VIENTIANE, June 26 (Xinhua) -- The Lao government has committed to tackling malnutrition in order to build human capital, and ensure economic growth and prosperity.
Speaking at the second Human Capital Summit, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone highlighted the importance of nutrition as the basis of a strong and resilient economy.
The summit titled "Accelerated Nutrition Actions for Human Capital Development" was held in Lao capital Vientiane on Wednesday, which brought together leaders and experts to discuss strategies for improving nutrition and investing in the nation's future, Lao News Agency reported on Wednesday.
"The Lao government is strongly committed to implementing comprehensive strategies to tackle malnutrition through a multi-sectoral approach, from central to local levels and including various stakeholders and development partners," said Sonexay.
Also speaking at the event, United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Representative to Laos Pia Rebello Britto, said "Laos' economic stability and future growth depend on the actions we take today. An investment in child nutrition is an investment in the nation's future."
The Lao government pledged to develop an accelerated action plan, establish a coordinating unit to oversee implementation and implement a nutrition budget-tagging system to ensure effective investment and resource use. ■