. All applications will be forgotten for a while. I’m sure Champa Ban Youth Rugby – every Saturday for travel to
confidential. the movie will be a great treat Rugby activities with a focus out-of-town runs. Mixed Hash,
for my fans, but it really is a on fun, games and healthy register at 3.45pm and depart
 Start and Closing date for applications : As soon as possible! great gift for me as well.” living message. Free and open 4pm. Monday,VH3, family
A CJ Entertainment release, to all. Visit www.laorugby.com
“I AM” opens in local theaters Hash. 3 runs - short, medium
Vientiane Office 501,503 Alounmai Building. P.O. Box: 8156, Ban Nongbone, or contact Noui 020 54905090
Saysettha District, Vientiane Cap, Lao PDR Phone +856-21 455 073, 020- on May 10. and long. Meet at 5pm at
or Maggie on 020 78110019 for advertised venue. Phones:
95573559 Fax +856-21 455 074 Email: visean.sjklaos@gmail.com The film will also be
more information. 223867, 217493,
A Member of Seoul Alloy Metal Group released overseas, although the
dates have yet to be announced. Lao Elephants Australian mobile 020 5511293, 5514669.
Vientiane Times Thursday May 3, 2012 Sports 19

Luang Prabang welcomes Asean PGA Tour golfers Hendry announces

Sangkhomsay
Bubphanouvong
Professional golfers from 12
countries together with Lao
golfers attended a welcome
party in Luang Prabang on
Tuesday to open the Asean
Professional Golf Association
Tour (Asean PGA).
This is a historic event
for Luang Prabang, which is
hosting the Luang Prabang Laos
Open from May 3-6 to kick
off the Asean PGA Tour. The
tournament will take place at
the Luang Prabang Golf Club.
The welcome party was
attended by Deputy Prime
Minister Somsavat Lengsavad,
Luang Prabang provincial
Governor and Asean PGA
competition organising
committee President Dr
Khampheng Saysompheng,
Asean PGA Executive
Chairman Mr A. C. Wong, Party
Central Committee Secretary
Mr Chansy Phosikham,
Huaphan provincial Governor
Dr Khamhoung Heuangvongsy,
and other senior Lao officials.
Some 84 golfers are
participating in the event, from
Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia,
the Philippines, Malaysia,
Brunei, Thailand, Australia,
the Netherlands, Republic of
Korea, UK and the USA, as
well as 16 Lao golfers.
Dr Khampheng said he
believed that holding one of the
eight events on this year’s Asean
PGA Tour in the historical town
of Luang Prabang would be of
great interest to both golfers
and spectators.
The top golfers from Asean
countries, including Laos, would
A representative of the Dao-Heuang Group presents a cash prize to
Dr Khampheng Saysompheng (right) at the welcome party.
have a wonderful opportunity Luang Prabang is pleased to be
to meet up with each other and able to host such a prestigious
develop friendships, he added. event.
The event is also a good During the welcome
opportunity to raise the level of party, the Dao-Heuang Group
golf in Asean and, specifically, presented supporting funding of
to bring the skills of Lao golfers US$60,000, Davidoff presented
in line with international US$30,000, Lao Airlines
standards. handed over US$30,000, Lao
The tournament is especially Telecom provided US$25,000,
fitting this year at it is Visit Laos Sinohydro gave US$20,000,
Year 2012, and the town of Lao Brewery Company
Mr Somsavat
Lengsavad
(fourth left),
Mr Chansy
Phosikham
(fourth right),
senior golfers
and Thai
professionals
gather for
a friendly
tournament
at the Luang
Prabang
Golf Club on
Tuesday.
presented US$11,000, and other
companies also gave financial
support.
Also during the welcome
event, Luang Prabang presented
trophies to senior Lao golfers
who won at a friendly golf
competition held at the Luang
Prabang Golf Club on Tuesday.
Professional golfers and many
sponsors attended the event.
Some 100 golfers from 12
countries, as well as Lao golfers,
will play in the first round of
the Luang Prabang Laos Open
on Thursday and Friday. The
final round will take place on
Sunday.
Professional golfers from
the region and amateurs from
Laos will have the chance to
win US$80,000 in cash prizes.
The next event on the Asean
PGA Tour will be the Singha
Pattaya Open in Thailand,
which will take place from May
10-13.
The Asean PGA Tour
comprises 10 events in 2012,
with cash prizes worth a total of
US$640,000 up for grabs.
retirement from snooker
LONDON (AP) -- Seven-time
world champion Stephen Hendry
announced his retirement from
snooker on Tuesday, ending the
illustrious career of the most
decorated player in the sport’s
history.
The 43-year-old Scot, who
won a record 36 world ranking
titles in a 26-year professional
career, made the decision
after his 13-2 thrashing by
compatriot Stephen Maguire in
the quarterfinals of the world
championships in Sheffield.
“I haven’t been able to play
the way I’ve wanted to play for
the last 10 years, and it’s just
ground me down and down and
down,” he said. “I keep getting
beaten in first rounds and second
rounds by people I still know are
not as good as me. After a while
it becomes too much.”
Hendry, who has compiled
a record 775 century breaks,
became the youngest world
champion when he lifted the
title at 21 in 1990. He then won
it six more times in the next nine
years, breaking by one the record
held jointly by Steve Davis and
Ray Reardon and establishing
Stephen
Hendry.
himself as the game’s most
successful player.
Hendry is regarded as
snooker’s greatest ever break-
builder. He scored his 11th
competitive maximum 147 in
this year’s world championships
at the Crucible, his 27th
consecutive appearance at the
home of snooker.
“I’ve had so many
(memories) it’s hard to pinpoint
special ones,” Hendry said.
“My first win here, obviously
the seventh world title, making
maximums, I could write a book
on the memories I’ve had here.
“It’s sad that I won’t play
here again. I love playing here,
but no, it’s a relief as much as
anything ... Obviously it’s sad
that your last match is a 13-2
drubbing but that was just the
way it went. At least it wasn’t
13-0.” Fellow snooker players
and sportsmen paid tribute to
Hendry, who plans to devote
his time to business interests in
China.
“Shame to see stephen
hendry retire, loved watching
him when I was growing up!
snooker legend, best ever,”
Scottish tennis
player Andy
Murray said on
Twitter.
Jimmy White,
who lost to Hendry
four times in world
championship
finals, called his
nemesis “a model
professional” and
a “credit to the
game.”

