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Police pledge security, social order during ASEM Summit page 3

Deal with Iran on nuclear inspection to be signed soonpage 7

2PM, miss A to travel Korea with foreign K-pop fans page 22

4500 kip 4500 kip thursday may 24, 2012 IssuE 118

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Khonesavanh Latsaphao

The Japanese government yesterday signed agreements to provide financial support for two Lao government development projects, at a total cost of more than US$14.2 million.

One grant of over US$11.2 million will be used for the clearance of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in areas near main roads. The second is US$3 million for scholarships for government officials under the JDS scheme.

“The promise of these two grants was made by the Japanese prime minister to Lao Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong when he visited Japan in March this year,” Japanese Ambassador to Laos Ms Junko Yokota said at the signing ceremony.

Part of the US$11.2 million for UXO clearance will go towards the purchase of Japanese-made specialised equipment, motor vehicles and computers.

“I’m sure this support will help to accelerate UXO clearance in Laos,” Ms Yokota said.

Japan has contributed to this effort since 1999, through various channels including direct contributions to the Lao National UXO Programme (UXO Lao), through Japanese NGOs

and the Japan-Asean Integration Fund. The total amount so far provided is US$26 million.

“The second grant of US$3 million is intended for human resource development and will be

used to send young Lao government officials to higher education institutions in Japan,” Ms Yokota said. She confirmed that later this year about 20 officials will go to Japan to study for development,

education, law, agriculture and engineering degrees.

The JDS scholarship programme began in 1999. In the first 10 years of the scheme, nearly 220 Lao officials studied for master’s degrees in

Japan.Deputy Prime Minister and

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Thongloun Sisoulith endorsed the planned use of the grants, saying the two projects supported by the Japanese government will greatly assist in human resource development and the reduction of UXO contamination in Laos.

UXO hazards have existed in Laos for 37 years, since the Indochina War. This has been detrimental to both socio-economic development and the country’s growth in general for almost four decades.

Since 1996, almost 30,000 hectares of UXO-contaminated land have been cleared but Dr Thongloun said 87,000 square kilometres are still affected, posing great danger to local people.

According to the National Regulatory Authority, hundreds of people in Laos are killed or injured by UXO accidents each year.

Between 1964 and 1973 a total of 580,000 bombing missions were conducted over Laos, which averages out at one mission every eight minutes around the clock for the nine years.

It is estimated that out of the 2 million tonnes of bombs dropped, including 288 million cluster bombs, almost 30 percent failed to detonate.

Japan grants more than US$14m for aid projects

Dr Thongloun Sisoulith and Ms Junko Yokota shake hands after the signing ceremony.

COntinued page 3

Times Reporters

The World Bank has raised its GDP growth forecast for Laos this year, expressing optimism that agricultural output will rebound.

The bank announced the revision of its earlier projection of 7.5 percent growth to 8.3 percent during a video conference yesterday from Tokyo, Japan, when unveiling the East Asia Economic Update mid-year review.

According to a World Bank Senior Economist in Laos, Ms Genevieve Boyreau, the main driver of Lao GDP growth in 2012 will be the mining sector, which is expected to gain a major boost from the expansion of mining operations and the rising price of gold and copper on the world market.

Construction will also play an important role in driving economic growth. Laos is building a large convention centre and 50 luxury villas and expanding Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport in

Lao economy will see 8.3 percent growth this year: World Bankpreparation for the Asia-Europe Meeting Summit it will host in November.

The services sector is also expected to see remarkable growth this year. The sector will benefit from higher wholesale and trade volumes, and growth in tourism, transport and

telecommunications. The manufacturing sector will also benefit from the growing demand for cement, construction materials, food, and beverages.

However, while the outlook for short term growth is positive, growth in the medium term remains subject to uncertainty in external markets as a result of

price volatility, the Euro area debt crisis, and a slowdown in China’s economic growth.

Agricultural output is expected to rebound after the adverse impacts of tropical storms in 2011.

The World Bank had lowered the GDP growth forecast for Laos from 8.3 to 8 percent in 2011 and to 7.5 percent in 2012 after the country faced serious impacts from flooding.

Ms Genevieve Boyreau.

Times Reporters

The ill health of more than 100 people in Palay village, Thaphabath district of Borikhamxay province, is believed to been caused by inhaling the vapours of a spilled chemical.

The unidentified chemical is thought to have leaked from a

truck on its way from a mine site in Vientiane province.

Thaphabath district Deputy Governor Mr Langsy Dalavong told Vientiane Times yesterday that the vehicle came through at night recently and the drivers stopped for dinner before heading further north.

The chemical spillage in Thaphabath district, Borikhamxay province.

Villagers fall ill after chemical spill in Borikhamxay

According to the World Bank, headline inflation in Laos has trended down since November 2011, benefiting from lower food and fuel inflation.

The headline inflation fell from 7.9 percent year on year in November to 5.3 percent in March.

Food inflation has declined from 10.7 percent to 8.2 percent in the same period, attributable to the rice price decline and despite relatively high meat prices, which resulted from a high base effect in 2011, the harvest season at the end of 2011, and the government’s tightened control on rice exports.

Energy prices continue to grow but at a slower space compared to last year due to a high base effect in 2011. Such slowdown drove energy inflation downward in March. Core inflation has also tended down toward 3 percent year on year in March.

According to a report from the Lao government, it projects GDP growth of 8 percent in 2011/2012 and plans for growth to reach at least 8 percent next year.

The Asian Development Bank has forecast that economic growth in Laos will be 7.8 percent this year.

2 Vientiane times

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Times Reporters

The Japanese Commission for Solidarity with Asian Underprivileged (CSA) is providing further assistance to Santhiphab Secondary School in Luang Prabang province.

An agreement to continue the provision of educational assistance to disadvantaged children was signed in Vientiane yesterday by Director General of the Ministry of Education and Sports’ Secondary Education Department, Mr Lyfu, and CSA General Secretary, Ms Hinako Watanabe.

Mr Lyfu said CSA will continue to help the school for three more years, including the provision of essential educational supplies and maintenance of the dormitory.

“There are many outstanding students in this school,” he said, “so it has a very important role in the community.”

The dormitory in the school was funded and built by CSA so that students with an excellent academic record could continue their education.

Recently, CSA has provided funds to build several schools in Laos so this Commission is making an important contribution to the improvement of the country’s education programme.

“Although Japanese people have been severely affected by natural disasters recently, we will continue to help the Lao education sector because we believe it is important to secure a bright future for the children,” said Ms Watanabe.

CSA is a non-government organisation based in Japan that addresses issues of concern through the support and protection of those in need in South-East Asia. Originally established in 1981, largely by trade unions and their affiliates, it was intended to be a provider of support and a protector of human rights for refugees from Indochina countries who settled in Japan.

The refugee situation in Japan has markedly improved, however, and the original

objectives have been more or less achieved so CSA is now working for the development of South-East Asian countries, as well as supporting those former refugees who have been repatriated.

Since 1995, CSA has helped to build primary schools in remote areas of Laos. Most of the schools were built in villages in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Borikhamxay, Xayaboury and Bokeo provinces, in locations where children had no access to formal education.

They have also provided stationery, writing equipment and, in some cases, textbooks.

In Laos, there are a number of students who are still not able to receive higher education due to either poverty or living in a remote area.

Japan helps Luang Prabang students to make the grade

Mr Lyfu (right) shakes hands with Ms Hinako Watanabe after the signing ceremony.

Xayxana Leukai

The Ministry of Health is aiming to modernise food and drug management systems in Laos, in order to provide better standards of care.

Minister of Health Prof. Dr Eksavang Vongvichit said recently the ministry was focusing on upgrading food and drug management systems, which will include amendments to various laws and regulations. The aim of the drive is to improve healthcare service provision at hospitals, health clinics, pharmacies and dispensaries.

“We will focus on advancing management systems and quality supervision of the food and drug checking unit to ensure safe and modern medical standards,” he said, adding that the ministry would strictly

Ministry to examine medicinal standardsmonitor quality standards in a bid to weed out substandard and fake medicines.

Under the seventh five-year health sector development plan for 2011-2015, the ministry will encourage businesses to invest in both the conventional and traditional medicine markets, in a bid to increase competition.

They will also be encouraging all pharmaceutical factories to ensure that their operations meet required standards as Laos integrates with the rest of the region.

In terms of the development of traditional medicine, Dr Eksavang said they intend to improve the traditional medicine curriculum at the University of Health Sciences and public health schools throughout the country. They will also be promoting treatments with traditional

medicines in hospitals and other healthcare centres.

Dr Eksavang also suggested herbalists should continue researching and developing medicinal plants for future treatment. This included researching potential sources of medicinal compounds as well as preserving and documenting traditional medicinal knowledge.

Herbalists are advised to survey the market for traditional medicines, including selection and harvesting techniques, as well as the cultivation, preservation and processing of medicinal plants.

Broadening their knowledge will allow more vendors to establish herbal medicine dispensaries that meet regional and international standards, and offer an alternative to conventional medicines.

Times Reporters

The brand new Savannakhet-Quang Binh Friendship Kindergarten in Kaysone Phomvihane district, Savannakhet province, is ready to throw open its doors at the start of next academic year.

Speaking at a handover ceremony for the school on May 19, Savannakhet province Education and Sports Department Director, Mr Khamphoun Touphaithoun, said how much he welcomed the addition of the school to the district’s education system.

Mr Khamphoun said the school cost over 4.9 billion kip to build and was funded by the People’s Committee of Quang Binh province, Vietnam, and a contribution of more than 953 million kip from the people of Savannakhet province.

Also present at the event were Savannakhet provincial Governor Dr Souphanh Keomixay, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Quang Binh province Mr Nguyen Huu Hoai, district authority

Vietnam invests in future of Savannakhet childrenofficials and other invited guests from both sides.

Mr Khamphoun said the two-storey school took one year to complete after the groundbreaking ceremony on May 19 last year. The school was built by a locally-based construction company.

The school measures 10.5 x 48.5 metres and has five furnished classrooms, a staffroom, medical room, meeting room, a workshop and toilets. Each room has 30 tables and chairs as well as educational supplies, and 25 sets of outdoor exercise equipment.

Dr Souphanh said the school was the outcome of the bilateral cooperation between the two countries and marked the 35th anniversary of the Friendship and Cooperation Treaty (1977-2012) and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations (1962-2012) between Laos and Vietnam.

The school’s handover also marks 122nd anniversary of the birth of Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh.

Dr Souphanh said the kindergarten would help to broaden the knowledge of local children.

“The children of today will become a powerful force in the future if they have access to good education at an early stage.”

“In national development, the development of human resources has come to be considered fundamental to economic progress,” he added.

Dr Souphanh thanked Mr Hoai and the people of Quang Binh province for their generous support and expressed hope for future cooperation.

“Our government hopes the authorities concerned will cooperate with local people to assist in this work,” Mr Hoai said. Speaking on behalf of the people of Quang Binh province, he added “We are very happy to bring a better future to the children of Savannakhet, and we hope the local community will work together to maintain the school.”

Somxay Sengdara

Lao and overseas officials believe the 9th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Summit to be held in Vientiane in November will shine a brighter spotlight on Laos.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Office Head Mr Sayakane Sisouvong and European Union (EU) Charge d’Affaires to Laos Mr Michel Goffin conveyed the message yesterday at a national seminar to raise public awareness of the Asia-Europe Meeting process and Laos’ preparations for the upcoming summit.

“The EU congratulates Laos for being able to organise the summit because it will certainly put Laos on the map and boost the country on the international scene,” Mr Goffin said.

He is personally confident that the Lao government will hold a very successful summit, saying the country is preparing very seriously, while having good capacity in terms of logistics and protocol and, most importantly, political stability.

Mr Sayakane said Laos will gain historic political significance by hosting the international meeting, which will be attended by more than 50 heads of state and government, and representatives from the EU

(From left) Mr Michel Goffin, Mr Sayakane Sisouvong, and Director General of the Department of Economic Affairs Mr Thongphane Savanphet attend the seminar.

Officials: ASEM Summit to spotlight Laos and Asean Secretariat.

“The summit will be an opportunity for Laos to showcase the success of the government’s open policy in terms of international relationships and cooperation which we began in 1986 with a view to improving living conditions,” he said.

This policy has also facilitated international integration and participation in regional and international affairs, Mr Sayakane added.

ASEM was established in 1996 to foster formal dialogue between the Asian and European regions on important issues and challenges that are of interest to both sides and require a joint effort to resolve.

The summit will provide a platform for ASEM members to gain a deeper understanding of the true situation in Laos, especially concerning freedom of beliefs and religion, and human rights.

“In fact, we have these policies in place, but seeing and believing is better. Summit participants will be able to visit many places and talk with people during the event,” Mr Sayakane said.

One of the important meetings to be held on the sidelines is the 13th Asia-Europe Business Forum. This meeting will enable investors from the two regions

to discover the potential for investment in Laos and discuss cooperation.

Other important sideline meetings are the 9th Asia-Europe People’s Forum and 7th Asia-Europe Parliamentary Partnership.

The Asia-Europe Meeting has 48 members. Twenty (including the Asean Secretariat) are in Asia and Oceania, and 28 (including the European Commission) are in Europe.

The expansion of ASEM will be announced during the summit with the admission of three new members - Switzerland, Norway, and Bangladesh – bringing the total to 51 members.

The 1-day seminar was co-organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and EU Delegation to Laos, and attended by government officials and civil servants from Vientiane and Vientiane and Borikhamxay provinces.

Cooperation between Laos and the EU, and preparations for the summit and its sideline meetings were also discussed at the seminar.

The ministry will hold a similar seminar in Luang Prabang and Champassak provinces to raise awareness of the summit among civil servants and the public in the northern, other central and southern provinces.

Vientiane times 3

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Thursday May 24, 2012 Home news

Xieng Khuang

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

23/05/2012 20 26 Light rain

24/05/2012 19 26 Mostly cloudy

25/05/2012 19 27 Scattered showers

Luang Namtha

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

23/05/2012 21 32 Light rain



Luang Prabang

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

23/05/2012 24 33 Light rain



Vientiane

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max


24/05/2012 26 33 Light rain


Savannakhet

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

23/05/2012 27 35 Partly cloudy

24/05/2012 27 36 Light rain


Champassak

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

23/05/2012 28 35 Partly cloudy

24/05/2012 27 34 Light rain

25/05/2012 28 35 Isolated showers

3 Day Weather Forecast

Somxay Sengdara

Vientiane is planning to have its own television station next year, with authorities hoping it will serve them by promoting activities in the capital.

Vientiane authorities made the decision in 2009 to establish a TV station, but there was a funding shortage and they were unable to find an appropriate location. The nearly 24 billion kip project was consequently delayed until they could come up with a way to operate a station competitively.

Now the Vientiane Department of Information, Culture and Tourism has found a 1-hectare site in Phonpapao village, Sisattanak district, and funding. However, the cost of the project has climbed to 30 billion kip and must be authorised by the government and approved by the National Assembly.

“This is the country’s capital, so we would like the city to have its own TV station, especially as many provinces already have their

Vientiane hopes to have own tV station soon

own,” department Director Ms Vanpheng Keonakhone told Vientiane Times on Monday.

There are 40 domestic television stations in Laos in all the provinces, and many districts have their own stations while the capital authority has none. Vientiane receives airtime for programmes from other stations, mainly Lao National Television (LNT), for 30 minutes each day.

“The amount of time we are currently allotted is too short for us to communicate the daily activities of the Vientiane authorities and their Party bodies,” Ms Vanpheng said.

There are four main domestic television channels in Vientiane: LNT’s Channels 1 and 3, Lao Star Channel, and the Public Security Channel.

The LNT Channel 1, which broadcasts for nearly 18 hours a day, informs the public about Party and government directions and policies, providing information and entertainment. Channel 3 focuses on business, entertainment, and airtime services.

Lao Star Channel is a satellite station whose signal can be received in many countries. Programme content is typically educational topics and entertainment.

Meanwhile, MV Lao screens solely entertainment programmes like films and music. Even though the channel plans to air, it has yet to operate officially.

The Lao Star Channel is financially self-reliant and is regarded as the most watched Lao station. The Party and government are aiming for all state media organisations to be financially self-reliant. However, none are quite as popular as they could be.

Ms Vanpheng said her department is considering possible options.

“We are thinking about what we can earn, but it is difficult as experience shows there are many television stations facing financial difficulties right now. So we will be reliant on the allocated budget at first, but we hope to gradually become profitable as time goes on,” she said.

Villagers fall ill... FROM PAGE 1

Times Reporters

Police officers have pledged that security and social order will be maintained during the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Summit which Vientiane will host in November.

The Ministry of Public Security has drawn up 11 strategic plans to realise this goal, Deputy Minister of Public Security Police Brigadier General Kongthong Phongvichith announced yesterday.

The strategic plans are associated with the ministry’s four-mandate targets, involving 15 points of focus to ensure political security, stability and social order.

“We will work to ensure political stability and ensure there are no instances of undesirable social behaviour,” Brig Gen Kongthong promised. “Or if any such events do occur, they will be prevented from escalating.”

Brig Gen Kongthong made the announcement at the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism when he briefed officials on security issues and recalled the

Police pledge security, social order during ASEM Summit

founding of the Lao Security Force.

To ensure the 11 strategic plans are implemented, the Deputy Minister said the ministry has sent security officers to several provinces to work at the grassroots level to ensure security. This includes mobilising local people to participate in security operations by using their eyes and ears to detect any potential problems in their communities.

Recently, the ministry has strengthened coordination and worked more closely with the Vientiane authorities and ministries concerned to ensure all security preparations are in place ahead of the November summit, which will be the biggest international conference ever to take place in Laos.

Brig Gen Kongthong also said cooperation was needed from all government agencies and civil servants to guard state offices.

He said security officials were implementing the Prime Minister’s Order concerning security issues, which aims to address undesirable behaviour, but gave no details.

As Laos has already hosted several international events, the deputy minister said he believed this occasion was not beyond the country’s capacity.

In 2004, Laos hosted the Asean Summit in Vientiane when heads of state from Asean’s 10 member countries and their counterparts from dialogue partners convened for talks.

Three years later, Laos hosted the 23rd Francophonie ministerial meeting, attended by foreign ministers and ministers in charge of Francophonie affairs of the 55 permanent member countries. Representatives of 13 observer countries also attended the meeting.

Heads of state and government from 48 countries are expected to attend the ASEM Summit. Three other events will take place simultaneously: business forums, parliamentary meetings and people-to-people forums.

Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Mr Savankhone Razmountry was present at yesterday’s briefing.

Brigadier General Kongthong Phongvichith (left) and Mr Savankhone Razmountry attend the security briefing.

“The next day, many villagers felt unwell after inhaling the chemical vapours. They developed coughs and skin irritations, had breathing difficulties and felt weak and dizzy,” he said. “We still don’t know which company the vehicle belonged to or what kind of chemical it carried.”

The vehicle spilled some of its load on its way through the village but the largest emission occurred near a restaurant and the market.”

The Socio-Economic Daily newspaper reported on the issue on Wednesday, quoting a number of affected villagers on what symptoms they experienced after the

chemical spill. 24-year-old Ms Not who

sells food in the village near the main road said her eyes turned red and were very sore. She also felt dizzy and wanted to vomit. Now she feels better after going for treatment at a nearby hospital.

Director of Thaphabath district Health Office Dr Chaykeo Luangphan told Vientiane Times yesterday that about 44 villagers went for treatment at the district hospital while others went to hospitals in the provincial capital Pakxan or in Vientiane.

“Even now, some villagers still have health problems but they are not as serious as they

were before,” he said, saying that the district hospital gave them medication based on their symptoms.

“I don’t know what kind of chemical it was. I have never treated people who were sick because of an industrial chemical spill.”

The problem has subsided after local authorities removed the substance from the village and buried it in a safer area. A sample of the chemical has been sent to various labs in Vientiane and the tests should soon be finalised. The identification of the chemical involved could help to track down the company that owned the truck.

Times Reporters

Border demarcation with Cambodia and Thailand is progressing, while borders with Laos’ other three neighbours, China, Myanmar and Vietnam, are already virtually established, an official has said.

Laos and Cambodia share a 535km border and almost

86 percent of the total has been identified with officials expressing the intention to complete as soon as possible.

Land demarcation along the 735km border with Thailand has reached 93 percent completion, the Head of the National Border Committee’s Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Phoukhao

Phommavongsa, told the Vientiane Times yesterday. However he admitted that demarcation work on the 1,100 km water border has not yet started.

To encourage the demarcation effort, Deputy Foreign Minister Ms Sounthone Xayachak led a delegation on a visit to the demarcation area at the international checkpoint of Vangtao-Chongmek in Laos’ southernmost province of Champassak and Ubon Ratchathani in Thailand, from May 19-21.

During the three-day trip the delegation also visited demarcation areas at the international checkpoint between Champassak and Cambodia’s Stung Treng province. The delegation inspected border identification markers as well as visiting the site where the Laos-Cambodia Friendship Monument will be built.

Whilst progress was being made, officials were still unable to give target dates for completion of border demarcation with Cambodia and Thailand.

Demarcation work on the 505km border with China is almost complete although officials from both sides have added a few additional markers. The work is set for completion this year.

Similarly, the 2,067 km-long border shared with Vietnam has largely been demarcated, with both sides currently adding more markers. This work is set for completion in 2014.

Mr Phoukhao added that demarcation on the 236km border with Myanmar has been completed.

The Lao government has recognised the need to complete this demarcation as soon as possible, saying it would be valuable for future generations.

Border demarcation making good progress

4 Vientiane timesHome news Thursday May 24, 2012

News in Brief

Job Announcement Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech (Gbx ABT/ULg), Hanoi University of Agriculture (HUA) and CEDAC are going to implement a three-year project funded by the European Union (EU) titled “Promoting appropriate technology for smallholders to increase food security among ethnic groups in Cambodia and Lao PDR". The objective of the project is to improve poor people nutritional intake and health by diversifying and increasing quality food production thanks to appropriate technologies, while encouraging food trade and sensitizing households to diet balance principles.In the framework of the project, we are seeking qualified staff to fill Thematic Supervisor position.

