02.02.2012

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Inside

Borikhamxay villages get clean water on tap page 2

Rice ball ritual brings devotees to That Phonh stupa page 12

Lao diva Alexandra hits the airwaves with fresh new single page 14

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Times Reporters

The Land Natural Resources Information Research Centre is reviewing the effectiveness of land use policies, to ensure that both project investors and local communities benefit from industrial plantations and other concessions.

The land policies to be reviewed include the ‘2+3’ system in which an investor provides the funding, materials and technical and marketing support required to grow a specific crop, while farmers provide the necessary land and labour. In such a system, the project investor buys the crop from the farmers who grow and harvest it.

Another policy up for review is the granting of large-scale land concessions, with land mainly used for industrial tree plantations.

The review of these policies aims to identify their effectiveness along with any problems that have arisen, to ensure that the government can pursue a path of sustainable development.

The review is taking place after it was found that farmers were ending up in debt after signing on to projects run by large companies, particularly those involving sugarcane and sweetcorn produced under the ‘2+3’ system.

In addition, it has been found that large-scale land concessions approved in recent years have intruded upon the land of local villagers and protected forest areas, affecting people’s livelihoods and causing deforestation.

The centre’s Deputy Director Dr Palikone Thalongsengchanh said the centre will conduct the policy review in conjunction with experts from Germany, Switzerland and Australia. The investigation is expected to take about two years.

“We already have the information and what we have to do next is to analyse it,” he said, saying that land use management has become a hot issue since the government opened up the country to foreign investment.

Dr Palikone said the ‘2+3’ policy is a good one,

Land use policies under scrutiny

Khamphone Syvongxay

The Asian Development Bank will provide US$20 million to the Lao government for the second phase of its Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Project (BCCP) in southern Laos.

The funding will allow the project to continue from 2011-2019, and forms part of a collaborative conservation effort between the countries of the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS).

The second phase of the project in Laos has been expanded to cover the Xepian, Dong Houasao, Xesap and Ampham conservation areas which stretch across large tracts of the three southernmost border provinces. There are 4,700 households in 69 villages spread across the targeted five districts in the border provinces of Champassak, Xekong and Attapeu.

The inception workshop for the second phase of the project was held in Vientiane yesterday to discuss relevant issues and orient all stakeholders on project design, implementation arrangements, and their respective roles and

ADB grant to protect biodiversity corridors

responsibilities.Officials from all the

relevant government and international organisations, as well as ADB representatives and other stakeholders in Greater Mekong Sub-region issues all took part in the meeting. They discussed, refined and agreed on an implementation plan for the next year of the project.

Forest degradation, decrea-sing wildlife populations and declining biodiversity in fragile environments is an ongoing issue

in the region, which is why large tracts of land have been allocated as National Conservation Areas and the preservation project will continue.

Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Mr Akhom Tounalom said at the opening that he welcomed the expansion of the project, which is being scaled up after the success of phase one along Road No. 18A in Champhone district, Champassak province.

This road runs through the

Dong Houasao and Xepian wildlife corridors, and the first phase of the project worked in 11 villages along the road to improve conservation outcomes in vulnerable areas, with US$1.3 million in funding from the ADB.

Mr Akhom welcomed the decision to expand the second phase of the project. He said the workshop was an important first step to examine and report previous project activities,

Mr Asang Laoly (left) and Minister to the Government Office Mr Bounheuang Duangphachanh attend the meeting.

Khonesavanh Latsaphao

Deputy Prime Minister Mr Asang Laoly yesterday called on the Lao National Regulatory Authority (NRA) committee to work harder to establish a more detailed register of unexploded ordnance (UXO) victims nationwide.

Speaking at the NRA’s annual meeting at the Government Office in Vientiane, Mr Asang said data is available regarding the number of UXO victims and survivors since the Indochina War ended in 1975.

However, he said the information needs to be more specific. “There are more than 20,000 UXO survivors in the country, but we want the NRA committee to make clearer distinctions so that we know, for example, how many had to undergo amputations and how many were blinded, as well as their vocational status.”

As chairman of the meeting, Mr Asang congratulated NRA

deputy PM calls for more detailed register of UXO victims

committee members on their UXO clearance work and victim assistance.

He also advised the committee to build a UXO museum to help future generations better understand the efforts of the Lao people in fighting foreign aggressors during the Indochina War.

“Many Lao people born after the 1970s have little knowledge of the Lao fighters who sacrificed their lives to protect the country during the war,” the deputy PM said.

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, NRA Consultant Mr Maliya Sayavong suggested that the authority build more dispensaries in UXO-contaminated areas to help people who fall victim to explosions.

He said the NRA needs to source more funding from international donors in order to open more dispensaries around the country.

Meanwhile, the government is looking to clear about 20,000 hectares of UXO-contaminated

land each year.Deputy Minister of

Foreign Affairs Mr Alounkeo Kittikhoun said this target is achievable if the government continues to seek new clearance methods.

He cited the Japan Mine Action Service’s use of a Komatsu UXO clearance vehicle for a five-month pilot project in Xieng Khuang province, beginning from January 2, as one such innovation.

“This vehicle takes one hour to clear one hectare of all cluster bombs,” Mr Alounkeo said.

“At present, the Lao National UXO Programme (UXO Lao) employs 22 people to clear one hectare per month, with a clearance capacity of 5,000 hectares per year.”

Until now, almost 30,000 hectares of UXO-contaminated land have been cleared since 1996.

The Asian Development Bank is helping to protect forests in southern Laos.

Vientiane Times2

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Thursday February 2, 2012

Home news

Meuangkham Noradeth

Some 868 households in Thabok, Palai and Oudomxay villages of Thaphabath district in Borikhamxay province now have access to clean water through the Small Scale Water Supply Programme (MIREP Programme).

An inauguration ceremony for the MIREP water supply system was held on Tuesday in the province, attended by officials from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

The Lao government has committed to halve, by 2015, the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water.

To reach the target of 80 percent service coverage for the urban population by 2020, the ministry has developed water supply policy and legislation that allows the private sector to invest in this area.

PEC Engineering Cons-truction Bridge, Road-Irrigation Company is in charge of the construction of the Nongbok water supply project after signing a concession contract in Thaphabath district in March 2009. Infrastructure construction began shortly after the contract signing and was completed in mid-2011.

Total investment in the project amounts to more than 1.6 billion kip, of which more than 290 million kip has been provided as a grant by the MIREP Programme, with the remainder coming from the company, which holds a concession period of 25 years.

In 2034, the project will be handed over to Thaphabath district authorities.

Thaphabath district has recently experienced fast population growth, which together with rapid

urbanisation has provided a range of new economic development opportunities.