JOB VACANCY
Junior Network Support Organization (NSO) manager

The Lao-German Bilateral Technical Cooperation - Microfinance in Rural Areas- Access to finance for the Poor (AFP) is
currently seeking for 1 qualified Laotian candidate for the position of Junior Network Support Organization (NSO)
manager

Duration of Assignment: 29 months, extension possible

Work Location: Khop district, Sayaboury Province Starting date: 01 June 2012

Responsibilities:
Human Resource and Training
• Plays a key role in continually adapting the HR structure to the needs of the organization. Hires and trains new
staff in coordination with AFP.
• Monitors and evaluates staff performance and ensures that adequate mentoring / training / coaching efforts are
taken up.
• Assigns staff to positions that reflect their knowledge, skills and experience.
Marketing
• Responsible for marketing all products of the NSO.
• Supports in planning the marketing activities and designing new products, developing existing products in
accordance with changing needs.
• Ensures customer grievances are addressed while keeping the grievances at the lowest level possible.
Credit
• Ensures timely credit balancing the liquidity of NSO and in accordance to credit plans
• Organizes and manages the credit administration involving debt collection to avoid / minimize write-offs.
• Contributes to development of new credit products in village banks and NSO
Cash Management
• Ensures sufficient liquidity for regular business operations.
• Organizes safe physical cash handling - receiving, keeping and transit.
• Proper management of every cash in-out transaction of NSO including verifying cash balances comparing with
actual cash amount by doing cash count at the end of every day along with cashier.
Accounting-Financial
• Ensures the maintenance of all accounting documents and other relevant documents
• Organizes to produce accounting-financial reports correctly and timely.
• Ensures finalization of accounts for reporting to Board and members in time
Information Technology
• Ensures maintenance of the systems-both hardware and software, regularly and properly
• Ensures absolute security of data
• Discourages unauthorised usage of systems
Legal
• Learns, knows and understands all legal implication in running a NSO in a sustainable manner.
• Ensures that the staff concerned would know relevant legalities in fulfilling their duties.
• Arranges to display documents of all regulation pertaining to the NSO, on the information board at a proper
place in accordance with guidelines.
• Ensures legal compliance in conducting the business of NSO
Administrative and logistics
• Ensures efficient administration of the NSO and usage of conveyance material made available at the NSO for
discharge of office responsibilities / duties by all the staff members.
Auditing
• Effectively facilitates all auditing processes of NSO’s through internal-external audit team in its NSO as per
internal audit manuals.
• Takes corrective action from the audit findings to address, rectify and improve mistakes.
Additional Responsibilities
• Is responsible for strategic and operational business planning (in line with project’s strategic plan)
• Represents the NSO towards third parties and manages contacts to local stakeholders including regional
government agencies
• Actively participates in improving personal ability (knowledge, skills, and behaviors) during the evolution of the NSO
• Ensures orderly reporting to the Board of Directors
Qualifications and Experiences:
• Good working knowledge of modern telecommunication systems (telephone, fax, e-mail, internet and its
software) and MS Office-programs
• Excellent management skills
• Excellent communication skills
• English Language skill
• University degree in relevant scientific field and BA in Business Administration
• At least 3 years of professional working experience in a similar position
Women are encouraged to apply
Interested candidates should send application plus CV and a covering letter explaining how your experience meets
the requirements latest by Friday, 11 May 2012, at 17:00 pm to HR Division of GIZ Office Vientiane, P.O.Box 9233,
Vientiane Capital, or by e-mail to pamouane.phetthany@giz.de.
All applications will be treated confidentially and only short-listed candidates will be notified.
20
Thursday May 3, 2012
Sport
Liverpool warms up for FA
Cup final with loss
LONDON (AP) -- Liverpool’s
hopes of taking a morale-
boosting victory into the FA
Cup final were dashed thanks
to a 1-0 home loss to Fulham on
Tuesday, improving Everton’s
chances of finishing above its
Merseyside rival in the Premier
League for the first time since
2005.
Everton drew 1-1 with
Stoke in the night’s other match,
putting David Moyes’ team
three points above Liverpool
with two rounds remaining.
Martin Skrtel’s own goal in
the fifth minute means Liverpool
has won only five of 18 league
matches at Anfield, a ground
once seen as a fortress in the 18-
time champions’ heyday.
With Saturday’s final against
Chelsea at Wembley Stadium in
mind, Liverpool manager Kenny
Dalglish made nine changes to
the team that beat Norwich 3-0
on Saturday and it showed as
Fulham came away with a first
topflight win at Anfield.
“The attitude and desire
wasn’t there,” Dalglish said. “It
wasn’t a good night for us, me
included.”
A powerfully driven cross
by John Arne Riise, a former
Liverpool player, hit the standing
leg of Skrtel and squirmed past
goalkeeper Alexander Doni at
the Kop end.
Liverpool dominated po-
ssession and chances, as usual
at home, but lacked any real
incisiveness without the rested
Luis Suarez — who scored a
Liverpool’s
Martin Skrtel
(top) jumps for
the ball during
an English
Premier League
match against
Fulham at
Anfield Stadium
in Liverpool,
England, on
May 1.
--Photo AP
sensational hat trick at Norwich
— and captain Steven Gerrard.
Jonjo Shelvey had a shot
cleared off the line for Liverpool,
Andy Carroll headed a good
opportunity wide and Dirk
Kuyt volleyed just off target.
The margin of defeat could
have been worse for Liverpool,
however, with substitute Karim
Frei shooting against the post at
the other end in the second half.
“I don’t think that can be
described as a performance,”
Dalglish said. “I thought it
would be fair to give them an
opportunity to get some minutes
on the pitch with an important
game on Saturday, but the
performance and the attitude
was very poor and that’s not like
us.”
Liverpool has now picked up
just one point from its past four
Vientiane Times
home games, against Wigan,
Aston Villa, West Bromwich
Albion and Fulham — teams it
would typically expect to beat.
Everton was denied victory
at Britannia Stadium when
striker Cameron Jerome scored
in the 69th minute for Stoke,
canceling out Peter Crouch’s
own goal a minute before
halftime — the 1,000th goal in
the Premier League this season.
Everton had scored four
goals in each of its past three
league games but was kept at
bay by Stoke after Crouch had
scored in his own net after an
attempted clearance from Marc
Wilson struck the lanky striker’s
back.
Jerome leveled when he
made a forward burst and held
off two defenders before firing
past goalkeeper Tim Howard.

Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times
Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.la
Central Bank curbs lending to
real estate projects: ADB
Times Reporters
The Bank of the Lao PDR has
taken steps to limit lending for
real estate development, in a
bid to rein in inflation.
According to the Asian
Development Outlook
published by the Asian
Development Bank (ADB),
Lao credit growth has
moderated from very high
rates in recent years to 34.2
percent in December 2011.
However, the lending rate is
still considered very high.
The deceleration of credit
growth stems from reduced
direct lending by the central
bank for infrastructure projects
and steps the bank took to
curb lending for real estate
speculation, the ADB says.
Central bank officials were
not available to comment on
the issue yesterday but had
earlier told Vientiane Times
the Bank of the Lao PDR
would introduce measures
to curb lending to real estate
development projects if it
found the rate of lending was
too high and was causing
higher inflation.
Property construction in
Laos has boomed over the past
five years. More people are
investing in real estate amid
hopesthatgrowingdevelopment
will result in a higher demand
for accommodation due to the
increasing number of tourists
and foreign residents.
Economists have warned
that the high rate of lending for
European visits focus on boosting trade
Budapest, Hungary (China
Daily) -- Top-ranking Chinese
leaders’ busily scheduled
visits to Central and Eastern
European countries are sending
Beijing’s strong message to beef
up economic and trade ties and
foster dialogue with the region,
said European politicians and
observers.
Vice-Premier Li Keqiang
arrived in Budapest on Monday
shortly after visiting Russia.
Li’s trip came just after
Premier Wen Jiabao’s European
trip. In Poland, Wen pledged
that China and Central and
Eastern European countries
should make efforts to double
the volume of trade by 2015.
Meanwhile, Wen’s tour
in Poland took place just less
than one year after his visit
in Hungary in June last year,
when he highlighted China’s
commitment of cooperation
with leaders in the region.
“The visits have indicated
that China is interested in
Exchange rates as of May 2, 2012
Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao
Foreign Currencies
US Dollar 50-100
Thai Baht
Euro 50-500
Business
real estate development will
drive up inflation, as this sector
does not produce consumer
goods. Data show that the
price of food and construction
materials has increased rapidly
due to growing demand.
The ADB publication
also notes that a shortage of
longer-term bank deposits has
constrained commercial bank
lending to the private sector.
The central bank has
maintained its policy of keeping
the kip broadly stable against
the US dollar and Thai baht. In
2011 the kip appreciated by 2.7
percent against the US dollar
and by 1.6 percent against the
baht.
Dollarisation has gradually
declined from 79 percent in
1999 to about 45 percent last
year thanks to the increasing
value of the kip, which helps to
create confidence among Lao
people about opening kip bank
accounts.
The declining use of foreign
currencies in Laos is one of
the major achievements of the
central bank. The bank has
run a number of campaigns to
encourage Lao people to use
the national currency, seen as
fundamental to the bank being
able to keep the kip stable.
According to the ADB,
accounting for foreign direct
investment and other capital
inflow, gross international
reserves fell to US$679 million
in 2011, which can secure the
import of non-resource goods
for about 2.5 months.
the markets in Central and
Eastern Europe and would
like to explore new investment
opportunities,” said Iliana
Ivanova, vice-chairwoman of
European Union’s Delegation
for Relations with China in an
interview.
Beijing has been in its
efforts to expand imports
from European countries
and accelerate the pace of
its investments in Europe.
Meanwhile, it has repeatedly
shown its preference for
cooperating in “real economy”,
instead of investing much in the
European bailout fund.
“China and European
countries should feel the positive
effects of closer economic and
trading relations and should
establish even closer links,” said
Ivanova, who is from Bulgaria.
“Looking at the two-way
trade between China and
Central and Eastern European
countries, we can see that it is
growing rapidly.”
Buying Selling
7,975 8,014
260.19 261.50
10,526 10,578
Laos to host Asia-Europe Business Forum
(From left) Mr Guy Apovy, Dr Nam Vinhaket and Mr Kissana Vongsay speak at the press conference.
Times Reporters
Laos will host the Asia-Europe
Business Forum at the end
of this year, with a view to
boosting investment and trade
between the two regions.
Minister of Industry and
Commerce Dr Nam Vinhaket,
Lao National Chamber of
Commerce and Industry
President Mr Kissana Vongsay,
and European Chamber of
Commerce to Laos President
Mr Guy Apovy yesterday
addressed a press conference
to announce the 13th edition of
the forum in Vientiane.
A number of senior
government and Chamber
officials also attended the
conference, which was held at
the Lao National Chamber of
Commerce and Industry.
Bina Puri eyes China coal mine, Kelantan tin mine, Jakarta bridge
PETALING JAYA, Malaysia
(The Star) -- Construction outfit
Bina Puri Holdings Bhd is
believed to be in negotiations
to acquire a coal mine in China
and a tin mine in Kelantan,
sources said.
“The company is also looking
at securing infrastructure project
soon to build a bridge in Jakarta.
The focus will still be on its core
construction business but it is
also trying to diversify into the
commodity business and also
businesses that provides more
recurring income,” the source
said. The company was last said
to be exploring opportunities in
tin mining in Indonesia back in
2004, when it was making a tin
mining feasibility study on the
Indonesian island of Bangka.
Bangka is rich in tin ore deposits;
it is also where PT Koba Tin, a
subsidiary of Malaysia Smelting
Corp Bhd has a contract of work
with the government, giving it
exclusive rights for exploration,
The Asia-Europe Business
Forum will be held from
November 3 to 5 as an
important side event of the 9th
Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM)
Summit where government
leaders from Asia and Europe
will meet to discuss political
and economic cooperation.
The ASEM Summit will be
held on November 5 and 6.
The business forum will
serve as a venue for business
leaders to promote partnership
in the public and private sectors
across Asia and Europe. The
event will give participants
a chance to exchange views
with dignitaries, business
operators, academics and
policy makers from Europe
and Asia.
According to the
organisers, the forum will
mining and smelting tin over
41,680ha in Bangka Belitung
Island. It called off the proposed
tin mining venture in 2005 after
studies revealed low deposits
that were not commercially
viable in the said area.
Bina Puri recently bagged a
RM864mil highway concession
contract from Pakistan’s
National Highway Authority
to construct the Karachi-
Hyderabad Motorway (M-9) in
Pakistan, after which it will hold
the concession for 28 years.
The Pakistan contract is the
company’s second highway
concession after the KL-
Kuala Selangor Expressway
(Latar), in which the company
has a 50 percent stake in the
concessionaire, in this case KL-
Kuala Selangor Expressway
Bhd. Opened mid-last year, the
33km toll expressway, valued at
RM958mil, connects the north
of Templer’s Park, Rawang, to
Assam Jawa in Kuala Selangor.
invite a number of top CEOs and
decision makers in the business
community to give insight
into underlying influencing
structures, identify business
opportunities and challenges
and give recommendations for
government leaders on sound
economic development policies.
It is expected that about 300
representatives of businesses
and companies from Asia and
the European Union will attend
the event.
The theme of the 13th Asia-
Europe Business Forum will
be ‘Asia-Europe Cooperation
- Inclusive and Sustainable
Economic Development’.
The forum will focus
discussion on the four
topics of financial and
capital management, market
access between Asean, the
Bina Puri has a 50 percent stake in the Latar concession.
The construction outfit is
also among the seven companies
currently bidding for the
RM2.2bil Kinrara-Damansara
highway contract.
With low margins derived
from its construction business,
the company has been trying to
diversifyitsbusinessbyventuring
into highway concessions,
property development and
power generation.
In 2010, the group diversified
21
Thursday May 3, 2012
Greater Mekong Sub region
and Europe, the social and
environmental responsibilities
of Asian and European
businesses, and cross-cutting
issues of successful value and
supply chain implementation.
Lao National Chamber
of Commerce and Industry
Vice President, Mr Oudet
Souvannavong, said
preparations for the business
forum were well under way,
adding that the preparation
committee had completed the
necessary concept papers. The
committee has also completed
sponsorship packages and
drafted invitations to meeting
participants and lecturers, he
said. The committee is also
drafting the forum contents
and developing a website to
provide information on the
forum.
The government hopes
the successful hosting of the
business forum will raise the
profile of Laos, in particular
its ability to host international
events.
The Asia-Europe Business
Forum was launched at the
first ASEM Summit held in
Bangkok, Thailand, in 1996.
This year’s forum aims not
only to facilitate dialogue
between entrepreneurs in both
regions but also to enhance
relations between business
and the ASEM government
sector.
into the power supply business
by procuring three units of
2MW power plants in Indonesia
at Tobali, Mentok and Bengkalis
by acquiring an 80 percent
stake in Indonesia-based power
plant owner and operator PT
Megapower Makmur via Bina
Puri Power Sdn Bhd to expand
its exposure in electricity-
generation projects overseas
to establish a larger recurring
income base.
222
B Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times