Thematic Supervisor: Position based in Attapeu province with fieldwork in the villages of the following districts: Phouvong, Saysettha, Sanamxay, Sanxay.

Purpose of the position:Responsible for providing thematic technical related to Food security and Nutrition and CBOs (Community Based Organizations) support to the field coordinators, coordinating activities, facilitating monitoring surveys and overseeing quality control.

Qualifications:• Bachelor degree or equivalent on rural sociology or related fields • At least 4 years of experience in related fields• Knowledge in Food security and Nutrition, CBOs and rural development• Ability to manage staff under control to achieve the goal of project • Good level of English (speaking, listening, reading and writing)• Excellent initiative, team spirit and cross cultural sensitivity• Ability to plan, organize and coordinate activities• Willingness to work in rural and remote areas (even over night)

main duties and responsibilities:• Establish, follow up, review, adjust and implement work plan for Food security and Nutrition; CBOs; and

M&E (Monitoring & Evaluation) in Lao and English and coordination with relevant project staff.• Implement, follow up and evaluate impact of activities and coordination with relevant project staff.• Summarise activities conducted at the end of the month in a report and plan activities with respective

project staff for coming month in Lao and English.• Establish and analyse project documentation such as reports, assessment, data base and Operation and

Monitoring (O&M) data.• Ensure very good communication between project office and field offices, especially for Food security and

Nutrition; CBOs; training/capacity building and M&E activities for implementation of result mentioned.• Conduct regular field visits to follow up and measure process of implementation.• Establish bill of quantity and its specifications, quotations and its analysis for purchase of necessary

implements to conduct above mentioned activities successfully.• Coordinate activities with project office, field offices and relevant stakeholders to ensure efficient

implementation of all project activities.• Arrange meetings, appointments and workshops.• Write progress reports in Lao and English.• Ensure that regulations and procedures set by project and donor is respected by relevant staff and

stakeholders.• Other tasks may be required if needed.

Interested candidates, please send cover letter and CV (indicating on the title “Thematic Supervisor position) in English to: [email protected] in cc to [email protected] and [email protected]

Only short-listed candidates will be informed about further selection process.

Closing date: 31 May 2012

Job Announcement Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech (Gbx ABT/ULg), Hanoi University of Agriculture (HUA) and CEDAC are going to implement a three-year project funded by the European Union (EU) titled “Promoting appropriate technology for smallholders to increase food security among ethnic groups in Cambodia and Lao PDR". The objective of the project is to improve poor people nutritional intake and health by diversifying and increasing quality food production thanks to appropriate technologies, while encouraging food trade and sensitizing households to diet balance principles.In the framework of the project, we are seeking qualified staff to fill National Coordinator position.

National Coordinator (1 position): Position based in Attapeu province with field visits in the villages of the following districts: Phouvong, Saysettha, Sanamxay, Sanxay.

Purpose of the position:Responsible for coordinating project implementation in Laos (Attapeu Province); to manage local team (about 20 people) and to act as main link agent with Cambodia team.

Qualifications:• Bachelor degree or equivalent in Management and/or in fields related to rural development, including agriculture and

community development• At least 4 years of experience project management position, preferably in a development project• Strong ability to manage staff under control to achieve the goals of project • Ability and experience in administrative and financial management preferably following international donors procedures.

Experience with EU-funded project is a strong asset.• Excellent ability to plan, organize and coordinate activities• Strong experience in reporting including financial report• Good level of English is mandatory (speaking, listening, reading and writing)• Knowledge in Food security; Nutrition, CBOs and/or rural development• Excellent initiative, team spirit and cross cultural sensitivity• Willingness to work in rural and remote areas

main duties and responsibilities:1 Management:

- Human resources management of local team:o 4 Thematic Supervisors themselves coordinating 8 Extension Officers and 5 Public Services Extension Officers o one Accountant and Administrative Assistanto two Drivers, one Security Guard and one Cleaner

- Daily work coordination and follow-up of Thematic Supervisors staff and Accountant & Administrative Assistant (check work compliance with requirements)

- In close collaboration with the implementing partners of Gbx ABT and HUA, prepare the Quarterly Work Plan and Budget (QWPB) in relation to the Project design and available financing, and oversee the implementation of the activities as per the approved QWPB;

- In close collaboration with implementing partners of Gbx ABT and HUA and the expatriate staff, participate in all activities and budget reporting activities, whether for internal management or for audit and evaluation purpose

- In close collaboration with implementing partners of Gbx ABT;HUA and ULB, and the expatriate staff, participate in all strategic planning and implementation procedures activities

- In close collaboration with the implementing partners of Gbx ABT and HUA and expatriate staff, participate in all project technical, administrative and financial management activities, including procurements and follow-up of contractual, budgetary and financial agreements

- Receive and arrange for reproduction and circulation of reports, studies and other Project documentation from all involved staff as appropriate

2 Local interface:- Local administration management (relationship with provincial authorities; juridical back-up and any other activities in

link with national legislation compliance). - Ensure local office functionality (supervise maintenance work and necessary equipment)- Ensure information sharing with all stakeholders- Coordinate the translation of key documents from Lao to English and English to Lao as needed ( identify translator(s),

check translation provided)- Supervise and arrange for all activities related to local logistics as appropriate

3 Technical topics management and follow-up

- Technical management of the Thematic supervisors staff (technical guidance in their activities) in line with project purpose as described in the project proposal approved by the EU.

Interested candidates, please send cover letter and CV (indicating on the title “National Coordinator position”) in English to: [email protected] in cc to [email protected] and [email protected] and [email protected]

Only short-listed candidates will be informed about further selection process.Closing date: 31 May 2012

Bounfaeng Phaymanivong

It is essential to change the habits of consumers, in a bid to save energy and possibly obviate the need to build more power plants in Laos.

This was the message delivered by the head of Sunlabob Renewable Energy (SLB)’s Energy Audit and Efficiency Department, Mr Pierre-Marc Blanchet, at a seminar held in Vientiane this week. The seminar was titled ‘Energy efficiency for companies and institutions’ and jointly organised by SLB and the Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ).

Mr Blanchet said “People must use energy wisely in order to cut electricity bills and other related expenses,” adding that

Renewable energy company sparks interest in power saving

Mr Pierre-Marc Blanchet (second right) poses with other energy experts at the seminar.

doing so meant more than just saving money. “If people avoid inefficient usage of energy, more electricity can be sold abroad instead of being used in the domestic market.”

Business executives, government decision-makers and representatives from the international community attended the day-long seminar to learn about efficient energy usage, which also allowed participants and experts from Laos and other countries to share their knowledge, experience and constructive ideas.

The seminar identified the issues involved and specifically referred to climate change consequences in Laos.

The event also identified potential solutions for excessive consumption and encouraged awareness of and

interest in energy efficiency.Also speaking at the

seminar, SLB CEO Mr Andy Schroeter focused on existing possibilities for developing energy efficiency in Laos.

Mr Ir Guntor Tobeng, from a Malaysian renewable energy services company, presented a Malaysian example of efficient usage and detailed the lessons learned from past actions. This was followed by a rigorous question and answer session with field professionals.

Climate change is usually seen as a global subject with only limited relevance to the Lao situation. Yet, even if Laos has only contributed to global greenhouse gas emissions in a small way, it has already been affected by climate change and will continue to be so, a press release noted.

Bokeo authorities help boost wet season rice harvestBokeo province with the help of the provincial Agriculture and Forestry Department is targeting over 2,700 hectares of rice crops this wet season.The department’s Head of Planning said they had sent personnel to fix irrigation systems damaged in last year’s flooding, helping farmers with repairs.Staff said that over 2,600 of the 2,700 hectares will use water from irrigation systems.Farmers around the province are preparing to plant their rice and expect to finish by the beginning of July. They will use the single seedling method to plant Thadokkham 1, 3, 8 and 11 varieties, and will plant traditional rice seeds as well.Farmers will also plant sweetcorn, soybean, peanut and vegetable seeds.

Lao Red Cross reaches out to the needyThe Lao Red Cross Office branch in Vientiane province is focusing on further aiding the poor, orphans, victims of natural disasters and other vulnerable people.A provincial authority official attending the World Red Cross Day and World Blood Donation Day ceremony recently said clothing worth more than 76 million kip had been distributed to target groups.The branch has cooperated with NGOs to fund the purchase of medicine, food, clothes and other items to help people in need.It is also encouraging local communities to join in blood donation activities for the benefit of hospital patients. The branch has collected over 1,600 bags of blood from volunteer donors so far this year, which is 6.6 percent above the annual target.The Red Cross has also provided 29 latrines, three bore wells, and over 2,330 sets of materials for building toilets in rural communities. It has also helped more than 37,800 people to receive free medical check-ups by local doctors. The branch is also assisting over 20 villages in Kasy, Maed and Hom districts with their efforts to become model communities of health.

Saravan eyes higher GDPVapy district in Saravan province looks to increase its GDP by over 10 percent, or more than 242 billion kip for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.The agriculture and forestry sector plans to increase its growth by 8.86 percent, accounting for 53.6 percent of GDP. The industry sector is eyeing a 20 percent growth rate, while the services sector plans for 19 percent growth which accounts for 30 percent of GDP.In previous years, each sector grew by 3-5 percent annually. Now the average annual per capita income in the district is over 6.5 million kip.A Vapy district authority official said the district expects to produce about 56,830 tonnes of rice on over 15,000 hectares in the coming year. This includes five tonnes of rice per hectare on over 2,700 hectares in the wet season.

Vientiane times 5Thursday May 24, 2012 Photo news

Special Services Agreement (SSA) Position Vacancy NoticeThe World Health Organization is seeking for a qualified Lao National for the Position of:

Mental Health Administrative AssistantThis is a short-term 5-6 months assignment.

To provide administrative and management mental health and disability to the WHO country office in Lao PDR, the Lao Ministry of Health and other mental health stakeholders as needed.

duties:1. Provide mental health and disability administrative and management support in collaboration with other non-communicable

diseases related activities and under the supervision of unit team leader/s.2. Collaborate and coordinate with domestic and international community mental health providers for conducting mental health and

disability related workshops and training in the country under supervision of the designated supervisors.3. Provide advocacy and networking with government, NGOs, bilateral, and other international mental health partners to increase

mental health resources and knowledge sharing and to foster mental health capacity building.4. Assist in developing mental health standards and norms as well as develop products for mental health promotion and awareness

raising.5. Assist in conducting mental health/disability reduction campaign and education in collaboration with other mental health partners

as required.6. Collaborate with Laos Ministry of Health, University of Health Science, hospitals, NGOs, and other partner organizations to

organize mental health monthly “Round Table” meetings and monitor progress in mental health capacity building.

7. Provide management and logistic support as well as other related duties that might be required.

Education: - BA degree in social science, business, or management is required.- Medical doctor (MD) or master degree relevant to mental health or social work will be advantage for this position.- Additional education and training in program management and administration would be an advantage for the position. Knowledge and skills: - Cultural competence and knowledge of local systems as well as respect for confidentiality and policy of concerned

organizations. - Be able to work with multidisciplinary teams in addition to good communication and interpersonal skills. Be able to work

independently and able to run multiple tasks. - Ability to work harmoniously as s member of a team, adapt to diverse educational and cultural backgrounds and maintain a high

standard of working ethic and professionalism. - Be able to communicate in both English and Lao languages using multiple communication skills such as email, fax, phone,

written word, and verbal. - Experience or skill using Microsoft Office.

Experience:- Three to five years working experience in administrative and management works related to medical, mental health or social

service fields with private, bilateral, and government sectors within domestic and international organizations. - Experience networking and working collaboratively with international, bilateral, NGOs, and Government organizations.

Language: - Excellent knowledge of speaking, reading, and writing skills in both English and Lao languages is required. - Additional language ability is of advantage.

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit applications in English language, with curriculum vitae and cover letter by 25 may 2012

Addressed to:Dr. Asmus HammerichProgramme Management OfficerWorld health Organization125 saphanthong road,unit 5, Ban saphanthong tai,Sissathanak District.Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.Fax: (856) 21 353 905Tel: (856) 21 353 902-904Email: [email protected]

Vacancy NoticeLao People’s Democratic RepublicPeace Independent Democracy Unity Prosperity

REQUEST FOR QUOTATONThe government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) has received a grant from the Republic of Korea, through Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to finance the Rural Development Project for 5 villages in Vientiane Province, hereafter referred to as the Project. The department of planning and investment in Vientiane Province will be the Implementing Agency (IA). The grant will be used to finance the consulting service for the project. Department of planning and investment in Vientiane Province now invites eligible consulting firms for the provision of consulting services for the Project. The provision of consulting service will cover the following areas:

Consulting services cover:

(i) Explore and assess the feasibility for establishing a new noodle manufacturing factory in NaNin village and create an implementation plan according to its study result (baseline data);

(ii) Explore and assess the feasibility for cow quality improvement and create an implementation plan according to its expected result (outcome);

(iii) Formulate an operational plan of the Bamboo handicraft shop in Phonyeng village, Keo Oudom district, Vientiane province.

Interested consulting companies may obtain further information and receive a complete set of Term of Reference and request for Quotations (RFQ) at the address given below.The method of selection of the successful bidders is selected by Two-State Bidding (Technical Proposal and Price Quotation).The quotation documents must be submitted no later than 10:00 AM on 18th June 2012 to address below.

Mr. Khamsay SoumounthongDepartment of Planning and Investment in Vientiane Province, Lao PDRTel/Fax: 023 431559Mobile: 22252333 (Mr. Sithon)23800004 (Ms. Sengmany)77855168 (Mr. Boulouth)22251568 (Mr. Khamxay )

The Women’s International Group (WIG) held its annual Summer Ball on Saturday at the Lao Plaza Hotel. The long awaited event gathered more than 100 members of Vientiane society, Lao and expatriates. The guests were welcomed to the extraordinarily decorated ballroom by WIG President Ms Terry Dyer-Adams, and members of the board. The event is one of WIG’s fundraising activities to support its projects to assist Lao women and children. The guests were entertained by the ever popular Mega Band. --Photos Somsanouk Mixay

Deputy Director General of the Hygiene and Prevention Department of the Ministry of Health, Dr Bounlay Phommasack (second right), presents a flower basket and T-shirts bearing slogans to mark World No Smoking Day to Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Managing Editor of Vientiane Times on Monday.

Deputy Minister of Public Security, Police Brigadier General Kongthong Phongvichith (left), presents medals and certificates of praise to officials from the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism yesterday. The presentation recognised the officials’ contribution to security work and took place before the Deputy Minister gave a talk recalling the founding of the security force and briefed attendees on security preparations for the Asia-Europe Meeting Summit to be held in Laos in November.

Australian Ambassador to Laos Ms Lynda

Worthaisong hosts a farewell lunch on Tuesday

for two Lao journalists travelling to Australia for

the International Media Visit Programme from

May 26 to June 3. (From right) Vientiane Times

News Editor Mr Phonekeo Vorakhoun, Ms Lynda

Worthaisong, English Programme Deputy Head of Lao National Television Ms

Malayvieng Vongchandy and Third Secretary at the

Australian Embassy Ms Kimberly Radford.

6 Vientiane timesThursday May 24, 2012

In brief from Asia News Network

Region

The World Health Organization is seeking for a qualified Lao National for position of:

Technical Officer for Emerging Diseases, Surveillance and Response (NPO at NO-A Level)

To provide programme management, procurement and logistical support to Emerging Diseases, Surveillance and Response (ESR), WHO Representative Office in Lao People's Democratic Republic, in providing technical support to the Ministry of Health, Department of Hygiene and Prevention, and Department of Curative Medicine, National Center for Laboratory and Epidemiology (NCLE) in the implementation of surveillance and response and laboratory programmes in the Lao People's Democratic Republic.

Duties:

(1) Assists in the planning, implementation and monitoring and evaluation of the activities in the national work plan for emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) with focus on public health laboratory issues related to surveillance in line with Asia Pacific Strategy for Emerging Diseases (APSED) and International Health Regulation (IHR) requirements;

(2) Liaises closely with the relevant section of National Centre for laboratory and Epidemiology (NCLE) and Ministry of Health for timely provision of procured items and supplies required for the implementation of laboratory and surveillance activities and make necessary follow-up action for timely implementation of the work plan activities;

(3) Updates and maintains the records of all inventory items in selected provincial surveillance units and laboratories according to the WHO inventory management systems and various donors’ requirements. Contribution to the development of periodic donor reporting;

(4) Assists in strengthening networking on EIDs for cross-border cooperation, surveillance and response. (5) Assists in the establishment of an Emerging Operation Centre (EOC) in ministry of health including development of terms of

references of the centre, standard operation procedures and communication system during public health emergency; (6) Provides program management support to the ESR unit, including a regular progress review of workplan implementation,

organization of training, meetings and workshop with NCLE, MoH and other partners, preparation for donor reporting , and coordination for periodic program review/assessments;

(7) Maintains, update, and monitors information on project activities on the computerized database systems and generate report as required;

(8) Performs any other tasks as requested by WHO ESR officer.

Education: Essential: University degree in health sciences or relevant areas.desirable: Postgraduate degree or training in public health desirable.

Knowledge and Skills: Knowledge and experience in surveillance and public health laboratory function, procurement and logistic coordination, communicable disease control and public health emergency. Skills in planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of workplan activities, translation between English and Lao, and in the development of locally-adapted tools and instruments. Good communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to interact with health professionals at various levels and to work with national counterparts, nongovernmental organizations and international agencies. Ability to work harmoniously as a member of a team, adapt to diverse educational and cultural backgrounds and maintain a high standard of personal conduct.

Experience:Essential: At least one year experience in public health, preferably in a large or international organization, embassy, or multinational corporation. desirable: Experience in working with the MOH in Lao PDR, planning implementation and monitoring of activities at a national level work plan such as an annual national work plan.

Language: Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English and the local language.

Other skills: Proficiency in standard MS Office applications.

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit applications in the English language, with curriculum vitae by 18 June 2012 to:The World Health Organization125 Saphanthong Road,Unit 5 Ban Saphanthong Tai,Sisathanak District.P.O. Box 343 Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.Fax: (856) 21 353905Tel: (856) 21 353902-904Email: [email protected]

Vacancy Notice

Heavy rains cause flooding in Hanoi HANOI (Viet Nam News) -- Large scale rains lasting several hours were the heaviest the city has seen since the start of the summer, causing flooding in Hanoi on Tuesday.Streets such as Linh Nam, Ngoc Hoi, Nguyen Tuan Streets were flooded causing traffic jams. Linh Nam Street was submerged 50-60 centimetres underwater, making cars and motorbikes come to a dead stop. Nguyen Tuan, Thanh Tri, Phung Khoang, Nguyen Huu Tho, Belt Road No.3 in Hoang Mai district were also submerged under water. Risks were increased as spillway dams had no warning signs.Do Van Viet, a worker on Linh Nam Street said that the sewage system in the locality was no adequate, so even in light rain, the streets became submerged.Workers of Hanoi Water Supply Sewerage Company mobilised mud cleaning vehicles to dredge ditches; however it had little effect.

Singapore to host Asean meet on culture and the arts SINGAPORE (The Straits Times) -- Singapore will host the 5th Meeting of Asean Ministers Responsible for Culture and the Arts from May 24 to 25. Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts Dr Yaacob Ibrahim will host his counterparts from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.The meeting aims to promote arts and culture, preserve cultural heritage and develop arts and cultural industries in the Asean region. The Asean ministers will also call on Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

New plan to reduce income inequality in ChinaCHINA (China Daily) --A new income-distribution framework is set for approval to redress the growing gap between rich and poor, government officials said.The framework comes at a time when the most affluent 10 percent of the population make 23 times more than the poorest 10 percent. In 1988 it was seven times. The framework, eight years in the making, has been tabled for approval by the State Council and is likely to be introduced in the second half of this year.

JAPAN (The Yomiuri Shimbun) --Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, opened to the public Tuesday.Tokyo’s new landmark in Sumida Ward opened after construction began three years and 10 months ago, finishing with a height of 634 metres, and surviving the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11 last year.

The tower did not suffer any damage from the disaster and became a symbol of hope to many Japanese people, including survivors in the devastated areas throughout Tohoku.

Tokyo Skytree will become the new broadcasting tower for transmitting television and radio waves, taking over from the 333-metre-high Tokyo Tower, which was constructed during the nation’s period of rapid economic growth.

A commercial complex at the foot of the tower,

Tokyo Solamachi, also opened Tuesday. The flow of people within the capital is expected to change due to the tower and the complex, which are expected to draw huge crowds near the heart of Tokyo. They are also expected to help Japan attract more overseas tourists.

The first visitor to reach the 350-meter observation deck on the opening day was Ayumi Nakazawa of Saitama Prefecture, who was chosen from among 32,699 people who voted for “Tokyo Skytree” when a nationwide poll was conducted in 2008 to decide the tower’s name.

The 42-year-old company employee and her son Kenta, 12, a first-year middle school student, arrived at the deck at about 10:50 am.

Although drizzle caused poor visibility from the deck, “I was impressed that I could see the ground,” Nakazawa said. “All I can say is I felt happy.”

Tokyo Skytree opens to public

Visitors take pictures from the base of the tower on Tuesday morning. --Photo The Yomiuri Shimbun

Nakazawa was followed by baseball legend Sadaharu Oh, chairman of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks. He was born in Sumida Ward and attended Narihira Primary School near the tower.

“I went to that school,” 72-year-old Oh said as he looked from the deck. “I feel as if I’ve gone back through time.”

About 8,000 people, who won admission tickets at odds of up to 335-to-1, went up to the observation deck on the opening day.

During an opening ceremony starting just after 9 am ahead of the official opening, Yoshizumi Nezu, president of Tobu Railway Co., the parent company of the tower’s operator, described the day’s rain as “a rain of blessing.”

“It’s unfortunate to have weather like this, but it’s blessed rain for Skytree to

grow,” Nezu, 60, said in his greeting speech. “I believe we have a promising start today.”

Tokyo Solamachi has been designed in the hope of creating a “new shitamachi,” a term describing a low-lying part of eastern downtown Tokyo.

The complex, which features more than 300 shops and restaurants, opened at 9:40 am, 20 minutes earlier than the scheduled time because so many people were waiting.