However, it has also placed a large burden on the public sector regarding the provision of essential services, particularly water supply management, Deputy Minister Mr Bounchanh Sinthavong said.

Mr Bounchanh said the MIREP Programme was launched in 2004 to pioneer the participation of the local private sector in the development of water provision in small towns.

Through financial support from French donor organisations, the objective of MIREP is to establish 10 small-scale piped water supply systems before the end of 2012 under the public-private partnership model.

“As we have experienced success and gained experience with this project, we will continue to work the same way, through the financial support of Syndicat des Eaux D’Ile de France (SEDIF) and the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to implement one more project in Nong-O village in Khamkeut district,” Deputy Governor of Borikhamxay province Dr

Souvanny Xaysana said. “We estimate that there are

more than 2,000 households in the province, so by the end of these projects about 10,000 people will have gained access to safe drinking water,” Dr Souvanny said.

Vice President of SEDIF Mr Christian Cambon said water supply is vital for human life, adding that it is a matter of health, of comfort, and of dignity.

Mr Cambon said SEDIF is the premier water supply service in France, providing water to 4 million inhabitants of the capital, Paris.

For more than 25 years, SEDIF has been giving its support to water supply projects in Asia and Africa. In Laos, SEDIF has contributed more than 10 billion kip for projects which have benefited about 80,000 people.

Mr Cambon said SEDIF has supported the MIREP Programme since 2004, and over the period of eight years has built eight systems like the one in Thaphabath district.

He added that SEDIF is proud to cooperate with the ministry on such an ambitious project, which will benefit about 50,000 people.

Borikhamxay villages get clean water on tap

Mr Bounchanh Sinthavong (third left) attends the inauguration ceremony of a new water supply system in Thaphabath district on Tuesday.

Times Reporters

The government of Japan will provide grant assistance of US$121,497 for the NGO IV-Japan to carry out the second phase of an income generation programme for women and youth in Naxaithong district, Vientiane.

The agreement to provide the grant assistance required to allow the project to continue was signed on Tuesday at the Japanese Embassy to Laos by Japanese Ambassador Ms Junko Yokota and IV-Japan Representative Ms Sachiko Tominaga.

The first phase of the project has already been undertaken in Naxaithong district. IV-Japan has been receiving grant assistance from the Japanese government since 2010 to build a vocational training centre in the district, according to the Japanese Embassy.

The centre provides courses in cookery, hairdressing and dressmaking, and

Japan gives further support to vocational training

works to create employment opportunities for marginalised women and youth and enhance the degree of financial independence they enjoy.

In the second year of the project, IV-Japan plans to build a motorbike parking lot for the trainees, and build on the training courses they have already offered. They plan to implement a two-cycle training course, which will include a two month basic course and a three month intermediate level course.

The project will also begin training local course facilitators, who will then be able to ensure the project endures, and expand the courses to other areas. IV-Japan has implemented various projects in the area of human resource development in Laos since 1994.

The first projects were carried out in Xieng Khuang province, aiming to promote rural development by providing vocational training and literacy courses as well as

establishing rice and livestock banks. IV-Japan has also built and renovated school buildings and water supply systems in rural villages nationwide.

Currently, IV-Japan is working in collaboration with the departments of Non-Formal Education, Technical and Vocational Training, the Vientiane Education and Sports Department and Naxaithong district Education and Sports Office.

So far, IV-Japan has provided scholarships for 2,600 trainees from poor families to undertake vocational training on a pro bono basis, helping to raise their living standards by generating more employment opportunities.

In 2008, IV-Japan received grant assistance for a Japanese project to build a dormitory in Vientiane for trainers and trainees from the provinces, so that young people from remote areas have somewhere to stay in the capital and participate in the training programmes.

Khamphone Syvoongxay

Laos has suffered from natural disasters such as flooding, landslides and pest infestations, as well as disease outbreaks caused by viruses such as the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus that produces Avian Influenza.

In a bid to be better prepared for such events, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry technical staff from various departments are attending a risk communication training seminar in Vientiane.

The seminar aims to provide information on the likelihood and consequences of adverse events on communities and how their impacts can be reduced.

Speaking at the seminar, the ministry’s Planning Department Deputy Director Mr Savanh Hanephom said participants would increase their understanding of adverse events and what measures can be implemented, so that the country’s development is not slowed.

Disasters are increasingly recognised as a potential

Ministry gears up to cope with natural disasters

Mr Savanh Hanephom (left) at the training seminar in Vientiane.

threat to many aspects of the country’s socio-economic development plan. Moreover, they can become serious obstacles to initiatives such as poverty reduction, as well as to some of the Millennium Development Goals, he said.

The government considers that the spread of pathogenic viruses is a crucial public health and economic issue that remains a priority. It has therefore encouraged the Agriculture and Forestry and Health ministries and donor organisations to work in close

collaboration so that, through active surveillance and monitoring, they can jointly decide what action should be taken to avert a possible catastrophe.

In the long term this will provide the relevant ministry departments with a core group of staff who, in the event of a natural disaster, will be better equipped to deal with the situation.

The two day seminar taking place this week on Wednesday and Thursday is supported by the FHI 360 Office in Laos.

but it is not being properly implemented. Some companies are overcharging farmers for the materials they supply, and in many cases the yields that farmers produce are insufficient to cover their costs.

In addition, granting large-scale land concessions to foreign investors without adequate surveys and proper land allocation has created a lot of problems over the years. Very often, the local authorities cannot provide the kind of land required for an approved project.

Land officials say Laos no longer has large contiguous plots of land.

This means that thorough surveys need to be undertaken before a large-scale land concession is granted to a foreign investor.

Local people are encouraged to work as labourers on these projects, but companies often say they don’t have the right skills and are not hardworking. The investor then asks permission to hire labourers from neighbouring countries.

According to the Land Natural Resources Information Research Centre, more than 2,000 land concessions have been granted nationwide, but many are proving ineffective in terms of overall benefit to the nation and the people.

The government is speeding up land and resource surveys to allow for appropriate classification and allocation, which is expected to be finished in 2015. Officials believe the survey results will help to minimise the problems that have arisen in relation to land use.

Land use policies... FROM PAGE 1

allocate a budget for future activities, and incorporate ideas and suggestions regarding potential improvements.

He called on all the involved sectors take their responsibilities seriously and work to improve project outcomes, saying he believed that this second phase would strengthen coordination between the sectors involved.

Capacity building initiatives would help them to ensure more sustainable natural resource management, he said, and take preventative measures

in relation to the future effects of climate change, and preserve biodiversity in the region.

Poverty reduction among the people who are living in the target areas is central to the success of the project, which will work to provide security of tenure to poor households and ethnic groups. It will allow for the collective management of forest resources and restore habitat on degraded forestlands.