Lao Central Airlines takes to the skies

PhonsavanhVongsay agreements to ensure its aircraft
can pass through the airspace of
Lao Central Airlines Public neighbouring countries and land
EDL-Gen April turnover exceeded US$1m Company will launch its
inaugural flight today when
at their airports.
The airline has also set up
a Boeing 737-400 takes off management services and ticket
Vientiane: for Bangkok from Wattay sales services through agents
EDL-Gen resumes today having already traded a stellar month of 1.7 million stocks for just International Airport at 9:10am. in Laos and overseas, planning
over US$1 million for April. “Our first flight will be to link ticket sales with global
The EDL-Gen share price remains well below its intrinsic value and with the dividend close from Vientiane to Bangkok,” distribution systems in the near
off for June 30 fast appreciating there’s value in acquiring more of the electricity company the company’s CEO Ms future.
stock. Savanhphone Phongsavanh Currently the airline has
said at a press conference in two 168-seater Boeing 737-
Vientiane on Monday. 400 aircraft. Another jet aircraft
“After that, we will have purchased by the company from
three flights a week to both Ms Savanhphone Russia is scheduled to arrive in
Bangkok and Luang Prabang Phongsavanh. Vientiane on May 10.
starting on May 7. They will Lao Central Airlines will
run on Mondays, Wednesdays an operations licence from the be Laos’ first privately-owned
and Fridays and customers International Air Transport airline to operate commercial
can make bookings now,” Ms Association, be audited by services to both domestic and
Savanhphone said. international consultants, and international destinations.
Lao Central Airlines will go obtain international insurance The airline plans to purchase
into operation today after years certification. a Boeing 737-800 for longer-
of preparation. Prior to taking to Lao Central Airlines has also haul international flights and
LSX Lao: The index trading as expected post May Day holiday break was subdued compared the skies they had to purchase signed a cooperation agreement expects to take delivery of nine
to Monday’s trading. jet aircraft and train commercial on aircraft maintenance to Russian Soukhoi Super Jets by
In the first hour yesterday only 8.4K BCEL stocks traded as it gained +50 kip to 6,850 kip, pilots and other staff. guarantee that they comply with 2015, of which three will arrive
pushing the index up 1.33 points to 1,030.88. BCEL is starting to record some decent volumes They also had to apply for international standards both now in Vientiane by the end of this
which can only influence its share price to the upside. Indicators are a strong finish to the an Air Operations Certificate, and into the future, and made year.
week’s trading.
Locally the 9:30 to 10:30 am closing sessions are a good guide to trading because usually
that’s where the main volumes are traded and prices change. If the volumes are lower so will The North Face’s reign at risk
the close be, as was the case yesterday.
EDL-Gen unchanged at 5,000 kip appeared during the 10 am close, but then lost 50 kip in the KOREA (The Korea Herald) -- The US outdoor Young Men’s Christian Association.
4th session to close at 4,950 kip, causing the index to fall and close down at 1022.40 points. brand that has dominated the South Korean Goldwin Korea, the exclusive importer of the
market for years is at risk of losing its position American brand, however, immediately announced
after it was hit with a record fine. plans to take legal action against the FTC.
The nation’s antitrust watchdog hit The North The importer argued that the size of the fine is
Face Korea last week with a 5.2 billion won inappropriate as it did not stop its sales outlets from
(US$4.6 million) fine for compelling all 151 of having discount sales, and The North Face Korea’s
its retailers here to charge 10 to 15 percent higher market share is about 15 percent, not over 30 percent
prices than for rival brands since 1997 to maintain as the FTC claims. “Our company plans to review
the brand’s premium image. the matter legally in cooperation with a law firm,”
The Fair Trade Commission said that the unfair said Goldwin Korea through a statement.
practices of the brand with over 30 percent market Hit with the biggest-ever fine imposed by
share also affected rival companies such as Kolon the FTC and stepping into a possibly drawn-out
ASEAN Indexes: The Thai index zoomed 0.5 percent Wednesday up 8.9 percent for the day Sports, K2 and Columbia. Korean consumers also legal dispute, though, market insiders expect that
- a 5WH at 1237 points. On Feb-10 last year the SET was sub 700 points at 694 points. had to pay 50 percent more for the brand’s down the outdoor brand may lose its top position in the
Malaysia, Philippines and Hanoi all intraday added 0.35 percent. HCMC rose 0.34 percent. jacket due to the price-fixing, according to Seoul market.
Singapore gained 0.5 percent and Indonesia intraday had made no gains or losses.
Cambodia’s CSX fell 4½ percent again for the 6th straight day on profit taking on low
volumes to 817.20. PPWSA the only stock lost 400 Riel or 5 percent intraday to 7,600 but
was still above its April-18 IPO price of 6,500 Riel. The stock and the index should now start
to level out.
 
EU market storms approaching
GLOBAL MARKETS SNAPSHOT
• US Indexes: Markets went ying yang again with a slight decrease of less than 1 percent,
when Apple declined 3 percent. Occupy Wall Street and May Day marches kept investors
away on Tuesday. The Indexes on Tuesday reversed Monday’s losses and the DJIA
signaled a US economic recovery as it gained 66 points (5 pct) to a 4 year high The
S&P500 gained 0.6 percent and the NASDAQ 0.1 percent.
• China’s small factories may be struggling but at a 13 month high China’s Purchasing
Managers Index (PMI) helped mining stocks when it went from 53.1 to 53.3 for April.
Readings above 50 indicate expansion. China’s manufacturing index also rose from 55.2
to 57.2. Copper and mining stocks will benefit on this news.
• European indexes: Media reports continue to highlight global investors are exiting
Europe’s financial bond markets, as sovereign debt issues resurfaced again for Spain
(officially in Q1 recession) and Italy and refuse to subside. That caused the first fall in
indexes in the past 5 days.
Investors are becoming gun shy of Europe. Overshadowing trillions in 3 year loans
to the EU by the ECB (central bank) analysts work out the repayment schedules All that
is now wearing thin as on the political scene there are many storms approaching in the
French presidential and there’s the looming Greek parliamentary elections May-6, while
Ireland faces a referendum on the EU new fiscal pact May-31. That summarised says
there is now approaching EU uncertainty in both debt and political concerns.
• Asia indexes. The ying yang was also around in NE Asia. The HK Hang Seng HSI Tuesday
gained 1.7 percent and +2.4 percent intraday yesterday and the Nikkei lost 1.22 percent
Tuesday but gained +0.51 percent yesterday and China overall shed -0.35 percent but went
green yesterday up 2 percent. The KOSPI gave up -1 percent yesterday in early trade.
• Australia’s ASX turnover Monday fell 40 percent to AU$3.7B as its index gained 0.76
percent. Tuesday it was down 5 percent to AU$4.8B but up 30 points. FMG up 0.5 pct,
BHP up 1.23 pct and Rio up 0.35 pct.
• Newsat goes into orbit: Newsat NWT.ASX our VTtimes featured stock for the past
18 months was at 69 cents less than 7 days ago. Remarkably NWT stock is still off
analysts’ radar screens, even though it was up 15.22 percent for the week. (the average
daily volumes have been 334K and just one year ago the stock was less than 2 cents).
•