Skytree and Solamachi are likely to rank among the nation’s biggest tourist attractions, with Tobu Railway estimating 32 million visitors to the area each year, 7 million more than the number who go to Tokyo Disney Resort in Chiba Prefecture.

The Sumida Ward Office estimates the economic effect of the facilities for Tokyo will be 130 billion yen a year, thanks to the tower’s location, which is just five kilometers from JR

MANILA (Xinhua) -- Southeast Asian countries welcome a stronger relationship with the United States, and believed this will promote stability and growth in the region, a senior Philippine official said here Tuesday.

Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Erlinda F. Basilio said senior officials from ASEAN and the US “acknowledged the growing

Stronger ASEAN, US ties promote regional peace, growth

engagement between ASEAN and the US”

He made the remarks at the 25th Association of Southeast Asian Nations-United States (ASEAN-US) Dialogue that concluded here Tuesday.

“We in ASEAN appreciate and value the constructive engagement of the US in our region as our longstanding and important dialogue partner,” he said.

According to Basilio, who also served as co-chair of the meeting, the US-ASEAN cooperation will “contribute to regional and global economic prosperity, development and peace and security.”

Joseph Yousang Yun, State Department Principal Deputy Assistant on Security for East Asia and the Pacific, said the US government is “very much committed” to continue its engagement with ASEAN.

INDONESIA (The Jakarta Post) -- The Presidential Office has confirmed that President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has granted convicted Australian drug smuggler Schapelle Corby’s appeal to have her prison term cut.

“It’s true that the President has signed and approved Corby’s plea for a sentence cut,” presidential spokesman Julian Aldrin Pasha told The Jakarta Post on Tuesday.

A high-ranking government official earlier said that the government had agreed to cut five years off Corby’s 20-year prison term, which was approved by the Supreme Court.

Corby was convicted in 2004 for attempting to smuggle 4.1 kilograms of

Australian drug smuggler Corby gets 5-year sentence cut

marijuana into Bali in a body-board bag.

Corby first launched her bid for clemency in March 2010, arguing that she was suffering from mental illness at the time of the offense and that she was struggling to cope with life inside Bali’s notorious Kerobokan Penitentiary, which was endangering her life.

According to the 2002

Clemency Law, the President is obliged to ask for the Supreme Court’s advice when considering any clemency proposals.

Meanwhile, the lawyer of Corby says he is happy with the decision from President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to grant a prison-term cut.

Iskandar Nawing, said late Tuesday that he was unaware of the news before reading about it in the media, adding that he would deliver the “good news” to his client on Wednesday.

“I really appreciate the President’s decision to grant Corby’s appeal,” he said.

He said that his camp was still unsure of when the Australian would be freed, but added that he was hoping that it could be “as soon as possible”.

Schapelle Corby.

7

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Vientiane times Thursday May 24, 2012

World

Vacancy AnnouncementSAYFON Logistics is now looking for an Assistant Operations having a good a good sense of team work :being able to manage our shipping staff, to coordinate operations with all concerned parts, to make the following up of the files in process.QUALIFICATION REQUIRED:

1. A university degree with at least a strong specialization/experience in international transport (sea, air and overland freight)

2. Solid knowledge of English (speaking, reading , writing), knowledge of French is an advantage

3. Strong computer skill (window, words, excel, and e-mail)4. Ability to work efficiently under pressure and to handle concurrent activities

simultaneous/overtimes working5. Excellent communication, presentation and negotiation skills

Sayfon Logistics Sole Co.LtdBan Chomcheng, Unit 12, House 164Sisatanak District, Vientiane LAO PDR Mr Daniel BOULOMTEL +856 20 222 30 11Email: [email protected]

Join our dynamic team!COPE (Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise) is a local not-for-profit organization that works in partnership with the Ministry of Health (Physical Medicine Rehabilitation Centre) to provide people with disabilities with quality rehabilitation services through the Lao PDR.

COPE wishes to appoint a highly motivated individual (Lao national) to support the management of the COPE program.

NATIONAL PROJECT OFFICERResponsibilities• Program support to COPE management team, including drafting donor reports and

logistical assistance for activities.• Manage the provision of work permits and visas for expatriate staff through the relevant

government ministries• Coordinate quarterly meetings of the COPE Board of Directors in a timely manner, including

logistical organisation, minute taking, and collecting, translating and disseminating papers.

• Support the development of the clinical governance group at the PMRC, including logistical support, translation and distributing meeting papers.

• Manage the human resources database, including time sheeting, leave register and contract renewals.

• Logistical management in recruitment, including providing induction for new staff and assisting expatriate staff relocation to Lao PDR.

• Written and verbal translation of reports, correspondence, training materials and like from Lao to English and English to Lao language.

Qualification and ExperienceEssential:• Lao national, with proven successful track record in project support and report writing• University graduate in Management, Social Studies, Health Sciences or related field• Minimum 5 years experience in project support or administration and/or human resource

management• Excellent team building, team working, and relationship building skills.• Able to prioritise tasks, manage time and work schedules effectively and meet deadlines.• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills. • Fluency in spoken and written English. • Experience with verbal and written translation between Lao and English.• Excellent computer skills, including MS Office, Outlook, Internet.Desirable:• Familiarity with reporting requirements of donors an advantage, particularly USAID, CBM

and AusAID• Work experience in the disability/health sector an advantage• Experience in processing work permits and visa applications for expatriate personnel

COPE offers a dynamic work environment with continuing professional development for all staff.

Qualified people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

To apply send resume with a cover letter responding to required qualifications and experience and why you would like to work for COPE in English to Ms Kerryn Clarke at the

address below by the Monday 4 June 2012.COPE/ c/o Physical Medicine Rehabilitation Centre, Khou Vieng Road, Vientiane, Lao PDR

E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.copelaos.org

VIENNA (Xinhua) -- Agreement on probing suspected work on Iran’s controversial nuclear program was expected to be signed soon, said Yukiya Amano, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Tuesday.

“There was an important development on the structured approach document on which we have been working since January,” Amano told reporters at Vienna airport after return from his one-day trip to Tehran where he held talks with chief Iranian nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili.

Amano said the decision was made to reach agreement on the mechanics of giving the IAEA access to sites, scientists and documents it seeks to address international concerns over the country’ nuclear activities.

“There remain some differences, but Mr. Jalili

Deal with Iran on nuclear inspection to be signed soon

Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency Yukiya Amano (left) and Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili attend a joint press conference after a meeting in Tehran. –Photo Xinhua

elaborated that the differences will not be an obstacle to reach an agreement,” Amano said.

He added that the two sides “understood each other’s positions better,” which was the reason that “we could make this important development.”

One priority issue for IAEA in recent talks with Iran is the agency’s demand for access to Iran’s Parchin military site southeast of Tehran.

Media said the IAEA has received reports that Iran had tested explosives which could be used to set off a nuclear charge.

Iran denied such reports, and insisted access to Parchin would only be granted if Iran and the IAEA agree on certain conditions and steps.

In response to questions on the matter, Amano said “I have raised this issue of access to Parchin, and this issue will be addressed as a part of the implementation

of the structured approach document.”

Amano was quoted by Iranian semi-official Mehr news agency on Monday as saying that they held expansive and intensive talks in good atmosphere, and the progress in the dialogue will have positive impact on the wider nuclear talks beween Iran and the five permanent UN Security Council members plus Germany in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad on Wednesday.

New round of nuclear talks over the possible military dimensions of Iran’s nuclear activities was resumed between the IAEA and Iran last week.

After two days of negotiations, the two sides agreed to meet again, and Amano travelled to Tehran to discuss “issues of mutual interests” with high-level Iranian officials.

CHICAGO (Xinhua) -- NATO leaders reached consensus at a summit on closely-watched issues such as missile shield capabilities and military operations in Afghanistan.

However, these are just meager results, with few alliance members willing to come forward with pledges of financial support in this regard, as they are hard-pressed by austerity measures at home, observers said.

The fate of the war in Afghanistan was the central topic of the summit.

NATO allies declared a shift from a combat mission to one focused on training, advising and assistance, after the transition of security responsibility is completed at the end of 2014.

According to NATO plans,

NATO summit ends with few tangible results, future still in doubt

the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) will reach a strength of 352,000 by the end of 2013 and remain at that size for two full years.

While NATO has tried to pace allies’ steps in troop withdrawal, financial austerity and domestic criticism have prompted some of them to leave earlier.

Australia said it would accelerate the troop drawdown and complete the mission by the end of 2013, a year ahead of NATO’s schedule. France also proved to be problematic, as its new President Francois Hollande insisted on sticking to his campaign pledge to remove his country’s forces from Afghanistan by the end of 2012.

In anticipation of improved security in Afghanistan, the

ANSF of 228,500 will have an estimated annual budget of US$4.1 billion, according to NATO.

NATO said the Afghan government has pledged to provide at least 500 million dollars a year for the ANSF beginning in 2015, while NATO and other donors will provide significant additional funding.

However, the member countries failed to attach a dollar figure for funding, which will significantly undermine the alliance’s credentials.

Some analysts predict that Washington could pick up about a quarter to half of the price tag, but the rest of the burden would have to fall on the allies. However, allies may not be able to follow the US lead.

WELLINGTON (Xinhua) -- A contingent of United States Marines will arrive in New Zealand next month to mark the 70th anniversary of the arrival of US forces in the country during World War II, the New Zealand government announced on Wednesday.

Prime Minister John Key said a series of events were planned to help mark the anniversary, including

US Marines return to New Zealand to mark anniversary of WWII

an evening reception at parliament, following a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial.

“Fifty US marines and a 50-person marine band will be spending three weeks in New Zealand participating in commemorative events”, Key said in a statement.

“These commemorations are a reminder that New Zealand and the US have a

long-standing and strong history of mutual aid and support, built on shared values.” Key said the relationship had always been underpinned by cooperation on region-wide issues, and was articulated in the Wellington Declaration signed between the two countries in 2010.

He said New Zealand appreciated the commitment and courage of the US Marines who arrived 70 years ago.


Terms of Reference for Technical Assistance on data management and analysis for a Malaria Mass Blood Examination and Entomology Survey

in selected areas in Lao PDR

I. Background :

The Centre of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology (CMPE) will be conducting a mass blood survey (malaria parasite survey) and entomology (malaria vector) survey in 72 villages, 24 district in 8 provinces. Funding for this survey is through the GFATM Round 7 Phase 2 grant. Results of this survey will provide useful information for the national malaria program to identify risk areas for malaria transmission as part of a re‐stratification exercise planned every 3 years. All technical aspects of the survey implementation will be performed by CMPE technical staffs. CMPE will be requiring Technical Assistance from qualified person/s to perform the following:

II. Scope of the duty :

a. Validating completeness of all data from survey teams collected through various standard survey forms, eg – microscopy results, vector species etc.

b. Data entry using and analysis using Epi‐data / SPSS version 16 (Blood survey and Entomology survey from 72 villages in 24 district and 8 provinces). All villages surveyed will be geo‐coded.

c. Data to be presented in relevant graphs, tables, charts etc with mapping of survey data by village on Arc‐View software.

d. Produce a preliminary report on the survey findings to be presented to CMPE e. Submit the final report in Lao and English version to CMPE before August 15th 2012.

III. Time frame : 15th July to 15th August 2012

IV. Qualification a. Minimum Master’s Degree in the field of Epidemiology b. Evidence of performing similar data management work for surveys (data validation, entry,

analysis and report writing). c. Demonstrated skills in Software use, ie – Epi –Info, SPSS, Arc View or similar.

Both Lao and international applicants are encouraged to apply but preference will be given to applicants who are based in Laos.

The applicant have to submit the application document to the project manager before 30th May 2012 Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Kindly send Expressions of interest with updated CV/resume to :

• Mr. Sengphachanh Phommachanh Email : [email protected]

• Mrs. Chandaly Lathsabouth Email : [email protected] Hard copies can also be sent to : Mrs. Chandaly Lathsabouth Logistic Unit, CMPE, Ban khoualouang, Chanthabouly district, Vientiane Capital

Vientiane times 9Thursday May 24, 2012

WWF-Greater mekong

COORDINATOR, PUBLIC SECTOR PARTNERSHIP (Re-advertised)

WWF is one of the world's largest and most respected independent conservation organizations, with almost 5 million supporters and a global network active in over 100 countries. WWF's mission is to stop the degradation of the earth's natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature, by conserving the world's biological diversity, ensuring that the use of renewable natural resources is sustainable, and promoting the reduction of pollution and wasteful consumption. The Greater Mekong region is one of the biologically richest places on the planet; its varied natural resources support the livelihoods and well-being of millions of people in mainland Southeast Asia. WWF-Greater Mekong – on the ground in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam – is working to conserve the region’s biodiversity and build a secure and sustainable future for people and wildlife. WWF-Greater Mekong is seeking to recruit a well-qualified and experienced candidate for the position of Coordinator, Public Sector Partnership, based in Hanoi or Vientiane or Phnom Penh. The Coordinator, Public Sector Partnership ensures that WWF-Greater Mekong develops and maintains effective Public Sector Partnerships and ensures the effective coordination, monitoring and implementation of Public Sector fund raising proposals relevant to the WWF-Greater Mekong Strategic Plan FY11-15. Although coordination of fund raising from Governments and Aid Agencies, and donor servicing is a key responsibility of the position, this goes beyond a simple funding relationship and seeks to build and maintain a true partnership arrangement between WWF and the Public Sector. Key requirements are:● Master’s degree in business management, conservation, development studies, or in relevant

fields; ● 5 years of practical experience as Fundraising Coordinator primarily from Governments and Aid

Agencies for a programme or project, 2 years of which should ideally be in the Greater Mekong Region;

● Excellent understanding of development partnerships, fund-raising, donor strategies, functions and international relations;

● Familiar with conservation and natural resource management issues and with those in Greater Mekong Region is an advantage;

● Experience in developing and writing project proposals to multi and bilateral aid agencies, trusts and foundations;

● Successful fundraising experience with large-scale, multi country proposals (2-3 millions USD at least);

● Experience of working and negotiating with Government and donors at all levels; ● Proven track record in successfully managing inter-institutional relations, preferably in

government aid agencies; ● Excellent skills of proposal development writing, report writing, influencing, coordination; ● Good abilities to engage stakeholders at all levels and work in multi-cultural environment; ● Fluency in written and spoken English ● Proficiency in MS Office Detailed Job Description of the position is posted on www.panda.org and www.panda.org/greatermekong under Jobs. Interested candidates should email a cover letter, curriculum vitae and available degrees and qualifications in English to [email protected] by 17 June 2012.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Come and view many kinds of furniture, wonderful home décor items, plants, flowers and tree saplings. Everything’s waiting for you to choose and buy!

Special1. 30/5/2012 Interested parties are invited to attend a seminar titled “Promoting export of wood”2. 31/5/2012 Contest for best interior décor

At

Country: Lao People’s Democratic RepublicProject: The Poverty Reduction FundDescription: Accountant Assistant Grant No.: H685-LA Project No.: P 123480Opening / Closing date for application: 22 - 31 May 2012; Office based: Vientiane Capital

The Government of Laos, with support from the World Bank and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, has set up the Poverty Reduction Fund (PRF) to deliver small scale development project including support to livelihood activities at the Kum ban and Village levels. The project is now seeking for an Accountant assistant:

main duties and responsibilities:• Assist with inspection and oversight of financial requests and reports to ensure that payments and expenditures

are complied with budgets, regulations and directives of the PRF;• Check and reconcile accounts and records, and entry data into Excel and/or ACCPAC, as required;• Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports;• Prepare statement of expenditure (SOE) reports and fund replenishment request in timely manner;• Entry accurately all financial data into both Excel and ACCPAC programs, so that all relevant financial reports

can be well prepared and distributed; • Follow up budget and expenditures of the operating cost for the provincial and district offices.• Assist in preparation of all reports for the concerned sectors (GOL) as required. • Assist in all financial and administrative audits, as required;• Visit province, district and kum ban levels to conduct financial procedure/document checking in regular basis. • Follow up Administration Procedures and provide recommendation while visiting the provincial and district

offices.

Required qualifications and experience:• Higher diploma or degree in finance/accounting or other related fields;• At least 3 years experience in project accounting and financial reporting; • Familiarity with government and foreign aid project operations;• Experience with World Bank or other loan/donor-financed projects is highly desirable;• Comprehensive computer skills using Excel and other software;• Experience with a computerized accounting package and software, especially ACCPAC is highly desirable;• Good English skills;• Ability to work independently and in a team; • Willingness to work occasionally in rural areas;• Women are encouraged to apply.

The detailed job descriptions for both positions can be obtained at PRF website http://www.prflaos.org or at PRF office.

All interested applicants should submit (1) a cover letter outlining clearly how the candidate meets the requirements of the position, (2) a detailed CV with one (3x4) photo and (3) supporting documents (certificate of the most recent employment, certificates of qualification/graduation, transcript of graduation, a list of at least two referees, etc) to the HR Officer, Poverty Reduction Fund, Prime Minister’s Office 501 building, Sisavathtai Village, Chanthabouly District, P.O Box 4625 Vientiane, Tel: 021 261479 - 80, Email: [email protected]. Please note that all submitted documents will not be returned.

Deadline for applications: 31rd May 2012Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview

Poverty Reduction Fund (PRF)Request for Expression of Interest


Job Description: Finance and Logistic Assistant The French Red Cross delegation in Lao PDR is seeking 1 competent Lao national to fulfil the position of “Finance and Logistic Assistant” based in Xienghone district, Sayabouri Province. Position: Finance and Logistic Assistant Place of assignment: Xienghone Language required: Lao with good knowledge in English or French Qualification: University degree related fields Starting date: As soon as possible Duration: One year with possible extension How to apply: Send a CV plus motivation letter mentioning to French Red Cross Application deadline: As soon as appropriate candidate identified The French Red Cross (FRC), in partnership with the Lao Red Cross (LRC), will be implementing two Food Security projects in Hongsa and Xienghone districts of Sayabouri Province. Duration of the project: Until mid 2014 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Under the supervision of the Food Security Project Manager, and in coordination with the Finance and Logistics team in Hongsa and in Vientiane, the Logistics officer will have the following responsibilities: LOGISTICS: • Identify suppliers for all equipment and supplies to be purchased locally • Coordinate deliveries and control delivered supplies and material • Assist the Project Manager during distributions • Supervise storekeeper to ensure proper warehousing conditions and accurate records • Maintain inventory of all FRC equipment • Supervise the maintenance of office premises and equipments FINANCE: • Cash management: make treasury forecasts and ensure payment of all invoices and advances; • Ensure bookkeeping of all transactions as well as budget lines allocations of the expenses; • Ensure administrative follow‐up of the base personnel FRC ; • Liaise with the district administration; • Translate documents when required.

REQUIREMENTS • At least 3 years experience in project logistics and/or finance, preferably with international organizations, • University degree in relevant fields, • Fluency in written and spoken Lao and French or English, • Good organizational skills, • Proven knowledge of computer office applications, • Ability to work as a team and produce good work in a short time or under stress, • Capacity to live in a remote area, • Car and motorcycle driving licence. • Experience in working with Government agencies.

CONDITIONS Salary: between 5 200 000 and 5 400 000 KIP following experience and competencies Specific Bonus: insurance, allowance for accommodation, 13th month bonus. Interested applicants should send their CV and cover letter until the 12th of June 2012 to acc1‐lao.frc@croix‐rouge.fr under the reference “Xienghone admin‐log”. Only short listed candidates will be contacted within 10 days after the closing date. FRC is an equal opportunity employer. Women and ethnic minority candidates are thus strongly encouraged to apply.

Job Description: Logistics Officer

The French Red Cross delegation in Lao PDR is seeking 1 competent Lao national to fulfil the position of “Logistics Officer” based in Hongsa district, Sayabouri Province. Position: Logistics Officer Place of assignment: Hongsa Language required: Lao with good knowledge in English or French Qualification: University degree related fields Starting date: As soon as possible Duration: One year with possible extension How to apply: Send a CV plus motivation letter mentioning to French Red Cross Application deadline: As soon as appropriate candidate identified The French Red Cross (FRC), in partnership with the Lao Red Cross (LRC), will be implementing two Food Security projects in Hongsa and Xienghone districts of Sayabouri Province. Duration of the project: Until mid 2014 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Under the supervision of the Food Security Project Manager, and in coordination with the Head of Logistics based in Vientiane, the Logistic officer will have the following responsibilities: • Identify suppliers for all equipment and supplies to be purchased locally • Organize procurement following FRC and donor guidelines in liaison with French Red Cross (FRC) Vientiane

logistic office • Coordinate deliveries and control delivered supplies and material • Arrange goods transport together with suppliers and the Lao Red Cross Sayabouri branch and assist the Project

Manager during distributions • Follow up vehicle rentals and transport contracts • Supervise storekeeper to ensure proper warehousing conditions and accurate records • Maintain inventory of all FRC equipment • Supervise the maintenance of office premises and equipments • Coordinate with all relevant partners at the local level, including Sayabouri Lao Red Cross officers and the DAFO

REQUIREMENTS • At least 3 years experience in project logistics, preferably with international organizations, • University degree in relevant fields, • Fluency in written and spoken Lao and French or English, • Good organizational skills, • Proven knowledge of computer office applications, • Ability to work as a team and produce good work in a short time or under stress, • Capacity to live in a remote area, • Car and motorcycle driving licence. • Experience in working with Government agencies. CONDITIONS Salary: between 5 200 000 and 5 400 000 KIP following experience and competencies Specific Bonus: insurance, allowance for accommodation, 13th month bonus Interested applicants should send their CV and cover letter until the 12th of June 2012 to acc1‐lao.frc@croix‐rouge.fr under the reference “Hongsa Logistics Officer”. Only short listed candidates will be contacted within 10 days after the closing date. FRC is an equal opportunity employer. Women and ethnic minority candidates are thus strongly encouraged to apply


TEL: 021513099, 256068-9

SPECIAL OFFERS FOR

from initial pricediscount50%

DAILY FLIGHT SCHEDULE IS START FROM 22 MAY TO 30 SEPTEMBER 2012

Conditions:- All taxes and fuel surcharges are included in the promotion fare.- Booking Period: 22 May 2012 until 30 September 2012.- Travel Period: 22 May 2012 until 30 September 2012.- Name change, flight change, reroute, reissue, refund and upgrade are not permitted.- Lao Central Airlines reserves the right to change fare and conditions without prior notice.