Replanting of native species will be combined with agro-

forestry models that encourage the harvesting of non-timber forest products to rehabilitate previously degraded land. The project will also enhance small-scale infrastructure and generate over one million cash-based labour days throughout the course of project activities.

Delineation and demarcation of land and wildlife conservation corridors will be carried out in consultation with the primary beneficiaries, based on a participatory land use planning approach.

ADB grant... FROM PAGE 1

Vientiane Times 3Thursday February 2, 2012 Home news

3 day weather forecastXieng Khuang

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

02/02/2012 12 18 Fog

03/02/2012 11 18 Fog

04/02/2012 11 18 Fog

Luang Namtha

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

02/02/2012 17 28 Fog

03/02/2012 17 28 Mist

04/02/2012 18 29 Mist

Luang Prabang

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

02/02/2012 19 28 Mist

03/02/2012 19 29 Mist

04/02/2012 19 29 Mist

Vientiane

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

02/02/2012 20 24 Morning mist

03/02/2012 20 25 Mist

04/02/2012 21 25 Mist

Savannakhet

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max

02/02/2012 17 25 Morning mist

03/02/2012 17 26 Partly cloudy


Champassak

DateTemperature (C)

WeatherMin Max




New Lao Ambassador to Thailand

Newly appointed Lao Ambassador

to Thailand Mr Ly Bounkham (right) recently received

his credentials from President Choummaly

Sayasone at the Presidential Palace.

Laos established diplomatic relations

with Thailand in December 1950.

--Photo Khamphan

Times Reporters

Saravan provincial authorities granted pardons to 14 prisoners on January 27 to mark last year’s 36th National Day, according to a report from prison officials.

The pardons were granted under the authority of the presidential pardon announced in Vientiane recently, and follow pardons granted in the capital, where long serving or well behaved prisoners have received outright pardons or reductions to their sentences.

Senior provincial official Mr Bounthium Keoxayavong told local media the pardons and sentence reductions were announced at the prison farm in Naxay village, Saravan district.

Mr Bounthium said that under the pardon, 12 prisoners had their sentences reduced, and another two were freed immediately after already serving long sentences. The pardoned prisoners were originally sentenced for offences including drug dealing, theft, robbery, human trafficking and other crimes.

He said the pardon demonstrates the right and just policies of the Party and state of Laos, especially in terms of enforcing the law according to the particular circumstances of the province, and administering justice in a strict but fair manner.

The Party and government have a responsibility to promote the Lao People’s Democratic regime and to maintain order in society, with the Party considered as the leader, the government as the supervisor and the people as the owners, he said.

Mr Bounthium explained that under this approach, national socio-economic growth was continuing and the livelihoods of Laos’ multi-ethnic people have gradually improved, and this was especially true for the people of Saravan province.

The Lao PDR has issued many laws and regulations

Saravan pardons model prisonersto protect the country and the public, and if anyone breaks these rules they will punished according to the law, he said.

Those prisoners who had been given pardons need to contribute positively to the development of the country, especially in regard to complying with laws and regulations to help preserve defence, security, and respect for state laws, he added.

Mr Bounthium said he firmly believed that all the pardoned prisoners would follow the policies of the Party and state, and contribute

positively to society. He expressed his hope and faith that they would all become good citizens who worked to contribute to national development.

This year, a total of 665 prisoners are to be pardoned nationwide, including 538 who will have their sentences reduced, 119 who will be freed immediately, and eight who will be released on compassionate grounds so that they can receive essential medical treatment, according to a recent report from the Ministry of Public Security.

Luang Souryavong

The 54th anniversary of Lao-German diplomatic relations on Tuesday was marked with a dinner hosted by the Lao-German Friendship Association (LGFA) at the Rungroj Restaurant in Vientiane.

Diplomatic relations between Laos and Germany were established on January 31, 1958.

Tuesday’s dinner was attended by Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Laos Robert von Rimscha, embassy staff and Lao alumni from universities in Germany.

Also present were Prof. Dr Bountiem Phissamay, Minister to the Government Office, LGFA Senior Advisor, and Mr Ralf Hensheit, Member of the Presidium of the German-Laos Friendship Society.

LGFA President, Associate Professor Dr Som-Ock Kingsada, recalled the history

54 years of Lao-German diplomatic relations celebrated

of the relations between the two countries with all the developments during the cold war period and since the unification of Germany on October 3, 1990.

Many concrete realisations have been recorded in many fields, starting with the creation of the Lao-German Technical School in 1964 and the opening of the German Language Department at the National University of Laos.

In the fields of trade and investment, the two countries signed an agreement on the promotion and protection of investment in 1996. Exchanges of delegations at various levels and in various sectors have been ongoing since then, including the friendship visit to Laos by Bundestag President Wolfgang Thyes in 2001 and a visit to Germany by National Assembly President Thongsing Thammavong.

The establishment of the Lao-German Friendship

Association in October 2007 contributed to enhancing further the relations between the two countries and peoples.

More than 3,000 young Lao people have studied or have been trained in Germany. Many of them, like Dr Som-Ock Kingsada, who is a National Assembly member and Deputy Minister of Health, hold important positions in the state apparatus or in the private sector.

In the field of journalism, a number of radio and print journalists and technicians have been trained by Deutsche Welle in Laos and in Cologne and elsewhere in Germany.

“We are grateful to the German government and people for the important financial and technical support provided, especially in the fields of education, the development of economic bases in remote areas and the promotion of the market economy, which greatly contribute to the government’s policy of socio-economic development and the eradication of poverty in Laos,” Dr Som-Ock Kingsada said.

Ambassador von Rimscha stressed the excellent bilateral ties between both nations and governments.

“After 54 successful years of building friendship, we want to increase our cooperation even further. Our vision is one of a partnership amongst equals.”

“With the highest level German visit to Laos in 15 years coming up, our Minister Dirk Niebel’s working visit will highlight our dedication to a further deepening of relations on all levels,” he added.

Associate Prof. Dr Som-Ock Kingsada and Ambassador Robert von Rimscha. --Photo Vientiane Mai

Times Reporters

The Lao Ministry of Public Works and Transport’s Housing and Urban Planning Department (HUPD) is teaming up with Thailand’s Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) Regional Office to hold a training course on water supply plant management for district officials.

The course is part of the second phase of the Water Operators Partnership Programme’s Twinning Arrangement between HUPD and PWA sponsored by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for district water supply officials in Laos.

During the course, which runs from February 1 to 17, water supply officials from Xanakham and Keo-oudom districts of Vientiane province, Khoun district in Xieng Khuang province, Xamtay district in Huaphan province, and Sing district in Luang Namtha province will learn theory and techniques regarding plant management and water quality control from Thai experts.

Participants will also take a study tour to put theory into practice in Thailand’s

Laos, Thailand team up to improve district water supply

Nong Khai and Khon Kaen provinces.