Oils: At a 5 week high Nymex went from US$104.75.12 / brl to US$106, and Brent
US$119.95 / brl. But Tapix went to US$124 / brl.
• Metals: Gold +$3 to US$1666 /oz. Copper hovered around US$3.82 / lb or LME
US$8418 /tn.
Currencies: The €uro, the GBP and the AUD all eased overnight Tuesday against the
greenback. This week the Australian RBA announced the “odds on interest rate cut”
of 50 basis points to 3.75 percent and the AUD intraday fell to US$1.333 on the RBA
announcement. YTD the AUD, which hit US$1.08 last year, so far has lost -5 percent in
the past 12 months. A further -25 points is on the cards for June 5.
Vientiane Times
In brief
Oil falls below
US$106 after mixed
US supply report
SINGAPORE (AP) -- Oil
prices fell to below US$106
a barrel on Wednesday in
Asia after a report showed
US crude supplies grew for
a sixth week while gasoline
inventories fell.
Benchmark oil for June
delivery was down 46 cents
to US$105.70 a barrel at
late afternoon Singapore
time in electronic trading on
the New York Mercantile
Exchange. The contract
rose US$1.29 to settle at
US$106.16 in New York
on Tuesday. Brent crude
for June delivery was down
14 cents at US$119.52 per
barrel in London.
Aussie banks rolling
in cash, silent on rates And interest subsidies will
SYDNEY (Xinhua) -- The
Australia New Zealand Bank encouraged imports while
(ANZ) has reported first-half the coverage of the interest
underlying profit of over
US$3 billion, a result that
stands in stark contrast to its
refusal to keep in step with
the central bank’s official
rate movements this year.
Stomachs continue to turn
for Australian borrowers as
another leading bank has
reported massive, record
profits in the face of official important sign amid China’s
interest rate cuts. ANZ
declared an interim fully-
franked dividend of 66
Australian cents, up from
64 cents for the same time
last year, including net profit
making a full 10 percent leap
from 2011 to US$3.02 billion. against the background of a
More efforts to expand Lao Toyota supplies vehicles
imports for balanced trade for Hongsa power plant
CHINA (China Daily) --
China will work harder to
bring in more imports as it
strives to bring balance to its
trade, according to guidelines
issued by the State Council on
Monday.
“The government will
further improve the structure of
imports and stabilize imports
of bulk commodities while
importing more advanced
technological equipment,
important parts and raw
materials and appropriately
broadening its imports of
consumer goods,” according
to the guidelines.
“More money for import
promotion will be added to
the present money set aside
for developing foreign trade.
be provided for government-
subsidies will be appropriately
adjusted.”
The guidelines also called
for more support for imports
from developing economies.
Dong Dengxin, head
of the securities research
institute at Wuhan University
of Science and Technology,
said the guidelines come as an
economic transition.
“The policy will help
balance China’s international
trade in view of its great
foreign exchange reserves and
ease the rising price at home
high (consumer price index),”
he said. “The measures will
also drive down the prices of
imports and give the Chinese
a greater chance of enjoying
imported commodities as the
yuan appreciates.”
The duties charged on
some imports will also be
adjusted. Tentative tax rates
will be introduced to lower
the import duties charged
on some raw materials and
commodities used in people’s
everyday lives, as well as to
adjust the duties charged on
imports of some advanced
equipment and components.
The goal will be to reduce
the duties charged on primary
raw materials and important
components that are used in
strategic emerging industries
but that cannot be produced
by China, the document said.
“The important result of
expanding imports of consumer
commodities and other things
is to bring more competition
to domestic markets and
provide more high-quality
products for consumers,”
said Wang Haifeng, director
of international economics at
the Institute for International
Economic Research, a think
tank under the National
Development and Reform
Commission.
Easier means of obtaining
financing are being called
for to encourage imports
of advanced products and
resources, as well as to
broaden importers’ means of
obtaining finance.
Thursday May 3, 2012 B233
Times Reporters
Lao Toyota Service Co., Ltd.
signed a contract with Hongsa
Power Company (HPC)
Limited recently to sell Toyota
vehicles to HPC for use on the
project.
The contract was signed
in Vientiane between HPC
Managing Director Mr
Voravudhi Linananda and
Lao Toyota Service Co.,
Ltd. Director Mr Pasartxay
Philaphandeth.
Lao Toyota Service Mr Voravudhi Linananda (left) shakes hands with Mr Pasartxay
Deputy Manager Mr Yasuo Philaphandeth after signing the contract.
Philaphandeth said they will
sell 30 Toyota pickup trucks the Hongsa plant is completed have guaranteed to provide
to Hongsa Power Company, in 2016 it will be Laos’ largest- after-sales services to HPC
which the company intends to capacity power plant, providing in accordance with Toyota’s
use at the project site. a new source of energy for both normal high standards.
He said Lao Toyota Service Laos and Thailand. Lao Toyota Service
was very pleased to service HPC Lao Toyota Service will commencedbusinessoperations
because when construction of dispatch the cars in July and in Laos in 1992.
Electronics firms battle downturn
HANOI, Vietnam (VNS) -- Domestic electronics half of the retail space used by its electronics
businesses have been grappling with a slowdown supermarket in Long Bien District.
in sales since the beginning of the year. The high volume of stockpiled electronics
The Ministry of Industry and Trade’s due to slumping purchasing power and harsher
recently released statistics revealed that only competition from foreign rivals in the domestic
refrigerator and freezer sales saw a year-on- market were also factors, he said.
year increase of 10.5 percent in the first quarter, Media Mart marketing director Nguyen
while other products experienced slumping Thanh Hai said his electronics supermarket
sales, with air conditioners witnessing the also witnessed a significant drop in sales after
greatest drop of 30 percent. the Tet holiday, resulting in a large quantity of
Ngo Thanh Dat, marketing director of Tran electronics, especially electrical appliances, in
Anh Company, blamed the trend on skyrocketing stock.
fees for prime retail space, which he said has led As consumers cut down on spending,
to less sales as businesses stocking electronics electronics supermarkets had to focus on
products struggle to secure good locations for providing cheap electronics while also working
their stores. on promotion programmes to attract more
The Tran Anh Company recently lost customers, Hai said.
24 4
B Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times
Oudalee finds a suitable house for you to
live in Vientiane.
Traditional Lao house, house with swimming
pool, house on the river.
House with swimming pool available now.
Price range from Kip 3 000 000 and up.
Call Oudalee for free advice and pick up at
your convenient.
10 years experience guarantee.
Tel: 020 55 51 25 02 and 020 55 65 91 46
Email: oudalee@oudaleehomes.com
www.oudaleehomes.com
RentsBuy Co., Ltd is a leading professional
real estate company offering; house,
land, apartment, office, warehouse,
business for rent /for sale and property
valuation throughout Lao PDR.
020 77600059, 22229744, and
Office: 021 223032
www.RentsBuy.com email: rentsbuy@gmail.com
AB Apartment
Services: 2Bedrooms, 1Bedroom & Studio room
Features: Fully furnished apartment in Vientiane
with garden, A spacious parking, Air cond, Cable
TV, house keeping, 24 hours security surveillance,
washing machine and wireless connectivity.
Nearby: International community, diplomatic area &
minute drive from Patuxay Monument.
Ban Sibounheuang, Chanthabouly District,
Vientiane Capital Lao PDR
Mobile: +856-20-5551 2828 or +856-20-28184400
Phone: +856-21-263253 Fax: +856-21-222565
E-mail: abapart@gmail.com
www.abapartment.com
Maniraath gems and jewellery
Genuine diamond & setted
jewellery with 18k precious, semi precious and
Italian chains
talat sao mall #2-10 second floor
vientiane lao PDR, Tel: 021 285 051, mobile: 020 55676545, 020 55775544
Classified Thursday May 3, 2012
25
+856 20 55599 430
Lao land company is one of the leading real
estate service agency based in Vientiane.
We are specialized in property service
sector, and proud to say your needs is our
answer.
For further inquiry, please feel free to
contact us at 020 5551 0155, 23666333, or
021 453 919.
030 981 9052, 020 23220022
English*French*Japanese * Chinese
Email:oad.laoland@gmail.com
www.laoland.com
 Bouakham
HOUSE RENTAL
Would you like to rent or buy property?
We can show you Land, Houses or Apartments in any
location. Call us!
P.O. Box 1940,Vientiane, Lao PDR
Tel: 020 5571 1396, 77959199
Available Hotel in the top of the mountion for sale in the center
of Luang Prabang Province.
House for rent with 4 room include swimming pool close to
International school and Germany embassy
New house for sale close to
Mekong river with 3 rooms, Sale now!
22401446 reasonable price.
(Not expensive)
99990803 (Sale now, not expensive)
We have great places
to rent and buy: Land,
Houses, Apartments,
Hotels, Resorts,
Guesthouses
Email: bouakham_nang@hotmail.com
www.bouakham-property.com
VPS
Car rental service
• We have many types of cars for rent new
model and old, sedan & 4 wheel such as:
MG.TOYOTA. NISSAN. KIA. HYUNDAI,
SMALL AND MIDDLE SEDAN FOR CITY
• AGL assurances Allianz Group
• Short term 1-7days & long 1-12 months
• Self drive or with driver
• Provide vehicle for Project & Private
• Affordable price and best service
• Office B. Thonkang, R. sokpalaung 15/279
• For English call Mr. Chanh
1,700,000 kip anytime
to 42,500,000 kip/month
• Tel: 020 55599900. 55593013,
office: 030 9800630
• Email: vpscarrental@yahoo.com
• www.vpscarrental.com
Chok Dee cafe
C.S TRANSPORT CO., LTD
“All transportation solution under one roof”
Service offered: Logistics, Transport,
Home Removal,Custom clearance for air
freight and sea freight.
Belgian
Contact Information: Ban Donkoy,
beers bar T4 Road, Sisattanak District
Vientiane, Lao P.D.R
“Moules-frites” Tel/Fax: +856- 021- 330154,
Mobile: +856- 020- 55506402
40 Belgian beers Email: chan@cstransportlao.com and www:
Tel: 020 56103434, www.chokdeecafe.com cstransportlao.com
Fagnum, Mekong riverside road infront of bus stop
262
C Classifieds Thursday May 3, 2012 Vientiane Times