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Unit03, Souphanouvong Rd, Wattaiyai Thong Village, Sikhotabong District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.LAO CENTRAL AIRLINES PUBLIC COMPANY

Fax: (+856-21) 513 077

Boeing 737-400


NOrWEGIaN PEOPLE's aId

Notice of Recruitment – Lao National Staff

The Norwegian People's Aid (NPA) is a Norwegian humanitarian organization supporting capacity building and development in many countries and has been engaged in the UXO clearance in Laos since 1997. The strategic goal for the programme is to reduce the humanitarian and socio-economic threat posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO). NPA Lao PDR is regulated by the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the UXO Sector. The programme currently has 200 staff and receives funding from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (NMFA), Norwegian Telethon (NRK-1) and the United States Department of State. NPA Laos wishes to recruit of a qualified and well-motivated person for the following positions:

1. IT Officer (1 Position):

duties and responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with NPA global policies and guidelines on information technology in cooperation with Regional Information Management Advisor (RIMA)

• Make sure that the structure and consistency of the common KnowledgeBase within NPA offices is maintained up to set standards and accessible to all

• Provide maintenance and repair of informatics hardware, software and networking services

• Provide upgrading system when required, data backups, antivirus installation and update, and internet security to all users

• Provide remote and on-site IT troubleshooting support to all users at country office and at the provincial offices when required

• Develop IT training materials, system documentation, templates and other relevant documents related to IT in dialog with RIMA

• Conduct basic and first hand IT users trainings at NPA offices when required e.g. sharing and access resources, basic Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, MS Project, MS Visio, etc.

• Make sure that all computers in NPA offices are connected in the network and that all staff have access to shared resources such as printers, scanners, internet, etc.

• Assess needs and requirement of IT equipment (hardware and software) at all NPA offices and make recommendation for upgrade to RIMA

• Maintain and update NPA Laos PDR workspace on SharePoint with current information and upload continuously all the key and finalized documents in SharePoint site

• Manage the overall delivery of the IT services in an effective and efficient manner and working closely with the RIMA in SEA

• Any other relevant tasks assigned to by RIMA

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor degree in IT, computer science or studies in information management • Sound IT knowledge and skills• Experienced in computer handling and data acquisition • Experience on computer maintenance and computer security software• A realistic and objective approach to new technologies and methodologies• Cooperating ability with all colleagues • At least 3 years of progressive working experience in any reputable organization or

enterprise in the field of IT and telecommunication.• Experience in using MS Office applications • Understanding of relational database management system (RDBMS)• Understanding and knowledge of GIS (Geographical Information Systems)• Knowledge in technical IT would be an asset• Capable of working independently and in groups• Willing to undertake domestic and international travels when required • Previous working experience in mine action would be an asset

2. Interpreter (1 Position):

duties and responsibilities

• Verbal translation Lao-English during field training and operations• Written translation Lao-English at field camps and at base location• Assist at Vientiane Head Office as requested

Qualifications Required

• Be between 25 and 40 year of age• High level of written and spoken English• Ability to render interpretation promptly without hesitation• Ability to render precise, accurate interpretation without omissions or additions• Good knowledge of PC operations and software (office)• Previous working experience in mine action would be an asset

Interested candidates are requested to submit a CV and a cover letter to NPA office: 368 Ban Saphanthong, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital, and Tel: +856 20 264 812; or via e-mail address: [email protected].

The deadline for applications is may 31, 2012 (at 17:00). Women and disabled people are encouraged to apply. Only short-listed candidates will be notified.

Lao People's Democratic RepublicPeace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity

ministry of healthOffice of the Principal RecipientThe Global to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis and Malaria

Invitation of Tender of Procurement ofMotorcycles for Health Care Department

under GFatm Program

Procurement N° GFLAO-SSF/MOTORCYCLES/2012 Date: May 21, 2012

to: Eligible suppliers,

1. The Lao Peoples Democratic Republic has received a grant from Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and malaria. Ministry of Health, Hygiene Department, The Principal Recipient (PR) intend to pay this grant to procure Motorcycles listed below by using budget of single stream Funding year 2.

2. The Procurement Unit of Principal Recipient (PR) office of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis/

Malaria in Lao PDR now invites sealed bid from interesting and eligible bidders to supply the following items listed below:

3. This Procurement will follow Public procurement procedures for National Competitive Bidding (NCB) defined in the Procurement Guideline of The Principal Recipient of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis/Malaria in Lao PDR issue on November 2009.

4. This Procurement is open to all eligible Bidders, who have business license related to the above goods, and for in country Bidders, they should have Business License and Updated Tax Payment Certificate of recent year.

5. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information and inspect Tender Documents at the address given below:

Attention to: Dr. Bounlay Phommasack Director of GFATM Project Ministry of Health, Hygiene Department, Procurement Unit of Principal Recipient of Project supported by GFATM in Lao PDR Second floor - Room N° 6 Opposite Ministry of

HealthSimeuang Road, Ban Simeuang, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR. Tel: 856 21 242 980 / Fax: (856-21) 242 981 E-mail address: [email protected] and Cc: Mr. Keophouthone Inthivong, Procurement Specialist E-mail address: [email protected]

6. A complete set of Bidding documents in English Language will be received by the interested Suppliers on the submission of a writing application to Global fund Project Office from may 21, 2012 to June 20, 2012 and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of 500,000 Kip. The method of payment shall be in check or cash.

7. Bidding Documents must be delivered to the address mentioned in the Bidding documents before the June 20, 2012, 14:00 Hour (Local Time). Any Bidding Documents received later than the scheduled time will be rejected and returned unopened to the bidders. All bids will be opened immediately after bid submission by the Bidding Committee in presence of bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at address below:

The Meeting Room of PR Office First floor, Opposite Ministry of Health, Simeuang Road, Ban Simeuang, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital,

Lao PDR. Tel: 856 21 242 980/Fax: 856 21 242 981

8. The supplier shall be the Brand of International Recognized.

The envelope containing the proposed Bidding must be clearly marked “Bidding for supplying motorbikes’’ and “DO NOT OPEN before June 20, 2012, 14:00 Hour (Local Time)’’.

Bidding Documents will be opened in presence of the Suppliers’ representatives who choose to attend this meeting at the address mentioned above on the June 20, 2012, 14:15 Hour (Local Time)

9. All bids shall be accompanied by a Bid Security in amount of not less than two percents (2%) of the bid price in Lao or US currency. The Bid Security form shall be a bank guarantee in accordance with the provided form in the Bidding Document.

Dr. Bounlay PhommasackDirector of GFATM ProjectGlobal Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis/Malaria

No. Description QTT

1 Motorcycles 94

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations seeks a

NATIONAL COORDINATOR (Food Security Risk and Vulnerability Survey)

based in Vientiane, 7 month consultancy, with likely extension

FAO is supporting the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) to conduct a survey to measure food security, risk and vulnerability (RVS), linked to the 2010 agricultural census results. The survey will provide information on prevalence food insecurity, determinants, population vulnerability to natural hazards, and linkages between food insecurity and malnutrition. This information will support decision makers to enhance resilience of poor and food insecure households.

The National Coordinator will be directly responsible for the successful implementation of the Food Security and Vulnerability Survey, and for maintaining solid collaborative relationships with all stakeholders. In particular, the consultant will:

1. Lead the planning, development, implementation and reporting of project activities. 2. Act as primary focal point for all partners, government, UN agencies and NGOs at national and provincial

level. 3. Supervise the planning and implementation of field work, including logistics, administrative and technical

matters, especially as regards all recruitment and training required. 4. Effectively and efficiently manage project resources to ensure the expected outputs and objectives are

attained, prepare necessary project reports, organize meetings and trainings, and support international consultants and partners.

5. Support related activities to improve food security information and analysis in Lao PDR.

Candidates should be well acquainted with food security issues in Lao PDR, have an appropriate postgraduate qualification and at least 10 years of relevant experience, including pervious project and human resources management and team leadership experience. Strong appreciation of collaborative approaches and interagency coordination at technical level. Knowledge of national and sub‐national government structures, and previous work with international agencies and/or NGOS is strongly preferred. Excellent computer, analysis and reporting skills. Fluent Lao necessary, strong spoken and written English skills required.

Interested candidates should send a cover letter, uptodate curricula vitae (CV) and the names and contacts of three references to [email protected] by 31 May 2012. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.


about the Company:Datacom Co. Ltdwas established in 1997 from five staff members, now the company employs more than 50 full-time employees.

Today Datacom is theleader in enterprise IT services and products in Lao PDR. Datacom is celebrating its 15thyear Anniversary with constantly rising and fast growing businesses. As the authorised distributor for DELL Inc. for 15 years (PCs, Notebooks, Servers, Storage and Solution) for Lao Market, as well as other global brand such APC (American Power Conversion now under Schneider electrics), Emerson, Toshiba (Notebook), Level 1 and others. We are inviting new interested, challenge loving personnel to join our family in the following position.

sales manager 1 Position

o Key responsibilities:• Develops a business plan and sales strategy for the market that ensures attainment

of company sales goals and profitability. • Responsible for the performance and development of the Sale Representatives. • Prepares action plans by individuals as well as by team for effective search of sales

leads and prospects. • Initiates and coordinates development of action plans to penetrate new markets. • Assists in the development and implementation of marketing plans as needed. • Provides timely feedback to senior management regarding performance. • Provides timely, accurate, competitive pricing on all completed prospect applications

submitted for pricing and approval, while striving to maintain maximum profit margin.

• Recruits, tests, and hires Sale Representatives based on criteria agreed upon by senior management.

o Qualification Requirements:• Education background in marketing, business management , accounting or other

related fields • A minimum of 1-2 years IT Sales Experience is highly preferred(a Candidate with

more years of experience is a plus)• Experience in handling the full sales cycle is essential • Excellent communication and presentation skills• Excellent problem solving skills, with an emphasis on innovative and creative

solutions• Self-motivated, goal-driven with a strong sense of teamwork. marketing assistant 2 Positions

o Key responsibilities:• Assists in the development and implementation of marketing plans.• Maintains close relationship with partners and clients while striving to establish

new relationship with perspective clients.• Collects necessary data of market, competitions and other relevant information for

assessing the market.

o QualificationsRequirements:• Education background in Marketing, Business Management, or other related

fields.• Experience in IT sales or marketing is preferred.• Good communication and presentation skills.• Able to work under pressure and time constraints.• Good command of English both speaking and writing.• Work well with people from different levels.

Interest applicants are requested to submit your recent resume with cover letter expressing your suitability for the positions before 30th May 2012.

* Successful candidate will receive a special contract agreement with multiple benefits and income.

DATACOM Co., Ltd2nd Floor., Sihom Commerce Center Building, Souphanouvong Road,Sihom, Chanthabuly DistrictVientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R Tel: +856 21 250850-1 Fax: +856 21 219117Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Equal Employment Opportunity statementDATACOM isdetermined to be an equal opportunity employer and seek to employ employee from different sections. The aim of this statement is to make sure that no staff-member or job applicant will be treated less fairly than other person on the grounds of ethnic origin, disability, race, nationality, age, gender, marital status or other grounds that are unjustifiable.

Job Vacancy


RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

www.landroverlaos.com

Official Dealer in Lao PDR

ນະຄອນຫວງວຽງຈນ / VIENTIANE ໂທ/Tel: (+856) 21 265 130-1ແຟກ/Fax: (+856) 21 265 129E-mail: [email protected] http://www.facebook.com/landroverlaos

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More than 17 years’ experience servicing in Laos

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Trained technician for installation and service

More than 17 years’ experience servicing in Laos

Spare parts available

Trained technician for installation and service

www.laos.rmagroup.net

VientianeTel: (+856 21) 315 376-8 Email: [email protected]

Luang Prabang(+856 71) 260 423

Savannakhet(+856 41) 260 311

Pakse(+856 31) 253 162

Lao People’s Democratic RepublicPeace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity

Ministry of Health PR Office supported by Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and MalariaInvitation of Bid

International Competitive Bidding(ICB)

Procurement of Trucks for Medical Product Supply Chain Centre (MPSC)Under GFATM Program

Procurement N° LAO-H-GF-MOH-Y2/Truck/MPSC/2012Date: May 14, 2012

To: Eligible Suppliers,1. The Lao Peoples Democratic Republic has received a grant from Global Fund to Fight aIds, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

Ministry of Health, Hygiene Department, The Principal Recipient (PR) intend to pay this grant to procure Trucks for transport of health products listed below by using Grant of HIV - Single Stream Funding Y2012.

2. The Procurement Unit of Principal Recipient (PR) office of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis/Malaria in Lao PDR now invites sealed bid from interesting and eligible bidders to supply the following items listed below:

3. This Procurement will follow Public procurement procedures for International Competitive Bidding (ICB) defined in the Procurement Guideline of The Principal Recipient of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria in Lao PDR issue on November 2009.

4. This Procurement is open to all eligible Bidders, who have business license related to the above goods, and for in country Bidders, they should have Business License and Updated Tax Payment Certificate of recent year.

5. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information and inspect Tender Documents at the address given below:Attention to: Mr. Keophouthone Inthivong, Procurement Specialist, GFATM Project Address: Ministry of Health, Hygiene Department, Principal Recipient Office, supported by GFATM in Lao PDROpposite Ministry of Health, Simeuang Road, Ban Simeuang, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDRTel: 856 21 242 980/ Fax: 856 21 242 981E-mail address: [email protected], and Cc; Dr. Viengsavanh Phanmanivong, Head of Procurement Unit, email address: [email protected]. A complete set of Bidding documents in English Language will be received by the interested Suppliers on the submission of a

writing application to Global fund Project Office from May 14, 2012 to June 29, 2012 at 14:00h and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of 500,000 Kip. The method of payment shall be in cash and transfer to the following account:

Account Name: MPSC-HA-CONSO-P1 Account No. 1015110118725 Bank Name: Banque Pour Le Commerce Exterieur Lao - BCEL7. Bidding Documents must be delivered to the address mentioned in the Bidding documents before the June 29, 2012 at 14:00h

(Local time). Any Bidding Documents received later than the scheduled time will be rejected and returned unopened to the bidders. All bids will be opened immediately after bid submission by the Bidding Committee in presence of bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at address below.

The Meeting Room of PR Office First floor, Opposite Ministry of Health, Simeuang Road, Ban Simeuang, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR. Tel: 856 21 242 980 / Fax: 856 21 242 981.

The envelope containing the proposed Bidding must be clearly marked “Bidding for Supplying Trucks’’ and “DO NOT OPEN before June 29, 2012 at 14:00h (Local time)’’.

Bidding Documents will be opened in presence of the Suppliers’ representatives who choose to attend this meeting at the address mentioned above on the June 29, 2012 at 14:15h (Local time)

8. All bids shall be accompanied by a Bid Security in amount of not less than two percents (2%) of the bid price in Lao or US currency. The Bid Security form shall be a bank guarantee in accordance with the provided form in the Bidding Document.

Dr. Chanmy Saramay Manager of PR Office Global Fund Project to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria

No. Description Quantity 1 Truck 3


On 18 May 2012, PricewaterhouseCoopers (Lao) Co., Ltd. (PwC Lao ) celebrated in advance “Plantation day” and Children’s day (1 June) by providing support to Sim-am-no school. The project was headed by Irving Sison, Ananh Sonalath , Apisit Thientrongpinyo and Paiboon Tunkoon, PwC Lao’s Corporate Social Responsibility Committee and participated by volunteered PwC Lao staffs. The school is one of the poorest schools in Lao Pdr and it is located in Ban Simano,Hatsayfong District. The school caters primary and secondary education to students living in Simano and nearby poor villages. It has an estimated student population of 700. PwC Lao activities that day included providing education and sports equipment, planted trees and flowers as well as provided entertainment to both teachers and students.

PwC Lao has the vision to contribute to Lao DPR in its development of it Socio economic issues through education and capacity building by not only developing the local but also other issues such as in corporate governance, sustainability and health.”

VaCaNCy aNNOuNCEmENt (Announcement No. 12/33)

OPEN tO: All interested candidatesPOSITION: Surveillance Detection Coordinator, FSN-6OPENING datE: May 14, 2012CLOsING datE: May 29, 2012WOrK hOurs: Full-time; 40 hours/weeksaLary: Actual grade and salary will be based on the qualifications of the applicant.

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 OrdINarILy rEsIdENt aPPLICaNts must BE rEsIdING IN LaOs aNd haVE thE REQUIRED WORK AND/OR RESIDENCY PERMITS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION.

The U.S. Embassy in Vientiane is seeking an individual for the position of Surveillance Detection Coordinator in the Regional Security Office (RSO).

BasIC FuNCtION OF POsItION

The incumbent manages the Surveillance Detection (SD) Team. He/she is responsible, in coordination with the RSO, for all administrative and operational aspects of the SD Team. Plans and executes SD operations, Trains SD team with help from outside experts. He/she supervises day-to-day SD operations.

QuaLIFICatIONs rEQuIrEdNOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item.

1. Education: Completion of Secondary school required.2. Prior Work Experience: One year experience in records management, budget monitoring, and data entry. 3. Language Proficiency: Fluently spoken and written English and Lao (level IV). 4. Knowledge: The coordinator must have a working knowledge of local police organizations and their

operations. The coordinator must have a basic understanding of Embassy personnel policy. 5. Skills and abilities: Must be computer literate.

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: 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.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 tOHuman Resources OfficeAmerican EmbassyRue Bartholonie, That DamPO Box 114, Vientiane, Laos(Hardcopy or e-mail attachments are accepted) POINt OF CONtaCtTelephone: 856-21-267176Fax: 856-21-267140E-mail: [email protected]

Interested persons should contact Embassy Human Resources Office for more information. Blank application forms may be picked up from the cabinet inside the Embassy entrance.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

CLOsING datE FOr thIs POsItION: may 29, 2012An Equal Opportunity Employer


OPEN tO: All interested candidatesPOsItION: Financial Analyst, FSN-7OPENING datE: May 14, 2012CLOsING datE: May 29, 2012WOrK hOurs: Full-time; 40 hours/weeksaLary: Actual grade and salary will be based on the qualifications of the applicant.

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 ORDINARILY RESIDENT APPLICANTS MUST BE RESIDING IN LAOS AND HAVE THE REQUIRED WORK AND/OR RESIDENCY PERMITS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION.

The U.S. Embassy in Vientiane is seeking an individual for the position of Financial Analyst in the Financial Management Office, Management Section.


The incumbent serves as the Financial Analyst for Embassy Vientiane. He/she estimates and maintains obligations/allotment accounting for all serviced agencies, including DAO and CDC, using financial operations systems: Momentum, COAST, WebPASS and E2. He/she reconciles expenditures for non-serviced agencies, such as APHIS and USPACOM. The incumbent determines availability of funds, makes obligations, and assures that all budget and program requirements are met. He/she examines accounts receivable invoices for utilities and air tickets to ensure correctness for payment. He/she assists travelers in preparation of travel vouchers using E2. Examines petty cash vouchers from non-State agencies for correctness and serves as primary backup to the Voucher Examiner and as secondary backup to the Class B Cashier. QuaLIFICatIONs rEQuIrEdNOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item.

1. Education: At least two years of university level courses in finance/accounting related courses required.2. Prior Work Experience: At least two years of experience required in finance/accounting field.3. Language Proficiency: Good working knowledge of English in both spoken and written (level III) to understand financial

regulations and provides explanations to American staff. Fluently spoken and written Lao (level IV) to deal with local contacts.

4. Knowledge: Must have a thorough knowledge of statutory and regulatory requirements and restrictions concerning the management of U.S. government funds. Must be familiar with State Department’s automated Financial Management Systems.

5. Skills and Abilities: Good typing skills. Must be able to use computer software including accounting packages and Microsoft Office Suite. Must be able to prepare Excel spreadsheets to track accounting data.

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: 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.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 tOHuman Resources OfficeAmerican EmbassyRue Bartholonie, That DamPO Box 114, Vientiane, Laos(Hardcopy or e-mail attachments are accepted) POINt OF CONtaCtTelephone: 856-21-267176Fax: 856-21-267140E-mail: [email protected]



CLOsING datE FOr thIs POsItION: may 29, 2012An Equal Opportunity Employer

18 Vientiane times

What the Lao papers say

Thursday May 24, 2012

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Opinion

The authorities in Pakxe district, Champassak province, need to do more to address the traffic disorder that results from buses parking haphazardly and stopping to pick up passengers.

Vice President of the provincial Bus Operator Association Mr Somneuk Vongchan said the association divided domestic, provincial and international buses into separate groups and designated their routes in order to ensure some semblance of orderliness.

He said the association is

responsible for supervising the northern and southern bus stations in Pakxe, but there are several other bus stops close by which they aren’t responsible for.

Mr Somneuk said the association is mainly responsible for planning routes and schedules at the north and south bus stations, as well as encouraging drivers and passengers to keep the buses and the station area clean and tidy.

Buses travelling from other areas which stop and pick up passengers are not the responsibility of the

association and if they were creating traffic problems that was a matter for traffic police.

Provincial Traffic Police Department Deputy Director Captain Phetsakhone Keovongphet said it is difficult to resolve the problem of inappropriate parking as there are no signs designating it as prohibited.

Another problem is that there are not enough traffic police because most of them are on duty at police huts or vehicle inspection points. The important thing is for all drivers to respect the traffic

Translated by Phetsamone Chandala

When June and July approach, people in many villages get together to hold rocket festivals (Boun Bangfai) in accordance with the lunar calendar to celebrate and seek rains from the gods.

The festival is one of most significant activities that takes place before the rice cultivation season and is also an important symbol of unity and friendship. The festival has been held for as long as anyone can remember.

Many people have already celebrated the festival this year while others are preparing theirs.

Traditional rocket festivals are different from other festivals as the spectacular

Roads are a critical aspect of basic transport infrastructure, and they are also the backbone of the country’s predominantly rural economy.

If road conditions are good, transport is easy and efficient and will fuel the growth of the economy.

This year, it has been observed that major roads

rules, Captain Phetsakhone said.

