Champasak Province and Ubon Ratchathani University Explore Cooperation in Agriculture, Education, and Technology

A delegation from Laos's southern Champasak Province visited Ubon Ratchathani University (UBU) in Thailand to discuss expanding cooperation in agriculture, education, and technology. The visit served as an opportunity to strengthen academic and economic ties between the two regions. The Champasak delegation included Ms. Phimphone Phandanouvong, Member of the Standing Committee of the Provincial Party Committee and Vice Governor, along with representatives from provincial departments, district leaders, officials from the international checkpoint, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and business representatives. Following a presentation on UBU’s academic programs and activities, they expressed interest in expanding cooperation, particularly in areas that can support local economic development and improve the value of agricultural products. Specific areas of cooperation proposed include the design and processing of fishery and agricultural products, development of value-added products, environmentally friendly agricultural production, and biodiversity conservation. Cooperation in developing an agricultural center on the Bolaven Plateau in Paksong District, greenhouse and open-field cultivation of economic crops, seed development, and clean and organic agriculture were also discussed. In education, discussions focused on encouraging more Lao students to study at UBU and organizing joint seminars, trade fairs, and product exhibitions to promote knowledge exchange and business opportunities. Joint research on soil, crops, livestock, and seed varieties to support agricultural innovation and sustainable production was also explored. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for Champasak Province and UBU to exchange experiences and identify practical areas for future cooperation in education, agricultural development, research, and technology. Under Laos's one-party system, such regional academic and economic exchanges are viewed as part of maintaining and strengthening relations with neighboring countries. Cooperation with Thailand, in particular, is a key pillar of economic development, given the long-standing close relationship and geographical proximity. However, the Lao economy remains heavily reliant on investment and support from China and Vietnam, and economic challenges persist. Information Source: KPL Laos News