Email: office@kerberossecurity.com, Fax: 021 217441

Tel: 021 260419/020 55878688/020 55509957

City Centre, Short & long term stay

From 3,200,000 kip ($400) per month
Air-conditioning, cable TV,
housekeeping, laundry, electricity and water
Lao Air Service Co.Ltd Call: 020 55505840, 55023782
ÍçÖéÅèÈ Öà×ãÜÕ âÆê×éÈ ÄáÀèÈ Email: lao.heritage@gmail.com

Sale Agents for Lao Airline SERVICED APARTMENTS

Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines
& World Wide Air-Tickets service
Tel: 900241-242-243
New Tel: 454034-36
Fax: (856-21) 900244
Mobile: 856-20 5515870, 5503979
Email: laoairservice1@etllao.com
laoairservice2@etllao.com
Lao Air Service Co.Ltd
1st Floor K.P Tower
Thatluang Rd (Opposite of Min. foreign
affairs)
Vientiane Lao P.D.R
Spacious & tastefully decorated
Fully furnished 1 & 2 bedroom
Air-conditioning, Cable TV, Swimming pool, Garage for sale
Garden, Housekeeping, Laundry
Garage for sale in Houayhong
MP: 020 55505840, 020 55023782 village on Dondaeng-Dongdok
Email: lao.heritage@gmail.com Road in Xaythany district,
Vientiane. The garage sits on
HOTEL LAO a 38 metre by 20 metre plot of
land and has a high roof that can
*Value *Comfort *Service accommodate large vehicles, and
would suit an industrial business.
In the heart of Vientiane
There are 6 two-storey units
Ideal for business or tourist
43/7 Hengboun Road,Vientiane adjoining the garage complex, and a
Tel: (856 21) 219280-1, Fax: (856 21) 219282 villa at the rear.
For more information please call:
Email: hotellao.vientiane@gmail.com
020-55717569

Land for Sale Job Announcement House for Rent

Developed land 20m x 40m = 800 m2.
Paved roads, water and electricity.
Residential area in Ban Noncor,
Vientiane. Properly registered land titles.
Tel: 020 2307 2772 and 021 264 484
Ms. Sanethavong.
We are looking the qualified candidate to fill in the vacancy At Ban Saylom in city centre,
Position: Translator
Nationality: Lao 20m from main road.
Sex: Male and Female The building has 3 floors: 4
Age: Up to 23 years old
Educational Background: English Bachelor Degree bedrooms with Air-condition,
Language Ability: (1) Fluent in English (in speaking, 3 bath rooms, 1 kitchen room
writing and reading)
and some furniture.
Expected Characteristic: Hard working and diligent.
Call: 020 55608444 or Email:
For further information please contact:
kapookni@yahoo.com
020 97970554, 020 55602942