He said the provincial transport section should look for appropriate ways to resolve the problem of disorderly bus parking in order to ease the flow of traffic.

Capt Phetsamone wants the association to tackle the problem, saying there are many parking stations in the district such as Sengchaleun, Kiengkai, Chitpasong, as well as the southern and northern bus stations.

--Champamai Weekly, May 21

Buses blocking traffic in Pakxerocket launches generate plenty of excitement among all those who attend.

But it has been observed that some festival goers also bet against each other, which is not in keeping with Lao tradition.

This behaviour presents a bad image to everyone taking part. All local authorities need to ensure the festival is enjoyed safely and responsibly.

People launching rockets should be careful to prevent injury or damage. In addition, parents should look after their children because rocket smoke may be harmful to their health.

Rocket festivals must be celebrated according to tradition, and it is up to us to preserve that together.

--Paxaxon Van-Athit Weekly, May 20

Rough roads hamper drivers, development

from north to south have become damaged in many places, creating difficulties and dangerous conditions.

Road damage occurs for many reasons, including heavy traffic loads and wear and tear, flood damage, subsoil conditions, technical flaws, and substandard construction.

In addition, roads are not always repaired in a timely manner and minor potholes become deep and wide.

In Vientiane, meanwhile, many road users still face traffic difficulties. One example in particular is the road in Khualuang Neua village, Chanthabouly district, which has had hundreds of

potholes for many years.This road hasn’t been

repaired for a long time, and is dusty in the dry season and muddy in the wet. Residents and passers-by encounter many difficulties here, but this road is only one of many that are in poor condition.

--Paxaxon Van-Athit Weekly, May 20

Gambling risks ruining rocket

festival traditions

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Vientiane times 19Thursday May 24, 2012 Opinion

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Kavi Chongkittavorn

The Nation, ANN -- With six months left in his five-year term, Asean Secretary General Dr Surin Pitsuwan is making a last-ditch effort to strengthen his 260-strong staff, including 79 openly recruited from all member countries, at the Jakarta-based organisation.

The success or failure of Asean integration in years to come - be it in the security/political, economic or socio-cultural pillar - will very much depend on the secretariat’s efficiency and overall capability. After all, it is central to the Asean process, and to project management and implementation, as well as other forms of connectivity. A better-equipped secretariat would make Surin’s job - and that of his successors as the chief administrative officer - in fulfilling the charter’s mandate much smoother.

The secretariat was established in 1976, 10 years after the founding of Asean, to serve as a loose coordinating office among the member countries. Indeed, it was not meant to be an effective organisation that would be able to seize control of Asean’s activities and set agendas, as the foreign ministers and national Asean committees still reigned supreme. Indeed, the position of the Asean head was titled “Secretary General of the Asean Secretariat”. Therefore, whoever served as the Asean secretary general would be the subject of ridicule because the holder was neither “secretary”

nor “general”. The job was literally to serve as a channel of information, in other words, running errands as a senior postman to deliver messages between capitals.

After the restructuring and expansion of Asean organs in 1992, the position of Asean chief was created to implement and follow up on the Asean Free Trade Area in the same year.

Since then the international staffers, who used to be

appointed or seconded, have been openly recruited based on merit. However, Asean members in practice prefer their own trusted diplomats, based on rotation in alphabetical order.

Only Surin, a former Thai foreign minister, was recruited in Thailand as the secretary general while other member countries nominated their trusted senior officials. After the enactment of the Asean Charter in 2008, the secretariat’s administrative mandate was expanded, and so was the role of secretary general, who could now speak on behalf of Asean.

Last year, Surin submitted a report, “Asean’s Challenge: Some reflections and recommendations on strengthening the Asean

Secretariat”. He has good insights into the charter - being the first Asean chief to implement it - and what needs to be done to realise the leaders’ vision. He argued that for Asean to meet the challenges of integrating the Southeast Asian region to create an Asean “community” of 600 million citizens, the secretary general and his office should be given sufficient trust and latitude to carry out their responsibilities,

as they run the only neutral organ in Asean.

Of course, they also need sufficient financial support, personnel and infrastructure, including modern technology. This year the secretariat has an annual budget of US$15.763 million, which translates into US$1,576,300 for each member (based on equal contributions under Article 30, Paragraph 2 of the Asean Charter).

That means that in real terms, Asean members spend less than US$0.026 per person per year for operating costs in the service of community-building. In comparison, the European Union has a budget of well over 147.2 billion euros (US$188 billion) for this year.

It is worth nothing that

under Surin’s leadership, the secretariat has maintained a high profile befitting the new spirit of Asean since its charter came into force at the end of 2008. Asean has been at the forefront of important international initiatives and forums.

For instance, during the post-Cyclone Nargis rehabilitation efforts in Myanmar, which lasted nearly two years, Surin and the secretariat played a pivotal role in co-ordinating

both local and foreign aid workers to assist in planning and implementing plans for the devastated Irrawaddy Delta.

Now, his office has been given an extra mandate by Asean leaders to take care of humanitarian efforts within the region. In the past four years, relief and rescue efforts have become a major responsibility for the secretariat.

Lest we forget, given Asean’s longstanding bureau-cratic tradition, members of the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR), for-merly known as the Standing

Julio Godoy

BONN, Germany (IPS) -- The latest session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), taking place May 15-25 in the former German capital Bonn, is the perfect opportunity to reaffirm the enormous and growing body of scientific expertise on policies to tackle global warming.

During the current session, attended by hundreds of scientists, environmental activists, and government delegates from all over the world, the UNFCCC – the agency tasked with fulfilling the obligations of the Kyoto Protocol – is hosting numerous workshops for at least five groups dedicated to debates and decision-making on climate change.

The UNFCCC is also obliged to hold international debates on a follow up treaty that is expected to take effect in 2013. Until now, despite mounting pressure and numerous attempts to reach an agreement on a post-Kyoto protocol, there is no global consensus on how to continue reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), the primary culprit of global warming.

During the negotiations that led to the formulation of the Kyoto protocol in 1997, the world’s leading industrialised countries (including the United States, which later refused to endorse the agreement) collectively agreed to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 5.2 percent on average for the period 2008-2012, relative to their annual emissions in the base year 1990.

Bureaucratic delays Sadly, workshops hosted

Asean Secretariat must be empoweredCommittee, also have a powerful role to play in accelerating or delaying programmes affecting the livelihoods of its citizens and the reputation of Asean.

The CPR is a new institution that was established by the charter. It’s still wet behind the ears, and the CPR members have now to deal with many, mainly non-diplomatic, issues, especially those involving non-state stakeholders, which they do not properly understand and are insufficiently equipped to handle. Given the fast-changing global and regional environment, Asean as a group needs to ensure that all key policymakers - particularly the secretariat and CPR - are on the same page so that they can make timely decisions and be united in their vision.

Without such a synergy, consideration and implementation of certain policies would get bogged down, due to the unintended micro-management by CPR’s members. If history is any judge, the quality and quantity of performances of the Asean secretariat and its chief could be improved and expanded, if they are given enough space to take up issues and policies affecting the collective interest of Asean.

The Asean chief should be able to use his/her reputation and network to garner support and secure funding for the common good of Asean.

That helps explain why

Surin set out on his very first day on the job to create the so-called “Networked Secretariat”, which can tap into the vast pool of intellectuals and local wisdom in member countries. This kind of outreach activity requires bold vision and flexibility. Therefore, the secretariat should be given additional latitude and trust including more respect so that its staff can carry out assigned work and policies without hindrance.

At this juncture, the Asean charter fails to clearly define the roles of these decision-makers, which sometimes leads to misunderstanding.

Quite often, ambiguity rears its ugly head outside the boardroom and turns into a personal vendetta akin to a Hollywood movie. Therefore, it is important to clearly define the roles and spheres of authority of each Asean organ.

When Brunei takes up the Asean chair next year, the empowerment of the Asean secretariat should be on the summit agenda. Otherwise, it will remain a process-driven organisation without much attention paid to tangible outcomes. With the Asean Community rapidly approaching, it has become a top priority that all Asean leaders need to take heed of, otherwise, the community that we envisage will never become a reality.

Industrialised countries under critical spotlight at UN meet

by the UNFCCC often suffer a loss of efficiency as a result of bureaucratic hurdles.

The titles of the many sessions alone are often too complicated to follow. In Bonn, the following groups are meeting daily: the subsidiary body for implementation; the subsidiary body for scientific and technological advice; the ad hoc working group on long-term cooperative action under the convention; and the ad hoc working group on further commitments for 'annex 1 parties' - UN parlance for 'industrialised countries', or signatories of the Kyoto protocol.

Still, the red tape surrounding official procedures cannot conceal the collective wisdom of these committees, which represent years of research on how to deal with climate change. A workshop on equitable access to sustainable development, held here on May 16, allowed a brief glimpse into this wisdom.

During the workshop, a handful of scientists explained the empirical evidence of climate change and the moral consequences that follow, stresseing that sustainable development and climate change mitigation burdens should, in the future, be equitably distributed among the world’s nations.

One of the speakers, Martin Khor, executive director of the Geneva-based South Centre, stressed that in the quest for an international climate agreement to forestall the climate change crisis, "three aspects have to be the basis simultaneously: the environmental imperative, the developmental imperative, and the equity imperative."

Khor insisted that setting the global goal for emissions

reduction "has to take account of the environmental imperative, and also deal with the emission reduction of Annex I and non Annex I parties," the latter being the developing countries not obligated by the Kyoto protocol to reduce their GHGE.

Khor pointed out that the UNFCCC recognises "the equity principle; that developed countries take the lead in emission reduction, and that developing countries have development imperatives, and their ability to undertake climate actions depends on the extent of support they receive from the developed countries "

In other words, "Annex I countries will (have to) meet the agreed full incremental costs of implementing developing countries' climate policy measures," Khor pointed out.

Khor recalled that since the beginning of the period of industrialisation - in Western Europe, North America, Australia and Japan - until 2009, about 1,280 gigatonnes (Gt) of carbon dioxide (CO2) were emitted, triggering the present processes of global warming and climate change.

Scientists have now determined that, in order to achieve a 67 percent probability of limiting global temperature rise to under two degrees celsius, CO2 emissions between 2010 and 2050 must be kept below 750 Gt. If this probability is to be increased to 75 percent, the carbon budget for the period up until 2050 falls to 600 Gt. Khor said estimates for the "fair share" of emissions for developed and developing countries is based on the size of the population relative to emissions from 1850 to 2008.

The secretariat should be given additional latitude and trust including more respect

so that its staff can carry out assigned work and policies without hindrance.


Feature

Vacancy for Lao National Position Title: Area Development Program Supervisor. Location: Bolikhamxay (Pakkading District) World Vision Lao PDR (WVL), operating in the field of Community Development in Laos since 1991, wishes to invite application for the following position. Candidate with a strong commitment to serve the poor and disadvantaged people and willing to travel in the districts where projects operate are invited to apply. The purpose of this position is to plan and implement project activities together with the ADP Manager and/or Team Leader. To ensure that project goals and objectives are met in accordance with the project implementation plan. This position will report to Provincial Team Leader RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develop a yearly project plan of action and budget, in keeping with the project implementation plan, and in consultation with the Team Leader.

2. Oversee the implementation of planned project activities, including purchase and delivery of equipment and other approved project inputs.

3. Assist Government counterparts to prepare monthly plans and field reports, check and approve of the plans and reports, and submit for review by the Team Leader.

4. Coordinate and facilitate project activities with District and Provincial officials. 5. Assist the Project Book keeper to prepare monthly financial reports for the project, and all other

project financial management documents as required by WVL. 6. Monitor ongoing project expenses to ensure that they are within the project budget and in

accordance with World Vision financial policy. 7. Supervise designated field staff. To ensure that they are working according to agreed plans and

taking good care of the project equipment. Report any problems to the District Officials responsible and to the Team Leader.

8. Participate in the recruitment and selection of staff for the team. 9. Demonstrate a commitment to World Vision policies, procedures and principles, and ensure that

project activities are within World Vision guidelines and expectations. 10. Carry out other tasks as requested by organization.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: • Educational Qualification: University graduate with advanced degree in a relevant technical area.

• Professional Experience: Five years minimum experience working in development related

activities. • Skills Required:

- Project management knowledge and skills. - Fluency in Lao and a good working knowledge of English both written and spoken. - Demonstrated commitment to and skill in encouraging community involvement. Well-developed

organizational, planning, and problem solving skills. - Understand computer hardware and software functions. - Ability to work as an effective team member. - Ability to lead a team. - Good interpersonal skills. Basic, practical computer skills in word processing and using spreadsheets. - High standards of personal conduct and respect for the customs and cultures of all people in the work

environment. - Knowledge of WV reporting and financial procedures highly desirable.

Salary is based on qualifications and experience. Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV to Human Resources Department, World Vision Lao PDR, Box 312, Vientiane, e-mail:[email protected] and E-mail: [email protected] Or Tel: 021 452 100 Fax: 021 452 101. Closing date: June 11, 2012

Features Desk

Children who survive UXO accidents often end up with mental

health issues as a result, and need professional assistance to help them readjust.

In Xieng Khuang province, one of the most heavily bombed areas of the country, one man has started an organisation dedicated to doing something about it.

Mr Thoummy Silamphan conducted a survey of children injured by UXO, and the findings of that survey led him to establish the Quality of Life Association earlier this year, of which he is now chairman.

He said that UXO accident victims, particularly children, suffer mental trauma as a result and need help from society, and his organisation was dedicated to that task.

Mental health problems manifest themselves in various ways. Some children are frightened by loud noises

Disabled UXO victims also mentally scarred

after being haunted by the blast, while others become sad and withdrawn.

“The emotions of children who get injured by UXO are not the same as those of others. They tend to struggle with their education and suffer from health problems as well,”

Mr Thoummy said.He stressed that young

UXO accident survivors and their families need help and support from both professionals and the community. “We need specialists in the field of psychology to help children readjust to life after a UXO accident,” he said.

The Quality of Life Association will hold

discussions with other concerned organisations in the near future, hoping to find ways to deal with issues that arise among UXO accident survivors in Xieng Khuang province, as well as in other parts of Laos.

Mr Thoummy said child

victims in particular need support and assistance to help stave off depression. “Educational materials would help to reduce children’s depression, especially for children living in rural areas.”

Children living in rural areas often don’t have toys to play with at home or school, and those with disabilities need special help in the form

of toys or books they are able to use.

UXO Laos is a national organisation dedicated to removing unexploded ordnance, educating villagers about the dangers of UXO, and providing support to victims where they can.

Xieng Khuang provincial coordinator of UXO Lao Mr Kingphet Phimmavong said the organisation started working in Xieng Khuang province in 1994. Since that time, 744 people have been injured in Xieng Khuang. Out of that number, 394 were children, which is more than half.

Mr Kingphet said bombs

remain in the ground in most parts of the province, just waiting to be struck by an unlucky farmer’s pick or discovered by an adventurous child.

Of Xieng Khuang’s eight districts of Paek, Kham, Nonghet, Khoun, Mokmay, Phoukoud, Phaxay and Thathom, only Mokmay and Thathom don’t suffer from widespread UXO contamination.

Mr Kingphet explained that people get injured by bombs fore many reasons. Some children work in rice fields with their parents and can easily strike a bomb unwittingly while clearing scrub or cutting grass.

People living in rural areas light fires when the weather turns cold, and if there is a bomb buried in the ground beneath, it is liable to explode as the soil heats up.

Other children play with the bomblets, either because they don’t know what they are or believe them to be harmless.

Many of the bomblets are brightly coloured even after so much time, and can easily attract an inquisitive child.

Some older children, however, collect UXO as scrap metal to sell even though they know what it is and what it can do. This is extremely dangerous, but they often feel they have no option due to being trapped in poverty.

Mr Kingphet stressed that UXO Lao in Xieng Khuang province is focusing on providing information for local people to reduce the risk of UXO accidents in the most affected areas of the province.

“UXO accident survivors have mental health problems and we need to help them in as many ways as we can, especially the young and vulnerable.”

“Many of them have no way to earn a living when they can no longer work in the rice fields anymore, and it is up to the community to provide them with support,” he said.

Educational materials would help to reduce children’s depression, especially for children living in

rural areas.

Vientiane times 21Thursday May 24, 2012 Feature

Park Min-young

REPUBLIC OF KOREA (The Korea Herald, ANN) -- Keen investors are eying South Korea's hotel industry with new light.

Buoyed by the Korean Wave, more tourists have been visiting South Korea during the last few years and have increased the demand for hotel rooms.

More than 10.8 million are expected to visit Seoul this year, needing at least 43,000 hotel rooms, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government. The number of available hotel rooms, however, is only about 28,900.

Following the demand, high-end hotel chains, business hotels and investors are planning to build or invest in new hotels throughout the metropolitan area. “Hotels are garnering interest as they are making high profits. Seoul will be short of hotels until 2014, so active investments are expected until then,” said Seong Jun-won, a researcher at Shinhan Investment Corp.

Hotel Shilla plans to open several business hotels under the name Shilla Stay. The first one, with 308 rooms, will open in Yeoksam-dong, southern Seoul, by December 2013. It has long been planning to turn the Shilla Duty Free building in Jangchung-dong, central Seoul, into a business hotel as well.

“Most of our guests are foreigners, and the hotel is always a full house. Many Chinese and Japanese tourists stay in motels outside of Seoul like Ansan (in Gyeonggi province) because of the lack of hotels in Seoul. So we have been taking an interest in business hotels since last year,” said Hong Sun-ju, a PR official at Hotel Shilla.

Lotte Hotel opened the 284-room Lotte City Hotel Mapo in February 2009 and the 190-room Lotte City Hotel Gimpo Airport last December. It also plans to open about three more business hotels throughout Seoul until 2015, in Cheongnyangni, Seocho-dong and Myeong-dong. Also under construction is JW Marriott Seoul Dongdaemun Plaza,

which will open in central Seoul. It will have 16 floors and 170 rooms.

Cheonwon Industrial, owner of Ritz Carlton Seoul, and GS Group, owner of Intercontinental Parnas Seoul, both situated in southern Seoul, are each seeking to build a business hotel and a high-end hotel, respectively, right next to their existing ones.

International hotel chains are newly launching in South Korea as well, including Conrad Seoul, run by Hilton Worldwide, which will open in Yeouido with 434 rooms; and Crown Plaza Hotel, also planned to open in Yeouido. There are rumours that Mandarin Oriental Hotel and Four Seasons are also looking into advance into the market here. Another significant trend is the conversion of office buildings into business hotels.

About 40 buildings have been newly approved as tourism accommodation facilities, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, and 24 of them will go under construction within the year. When completed, Seoul will be provided with 3,557 more rooms. Travel agencies such as Hana Tour and Modu Tour are some of those who stepped into the business, looking to invest in low and mid-price hotels.

Remodeling a building instead of constructing a new one can save time and money. Seoul City also offers benefits like alleviation of floor space index limitations or extension

of property tax breaks when a building is registered to convert to a hotel, in an apparent move to swiftly increase room supply in the city.

Investors are already eyeing funds that invest in hotels.

Mirae Asset MAPS Global Investments invested to build a 26-floor hotel near Gwanghwamun in central Seoul, spent 231.8 billion won to build another in Yongsang-dong, and also plans to open one in Pangyo in Gyeonggi Province. Asia Asset Management put in 64 billion won to construct a high-end business hotel in Hwaseong City, Gyeonggi Province, and Japanese firm Nomurarifa Asset Management recently opened the office building-turned-Ramada Dongdaemun Hotel.

The National Pension Service is not missing out on the opportunity either ― it made a 620 billion won worth of real estate funding to invest in business hotels. Individual investors are showing interest in opportunities to buy hotel units as well. Such hotel funds are expected to make about 8 to 15 percent profits.

Market insiders, however, warn that investors should be careful because it is only an early stage of the hotel boom and earnings rate may drop if supplies get excessive or the number of tourists suddenly decreases. Investors should also note that hotels require a large initial investment that takes as long as 20 to 30 years to get back.

Shi Yingying

CHINA (China Daily, ANN) -- For Chinese children with cleft lips, their ship - or in this case, train - has finally arrived.

Smile Train, the world’s largest charity repairing cleft lips and palates for children in developing countries, has pledged to banish the congenital condition from the mainland. Driving into China in 1999, the Smile Train has provided 250,000 free cleft surgeries to poor children in the country through its 397 partner hospitals.

The results, as expected, are dazzling. Just ask Wang Li, the first of the 750,000 people Smile Train has helped across the world.

Wang, 24, who got married earlier this year and has just confirmed she is pregnant, said her memory about Smile Train was as fresh as 13 years ago. “I was always avoiding crowds because of my cleft lip when I was little,” said Wang, who was born with the congenital defect to a poor

family from Suqian, Jiangsu province, with her five sisters. “I used to wrap my face in a scarf so that people couldn’t see (my nose and lips) when I went out. Simple thing such

Hotel gold-rush starts in Seoul

A new branch of JW Marriott Seoul is under construction in Jongno, Seoul. --Photo Park Hyun-koo The Korea Herald

Bringing a smile to distraught childrenas playing with other kids was only a dream for me.”

Wang had never known a proper school before Smile Train’s rescue. The first few attempts at attending were so fraught with ridicule and embarrassment that she withdrew and remained largely confined to her room.

“We didn’t believe it - my father and I - when we first heard news of free surgery for a condition like mine from a rubbish collector in 1998. However, we still sent over an inquiry out of despair,” she said.

Two days later, Wang received feedback from Smile Train’s partner hospital in Nanjing, inviting her for the free surgery. When Wang returned home, not only did her neighbour not recognise her but also her mother. Wang’s family was too poor to afford a home phone so nobody there knew the surgery schedule.

“You know who’s the happiest when you fix a little baby?” asked Charles Wang, chairman and co-founder of Smile Train. “The mother!

The mother will cry when she sees that baby. We have one in India. When the mother took a look at the baby (after the surgery), she gave it back, saying, ‘It’s not my baby’.”

Zhu Yunlong, Wang’s husband, couldn’t thank Smile Train enough when he learned the reason for the faint scar on his wife’s upper lip. “Thank you for putting the smile back on her face” was the first sentence Zhu said to Charles Wang when they met for the first time.