The Water Operators Partnership Programme’s Twinning Arrangement targets water supply and sanitation projects in the northern provinces.

HUPD Director General Mr Khamthavy Thaiphachanh praised the success of the previous phase of the programme, which took place in June 2009 and was attended by officials from Kaenthao district in Xayaboury province, Nan district in Luang Prabang province, and Houn district of Oudomxay province.

Director of PWA Regional

(From left) Dr Michael White, Mr Khamthavy Thaiphachanh and Mr Nakorn Loykulnanta co-chair the opening ceremony of the training course.

Office 7, Udon Thani, Mr Nakorn Loykulnanta expressed his confidence that the second phase of training would deliver useful technical expertise.

The Water Operators Partnership Programme aims to improve the operational and financial performance of water utilities by enhancing the skills of operators and expanding cooperation.

A representative from the programme, Dr Michael White, said he hopes the training will enable participants to improve and expand their services, and plan for future endeavours.

Vientiane Times4 Home news Thursday February 2, 2012

News in Brief

EMERGENCY AND DISASTER RISK REDUCTION COORDINATOR

CARE International is one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations fighting global poverty, with a special focus on working with women and girls to bring lasting change to their communities. As a non-religious and non-political organization, CARE works with communities to help overcome poverty by supporting development projects and providing emergency relief.

To manage CARE’s future emergency preparedness and response activities, CARE Laos is now seeking to hire a dynamic and motivated, management oriented Lao National.

Major Duties:• Annually update CARE’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP);• Ensure that relevant tools accompanying the EPP are available and staff are trained in their use,

particularly the Rapid Assessment Forms;• Provide training to CARE staff on emergency preparedness and response;• Represent CARE in relevant inter-agency preparedness and response forums;• In collaboration with the Acting Country Director Programs undertake rapid assessments following a

disaster, document and analyse findings and communicate those with relevant stakeholders;• Regularly communicate with the National Disaster Management Office and ensure formal communication

mechanisms are established.• Prepare the Emergency section’s budgets and manage the available funding.

Required Qualifications: • Bachelor or Masters Degree in Social Science, Environmental Management or similar field;• At least 5 years of progressively responsible management experiences, preferably in development

context;• Experiences in Emergency and Disaster Risk Reduction is an asset;• Excellent oral and written English and Lao language skills;• Demonstrated experience in proposal and report writing;• Demonstrated leadership skills: interpersonal skills, sound judgment, team building and facilitating

skills.• Ability to travel regularly and stay in remote areas during emergency interventions.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a cover letter in English stating why you are qualified for this position to:

CARE Laos, PO Box 4328, 329/25 Sibounheuang Road, Ban Sibounheuang, Vientiane Or send an email to: [email protected]

Deadline for applications is Friday 10th February 2012

Only short-listed applicants will be contacted. CVs and other documents submitted to CARE will not be returned.

CARE Laos does not charge or accept a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and has a well established Child Protection Policy

CARE invites qualified members of ethnic groups of Lao PDR, women and people living with disabilities to apply.

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 high quality rehabilitation services through the Lao PDR.

COPE wishes to appoint a highly motivated individual (Lao national) to manage the Visitor Centre with its exhibition, shop and café.

VISITOR CENTRE OPERATIONS MANAGER

Responsibilities:- Oversee the daily operations at the COPE Visitor Centre and ensure everything

is working properly, nicely displayed and the shop and café are well stocked- Manage a team of three Lao national staff and occasional short term

volunteers- Conduct regular tours at the COPE Visitor Centre in English about UXO issues and

COPE services- Liaise with national and international Tour Operators - Liaise with national and international journalists- Plan and manage COPE fundraising and advocacy events- Plan and manage marketing activities to promote the Visitor Centre and COPE- Manage the procurement of products and services- Serve customers at the shop and café

Qualification and Experience:- Bachelor degree or higher in a related field essential- At least seven years working experience (full time) essential, whereof at least

one year experience in managing a team - Excellent English skills essential, written and verbal- Very good computer skills essential, knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and

Outlook - Experience in the UXO sector is an advantage- Experience in marketing, communications, public relations and/or event

management is an advantage

We are looking for a highly confident, outgoing and open-minded personality to interact with all kinds of people coming to our Visitor Centre. A strong sense of responsibility and attention to detail is required for this very rewarding job opportunity.

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 Conny

Fuchs at the address below by the 8th February 2012.COPE, c/o Physical Medicine Rehabilitation Centre, Khou Vieng Road,

Vientiane, Lao PDRE-mail: [email protected] Website: www.copelaos.org

Sisouphan Amphonephong

Almost 1,000 people gathered at Dondou temple in Hadxaifong district last weekend for a Buddha image consecration ceremony to mark the opening of a new sim (main hall of worship).

The ceremony ran from January 19 to 29, giving devotees the opportunity to make merit by presenting money trees and other offerings, some of which were provided by monks, to the temple.

On the final night of the ceremony, monks, novices and laypeople draped white strings over a Buddha statue in a hushed hall as everyone joined together in prayer to consecrate the statue and show their respect for Buddha.

Such a ceremony gives merit makers the chance to clear their minds of troublesome thoughts and attain happiness.

The ceremony started at 8.30pm and ran until 5am. Laypeople who took part in the event dressed in white, as dictated by the eight Buddhist precepts.

Both women and men paid their respects to the new Buddha image and prepared offerings, such as candles, incense, and white cotton strings.

Monks took turns to

chant from the Pali sanskrit scriptures to encourage reflection and deep thought.

Every 15-30 minutes, participants were able to relax and have a drink to keep themselves hydrated and alert.

During such ceremonies, worshippers can drink water, coffee or soybean milk, but cannot eat until the ritual has ended.

Before the ceremony ended in the early morning,

perfumed water was sprinkled over the worshippers by monks, and pieces of cloth cut up and shared around to bring good luck and happiness, and ward off bad spirits.

Following the consecration, a traditional almsgiving ceremony took place.

A senior monk from Hadxaifong district, who is experienced in this kind of ceremony, said the process begins with a senior monk inviting monks from other

temples, along with laypeople who want to deepen their faith.

Participants dress in white as they listen to the monks chant and present offerings to them. This means they are now in obeisance to the five Buddhist precepts rather than eight as before.

On returning home, worshippers are filled with joy and contentment after having taken part in such a meaningful ceremony.