Feedback Rashmi Jewellers Land for Sale

Dealing in Diamonds, Precious and Semi-precious Ban Watnak 2493 Sq M
We, the Board of Directors of Lao Press in Gems and Jewellery, Set in 14/18 Kt Gold Near Chinese, Singapore,
Foreign Languages, would like to receive your
Australian Embassies,
comments and suggestions concerning the 4 km from Central VTE
Among cut, clarity and colour,
Vientiane Times and Le Renovateur, in order
the cut plays a critical role in expressing the Cement Walls
to improve their quality. We are seeking your brilliance Power, Water, Large Trees,
feedback on the daily issues and the recently and fire in a diamond. Beware Flat, High Ground.
introduced Saturday issue of the Vientiane Times It is the quality of the cut which releases the of fakes!
in regard to the following: beauty of Ban Hong Suparp 3628 Sq M
Content: What styles and methods should we the diamond to your eyes. The ideal cut ensures
Near KM 6 Golf Course,
a bright Environmentally
change, add or omit and and lively diamond forever. Made Road,
friendly
what columns are not interesting to you? It’s the moment when you look Quiet, Power Water, High
Services: Which services should we improve, deep within yourself; the moment when you feel Ground.
such as advertisements, you can be everything you want to be;
distribution and online subscriptions? the moment when you set yourself free from Ban Nam Moune 3277 Sq M
life’s definitions. Win the Near KM 6 Golf Course
Reporters: Are there any changes our reporters battle against
It’s the moment when you realise you want just Good Road Access
should make to be you…
mosquitoes!
Power Water.
in the way they perform their duties?
We look forward to receiving your comments Rashmi Diamond Jewellery Mosquitoes are more
Reflects your inner fire. Ban Hong Suparp 4949 Sq M
in order to better serve all our readers and dangerous than tigers Near KM 6 Golf Course
customers.
direct sale by Tel: 020 Rice Field View, Quiet
Tel: (856-21) 216364, 217593 Road Access, Power, Water
Mobile: 5599206-9 54434207,
316, Samsenthai Road,
Fax: (856-21) 216365 [Opposite Lao Plaza Hotel] English= 55599209 Private sale, call 020 55512
Email: editor@vientianetimes.org.la or Tel #: [856-21] 251513,252790 Fax #: [856-21] 243791
060, 020 54466724
info@vientianetimes.org.la
Mob #: [856-20] 2212021, 5513101 (free transportation )
Email: rashmi_enterprises2001@yahoo.com Vientianeproperty@yahoo.com
Vientiane Times Thursday May 3, 2012 Classifieds C273

Job Opportunities
Europ Continents is a recognized international group with growing activities in Asia through 13 offices and with the support of more than 350 collaborators.
Europ Continents Laos offers its expertise on equipment and consumables as well as projects development extended to 6 main divisions: Laboratories, Healthcare,
Environment, Security, Hospitality, Geosystems & Infrastructure.

Junior Technician – Technical Service (1 position)

Key duties and responsibilities:
Open to Lao citizen specialized in Electronic
Main responsibilities will be to handle installation, reparation and maintenance of
biomedical equipments and others professional equipments.
Will work with the existing team, and report to the department manager.
Will receive regular training from suppliers.
Competencies:
- Motivated
- Curious
Skills and Experience:
- Qualified in Electronic.
- Not experienced persons are invited to apply.

Language skill: English fluent and articulate

Computer skills: MS office.
Date to commence: As soon as possible
Location: Vientiane
Report to: Management
Travel required: in Laos country and aboard

Secretary – (1 position)
Key duties and responsibilities:
Open to Lao citizen.
- Management of Agenda, documentation, of foreign Managing Director.
- Follow up of Petty Cash.
- Follow up of Cash Advance Clearance, Mission approvals, Expenses…
- Follow up of some administrative files, insurance policies, etc…
- Some oral and written translation.
Skills and Experience:
- Strong personality and excellent interpersonal skills.
- Some knowledge of accounting / cash follow-up.
- Hard working, able to take initiatives and flexible.
- Proven experience as Management Assistant / Secretary, preferably in a foreign company or organization.

Language skill: English fluent and articulate, French a real plus

Computer skills: Computer literate.
Date to commence: As soon as possible
Location: Vientiane
Report to: Managing Director

Sales Positions, infrastructure, civil work, - Sales Department (1 Position)

Mission and responsibilities:
Open to Lao Citizen.
- Work with the existing sales team
- Develop sales of existing products
- Business development
- Market study for professional equipments
- Competition analysis on the Lao market
Skills and Experience:
- Previous experience in sales of professional equipment, B to B such as security, civil work companies, engineering companies, water treatment and irrigation
companies.
- High motivation, able to learn fast.
- Well organized person.
- Good spoken (telephone) and written communication skills.

Language skill: English fluent and articulate

Computer skills: MS office.
Date to commence: As soon as possible
Location: Vientiane
Report to: Management

Assistant – Laboratory Division Department (1 Position)

Mission and responsibilities:
Under the supervisor of the Laboratory Division manager:
- Responsible for developing and follow-up Consumables and Chemical sales and prospects with our main customers (French and International Foundations,
Institutes, Universities, laboratories, private and local companies).
- Participate as Scientific and Technical adviser for our division and with our interlocutors.
- Identify and propose interesting business opportunity, under the supervision of the Laboratory Division Manager.
Skills and Experience:
- Knowledge in Lab field, tools and equipment, chemistry, biology…
- Commercial Knowledge is a plus, but not a necessity.
- Open to freshly graduated students.
Language skill: English required. French is plus.
Computer skills: MS office
Date to commence: As soon as possible
Location: Vientiane
Report to: Management

Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Send brief application and resume to:
EUROP CONTINENTS LAO S.A.
094 Nongbone Village, Unit 09, Xaysettha District
P.O. Box : 5933 - Vientiane – Lao PDR
E-mail : info.lao@europ-continents.com
284
C Classifieds Thursday May 3, 2012
Job Announcement for Lao Nationality only
Deadline for applications: 17 May 2012
Room to Read organization profile:
Room to Read is an International Non-governmental Organization (INGO) that partners
with local communities throughout the developing world to provide quality educational
opportunities by establishing libraries, creating local language children’s literature,
constructing schools, providing education to girls and supporting classroom literacy
instruction for primary school children. We seek to intervene early in the lives of children in
the belief that education empowers people to improve socio-economic conditions for their
families, communities, countries and future generations. Through the opportunities that
only education can provide, we strive to break the cycle of poverty, one child at a time. Our
long-term goal is to help 10 million children to gain the lifelong gift of education.
Room to Read Laos has an annual budget of approximately USD 4 million and
permission of MoU from 2011 to 2016 (can be extendable). There is main office in Vientiane
Capital and other offices in Oudomxay, Xayabouly and Savannakhet (will open in June
2012). The salary range for each position will be determined based upon the experience
of the candidate hired. Besides the salary, staff will receive 13th month and performance
bonuses, retirement fund and insurances (of health, life and accident).
Room to Read is recruiting the following positions:
1. Reading Room Manager (Re-advertised)
The Reading Room Program Manager is responsible for carrying out all activities of
Room to Read’s library program, including surveying, program implementation,
monitoring and evaluation, and project reporting. This position will involve frequent
travel to all the provinces Room to Read works in, as well as regular interaction
with education officials, partners, school administrators, teachers and students
and s/he will report to the Program Director.
Main responsibilities:
• Liaise with government officials and NGO partners to carry out partnership and
implementation of Reading Room Program;
• Plan on survey to identify schools or partners that are in need and meet all our
criteria for the challenge grant. Work with Program Officers in developing, reviewing
make recommendations and finalizing target selection Room to Read;
• Organize training ToT for Reading Room Officer and government partner on
library establishment and library management;
• Provide technical assistance to Reading Officers and partners in management
of program, libraries and conducting activities and make suggestions for
improving quality and utilization of libraries;
• Supervise work of the Reading Room Program Officers, providing direction for his/
her role in library implementation and management of books to be distributed;
• Development of curriculum and materials for librarian trainings;
• Ensure of data entry and GI collection of the Reading Room Program Officers;
• Complete detailed written reports in a timely basis to headquarters regarding
the status and progress;
• Attend to donor affairs including hosting donor site visits and documenting
anecdotes that evolve through field work;
• Participate in any other activities which may be required to be undertaken to
fulfill the objectives of the organization.
Required qualification:
• Master Degree in Education, Social Science, Project Management or other
related fields;
• Minimum 5 years of working experience in the international NGOs in the
education or social development areas as well as require to have experience in
leadership and management roles;
• Good knowledge and understanding of education issues including teaching
methodologies and literacy instruction;
• Ability to plan and manage a budget, solving problem, delegation, supervisory
and coaching;
• Good communication, high commitment and trustworthy person;
• Good command in Lao and English (both written and oral);
• Good computer skill (MS Word, Excel, database and internet);
• Ability to travel frequently to our target provinces.
2. School Room Program Officer (Require one position in Oudomxay and one
position in Savannakhet)
The School Room Program Officer (SRPO) is responsible for implementing all
aspects of the School Room Program including surveying potential project sites,
training communities, supervising construction, monitoring and evaluation, and
project reporting. S/he will provide technical oversight and assistance to school/
partner construction committees as well as the School Room Program Associates
(SRPAs) who report to him/her to ensure high quality and timely implementation of
construction projects. The SRPO will report directly to Senior School Room Program
Manager (SRPM) and/or the Program Director and will supervise SPRAs.
Main responsibilities:
• Oversee the progress and quality at 25-30 construction sites at the same time;
• Work with school construction committees to assure their understanding of the
design and time line of the project based on specifics approved by the SRPM;
• Provide community orientation and training at all construction project sites;
• Coordinate with SPRM to survey and selection construction project site;
• Provide data need for annual program budget and collaborate with SRPM to
develop annual SR program plan;
• Monitor usage of funds at project site and ensure all of Room to Read’s financial
procedures are followed;
• Ensure all required project documentation at the construction sites is complete
and update our project database accurately and on time;
• Assist SRPM in completion of donor reports as needed;
Application procedure:
If you think you are qualified in any of these posts, please write down a position that you applied, submit your cover letter and CV through
email: sathaphone.chanthavong@roomtoread.org
In case, you cannot reach us through email, you can post and send it to
Mail address: P.O Box 11607, Ban Sibounheuang 314, Unit 25 Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Lao PDR.
You also can visit the INGO web site: http://www.directoryofngos.org
Female candidate is encouraged to apply
The shortlisted candidates only will be contacted and your CV will not be returned
Vientiane Times
• Participate in any other activities which may be required to be undertaken to
fulfill the objectives of the organization.
Require qualification:
• Bachelor or Master degree in construction and field work or experience related
to the tasks mentioned above;
• At least 2 years experience in community development, particularly in the
Education sector. Working in NGOs or international organization is benefit;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English;
• Good command of computer programs Word, Excel, databases and internet;
• Ability to travel frequently throughout Laos.
3. Girl Education Program Officer (based in Oudomxay) – Re-advertised
The Girl Education Program Officer is responsible for carrying out all activities of Room
to Read’s girl’s program in the targeted area. S/he will assist GEP Manager to
plan, develop and to improve the Girl Education Program. S/he will work based in
Oudomxay province and has regular interaction with education officials, government
partners, school administrators, woman union, teachers and pupils. The nature of
work is to make initiative and advocate teachers to progress the education program
for pupils. S/he will directly report to the Girl Education Program Manager.
Main responsibilities:
• Gathering information for reports on the status and progress of project sites;
• Hosting donor site visits as needed and document anecdotes that evolve
through field work;
• Make recommendations on improving the GEP program’s impact and
sustainability in schools and communities, with particular focus on maximizing
quality and the community’s challenge grant contribution;
• Survey and propose for the target selection, selection committee establishment,
material selection;
• List material collecting, assist in procurement and distribution to girls and follow
up material usage;
• Conduct activities as life skill, academic support, school activity, parent
workshop, teacher training and other activity related to GEP program;
• Conduct meetings with girls and teachers to monitor their progress, inspire
them towards academic success, and help deal with issues as they arise;
• Data entry into GSD and update regularly Monthly forecast and monthly
expense reports;
• Participate in any other activities which may be required to be undertaken to
fulfill the objectives of the organization.
Required qualification:
• Bachelor Degree in Education, Social Sciences, management or other related
fields;
• At least 3 to 4 years of working experiences with international NGOs in the
education sector or other related development fields;
• Experience of living and/or working in rural areas and good communication with
government officers, school administrator and local authority officer;
• Good command in Lao and English (both written and oral);
• Good computer skill (MS Word, Excel, and so on).
4. Girl Education Program Associate (based in Oudomxay) – Re-advertised
The Girl Education Program Associate’s responsibility is to assist a team to
carry out all activities of Room to Read’s girl’s program. S/he will work based in
Oudomxay Province and have regular interaction with education officials, school
administrators, teachers, pupils and their parent. Her/his tasks also improve
the GEP program’s impact and sustainability in schools and communities with
maximizing quality and the community’s challenge grant contribution. S/he will
directly report to the Girl Education Program Officer.
Main responsibilities:
• Assist in gathering information for reports on the status and progress of project
sites;
• Assist in hosting donor site visits as needed and document anecdotes that
evolve through field work;
• Make recommendations on improving the GEP program’s impact and
sustainability in schools and communities, with particular focus on maximizing
quality and the community’s challenge grant contribution;
• Extend support to local and outside volunteers in order to get their inputs in to
the program;
• Assist in implementation of the target selection, selection committee
establishment, material selection;
• Assist in list material collecting, procurement and distribution to girls and follow
up material usage;
• Assist in preparation of detailed cost estimation of monthly forecast and monthly
expense reports;
• Participate in any other activities which may be required to be undertaken to
fulfill the objectives of the organization.
Required qualification:
• Diploma and Bachelor of Education, Social Sciences, management or other
related fields;
• Minimum 2 years of working experiences with international NGOs in the
education sector or related development;
• Experience of living and/or working in rural areas and good communication with
government officers, school administrator and local authority officer;
• Experience of organize the workshop and activities mentioned above;
• Good command in English (both written and oral);
• Good computer skill (MS Word, Excel, and so on).