When Zhu Yunlong and Wang Li told Charles they had decided to use the word xiao (“smile” in English) as part of the name for their upcoming baby, he was relieved and said that’s exactly the reason why he started Smile Train 13 years ago.

“They’ve been given an opportunity - the same one as if they weren’t born with the cleft,” said Charles Wang. “Many people asked me ‘Why cleft?’ because there’re so many life-threatening diseases in the world and this is not that life-threatening. But the thing is when you don’t have that opportunity, when all the kids make fun of you, the psychological damage is unbelievable.”

“It’s true that we could do lots of things as some other charities do. But let’s do one thing and focus. Here you’re going to fix a child’s cleft and you know the cost,” said Wang.

Having established programmes in 84 countries, the charity provides local doctors in developing nations with training and equipment to perform cleft operations.

Smile Train increased the number of partner hospitals in China from 163 in 2007 to 397 in 2008, allowing the organisation to change the lives of one baby born with a cleft in every 600 newborns in China. There were no such hospitals when Smile Train first came to China in 1999.

Li Dungang was given a 5,000-yuan (US$790) scholarship from Smile Train in 1999. He lived on the sum for the entire two years he spent on campus. Wearing a brand-new suit and confident smile, the 29-year-old assistant judge has no trace of his cleft now.

“I was just promoted to be

assistant judge and, hopefully, will become the principal judge (for a local court) within two years,” said Li, who saved his first two years of salary to pay the money he borrowed from relatives to meet tuition fees during law school.

Apart from the financial aid and free operations Li received from Smile Train, free career consulting including job recommendations was extremely helpful as well, he said. Most children with cleft defects shared Wang and Li’s experiences. They were invariably born into poor families and remained hidden because of shame and isolation, said Charles Wang. That’s also why the special task of becoming a role model fell on Li’s shoulder.

“Look at Li. What a smart and handsome young man. Wouldn’t it be nice if more people knew what he went through? Wouldn’t it be nice for him to be able to guide teenagers with the same issue?” said Charles Wang, proposing the idea of organising a Smile Train Family. The virtual community will become the online association for people aided by Smile Train to support each other. It is expected be launched this year.

Wang Li (second from left) and her husband (first left) pose with chairman and co-founder of Smile Train Charles Wang (second from right) on the Bund, Shanghai. --Photo Gao Erqiang/China Daily

22 Vientiane times

What’s On

Luang Prabang

Big Brother Mouse helps young people practise their English at free drop-in sessions, 9-11am and 5-7pm, open every day. Just come to our office at 9am or 5pm in Ban Vat Nong, around the corner from 3 Nagas Hotel. www.bigbrothermouse.com. Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. Open 9am-6pm, Tues-Sun. www.taeclaos.orgOck Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre open daily for free guided tour. Natural dyes, weaving and batik drawing classes daily. 9am-5pm. Free transfer from Ock Pop Tok shops in town to the weaving centre on the Mekong. Call 071 212597Royal Palace National Museum. Open 8.30-11.30am and 1.30-4.30pm from Wednesday to Monday.UXO Visitor Centre. Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-12 and 2-5pm. Right turn just before President’s Monument on the Northern Rd.

MuseumsLao National Museumon Samsenthai Road opposite National Culture Hall. Open Mon-Fri during office hours and on weekends from 9am to 4pm.Horphakeo Museum on Setthathirat Road opposite Vat Sisaket. Open Mon-Sun during office hours.

Sports

ANZ Vientiane Lions Women’s Rugby Club – Wednesday night fitness sessions from 7:30 at VIS. Pitch trainings Thursday nights from 19:30 and Sunday from 16:00 at Polytechnic Pitch in Ban Phonphapao. Contact Vieng on 020 54234111 or Maggie on 020 78110019 for more information. Champa Ban Youth Rugby – Rugby activities with a focus on fun, games and healthy living message. Free and open to all. Visit www.laorugby.com or contact Noui 020 54905090 or Maggie on 020 78110019 for more information. Lao Elephants Australian Rules Football Club -Meet at 6.30 pm on Thursdays for

Vientiane

- Action with Lao Children Library: Open Mon to Fri 9am to 6pm and Sat 9am to 3pm. Come in and read and borrow Lao, Japanese, Thai and English books. Located in Ban Saphangmor, Xaysettha district.

- Permanent UXO exhibition and the provision of artificial limbs for victims. COPE Visitor Centre, Khouvieng Road, opposite Green Park Hotel. Every day: 9am-6pm.

- Chess Club meets at 1pm every Sunday at City Inn on Pangkham Road, Vientiane.

Contact: [email protected] Women’s International Group. For activities and

times email [email protected] - Toastmasters Club meets every Sun. from 4-6pm at

Khopchaideu restaurant (3F). Everyone is welcome.- Meditation at Vat Sokpaluang every Saturday,

4-5.30pm.- English Language Church Service every Sunday

10am at the ARDA Language Centre (near the Mercure, formerly Novotel). Call (021) 261441, or visit http://www.the-chs.org

training, please contact the LE President at [email protected] for details and other meeting areas.Buffalos Rugby - men’s rugby training Tuesday evenings 6 - 7:30pm. All welcome. Sunday morning social touch rugby - male, female all ages welcome. Free. For either, contact John (020 77140176), Bob (020 55510443) and Tom (020 2281111) for more information.Wild Hogs Rugby training at the Polytechnic pitch in Phonpapao village, Sisattanak, at 8pm on Tues. and Thurs. Optional Saturday touch session at That Luang at 5:30pm, Sunday fitness at That Luang at 5:30pm. Call 020 77615677 or Chris 020 77834385.Lao Mahout Netball team trains every Tues. at 6pm at Vientiane International School. For more information contact Saeng on 020 77442689.Lions Women’s Rugby from 7.30pm on Tues and Thurs at the Polytechnic pitch. Contact Noui on 020 4905090 or Maggie on 020 54656153.Youth Community Rugby SessionsTraining for U15 Boys and U17 Girls at the Polytechnic pitch in Phonpapao village, Sisattanak, at 7:30pm on Wed. Training for children of all ages at 9am on Sunday.Aqua-fitness Fri 10-11am; Sat 11-12. Please contact Sarah at 020 54147069 or nsteam @live.frBody Language at Vientiane Accueil, Khouvieng Rd. Class includes stretching and respiratory exercises with an oriental touch. Tues. and Thurs. from 5.30-6.30pm. Contact 020 5612107.Aerobics at Sokpalouang swimming pool, Sisattanak district. Open every day from 6am-8pm.Vientiane Hash House HarriersMeet at Nam Phu Fountain every Saturday for travel to out-of-town runs. Mixed Hash, register at 3.45pm and depart 4pm. Monday,VH3, family Hash. 3 runs - short, medium and long. Meet at 5pm at advertised venue. Phones: 223867, 217493, mobile 020 5511293, 5514669.

Thursday May 24, 2012

Art & Entertainment

(KOREA HERALD) -- Members of the K-pop boy band 2PM and girl group miss A will participate in a tour program designed to promote Korean culture to foreign K-pop fans in June, Korea

2PM, miss A to travel Korea with foreign K-pop fans

Tourism Organization said on Tuesday.

Serving as goodwill ambassadors to the state-run travel agency, members of the two groups will accompany groups of foreign fans of

K-pop selected through a video contest in May. The odds of getting selected were 310-to-1, KTO said.

The program will invite seven winners of the contest and eight candidates selected

by KTO’s offices overseas to attend the travel program, “Touch Korea Tour,” from June 7-27.

During the week-long schedule, three of the days will see the foreign fans joined by three K-pop stars.

The stars are expected to help the visitors learn more about Korean culture and create memorable experiences for them.

Junsu and Wooyoung from 2PM and Min from miss A will join the fun tour that features adventures on Jeju Island and in PyeongChang, the host city of the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Miss A’s Suzy and 2PM’s Chansung and Junho will participate in the gourmet tour of culinary pleasures in Jeonju, Damyang, Suncheon and Yeosu.

Fei and Jia from miss A and Taecye on from 2PM will also help participants explore different shopping experiences in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, Busan and Seoul.

Members of 2PM and miss A pose for a photo for the special travel package “Touch Korea Tour” by Korea Tourism Organization. --Photo Korea Tourism Organization

(KOREA HERALD) -- Well-known French urban dance company Compagnie Kafig returns to Korea for the first time in six years with its latest productions “Agwa” and “Correria” on June 2-3 at the LG Arts Center in Seoul.

Inspired by the special encounter between Algerian-French choreographer Mourad Merzouki and 11 self-taught Brazilian dancers, the two upcoming productions are a mix of French choreography and Brazilian passion.

The French choreographer said he was mesmerized by the performances of the dancers from favela, or slum towns, in Brazil at the Lyon Dance Biennial in 2006. With the two creations, Merzouki shows off their rough yet pure passion for dance.

In new production “Agwa,” meaning water in Portuguese, Merzouki projects the image of water alongside the fluidity of the dancers’ movements. The dancers, fearless and inspirational, jump around some 100 glasses of water laid out in parallel lines that are sometimes barriers for them and sometimes part of their frames.

“Correria (The Rush),”

meanwhile, is a portrayal of people today who are always busy and have no time to think. The work depicts the hectic nature of modern living, with dancers running around the stage nonstop to a fast and funky rhythm.

The company, founded and led by Merzouki, has gained international recognition for its innovative and energetic contemporary works based on French hip-hop dance. Merzouki, an acclaimed, award-winning

hip-hop dancer, has been experimenting by constantly combining his signature genre with others such as samba, acrobatics, electronic music and even Bossa Nova.

In the last 15 years, he and the company have traveled to about 50 countries around the world, staging more than 150 performances. In 2006, Compagnie Kafig came to Seoul with “Terrain Vague (Wasteland),” which blended hip-hop, flamenco, contemporary and circus

performance. The works were created as a tribute to multi-cultural French society.

Merzouki was a recipient of the Best Young Choreographer prize at the International Dance Festival of Wolfsburg and was also awarded the Crateurs sans Frontires trophy by the French government.

Compagnie Kafig will also perform at Gyeongnam Culture and Arts Center in Jinju, South Gyeongsang Province, on May 30 and at Busan Cinema Center on June 5.

French choreography meets Brazilian passion

A scene from “Agwa” by Compagnie Kafig. --Photo LG Arts Center

(CHINA DAILY) -- Marvel comic book crime fighters X-Men have put down their weapons and picked up wedding rings for the first same-sex marriage in the superhero world, set for June.

Marvel on Tuesday said Jean-Paul Beaubier, aka Northstar, a Canadian with piercing blue eyes and silver-streaked black hair who can move and fly at superhuman

speeds, will propose to his longtime boyfriend Kyle Jinadu in the issue, “Astonishing X-Men #50,” due on sale May 23.

“The Marvel Universe has always reflected the world outside your window, so we strive to make sure our characters, relationships and stories are grounded in that reality,” Marvel editor-in-chief, Axel Alonso said

in a statement. "We've been working on this story for over a year to ensure Northstar and Kyle's wedding reflects Marvel's 'world outside your window' tradition."

The pair will marry in the next issue of “Astonishing X-Men #51,” on sale June 20, and some comic book retailers will be hosting wedding parties on that day, Marvel said.

Northstar and Kyle have been a couple since 2009, but Marvel is not promising the pair will live happily ever after. In fact, Marvel asks in its wedding announcement: “Will their path to wedded matrimony in New York City be smooth or are there hidden dangers around the corner?”

As if battling evildoers and saving the world weren't enough.

‘X-Men’ plans same-sex superhero wedding

Vientiane times 23Thursday May 24, 2012 Sports

WARSAW, Poland (AP) -- Who's going to win the European Championship? Time to ask an elephant - or a pig.

Poland's answer to Paul the Octopus - the tentacled tipster who gained worldwide fame for his 2010 World Cup predictions - is Citta the elephant. Ukraine, however, will probably go for an enormous beer-loving pig — but there are big doubts about whether he can handle the media glare.

The parade of supposedly psychic animals comes as the two Eastern European nations gear up to co-host the continent's most prestigious soccer championship from June 8 to July 1.

The zoo in the southern Polish city of Krakow settled on a temperamental 33-year-old female pachyderm from India while Ukraine - where slices of hog fat are the national dish - is contemplating a happier destiny for a 2-year-old already named Psychic Pig.

The pig has a fondness for beer and fries and grunts in pleasure when he watches matches on television with his farmer owner, his publicist claimed Tuesday. But he still needs some PR training before he is presented to the public.

"We want to make sure he is calm - we don't want him to get scared," said Svitlana Bovkun, a spokeswoman for Kiev city administration.

Krakow zoo director Jozef Skotnicki said Citta, the apparently clairvoyant elephant, was chosen over a donkey, a parrot and another elephant after she correctly predicted that Chelsea would win the Champions League last week - the annual competition between Europe's top clubs.

She made her winning pick by choosing an apple above a blue-and-white logo for Chelsea rather one from opponent Bayern Munich, which sports a red, white and blue logo.

That's the same method which will be used the day before each of the 31 matches during the European championship, which is held once every four years and is being hosted by these two ex-communist countries for the first time.

The zoo is making one exception to its predictions schedule out of concern for religious feelings in predominantly Roman Catholic Poland: Citta will make her prediction for the June 8 opening game two days ahead, because June 7 falls

on the Corpus Christi holiday, Skotnicki said.

He described Citta as a sensitive mammal brought to Europe by a German circus owner. At one point she suffered the loss of a caretaker and went into mourning. She has never borne offspring due to a fear of males.

"Because of her past experience, Citta is unpredictable and overreacts, and needs a special, gentle approach," Skotnicki said.

Less is known about the Psychic Pig due to his protective media handlers. But if the allegedly intuitive hog can overcome his shyness he will be brought to a specially-built house in central Kiev outside the Olympic Stadium, where some of the Euro 2012

matches will be played.Ahead of each game, he

will be asked to indicate the winner by deciding whether to eat from one of two plates of food, each marked with the national flags of the teams playing.

No one is talking about how the co-hosts might deal with conflicting predictions.

Paul the Octopus gained fame by predicting eight 2010 World Cup matches correctly, including Germany's run to the semifinals and Spain's victory over the Netherlands in the final. Paul made his predictions by opening the lid of one of two clear plastic boxes, each containing a mussel and bearing a team flag. He died at an aquarium in Germany later that year.

Elephant and pig tapped to predict Euro 2012 games

(Left to right) EURO 2012 mascot Slavek, tournament director in Ukraine Markiyan Lubkivsky, Ukraine’s national soccer player Andriy Shevchenko, UEFA ambassador Croatian soccer star Davor Suker, President of the Football Federation of Ukraine Hryhoriy Surkis, and mascot Slavko. --Photo AP

NORTH CAROLINA -- Ariel Hsing was 8 when she wrote down her Olympic dream on a piece of paper. She rolled it up, wrapped it with a string and tucked it into a small box.

“I said something along the lines of I wish to become an Olympian one day,” the 16-year-old Californian recalled. “Then for eight years I convinced myself that if I opened the piece of paper and read it, my wish could not come true.”

She didn’t, and it did.Hsing will represent the

United States in table tennis at the London Olympics, and she’ll be going with two other Californians who are even younger — 16-year Lily Zhang and 15-year-old Erica Wu. The lone men’s representative will be Tim Wang of Houston, Texas.

Hsing has suddenly become a celebrity in a sport that gets scant attention in the United States.

For starters, she is buddies with billionaires Warren Buffett and Bill Gates, close enough to call them “Uncle Warren” and

“Uncle Bill.”A ping pong buff, Buffett

met Hsing when she was only 9 and already a top youth player. Two years later he invited her to play against shareholders at Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meeting. She returned this month, shortly after winning a spot on the US team.

She faced both Buffett and Gates this time.

“Of course Uncle Warren and Uncle Bill have won points against me,” she said in an interview with The Associated Press. “They’re actually pretty good, a lot better than the average person I would say.”

Now that’s ping pong diplomacy. In an annual letter to shareholders, Buffett wrote of his first experience facing Hsing. “The week I turned 75 I played Ariel, then 9 and barely tall enough to see across the table, thinking I would take it easy on her so as not to crush her young spirit. Instead she crushed me,” he said.

In an email to The Associated Press, Buffett said he had hoped to go see her play in London, but will be having treatment that week for prostate cancer. Buffett said he was struck by Hsing’s “modesty, discipline, friendliness, and focus.”

Asked if he ever won a legitimate point off her, Buffett replied: “Perhaps one, but she set me up for it.”

Ariel’s father Michael has been juggling dozens of interview requests, and one US television network is filming a documentary about her.

Despite the sudden fame, she sees herself primarily as a junior at Valley Christian High

DEBRECEN, Hungary (AP) -- Fabio Scozzoli of Italy dedicated his 100-metre breaststroke title at the European Championships on Tuesday to two-time champion Alex Dale Oen, who died suddenly three weeks ago.

Scozzoli took silver behind Dale Oen when the Norwegian won this event at last year's world championships in Shanghai — his country's first such title in swimming.

Scozzoli touched in 1 minute, 0.55 seconds. Valeriy Dymo of Ukraine took silver in 1:00.68 and another Italian, Mattia Pesce, took bronze in 1:00.93. Scozzoli propped himself up on a lane rope and flexed a bicep after his win, then revealed his dedication to Dale Oen later.

Dale Oen, who won this race at the past two Euros, died of cardiac arrest during an altitude training camp in Flagstaff, Arizona, on April 30.

"He accompanied all of my achievements and he accompanied me today, too, and I really wanted to win this to remember him," Scozzoli said.

Scozzoli's time was far off the 59.42 he swam in Shanghai last year. He attributed that to heavy training ahead of the London Olympics.

"I'm not in top form, therefore I had to prepare myself

Scozzoli dedicates 100 breast gold to Dale Oen

mentally," said Scozzoli, who will compete with two-time defending champion Kosuke Kitajima of Japan, Cameron van der Burgh of South Africa and a couple Americans for gold in London.

Before the medal ceremony for the 100 breast, European swimming league (LEN) President Nory Kruchten presented Norwegian Swimming Federation President Per Rune Eknes with the International Fair Play award for having the entire Norway team present and competing so soon after Dale Oen's death.

In the women's 50 butterfly, Ingvild Snildal won a bronze for Norway's first medal of

the championship. Sarah Sjoestroem of Sweden took gold in 25.64 and Triin Aljand of Estonia got the silver.

The 16 Norwegian swimmers competing here are wearing black swim caps with Dale Oen's initials on one side: "A.D.O."

Snildal is the only Norwegian qualified for London so far — in the 100 fly. She also took a bronze in the 50 fly at the 2009 worlds in Rome.

Rafael Munoz Perez of Spain defended his title in the men's 50 fly, with Fred Bousquet of France taking silver and Yauhen Tsurkin of Belarus bronze, while 2008 winner Milorad Cavic settled

for a tie for fifth.Cavic had surgery to repair

a herniated disk in July, 2010, and failed to qualify for any finals at last year's worlds in Shanghai. He is still to race the 100 fly, the event he lost by a mere hundredth of a second to Michael Phelps at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the closest threat to the American's record eight golds.

"I'm disappointed, because I didn't have it under control tonight," Cavic said. "I was over anxious. I haven't been training at all for the 50 fly."

The 50 fly is not an Olympic event.

Also, Aristeidis Grigoriadis of Greece took the men's 100 backstroke title in 53.86 ahead of Helge Meeuw of Germany and Yakov Yan Toumarkin of Israel — with co-world champion Jeremy Stravius seventh.

A year ago, Stravius shared the world title with French teammate Camille Lacourt, who is skipping this meet. Stravius failed to qualify for the event at the French Olympic trials.

In the women's 200 back, Alexianne Castel of France won gold in 2:08.41, beating Jenny Mensing of Germany and Duane Da Rocha Marce of Spain. Elizabeth Simmonds and Gemma Spofforth, who finished 1-2 two years ago in Budapest, were also absent.

Italy's Fabio Scozzoli swims to win the men's 100 metre breastroke final at the European Swimming Championships in Hungary on Tuesday. --Photo AP

Ping pong dreaming for 16-year-old Olympian

School in San Jose, California. She just attended the junior prom, and her attention is on college entrance exams and a goal of being accepted at Stanford University to study business.

“I don’t think I’m famous at all,” she said. “People at my school recognize me. They say: ‘You’re the ping pong girl.’”

Hsing offers insight into a game now ruled by Asians, and Chinese in particular. Americans in the 1930s and 40s were briefly among the best, a period when central Europeans held sway.

Hsing developed a love of ping pong (that’s what the game’s called in China) from her father, who emigrated 25 years ago from Taiwan, and her mother Xin Jaing, who came to the United States a bit earlier from Henan province in east-central China.

They trained as computer engineers, and Ariel said she started playing at 7, fetching balls for her parents in matches at a local recreation centre.

“The first year I could beat

her,” Michael said. “After 8, I could not.”

China has won 20 of 24 gold medals since table tennis entered the Olympics in 1988, and is expected to win all four gold medals when the London Olympics open on July 27. The five top-ranked players in the world — male and female — are all Chinese. Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and Germany fill out the other top 10 spots.

Hsing is ranked No. 134, Zhang is 145 and Wu is 465. Wang is 381 on the men’s list.

With a population of 1.3 billion, China uses its vast numbers and a Soviet-style sports school system to dominate the game, putting players through six hours of daily practice and winnowing the field as players grow older.

“For a lot of Americans, ping pong it just a basement sport,” Hsing said. “It’s just a sport you play with family and friends and hit the ball around. In China, it’s the national sport. It’s kind of like the NBA.”

Hsing speaks Mandarin — “My English is better,” she said — and has spent several spells training in China. She knows what she’ll face in London. Part of the focus this time is getting experience and, perhaps, looking ahead to the 2016 and 2020 Olympics.

“Kids in China and kids in the US have pretty similar levels, but as they grow older the kids in China train professionally,” Hsing said. “Whereas kids in the US have to balance homework and school. So it gets harder. We train less. That’s where the gap starts to grow.”