Devotees deepen faith at Buddha statue consecration

Khammuan farmers unable to meet rice planting targetFarmers in Nongbok district of Khammuan province were unable to plant sufficient dry season rice to meet targets because essential irrigation repairs could not be carried out. The province lacked the funding to carry out the repairs after irrigation systems were damaged during tropical storms last year. Farmers had targeted 3,200 hectares of rice, but only managed to plant 60 percent of this area. District authorities requested emergency assistance from the government to repair the irrigation systems and other damaged infrastructure in order to meet production targets. However, while the district requires 4.2 billion kip, the government provided only 1.2 billion kip. The situation is being exacerbated by lower than normal water levels in the Xebangfai River, which is affecting livestock farmers.

Oudomxay residents improve standards of hygienePeople in Kaloua and Nampoung villages of Xay district, Oudomxay province, are enjoying a more hygienic lifestyle thanks to a new gravity-fed water system and the installation of household latrines. The new facilities were handed over at ceremony attended by Deputy Director of the provincial Health Department Mr Bounluan Vongpachit, local authorities and other invited guests. Mr Bounluan said residents in the target villages are happy to have better health and sanitation through the project after its completion in November. However, other people in nearby villages are still waiting for assistance, according to the department. Mr Bounluan said the department plans to cooperate with provincial authorities, NGOs and donors to seek resources to further improve access to clean water and sanitation.

Xayaboury schools still recovering from floodsDistrict education and sports offices in Xayaboury province will gather to discuss the way forward after many schools were damaged by flooding last year. The discussions form part of the provincial Education and Sports Department’s development plans for the next academic year, with a focus on strengthening education by extending pre- and primary school access and upgrading school resources. The plans also encourage communities to contribute to their local schools, working with them to identify funding opportunities and ways to improve facilities, especially in Thongmixay, Phieng and Paklai districts, which were hit hard by tropical storm Haima. The offices also plan to improve teaching standards by providing training courses.

Worshippers attend the Buddha statue consecration ceremony at Dondou temple.

Vientiane Times 5Thursday February 2, 2012 Photo news

VACANCy ANNOuNCEMENT (Announcement No. 12/02)

OPEN TO: All interested candidatesPOsITION: Information Resource Center Asst/Webmaster, FSN-7OPENING dATE: January 19, 2012CLOsING dATE: February 3, 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 ORDINARY 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 Information Resource Center Assistant and Webmaster in the Public Affairs Section.

bAsIC fuNCTION Of POsITIONUnder the supervision of the Information Resource Center (IRC) Director, provides outreach and research of wide scope, markets IRC products and services, manages content on the Embassy’s website page, and assists in IRC acquisitions. For outreach: designs, produces, and disseminates IRC electronic and print products to target audiences (both inside and outside of the Embassy). Responds to clients’ requests in timely manner. Monitors news databases for stories pertaining to Laos and U.S. interests in the region. For marketing: develops and maintains contact with target audience members through programs and outreach services. For content management: Creates content for the Embassy website and works with all Embassy sections and agencies to ensure content is correct, timely, and relevant. For acquisitions: recommends to IRC Director appropriate print resources for IRC and the two American Corners in Laos. Serves as the first point of contact for visitors to the Information Resource Center (IRC). QuALIfICATIONs REQuIREdNOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item.

1. Education: A university degree in information science, computer science, communications, or related fields. 2. Prior Work Experience: Two to four years of progressively responsible experience in the field of information research, library

reference services, and content development for websites and social media platforms.3. Language Proficiency: Level III good working in written and spoken English and a high degree of proficiency in spoken and

written Lao are required.4. Knowledge: Knowledge of electronic information retrieval and delivery tools with a focus on the Internet and other web-based

tools. Understanding of standard information science practices and procedures. Knowledge of HTML, email, web page design and production techniques, social media design and management, customer relationship management, and marketing. Versed in wide range of issues dealing with U.S. government and political processes, U.S. foreign policy, legislative and other domestic issues, as well as U.S. society, culture, and values. Good knowledge of reference and resource materials in the subject areas emphasized in the Embassy’s Mission Strategic Plan (MSRP).

5. Skills and Abilities: Excellent customer service orientation, as well as superior interpersonal and cross cultural communication skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills; good public speaking skills. Maintain frequent and close contact with target audience. Work effectively with American and Lao staff. Ability to carry out reference searches rapidly; respond to complex requests in a timely manner on topics that are often “breaking news.” Able to independently plan, organize, and carry out assigned responsibilities using electronic based technologies, including online and print resources. Ability to prioritize work schedule and high volume of incoming requests from various actors.

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] (Please clearly specify the JOB TITLE of the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email to avoid any delay and/or confusion in communication). 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: february 3, 2012An Equal Opportunity Employer

Fish caught in rivers and dams tempts passers-by in Donkoy village, Sisattanak district. Fresh fish is a popular delicacy with local people, as it contains less fat and residues, and is more flavourful than farmed fish. --Photos Sisouphan

Vendors in Nonghai village, Hadxaifong district, sell bamboo baskets they have purchased from artisans in Vientiane province, hoping to make some extra income for their families.

Kiln fired bricks are a popular

construction material in

Vientiane, and brick yards are

struggling to keep up with the

growing demand. Bricks are used

to build walls and pillars, in place

of other materials like timber or bamboo, and

then rendered to make them look

attractive to home buyers.

Monks and people who come to make merit at Nongbuathong temple in Sikhottabong district enjoy the pleasant ambience of the temple grounds where many large trees grow. The trees make for a shady environment and help people reflect on the need to conserve them and help prevent climate change.

6Region

In brief from Asia News Network

Vientiane TimesThursday February 2, 2012

VACANCy ANNOuNCEMENT (Announcement No. 12/03)

OPEN TO: All interested candidatesPOsITION: Computer Operator (LAN), FSN-7OPENING dATE: January 18, 2012CLOsING dATE: February 3, 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 ORDINARY 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 Computer Operator (LAN) in the Information Programs Center (IPC).

bAsIC fuNCTION Of POsITIONThe incumbent assists the Information Programs Center (IPC) in four distinct areas: computer and network- related duties, computer application and operating systems, maintaining the embassy Website, the Embassy telephone system, and radio installation and maintenance. S/he is responsible for the day-to-day operations, installation, and maintenance of the embassy’s unclassified OpenNet Local Area Network (LAN) – consisting of nine Windows 2003 Servers and 124 Windows XP workstations. As an IRM staff member s/he is also responsible for interfacing with all Embassy OpenNet users and developing solutions to improve their productivity on the embassy LAN. S/he also interfaces with all embassy sections in maintaining AmEmbassy Vientiane's Unclassified OpenNet Website. QuALIfICATIONs REQuIREdNOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item.1. Education: An Associate degree in computer science is required. Commercial computer certification may be substituted (Comptia

A+ , Net+ and Security+, MCP, MCSA, MCSE).2. Prior Work Experience: Three years to four years of progressively responsible experience as a Computer Systems administrator.