This Friday, April 20, 2012 file photo shows United States’ Ariel Hsing and Canada’s Chris Xu during the women’s finals of the North America Olympic Games table tennis qualifying tournament in North Carolina. --Photo AP


Sport

Sangkhomsay Bubphanouvong

Oudomxay provincial Education and Sports Department is building the main football

stadium, sports fields and other facilities for the 10th National Games in 2014.

Construction began in January 2010 and is on track for completion at the end of 2013.

The main football stadium will be used for the opening and closing ceremonies. Also being built are a swimming pool, a beach volleyball court and indoor facilities for the petanque, basketball, table tennis, badminton, volleyball and sepak takraw events.

Education and Sports Department Deputy Director Mr Sivansone Vonglome said the province is spending 252 billion kip to build the main stadium and other facilities.

However, budget constraints are hampering the upgrade of the old stadium. Furthermore, Mr Sivansone said, Oudonxay province lacks training centres and adequate sporting facilities to hold the martial arts, boat racing and cycling events.

On completion of the new venues in 2013, the province will be able to hold many sports competitions, he noted.

Oudomxay athletics teams won’t be able to use the new facilities for training this year but will train in Luang Prabang province, which

Oudomxay’s new sports stadium to be ready in 2013

hosted last year’s National Games and has high standard venues.

This will be the first time Oudomxay province has hosted the National Games, so sports officials are keen to learn from previous hosts of the event.

The province will also spend almost 300 million kip to prepare teams to compete in events for Lao Sports Day, to be hosted by Khammuan province in July.

Oudomxay will send a team of more than 50 contestants to participate in beach volleyball, football, sepak takraw, petanque, badminton, table tennis, and track and field events.

Mr Sivansone said that although Oudomxay doesn’t have its new facilities available this year it will arrange for junior level athletes to train in other provinces ahead of Lao Sports Day.

Oudomxay will then train up its most talented athletes in preparation for the National Games in 2014. The province will also partner with Vietnam to hold various activities when the new sports venues are built.

The sports department will invite teams from Luang Prabang and Phongsaly provinces and from Vietnam to take part in competitions in Oudomxay province.

Last April, the sports department sent more than 10 table tennis players to improve their skills at a training camp in China.

PFALZEN, Italy (AP) -- Jon Izaguirre of Spain won the 16th stage of the Giro d’Italia on Tuesday while countryman Joaquin Rodriguez kept the overall lead.

Izaguirre spent most of the day in the lead group and broke away on the final sharp climb of the mainly uphill 108-mile course from Limone sul Garda to Pfalzen.

He finished in 4 hours, 2 minutes to beat Alessandro De Marchi and Stef Clement by 16 seconds. Rodriguez was 8 minutes, 57 seconds behind.

“It’s true that it was a good finish today, which was well within my capability,” Rodriguez said. “But you mustn’t get carried away, there are still a lot of difficulties before we get to Milan next Sunday. I have to preserve myself and keep my energy for the days to come.”

It was Izaguirre’s first win on a grand tour.

Izaguirre, De Marchi and Clement was among a group of riders that broke away about 70 kilometres into the stage, and swiftly established a lead of six minutes.

The lead was eventually extended to 12:30 as the peloton took it easy since no rider in the breakaway group was a threat to the overall leader. The highest-placed rider in the leading group was Jose Herrada, and he had been 32 minutes and 26 seconds behind Rodriguez at the start of the 16th stage.

Herrada attacked with just under five kilometres to go, on the short climb to Chienes, which has an average gradient at nine percent, and a maximum of 12.

He was swiftly overtaken by

Izaguirre and De Marchi. The Spaniard then opened up a gap on the rest of the leaders, and the Euskaltel rider sprinted clear down the final 200-yard straight to the line.

Wednesday’s 17th stage sends the peloton to the Dolomites mountain range. The 116-mile route features four tough climbs before the final descent into Cortina d’Ampezzo.

“I’m ready,” Rodriquez said. “I

know that it will be tough and I’ve prepared myself for it. We will know a bit more about everyone’s assets, even though I don’t think the Giro will play out only on this stage.

“It will be an important day but not decisive. There will be the chance to win some time but not to eliminate rivals.”

The Giro ends on May 27 in Milan.

Izaguirre wins Giro stage; Rodriguez retains lead

Spain’s Jon Izaguirre pedals on his way to win the 16th stage of the Giro d'Italia, Tour of Italy cycling race on Tuesday. --Photo AP

Vientiane times 25

Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.la Thursday May 24, 2012

Business Vientiane timesIn

side Ministry

lowers petrol pricepage B2

Lao stock market moves closer to online tradingpage B2

Investment project benefits don’t always trickle downpage B3

Euro 50-500

10,108 10,158

Foreign Buying Selling Currencies

US Dollar 50-100

Thai Baht

7,998

254.22

8,037

255.50

Exchange rates as of may 23, 2012

Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao

Advertorial Desk

the official launch of the Vientiane New World precinct on the Don Chan riverside hit the headlines

in Laos, generating a lot of public interest as it will be one of the biggest urban development projects ever to take place in the capital.

The US$600-million project was officially launched at a gala ceremony in Vientiane on Monday, with high-ranking government officials, ambassadors, diplomatic representatives and business leaders in Laos among those in attendance.

The unveiling of the concept plan for the project left many guests amazed with the sheer scale of the development, which is set to completely transform the small city of Vientiane. Some guests in attendance even dubbed the project “the new Hong Kong on the Mekong”.

CAMCE Chairperson Ms Luo Yan delivered a speech at the opening ceremony, briefing guests about the growth of her company’s operations in Laos and other parts of the world.

“For a long time, with the help from everybody present today, CAMCE has grown rapidly in Laos. With the support of everybody here, the Vientiane New World project – a joint investment by CAMCE and the Krittaphong Group - can be launched today,” she said at the unveiling of the concept plan.

“CAMCE is the developer and

New hong Kong on the mekong!

engineer of Vientiane New World. As a benchmarking multinational enterprise following the strategy of “Transnational Corporations for Chinese Enterprises”, CAMCE has developed into a comprehensive company group, focusing on its core business of engineering contracting, as well as various businesses involving overseas and domestic investment, and trade.”

She said its market scope covers Southeast Asia, Africa, the Americas, Central Asia and the Russian-speaking region, establishing an excellent brand image and market influence. After accumulating experience in a vast number of fields, the company has created its core competitiveness in a number of key fields including industrial engineering, agricultural engineering, water works, electrical power engineering, and transportation projects.

“When we came to Laos for the first time, we were deeply attracted by

the charm and beauty of Laos. In Laos, there are splendid mountains and rivers, a pleasant climate, the lively Mekong River, antique buildings, magnificent temples, a profound culture, harmonious people, sincere smiling faces and “Sabaidee”.

“Everything here brings us a different feeling! Many foreign people have come to consider here their second home. Tourists from all over the world come here to travel and sightsee. I believe that Laos will become a new international centre in the future!”

CAMCE, relying on its rich international resources, long-term and stable strategically cooperative partnership and efficient management team, will spare no effort to integrate its competitive resources to build Vientiane New World, she said.

The company aims to retain Lao culture and local wisdom as the foundation of the project, but also to meet international demand, making the Lao people proud and overseas visitors content.

“Vientiane New World belongs to Laos. Vientiane New World also belongs to the world. Even more, Vientiane New World belongs to everybody,” Ms Luo Yan said.

Managing Director of CAMCE Investment Mr Yao also delivered a speech during the ceremony.

He said “As the developer of the ASEM villas and mansions, which will accommodate delegations from all over the world, CAMCE will be

one of the most supportive partners of the 9th Asia-Europe Meeting Summit. With this opportunity, Vientiane New World, which carries the dreams of Vientiane, comes into being.”

“Vientiane New World will integrate Lane Xang culture, ancient Lao tradition, the ecological leisure expressions of modern Laos, as well as the international urban fashion of the future Vientiane!”

“According to CAMCE’s strategic plan for the project, Vientiane New World will be strategically positioned as the “crown of Vientiane, spirit of the country”, and will consist of three centres: an International Cultural and Tourist Centre, an International Business Centre, and an International Residence Centre.”

The VNW project will encompass high rise office buildings and apartments, shopping malls, cinemas,

hotels, residential villas, parks and tree lined boulevards, and is expected to take between six and eight years to

complete.Meanwhile, Vice Mayor of

Vientiane Mr Keophilavanh Aphaylath congratulated CAMCE for helping Laos to host the ASEM Summit in

November, which would contribute to enhancing the role and reputation of Laos in the international arena.

He said the project is line with the capital’s intention to build Vientiane as the centre of the Mekong sub-region, attracting foreign investment and tourism.

During the ceremonial launch, guests also learned about the project through a company promotional video showing how Vientiane will be transformed over the next 6-8 years.

The guests were entertained by popular Lao singers including Aluna and Sam from Indee Records. Lao pop superstar Alexandra Bounxouei also joined the event, singing both Lao and English songs.

The guests also admired the sand drawings by a Chinese artist, with the art form very popular in that country.

The sand drawings featured various landmarks in Laos, as well as the concept plan of Vientiane New World, including the 50 villas built to accommodate leaders attending the ASEM Summit.

26 Vientiane timesB 2 Thursday May 24, 2012

Phonsavanh Vongsay

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce lowered the price of premium and regular petrol in Vientiane and five provinces yesterday, which is the second cut they have made this month.

The price of petrol has dropped by between 210 kip and 230 kip per litre in Vientiane and the provinces of Khammuan, Savannakhet, Champassak, Bokeo and Xieng Khuang, according to a report from the ministry’s Price Planning and Marketing Division yesterday.

In Vientiane, petrol stations are now selling premium petrol for 12,170 kip per litre and regular petrol for 10,790 kip per litre, while diesel has remained steady at 9,630 kip per litre.

Fuel prices in the five provinces vary depending on transport costs, with premium petrol ranging from between 12,190 and 12,320 kip per litre and regular petrol from between 10,820 and 11,040 kip per litre, while diesel retails for between 9,680 and 9,860 kip per litre.

Fuel prices fluctuate depending on shifts in the global market and fuel prices in Laos rise and fall in line with world oil markets, the report noted.

In January, petrol stations in Vientiane and the five provinces were selling premium petrol for between 11,520 and 11,660 kip per litre and regular petrol for between 10,600 and 10,860 kip per litre. Meanwhile diesel retailed for between 9,520 and

9,750 kip per litre.There have been seven price

adjustments this year, five of which have been upward, while the last two have reduced the price. There were 17 fuel price adjustments by the ministry last year. That followed 14 adjustments in 2010 and 15 adjustments in 2009.

AP reported yesterday that oil prices fell to a seven-month low of around US$91 a barrel on Wednesday in Asia after Iran agreed to allow the UN nuclear agency to restart an investigation into the country’s nuclear programme.

Benchmark oil for July delivery was down 57 cents to US$91.28 a barrel at midday Singapore time in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Fuel consumption in Laos is expected to increase by 7 percent this year, exceeding the previous year’s consumption rate of around 750 million litres. It is expected to increase to more than 800 million litres this year.

In 2009, fossil fuel consumption was around 640 million litres and increased to over 700 million litres in 2010, according to the Lao Petroleum and Gas Association.

Laos expects renewable energy to generate around 30 percent of total energy used nationwide by 2025. This figure will include a bio-fuel component of around 10 percent, which will replace imported fossil fuels, the Ministry of Energy and Mines reported recently.

The new prices are displayed at a petrol station in Vientiane. --Photo Bounthan

Ministry lowers petrol prices

Markets factor in GREXITAsian stocks and the €uro fell on Greece exit (GREXIT) concerns.

Markets are hostage to the outcomes of last night’s EU summit. Today’s trading will be very much influenced by the assessment of the summit’s political speak. Markets should be influenced by financial performance but instead of that assessment it’s Greek politicians who hold the wand. A new Euro Bond is a headache - just try getting 17 nations of diverse political beliefs to mutually agree to terms and guarantees. Their biggest worry according to FX traders is assessing whether a GREXIT will be a worse than the decision of bandying together to introduce the Euro. Vientiane: The market pause button caused a stall in trading yesterday as the stocks are showing signs of being oversold at discount prices. Day traders would be disappointed.

• Greece’s former Prime Minister Lucas Papa demos said that while it’s unlikely the nation will leave the euro, it’s still a risk.

• US Stocks reversed gains in the final hour on Greek worries. A selloff across risk assets resumed on Tuesday, pushing the US dollar higher and lowering

commodity prices to a five-month low.• Facebook lost 8.9pct to fall to US$31 down from its Friday IPO of US$38. The forensics

are being done as Morgan Stanley denies it downgraded revenues on the company just before trading occurred. It is alleged they advised only a select few major clients. There’s more to this story than there appears; let’s see who loses face.

• Standard & Poor’s GSCI Spot Index fell to its lowest level since Dec. 20. The index, which tracks 24 raw materials, lost 0.7 percent to 624 points.

• US Treasury yields were nine basis points from the record low on concerns Greece will abandon the euro, increasing demand for the relative safety of US debt.

• The 17-nation euro was 0.2 percent from a four-month low against the dollar. • Base metals were under pressure as the Greek crisis may hurt the EU and global growth

and sap demand.• Soybeans slid to the lowest price since March 30. • Rubber declined by the most in a week. • Palm oil fell to US$3,110. • Cotton tumbled to the lowest level in more than two years • Oil barrel prices retreated for a second day, Nymex’s oil contract fell as much as 1 percent

to US$90.97.

Times Reporters

The Lao Securities Exchange plan to offer online stock trading has seen some positive progress after the Lao-Korean joint venture agreed to purchase the necessary IT and communication equipment from a Korean company.

The Exchange signed an agreement with Korea Telecom last week to purchase, install and maintain IT equipment in Vientiane, to enable the Lao Securities Exchange to offer online stock trading services.

Under the agreement, Korea Telecom will also train Lao stock market staff so they can use the equipment to boost the efficiency of stock trading, which it is hoped will attract more local and foreign investors to the Lao stock market.

Lao Securities Exchange signed an MOU with Enterprise of Lao Telecom earlier this year to provide the stock market with a high speed and secure

internet signal, one of the main requirements to enable the market to offer smooth online trading services.

Despite the fact that the stock market has posted an order to purchase the IT equipment, it is still unclear when the system will be operational so that online trading can begin.

LSX Chairman and CEO Mr Dethphouvang Moularat said earlier this year the Exchange would try its best to offer online trading in the first quarter of this year. However, the deadline has passed without the service coming into effect.

The Lao stock market has strong hopes that the online service will make it easier for traders to post purchase and sell orders from home over the internet, thus boosting trading volumes and the number of companies that want to list.

At present, traders have to use telephone and fax to post buy and sell orders with brokers, while some traders have to visit

the stock market in person. Most stock markets now

offer an online trading service and many Lao people can buy and sell stocks in foreign markets. The fact that they cannot do so in Laos is resulting in an outflow of foreign currencies.

The Lao Securities Exchange was opened in October 2010 and first offered a stock trading service in January last year. Currently, only two companies, EDL-Gen and BCEL have listed. The management of the exchange said earlier this year that an average of 160,000 stocks a day traded last year, below what had been expected.

Many Lao people consider investment in the stock market to be a new experience and they need to understand more about the process before they are confident about investing. A shortage of stock market and economic data has also made it difficult to convince people to invest in the publicly listed companies.

Lao stock market moves closer to online trading

Representatives of the Lao Securities Exchange and Korea Telecom sign an agreement to purchase and install IT equipment for an online trading service.

Vientiane times 27

Continued from last issue

Thursday May 24, 2012 B 3

IN BRIEF Greek banks to get US$23 billion from bailout fundATHENS, Greece (AP) -- Greece’s four biggest commercial banks will receive an €18 billion (US$23 billion) cash infusion from the European bailout fund. The recapitalisation comes amid political uncertainty in the debt-stricken country after inconclusive on May 6 elections saw a rise in support for anti-bailout parties and cast doubt over whether Greece’s future use of the euro currency.

Mazda, Fiat to work together on small convertible TOKYO (AP) -- Mazda Motor Corp. and Fiat SpA are working together on developing and manufacturing a roadster, or two-seater convertible, although the automakers will come up with different, distinctly styled models.The deal with Fiat of Italy, which controls US automaker Chrysler, serves as a perk for a money-losing Mazda, and highlights the Japanese automaker’s trademark product - the best-selling roadster of all time.

Singapore inflation quickens to 4-month high SINGAPORE (AP) -- Singapore says its inflation rate rose to a fourth-month high in April as housing and transport costs soared.The central bank said in a statement on Wednesday that the consumer price index increased 5.4 percent in April from a year earlier, up from 5.2 percent in March. The bank said housing costs jumped 11 percent while transport prices gained 7.5 percent.

PC maker Lenovo says profit up 59 percent BEIJING (AP) -- Lenovo Group, the world’s second-largest personal computer maker, said on Wednesday its quarterly profit rose 59 percent over a year earlier on record sales. Profit for the three months ending March 31 was US$67 million, or 0.65 US cents per share, the company announced. Quarterly sales rose 54 percent to US$7.5 billion.

Turkmen deal boosts Afghan pipeline project ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan (AP) -- Turkmenistan signed a natural gas deal with Pakistan and India on Wednesday, in a significant boost to the proposed construction of a 1,800-kilometer (1,100-mile) pipeline across Afghanistan.Representatives from India’s state-owned Gail Ltd. and Pakistan’s privately run Pakistan’s Inter State Gas System traveled to Turkmenistan to formalise the deal, which will see the two countries receive gas through a pipeline projected to pump 90 million cubic meters (3.18 billion cubic feet) a day.

Times Reporters

As Laos opens up to international trade there are many investment projects taking place, but some are not benefiting rural people as promised.

The Lao- German pro-gramme ‘Land Management and Rural Economic Development’ (LM-RED) and the Ministry of Planning and Investment this week held a training workshop for officials concerning the monitoring of ongoing investment projects to ensure they benefit ordinary people.

According to information provided by the LM-RED project, the rural population is not benefiting sufficiently from this economic upsurge as things currently stand, which poses risks and challenges when it comes to achieving sustainable development.

Without proper mana-gement, foreign direct investments and other large ventures are likely to limit

Mr Houmpheng Soulalay (centre) with trainees.

Investment project benefits don’t always trickle down

access to land and market access for the rural poor.

The two-day workshop held at the Ministry of Planning and Investment was attended by officials from ministries concerned with the approval and management of investment projects. The trainees learned about the forms and questionnaires required to follow up and report on the outcome of various projects.

The workshop was opened by the Director General of the Investment Promotion Department, Mr Houmpheng Soulalay.

Rural communities stand to benefit from the programme, especially in the provinces of Luang Namtha, Xayaboury and Attapeu where it will be piloted.

Laos plans to graduate from least developed country status by 2020. To achieve its ambitious development goals, the country is increasingly opening up to regional and international markets and encouraging more foreign

direct investment. Land and other natural

resources are very attractive assets for foreign investors. Investment in mining, agriculture and forestry and the hydro-energy sector are of major interest to investors in many countries, but the benefits must flow to those who need it most.

The LM-RED programme aims to achieve the implementation of cross-departmental strategies and measures for poverty orientated rural development by supporting the relevant government stakeholders at the national and sub-national level.

Institutional capacity building and cross-sectoral cooperation among the different institutions responsible for land management, development planning, investment promotion, and agriculture are crucial requirements if the potential of investments in land and agriculture is to be realised and social and environmental risks minimised.

SUBANG JAYA, Malasia (The Star) -- Salcon Bhd is looking at mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to grow itself in a bid to fast track its listing plan for its China water and waste water concessions within the next two years.

Salcon chief operating officer Ooi Cheng Swee told reporters that the company aimed to have a combined plant capacity of 3,000 million litres per day (MLD) in China and was targeting to achieve this via a combination of organic growth and M&As with existing plant operators who have sizable assets in China.

“We do have parties talking to us, and it is maybe too early to disclose them,” he said after signing an agreement to acquire a 60 percent stake in Darco Environmental Pte Ltd, a unit of Darco Water Technologies Ltd, for RM47.5mil.

Darko Environmental is an integrated engineering and knowledge-based water treatment solutions provider.

Darco Environmental runs two water treatment plants in Deqing country in the Zhejian province in China, namely Wukang and Qian Yuan, which have a 60 MLD and 100 MLD capacity respectively. The company expects to fund 80 percent of the acquisition via bank borrowing and the

balance from internal funds.The Wukang and Qian

Yuan plants have a 25-year and 22-year concession period respectively, and is estimated to generate total revenue of RMB1.7bil (RM842.5mil) throughout the entire concession. “Both plants have a second phase which would ensure the water supply for the next 25 years, and we are now talking to the government to upgrade the Wukang plant’s facility. We are looking at implementing the phase two of an additional 60 MLD in the next 12 months,” he said.

With the acquisition, Salcon now have a combined capacity of 1,300 MLD and now owns and operate a total of 11 water and wastewater concessions in Shandong, Zhejiang, Fujian and Jiangsu provinces in China.

Salcon mulls expansion through M&As

Ooi said the company is still exploring opportunities for other projects in China, mainly in coastal areas and areas the company do not have a current presence in like Anhui and Guizhou.

The deal marks the first cooperation between Salcon and Darco, which entails further cooperation with Darco in other water-related ventures, principally in the industrial wastewater sector which is Darco’s core strength and area of expertise.

Darco Water chief executive officer Thye Kim Meng said Darco sold its stake to Salcon due to what the company is offering and also the decent price the company offered, while Darco itself is also doing some financial consolidation.

“We are impressed by Salcon’s aggressive attitude towards developing the China market and its intention to expand its water concessions. The two plants have a virtual monopoly for the county and with two more phases that need to be completed, that would take care of the area’s total water requirement in the future,” he said.

He also said Darco had invited Salcon to explore business possibilities in Taiwan for the installation of a sewage plant and concession and also a project in Indonesia for the

supply of drinking water and to upgrade the existing facilities in the island of Bangka.

Listed on the SGX in 2002, Darco is involved in the design, fabrication, assembly, installation, commission and service engineered water systems for industrial use in Singapore and Malaysia, and has since expanded into air management system, soil remediation and solid-waste recycling.

The group, which has operations in Singapore, Malaysia, China, Taiwan, Philippines and Indonesia, serves companies across diverse industries - electronics, semiconductor, textile, food and beverage, printed circuit board, solar-energy and pharmaceuticals, and takes on municipal water and wastewater projects.

Ooi (left) exchanging documents with Darco Water Technologies Ltd CEO Thye Kim Meng.

INDONESIA (The Jakarta Post) -- Indonesia’s largest telecommunication provider, PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia (Telkom), says due diligence for its plan to buy a controlling stake in Hong Kong and Singapore-based undersea cable operator Pacnet Ltd. will be completed next

month.Newly appointed president director Arief

Yahya said the company planned to use both internal and external cash to finance the acquisition, whose value has yet to be determined, pending due diligence.

“We have time for ‘go or no go’ until this June [...] Once we submit [the bid], we have to keep silent about it,” Arief told reporters on Monday. Arief confirmed that Telkom submitted its bid earlier this month, when the company was under previous management.

Pacnet reportedly has a value of US$1 billion. According to a report by rating agency Moody’s Investor Service, Pacnet reaped US$528.6 million in revenue in 2011, up 4.4 percent from a year earlier. The company’s earnings before interest,

Telkom says valuation is on track to acquire Pacnet

tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) stood at US$82 million last year, up 2.2 percent from 2010.

According to Moody’s, Pacnet was incorporated in Bermuda in 2006. The company wholly owns and operates the EAC-2C2 network, Asia’s largest privately owned submarine cable infrastructure of 36,800 kilometers.

The company also owns the EAC Pacific network spanning 9,620 kilometers from Japan to the US. Pacnet provides data connectivity solutions to major telecommunications carriers, large multinational enterprises and small and medium enterprises in the Asia-Pacific region.

Telecommunication expert Danrivanto Budhijanto said that the Pacnet acquisition would help Telkom develop its undersea cable network, which was important in an archipelagic country such as Indonesia.

“Telkom is trying to develop a fiber-optic network on land, operate a satellite network in space and build an undersea cable network so that the company can play on the global stage, through Pacnet, which already has a global network. This is as rare an opportunity that a telecommunication company can get,” he said.

Danrivanto said that Telkom needed to be a player on both the regional and global stages.

“Telkom is already too big to play only in Indonesia. Not all development must be performed by Telkom. It’s time for other operators to build their networks in Indonesia,” Danrivanto, a former member of the Indonesian Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (BRTI), said.

Arief Yahya.

28 Vientiane timesThursday May 24, 2012B 4B 4

JOB VACANCY Multinational mineral drilling company is seeking applications from Lao Nationals with relevant qualifications and experience for immediate starts at our Sepon Mining site (Savannakhet Province) as following details:

(1) Data Entry Officer (based atSepon Mining site, Savannakhet Province)This position will report to Workshop Supervisor • Perform a variety of clerical office duties such as: maintaining files, keeping records, preparing

schedule, compiling data for reports.• Searching and investigating information contained in files, processing department documents,

posting records and typing correspondence and reports from rough drafts. • Communication skills levels of English and be able to translate and interpreting English languages. • Computer competency skills on MS Word, Excel, Outlook, IE and etc…• At least 2 years working experience in Administrative or data files. • Be able to live in the project site at Sepon, Sevannakhet Province. • Experiences in maintenance or data fields are desirable.(2) Site Administration Officer (based atSepon Mining site, Savannakhet Province)This position will report to Site Manager • The Site Administrative Officer is responsible for ensuring that all administrative aspects of the

duties and tasks outlined and requested are undertaken in accordance with Boart Longyear policies, procedures and practices.

• Providing effective administration to the internal/ external operation and management team.• Organizing and booking of all travel both domestic & international as required for the operational and

management team.• Be responsible for a daily drill report and staff timesheet • Assisting or managing site expenses/ payment records and invoices, then report to accounting/

financial section. • Be Lao national male or female• Relevant academic qualifications• At least 2 years of relevant experience, preferably with an international company• Good level of English language writing, reading, speaking and listening• Experience working with local and expatriate workers• Strong IT ability, administrative skills and experience using MS office and web based applications

Attractive salary and AGL insurance will be provided based upon experience.To apply, email to: [email protected] Or [email protected]

or deliver your CV and a statement explaining how your qualifications and experience match the position requirements, and expectation, to the address below:

No 135, Unit 15, Ban Phonthan Neua, Saysetha District,Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R, P.O.Box 6681

Before 31st MAY 2012

HANOI, Vietnam (VNS) -- Many retail companies in Vietnam have tapped into new potential markets while others have been forced to close down due to tough economic conditions.

The successful have opened new stores and supermarkets in many disadvantaged regions, small provinces and rural areas.

Dinh Anh Huan, general director of dienmay.com, a company selling electronic products, said that most companies trading in electronics had opened branches in HCM City and Hanoi.

However, he said his company had decided to access unexploited regions such as Binh Thanh, Tan Phu and Binh Tan districts of HCM City and rural provinces including Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Soc Trang and Binh Duong.

Heading in the same direction as dienmay.com, the Nguyen Kim electronic supermarket has also opened new stores in Can Tho City and Tien Giang, An Giang, Kien Giang, Binh Phuoc and Dak Lak provinces.

In the past, these companies only operated in big cities like HCM City and Da Nang but now they wanted to exploit new markets, said an official from the firm.

Nguyen Duc Tai, general director of the World Mobile JSC, affirmed there were many opportunities for

Retailers exploit untapped markets

Shoppers in a Vietnamese supermarket.

retail companies in virginal, underinvested markets.

These new markets were hungry for new business. The question remained how to effectively exploit them, he said.

The new direction highlights the efforts made by Vietnamese retail companies during the world recession. It also shows that the local retail market still has potential to grow with 90 million people, but only 638 supermarkets, 120 trade centres and more than 1,000 convenient shops.

Moreover, experts predicted that retail sales in Vietnam would increase by 23 per year from 2014.

In this difficult time, retail companies should define

where their markets were to have new products. They must also find new markets, advised the Association of Vietnamese Retailers.

It reported that in the first four months of this year, nearly 18,000 companies closed down. Of these, about 5,300 operated in retail.

Growth in retail sales during this time was only 5 percent.

The association attributed the slow growth to people’s tightened consumption policy.

The most difficult problem now was high production and transportation costs. Meanwhile, the market had narrowed and many foreign retailers had set foot on the Vietnamese market, they said.

CHINA (China Daily) -- China’s e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Ltd on Monday announced it would buy back some 20 percent of its equity from Yahoo Inc for about US$7.1 billion, a move seen as paving the way for an initial public offering.

Although the group said that it has no timetable for an IPO at the moment, Jack Ma, Alibaba’s chairman and chief executive officer, said that the transaction will help the company achieve a balanced ownership structure that will allow it to “take the business to the next level as a public company in the future”.

Under the agreement, Alibaba Group will pay Yahoo at least US$6.3 billion in cash, plus new preferred shares worth up to US$800 million, the companies said in a joint statement.

The Hangzhou-based group will hold about 51 percent of its equity after the transaction. The voting rights of Yahoo and Softbank in Alibaba Group will be diminished to under 50 percent as a result of the deal.

Tokyo-based Softbank Corp owns about 30 percent of Alibaba Group.

Alibaba started out as a business-to-business website linking factories in China to buyers around the world. It also operates Taobao.com, the country’s version of eBay, and TMall, which brands can use to sell directly to consumers.

“Alibaba Group regained control in the boardroom through this deal, and the company will be able to formulate its own business strategies,” said Qi Jianzhe, an analyst at research company Analysys International.

Ma and Alibaba Group tried several times since last year to buy back the stake.

Alibaba to repurchase 20 percent holding from

Yahoo for US$7.1bIn February, the group

privatized its Hong Kong-listed business-to-business arm, Alibaba.com Ltd and signed a US$3 billion loan with up to six banks.

This year alone, Ma has visited the headquarters of the Industrial and Commercial

Bank of China Ltd at least three times to seek financing, said a manager in charge of ICBC’s enterprise credit business, who declined to disclose his name.

Analysts said that struggling Yahoo was the winner of this deal.

The California-based Web portal said it will return “substantially all of” the after-tax cash proceeds to shareholders following the closing of the transaction.

Although the return of capital to shareholders has not yet been finalised, the board of Yahoo has increased the company’s share buyback authorization by US$5 billion.

“Yahoo’s shareholders have been asking the company to sell some of its Asian assets to boost returns to shareholders

for a long time, and the US$7-billion earnings will enable the company to distribute bonuses to its shareholders,” said Qi.

“We look forward to delivering the proceeds of the near-term transaction to our shareholders, and to the further enhancement

of value and the additional monetisation in the future that this agreement enables,” said Timothy R. Morse, Yahoo’s executive vice-president and chief financial officer.

Yahoo is likely to use the rest of the proceeds in its own stock repurchase program and the expansion of new businesses, said Qi.

The deal, which closes in six months, is good for Yahoo because the company gets a “wad of cash” but still has exposure to fast-growing China, said Napoleon Biggs, head of digital integration at public relations firm Fleishman-Hillard Asia Pacific.

“China for them was like a sore tooth,” said Biggs, who has worked in the Chinese Internet and media industry since 1997.

A Yahoo billboard is seen in New York’s Times Square in this Oct 19, 2010 file photo. --Photo Agencies

KOREA (The Korea Herald) -- Gasoline prices in the local market are likely to climb by about 300 won (US$0.26) per liter for several weeks in the wake of the European Union’s tightened sanctions on Iran, analysts said on Monday.

Considering the 50-liter fuel tank of an ordinary car, the situation means a surge by 15,000 won in consumer prices when a driver fills up his gasoline-empty car at a gas station.

The European Union legislated rules in March to stop insurance coverage on all tankers carrying Iranian crude oil starting July 1 as part of sanctions on the Middle East country to make it give up its nuclear program.

But Seoul officials reportedly said the EU may apply for the halt to insurance coverage to Korea at the end of this month in consideration of the some 40-day period of oil

Gas prices may surge W300 on Iran sanctions

transportation. Iranian oil accounted for

9.4 percent of Korea’s crude oil imports - or 87 million barrels out of the total 930 million barrels - last year.

Under the situation, the hike in gasoline prices is unavoidable. Considering disconnecting contacts in consideration of oil shipment period, the prices could likely be affected before July.

Some market observers issue the possibility that a price hike will start later this month, citing psychological factors.

They predict the price hike level will be at least by 200 won per liter and may surpass the level of 300 won.

The EU’s sanctions on Iran would result in an imbalance of global crude supply and demand and an increase of oil prices, weighing on the Korean economy and exacerbating Korea’s trade terms with Iran, the Ministry of Knowledge

Economy said in a recent statement.

Seoul has so far focused only on negotiations with the US to be exempted from a law that bans economic entities dealing with the Iranian central bank from doing business with US-based financial institutions. Because the Iranian central bank collects the country’s oil export revenues, the law essentially forces other countries to stop importing oil from Iran.

But even if Korea is exempted from the US National Defense Authorization Act, it won’t be able to import Iranian crude if the European insurers do not cover the tankers that transport it.

Unlike the US Act, the EU rule does not have any grounds to permit exceptions. And it will be difficult to reach an agreement with the EU, which consists of 27 member countries, to give a grace period for Korean tankers.

Vientiane times 29

BELGIaN BEErs Bar

“moules-frites”

40 BELGIaN BEErs Tel: 020 56103434, www.chokdeecafe.comFagnum, Mekong riverside road infront of bus stop

ChOK dEE CaFE

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 23220022English*French*Japanese * ChineseEmail:[email protected]

Thursday May 24, 2012Vientiane times Classified

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 46Email: [email protected]

1,700,000 kip to 42,500,000 kip/month

• 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 anytime• Tel: 020 55599900. 55593013, office: 030 9800630• Email: [email protected]• www.vpscarrental.com

V P s Car rental service

+856 20 55599 430

9999080322401446

AB ApartmentServices: 2Bedrooms, 1Bedroom & Studio room

Features: Fully furnished apartment in Vientianewith 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 +856-20-28184400Phone: +856-21-263253 Fax: +856-21-222565E-mail: [email protected]

www.abapartment.com

maNIraath GEms aNd JEWELLEryGENUINE 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

Service offered: Logistics, Transport, Home Removal,Custom clearance for air

freight and sea freight.

Contact Information: Ban Donkoy, T4 Road, Sisattanak District Vientiane, Lao P.D.R Tel/Fax: +856- 021- 330154, Mobile: +856- 020- 55506402 Email: [email protected] and www: cstransportlao.com

“All transportation solution under one roof”C.S TRANSPORT CO., LTD

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: [email protected]

Bouakham HOUSE RENTAL

We can show you Land, Houses or Apartments in any location. Call us!

P.O. Box 1940, Vientiane, Lao PDRTel: 020 5571 1396, 77959199

Would you like to rent or buy property?

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

House for sale Vila 2 floors in Ban Somvang, Village: Hadxayfong, area: 935 sq,

reasonable price. (Not expensive)

We have great places to rent and buy: Land, Houses, Apartments,

Hotels, Resorts, Guesthouses

(Sale now, not expensive)


Sale now!

30 Vientiane times

HOTEL LAO*Value *Comfort *ServiceIn the heart of Vientiane

Ideal for business or tourist43/7 Hengboun Road, Vientiane

Tel: (856 21) 219280-1, Fax: (856 21) 219282Email: [email protected]

City Centre, Short & long term stay From 3,200,000 kip ($400) per month

Air-conditioning, cable TV, housekeeping, laundry, electricity and water

Call: 020 55505840, 55023782Email: [email protected]

SERVICED APARTMENTS Spacious & tastefully decoratedFully furnished 1 & 2 bedroom

Air-conditioning, Cable TV, Swimming pool, Garden, Housekeeping, Laundry

MP: 020 55505840, 020 55023782Email: [email protected]

C 2 Classifieds Thursday May 24, 2012

Sale Agents for Lao AirlineThai Airways, Vietnam Airlines

& World Wide Air-Tickets serviceTel: 900241-242-243New Tel: 454034-36

Fax: (856-21) 900244Mobile: 856-20 5515870, 5503979Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Lao Air Service Co.Ltd1st Floor K.P Tower

Thatluang Rd (Opposite of Min. foreign affairs)

Vientiane Lao P.D.R

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Online advertisementAdvertising your products at www.vientianetimes.org.la will bring benefits

to your company. Customers around the world will appreciate the quality of your products via the Vientiane Times

website. For more information please contact:Tel: (856-21) 216364, 252631, 217593 Fax: (856-21) 216365, 252631Email: [email protected]. Or [email protected]

Email: [email protected], Fax: 021 217441Tel: 021 260419/020 55878688/020 55509957

CAR FOR SALE Hyundai Terracan, 2WD Owner used it in Korea & brought

to Lao in 2009 Mainly used in Vientiane Capital Very good condition Price: USD 12,000 (Tax paid) Interested please call 020-5650-0393 (Mrs Lee)

Among cut, clarity and colour,the cut plays a critical role in expressing the

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Tel #: [856-21] 251513,252790 Fax #: [856-21] 243791Mob #: [856-20] 2212021, 5513101


Vientiane times 31Thursday May 24, 2012 Classifieds C 3

Lao red Cross youth Competition!

Win a term of free English lessons by playing the Lao Red Cross Youth Competition. From all correct entries, one winner will be drawn month. This month’s winner will receive a notebook and a T-shirt promoting HIV/AIDS awareness. From all monthly winners, one lucky winner will receive one full term of English lessons donated for free by Vientiane College.

This month we have another word game for you. Just unscramble the following 5 words and place them in the boxes provide. For the right answers we will give you in the next month .

A S A T A S S M A L T E C

D E M N A E T D M I T N N A E

D C L O U S E I D U C L R S O

U U I S X O S U U L R U I

P S E V E P E R S V E R E E

Cut out this entry form and send it to HIV/AIDS Project, Lao Red Cross, PO Box 2948 or take it to the Lao Red Cross office behind Vat Xiengnhune. Closing date for the competition on Thursday, 31 May 2012 at 9.00am.

Name: _________________ ID Card No: ________________ Address & Phone Number: ______________

Last month’s winner: Mr. Vanxay Phongphanith, ID Card No: 08-0014121.

Last month’s answer: Essential, Geophysics, Windstorm, Warranty and Youthfulness.

Please contact to Ms. Phoutthalom for further more information at Tel: 241632.

JOB VACANCY Multinational mineral drilling company is seeking applications from Lao Nationals with relevant qualifications and experience for immediate starts at our office in following location:

Positions Available (1) HR Consultant- Ensure HR service to operations is effective in timely manner after recruitment until termination.- Provide HR service guide / advisory to site / local HR staff - Advise instruction of all HR management to ensure clear HR practice for site operations- Develop HR competency for site HR staff and office HR assistant - Visit and discuss with site management and HR as well as other staff for better HR improvement.- Ensure legal requirement and awareness as well as Work Regulations.- Indirect manage site HR to comply with HR requirements, site requirements and support.- Support to help on trouble shooting and preventing.- Oversee HR administration works e.g. Social Security, insurance, health assessment- Ensure employee relation, safe workplace legal and corporate requirement conformance. Qualifications;o BA and any related fields, 5+ years work experienceso HR Experiences, mining is advantageo Strong personality and proactive approacho Good at English

(2) Recruitment Specialist- Managing staff planning and requirement with operations team- Execute recruitment planning and time line- Processing recruitment and selection involving local HR, local management and individually- Driving external variety sources to get alternative people resources- Liaison with educational institute to execute trainee / apprenticeship program.- Work with management to identify potential internal candidate and involve training & development team to develop.- Perform frequent discussion or meeting or visiting with remote site management to get update information regarding

staff requirement.- Report progress in company recruitment tools. Qualificationso BA and any related fields, 3 years + work experienceso Recruitment Experiences, mining is advantageo Strong personality and proactive approacho Good at Englisho Know HR networks, institute and employee resources

(3) HRIS Officer- Administrate HR information to HRIS tools, Oracle- Support HR team on processing relevant document for HRIS tools completion.- Run and distribute HR reports- Work with site to better understanding of HRIS and delegation.- Reconcile all figures for employee base and payroll execution. Qualificationso BA or any related files, 2 years + work experienceso Strong computer background and understanding new technologyo Experience with Oracle HR or similar is advantage.o Smart and willing to learns new things.

(4) Data Entry Officer (based in PhuBia, Laos) This position will report to Workshop Supervisor • Perform a variety of clerical office duties such as: maintaining files, keeping records, preparing schedule, compiling

data for reports.• Searching and investigating information contained in files, processing department documents, posting records and

typing correspondence and reports from rough drafts. • Communication skills levels of English and be able to translate and interpreting English languages. • Computer competency skills on MS Word, Excel, Outlook, IE and etc…• At least 2 years working experience in Administrative or data files. • Be able to live in the project site at PhuBia, Phukham site • Experiences in maintenance or data fields are desirable.

Attractive salary and AGL insurance will be provided based upon experience.To apply, email to: [email protected] Or [email protected]

or deliver your CV and a statement explaining how your qualifications and experience match the position requirements, and expectation, to the address below:

No 135, Unit 15, Ban Phonthan Neua, Saysetha District,Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R, P.O.Box 6681

Before 31st MAY 2012

Vacancy AnnouncementRiver View Resort LimitedWe are currently seeking service oriented candidates with the right attitude to join our team for the following position. The position is open to both Lao and overseas nationals.

resort manager

Skills and Responsibilities: - Good written and spoken command of Chinese and English language. - Persons with a strong background and experience in particular are encouraged to apply.

Salary is based on qualification and experience. Interested candidates with necessary qualifications please call: 021 212 206, 020 54082000

Fully furnished, ready to move in. Great location.

Area 44 m2, one bedroom, living room, kitchen, toilet.

Security cameras & guard. Parking at Naxay village, Saysettha district

Call Mobile: 2288 8822

apartment for rent

Nongbone road

Sisangvone road

Nax

ay li

ne 2

Lao-

Vie

t sc

hool

Unitel

Teaching VacanciesOscar Bilingual School has vacancies for one Nursery class teacher, one Kindergarten class teacher and possibly one Year 2 homeroom

teacher. All positions are full time and will commence in August 2012.Email your CV, a cover letter, stating the position you’re applying for

and a photo to:[email protected]

Telephone: 021 740098, 020 77105501

32 Vientiane timesC 4 Classifieds Thursday May 24, 2012


OPEN tO: All interested candidates POsItION: Guards (NEC), FsN-3OPENING datE: May 16, 2012 CLOsING datE: May 31, 2012 CONtraCt: Less than three years WOrK hOurs: Full-time; 48 hours/week saLary: Actual grade and salary will be based on the qualifications of the applicant.

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 ORDINARILY RESIDENT APPLICANTS MUST BE RESIDING IN LAOS AND HAVE THE REQUIRED WORK AND/OR RESIDENCY PERMITS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION.

The U.S. Embassy in Vientiane is seeking 12 individuals for the position of Guard for the New Embassy Compound (NEC) Project.


Incumbent serves as a guard for the New Embassy Compound (NEC) and reports to the NEC Sergeant, Shift Supervisor and NEC Guard Commander, Site Security Manager and the Regional Security Officer (RSO). He/she is responsible for controlling access ofall personnel and vehicles into the NE, patrolling NEC grounds and responding to security incidents, operating security equipmentand raising the alarm in an emergency.

QuaLIFICatIONs rEQuIrEdNOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item.

1. Education: Completion of Secondary School is required 2. Prior Work Experience: One year of Embassy guard duties or directly applicable military or police experience. 3. Language Proficiency: Level II English, minimal working knowledge required. Level III, good working knowledge

of Lao required. 4. Job Knowledge: Must be thoroughly familiar with all Embassy Guard orders, procedures, standards and emergency

responses. 5. skills and abilities: Must be able to operate security equipment, interpret guard orders and instructions. Must be

physically fit.

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:

http://laos.usembassy.gov/job_opportunities.html2. Candidates who claim U.S. Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD-214 with their application. 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 American Embassy Rue Bartholonie, That Dam PO Box 114, Vientiane, Laos (Hardcopy or e-mail attachments are accepted)

POINt OF CONtaCt Telephone: 856-21-267176 Fax: 856-21-267140 E-mail: [email protected]



CLOsING datE FOr thIs POsItION: may 31, 2012 An Equal Opportunity Employer

24.05.2012

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