This experience should encompass LAN/WAN operations and extend down to basic hardware troubleshooting and repair.3. Language Proficiency: Level III – A thorough working knowledge of English is required to include technical terms used in

Computer Systems administration. Level III Lao - A thorough knowledge of spoken and written Lao is required to interface with local providers.

4. Knowledge: Familiarity with systems analysis and basics of LAN/WANs. Working knowledge of Windows 2003, Windows XP Professional, Exchange 2003, and SMS operating systems and applications. Advanced knowledge of the Microsoft Office 2003 applications.

5. Skills and Abilities: Advanced Familiarity with systems analysis and basics of LAN/WANs. Working knowledge of Windows 2003 Server, Windows XP, Exchange 2003 and SMS operating systems and applications. Advanced knowledge of the Microsoft Office 2007 applications, Adobe Photoshop CS, and SharePoint. Be able to train groups of users in new programs, procedures, etc.

hOW TO APPLyInterested 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] (Please clearly specify the JOB TITLE of the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email to avoid any delay and/or confusion in communication). 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: february 3, 2012An Equal Opportunity Employer

Opening times changed at Lao Bao border gate QUANG TRI (Viet Nam News) -- In an attempt to improve conditions for traffic and trading between Vietnam and Laos through the Lao Bao International Border Gate, the Government has approved changes to the time the gate is open from February 1. This pilot programme will be tested over the next six months, during which time the gate will be opened from 7am to 10pm, including holidays and weekends, rather than shutting at 7.30pm as before. The gate is located on the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC). In recent years, inconsistencies in operation times between EWEC countries has led to problems through the corridor.

Beijing vows to reduce pollution CHINA (China Daily) -- Beijing will continue to improve the capital’s air quality in 2012 by focusing on reducing PM2.5 - the smallest and most hazardous airborne pollutant, Beijing Mayor Guo Jinlong said Monday.Despite the new challenges and new requirements to monitor airborne particulate matter under 2.5 micrometers in size, the capital city has vowed to improve air quality in the following year, Guo said in a meeting planning Beijing’s environmental work in 2012.Beijing will see 200,000 mu (133 million square metres) more green land and a project to renovate 15-million-square meter old communities will be launched, according to Guo.

Yingluck’s political indices droppingTHAILAND (The Nation) -- The political situation under the Yingluck Shinawatra government is in the decline as measured by 25 political indices for the past three months.The Suan Dusit Poll, released on Wednesday, said the January indices dropped to 5.07 out of 10 points. In comparison the indices were at 5.15 in December. The survey said the overall indices were declining because of the government’s failing scores on a number of issues, particularly, corruption, dark influence, poverty, unemployment, cost of living and fractious politics. Although the people in the North, the Northeast, the South and Bangkok gave higher scores on several indices relating to the government performance, this was offset by the failing indices.

SINGAPORE (The Straits Times) -- Minister of State for Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Halimah Yacob said an assessment tool used by overseas case workers dealing with children, the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths tool, will be adapted to the Singapore context and applied throughout the

children and youth sector.Those working in the

sector will also get better training, and the Ministry will fund and support homes that carry out resilience building programmes to build up their wards’ confidence and self-esteem. Six small group homes will be set up in the next four years to take care of special needs children

in a more personalised environment. Two will come up in the second half of the year.

‘A society’s success cannot be measured by how well we take care of the most able among us. Rather, our benchmark must also be how well we have taken care of the most vulnerable among us,’ said Madam Halimah.

Singapore to do more to help children in welfare home

To improve the quality of care given to children and young people in welfare homes here, the Government will roll out a series of programmes in the coming years. --Photo The Straits Times

YANGON (Xinhua) -- Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism will introduce online electronic e-visa system in February on pilot run aimed at facilitating the foreign travelers who want to visit Myanmar and promoting the number of tourists arrival in the country, local media reported Tuesday.

The ministry has started to install internet lines at the Information Departments of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Immigration and Population, the Yangon Times said.

The move will facilitate world visitors in countries where no Myanmar embassy is set up.

Some airlines arranged visa-on-arrival for visitors from Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.

Myanmar regranted the visa-on-arrival of its kind, which was halted in September, 2010 ahead of the country’s general election in November the same year.

Meanwhile, the number of tourists arrival at Myanmar’s Yangon International Airport reached 359,359 in 2011.

Myanmar to introduce e-visa system next month

Myanmar is implementing a plan to extend and upgrade the Yangon International Airport to an international one capable of handling 3.8 million passengers a year and to give full service necessary to attain the standard of an international airport.

There are six domestic airlines in Myanmar including one state- owned, which is the Myanmar Airways, and five private-run -- Air Mandalay, Yangon Airways, Air Bagan, Asian Wings and Kanbawza.

There is also another Myanmar international airline, the Myanmar Airways International (MAI), flying solely some foreign destinations.

Besides the MAI, which flies internationally as Myanmar’s national flag carrier, there are also 13 foreign airlines flying Yangon which comprise Air China, China Southern Airline, China Eastern Airlines, Thai Airways International, Indian Airlines, Air Asia, Taiwan region’s China airlines, Silk Air, Malaysian Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Jetstar Asia, Thai Air Asia and Vietnam Airlines.

JAPAN (The Yomiuri Shimbun) --The Cabinet approved a two-bill package Tuesday primarily designed to decommission nuclear reactors after 40 years of operation and to set up a new nuclear regulatory agency under the Environment Ministry.

The new agency will be created as an external entity of the ministry and it will replace the Nuclear Industrial Safety Agency that currently handles nuclear regulation under the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry.

The government plans to submit the bills during an ordinary Diet session in the hope that April 1 will be the date when the laws go into effect and the agency is launched.

This will be the first time that the life span of nuclear power plants in Japan will be legislated.

One of the bills stipulates that the period in which a reactor can remain in operation is “40 years from the day [it]

Japanese cabinet approves nuclear bills

passes an inspection.”The bill allows authorities

to give a one-shot extension of up to 20 years for reactors that pass the 40-year limit, as long as certain standards are passed.

The bill’s initial draft said authorities “must authorise the extension,” but this terminology was changed to indicate that extensions are only to be granted in exceptional circumstances.

The regulations will be enforceable within 10 months of the law coming into effect.

The name of new agency has also been changed from “nuclear safety agency” to “nuclear regulatory agency,” in an effort to emphasize that the new body will act as a regulator.

A nuclear safety investigation committee, which will monitor the operation of nuclear reactors and investigate accidents in the event of a nuclear crisis, will be placed under the new agency.

MANILA (Xinhua) -- The Philippine government said on Tuesday that more needs to be done to curb hunger levels in the country, following the findings of an independent pollster that hunger incidence is rising.

“This is a problem that cannot be solved overnight and we recognise the fact that we need to continue pressing on these programmes to make sure that (the help) goes down to those who truly need it,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said at a briefing.

Valte was responding to

Philippine vows to work more to reduce hunger incidence

the results of a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey conducted in December last year, which showed an increase in hunger levels in the countryto 22.5 percent from 21.5 percent posted in the third quarter.

Valte said that the government will implement programs to help “vulnerable sectors”. These programmes include a social pension for poor senior citizens, feeding programme for schoolchildren and the cash transfer program, which has been allotted a 39.5 billion pesos (US$920.74 million) budget this year.

Vientiane Times 7Thursday February 2, 2012

World

Lao People’s democratic RepublicPeace Independence democracy unity Prosperity

Ministry of Public healthPrincipal Recipient Office

The Global fund to fight AIds, Tuberculosis and Malaria

Request for Quotationof Procurement of IT Equipment

for fdd R6 y5 under the GfATM Projects

Procurement N° LAO-MALARIA/R6Y5/IT EQUIPMENT/2012 The Lao Peoples Democratic Republic has received a grant from Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The Procurement Unit of the GFATM Projects intends to pay this grant to procure IT Equipment by using budget for Round LAO-MALARIA/R6Y5/2012.

This Procurement will follow Public procurement procedures for Request of Quotation according Procurement Guideline of The Principal Recipient of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis/Malaria in Lao PDR issue on November 2009.

The GFATM Projects now invites sealed Quotation from interesting and eligible bidders to supply the following items listed below:

Interested Suppliers may obtain further information and receive a complete set of Quotation Documents at the address given below:

The Principal Recipient supported by Global Fund to fight AID, Tuberculosis and Malaria opposite of Ministry of Health. Tel: 856-21 242980, Fax: 856-21 242981. Dr. Khamseng Bannarath, Deputy Manager of PR Office, email address: Dr. Viengsavanh Phanmanivong, head of Procurement Unit, Email address: [email protected] and Cc to Mr. Keophouthone Inthivong, Procurement Specialist, email address: [email protected]

Quotations must be delivered to the address mentioned above before 14:00 hour February 15, 2012. Late Quotations will be rejected.

Quotation will be opened in the presence of the Suppliers’ representatives who choose to attend this meeting at 14:15 hour February 15, 2012.

PR Manager of GFATM Projects Ministry of Public Health

No. Description Quantity1 Photocopy Machine 22 LCD Projector + Screen 23 Fax Machine 24 Laser Printer 25 Memory Stick 2

Acting For Women In Distressing Circumstances (AFESIP) cooperates with the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare to combat trafficking in women and children for sexual exploitation; provides vocational skill to reintegrate those rescued into the community in a sustainable and innovative manner.

Vacancy AnnouncementJob Title: Outreach and Prevention Team Leader Areas of responsibility: Outreach and prevention Location: Vientiane Capital, with availability to several missions in other parts of the country.Responsible to: Empowerment and Protection coordinator Main Functions• Todevelopahighqualityoutreachandpreventionactivities.• Tocoordinateandimproveoutreachandpreventionstaff• Toorganizeandimplementactivitiesbyplanandstrategic.• Tosuperviseactivitiesineacharea.• Topreparethereports,planningandbudgetforfieldwork.

Person specificationQualification / Education required:DiplomafromsocialormanagementfacultyExperience required: - At least 2 years relevant professional experience;- Previous experience in outreach or prevention positions.Personal qualities required:- Hardworking,trustworthy,sympathetic,organized;- Goodwrittenandverbalcommunicationskills;- Goodinterpersonal,problemsolvingandanalyticalskills;- UnderstandingofSocialandHumanRightsissues;- WrittenandOralFluencyinEnglish;- Willingtotravelintheprovincesasrequiredbyduties.

ApplicationAllinterestedapplicationsshouldsubmitaletterofapplication&CVinEnglishtoAFESIPLao,byemail:[email protected]@afesiplaos.org.Onlyshort-listedcandidatewillbenotified.Closingdateforapplication:February 10, 2012.

UNITED NATIONS (Xinhua) -- The Arab League on Tuesday called on the UN Security Council to take “rapid and decisive action” to address what the regional body called “the grave and urgent” situation in Syria.

The statement came as Nabil al-Arabi, secretary general of the Arab League, was briefing the 15-nation Security Council on the current situation in Syria.

The Security Council should take “rapid and decisive action” to adopt an Arab-European draft resolution on Syria, al-Arabi said.

The adoption of the draft resolution, opposed by Russia, a veto- wielding permanent member of the Security Council, is “the first priority” of the Arab League, he said.

The Arab League initiative is aimed to immediately stopping all violence and killing against the Syrian people and charting a clear roadmap which can lead to political transition in the Middle East country.

He said that the Arab countries are trying to avoid foreign intervention, “particularly military intervention,” in Syria.

The Security Council met in an open session to hear a briefing from the Arab League on Syria. Also speaking at the Security Council, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad

Arab League calls for “rapid, decisive action” from UN Security Council on Syria

Secretary General of the Arab League, Nabil el-Araby speaks at the open meeting of the UN Security Council on the current situation of Syria in New York. --Photo Xinhua

bin Jassim al-Thani said that Syria’s “killing machine is still at work.”

“The Arab League is looking forward to the Security Council for the support of the draft resolution, which calls an immediate end to all violence against civilian people in Syria,” he said. “I hope the support will give the momentum of the efforts by the League” to bring peace to Syria.

The draft resolution, proposed by Morocco on Friday and supported by Western countries, wants the Security Council to back an Arab League plan, which calls on Syrian President Bashar al- Assad to hand over power to his deputy so that new elections can be held.

The United States, France, Germany and Britain asked the Security Council to take urgent actions to address the current situation in Syria. Damascus has accused the foreign and terrorist elements of being behind the months-old turmoil in the Middle East country.

On Monday, the Security Council met behind closed doors to discuss the draft resolution, which was jointly drawn up by Arab states, Britain, France and Germany.

However, Russia, a veto-wielding permanent member of the Security Council, said on Monday that Moscow will not support the new draft resolution on Syria. Moscow is opposed to any prop osal for a regime change in Damascus.

MOSCOW (AP) --The head of Russia’s space agency says that a manned launch to the International Space Station is being postponed from March 30 because of faults found in the Soyuz capsule.

Vladimir Popovkin of Roskosmos said Tuesday in televised remarks that

the planned launch of three astronauts to the space station will be postponed “likely until the end of April.”

He did not specify what the problems were, but the state news agency RIA Novosti cited the director of Russia’s cosmonaut-training programme as saying leaks had been found

in the capsule’s seals.It is be the second

significant postponement of a manned Russian launch in the past year.

Since the end of the US space shuttle programme last year, Russian craft are the only means to send crew to and from the ISS.

Russia postpones space launch Russian Roscosmos space agency technicians work on the Phobos-Ground probe at Baikonur, Kazakhstan. –Photo AP

BRUSSELS (AP) -- Fifty-five major European airports accounting for over half of all passenger traffic on the continent are now part of a programme aimed at cutting carbon emissions, Airports Council International said Tuesday.

Airports are changing airport vehicles and buses to electric or hybrid power, and installing solar panels to generate the airport’s own electricity, among other measures. Specific taxiing techniques are used to reduce fuel burn, and ground power is provided to parked airliners

instead of having them leave their engines running.

The industry group said participating airports include London’s Gatwick and Heathrow; Frankfurt; Munich; Amsterdam; Brussels; Zurich; Geneva; as well as both airports in Paris and Milan.

The programme known as Airport Carbon Accreditation was adopted in 2008 and aims to cut emissions from all operations with the ultimate goal of having the airport become carbon neutral. There are over 400 airports in Europe, but most of them account for

very small percentages of overall passenger traffic on the continent.

European Union Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas said he was delighted to see that so many airports were participating.

“It is clearly helping to move European aviation onto a more sustainable footing,” Kallas said in a statement. “Genuine progress on greening transport ... can only occur when the regulator’s work is complemented by citizens and businesses taking action of their own.”

Major European airports join carbon programme

Vientiane Times8 Thursday February 2, 2012

Vientiane Times 9Thursday February 2, 2012

Are you interested in joining an international organisation with a long term commitment to fighting poverty? Would you like to work in a challenging environment and develop a career

focused on demonstrating shared core values that achieve results?

SNV Lao PDR is looking for a Lao national:

External Fund Raising & Communication OfficerBased in Vientiane Capital

(Local contract)

SNV is a Netherlands based development organisation committed to eliminating poverty and inequity. SNV provides advisory services to leading public and private clients to effect innovative and strategic solutions that drive growth and performance while generating jobs, income and improved access to basic services for the low-income segments of society. SNV focuses on the agriculture, renewable energy, and water & sanitation sectors.Responsibilities• FocalpersonforallBusinessDevelopmentactivitiesinSNVLaoPDR• ResearchFundingopportunities.Proactivelyresearchandreviewpotentialnewfundingopportunities

and donors.• Handsonsupportinproposalwriting• MemberofextendedManagementTeam;providinginformationasrequested• Manageandmaintainbusinessdevelopmenttools,e.gSalesforce• Identifypotentialpartnerrelationships• Identifypotentialfundingrelationships• SupportSNVstaffinmeetingswithpartnersanddonors• AssistSNVstaffinresearchingpotentialdonorsandpartners,• ActivelyparticipateinSNVsectormeetings• MaintaintheSNVLaoPDRProjectReferencesdatabase.• UpgradeCVdatabase.• Serveascontactpersonwithregionalofficeforallbusinessdevelopmentadministrativeissues.• Work closely with regional Business Development manager to assure alignment and clear

communicationsbetweenLaoPDRandregion• Maintaingoodrelationswithlocalmediaandclients/Governmentorganisations.• Contributetopartnershipandresourcemobilisationefforts(informationmaterials,PR,communication,

branding, etc.)Candidate profile• UniversityDegreeinInternationalDevelopment,Communicationsorsimilar• Previousexperiencewithdevelopmentworkanadvantage• Previousexperiencewithfundraisinganadvantage• PreviousexperienceinusingSalesforcesoftwareanadvantage• HighlevelofEnglishwrittenandoralskills• AbilitytoworkwithWindowsrelatedsoftware• Goodanalyticalskills• Goodinterpersonalskills• Workwellinteamsettings• Goodnetworkingskills

Contract Duration: SNVoffersaone-yearcontractwiththepossibilityofextensionandacompetitivesalarypackage.

Desired start date:Assoonaspossible

How to apply?PleasesendyourapplicationletterandCVtoMs.BinhVongphasouk,HROfficer,[email protected] before 15 February 2012withreferencenumberLA4909.

More information about SNVSNVisanon-profitinternationaldevelopmentorganisationestablishedintheNetherlandsin1965.Forover40years,SNVhasbeenattheforefrontofdevelopment,helpingtobuildlocalcapacityandempowerlocalfamiliesandcommunitiestobreakthecycleofpoverty.Wearepresentonthegroundin33developingcountriesinAfrica,Asia,LatinAmericaandtheBalkansandoperateinAgriculture,RenewableEnergy,andWater,Sanitation&Hygiene.Our900advisorsinthefieldcomefromavarietyofculturalandtechnicalbackgrounds,andover60percentarenationalsofthecountrieswherewework.Formoreinformation,pleaserefertoourwebsite:www.snvworld.org

We do not appreciate third-party mediation based on this advertisement.

Vacancy announcementINDOKO CO., LTD

The INDOKO company is one of the Korean business which operated in laos for many years on providing various consume that we directly import from Korea and Singapore .Now we are the agent of high quality of beverage as evian and soju Supplier in laos.According to the company extension until now we want to fill the vacancy position as following:

I. manager 1 position: qualification and skill.

Relevant bachelor degree in any filed or relate discipline. At least two years of work experience relevant to the position that apply. Managing and interpersonal skill are strongly require with under 35 years of age. Computer literacy as well asMS word, MS excel and power point are the advantage.

II. manager assistant 1 position; qualification and skill.

Relevant higher diploma or bachelor degree in any filed or relate discipline. At least one years of work experience relevant to the position that apply or just

graduated. Reporting and interpersonal skill are strongly require with under 30 years of age. Good at procurement in office and other document is require. Computer literacy as MS word, MS excel is an advantage.

III. Sale man 2 positions; qualification and skill.

High school or pre-education in any filed are requested Possesses your own bike together with driver licenses Familiar with the Vientiane map well. Any of relevant experience will be taken in to account. Literacy of English both listening and writing is a plus. Interest candidate for any of them please send copy of your cv, certificate, present address detail, ID, medical certificate, criminal clearance, and other bio data to indoko office at: naxay village, bulichan rd, ( opposite to the Bouviset college), sisataknak dist.Vientiane capital.Tel: 021 453900, 54304916, 54597423, fax: 453901Or e-mail : [email protected] [email protected]

Only short list candidates will be notifiedDeadline: 28 /02 /2012

Vientiane Times10

What the Lao papers say

Subscription Rates 2008-91. DOMESTIC SUBSCRIPTION (6 issues/week) and online fee

+ Online fee Total + Online fee

Regular price

78 issues (3 months) 305,000k +100,000k 405,000k


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Thursday February 2, 2012

Opinion

Translated by Phetsamone Chandala

Members of the public have been urged to carefully check their loads when buying bricks, as some vendors may try to shortchange them.

Recently, a vendor took advantage of an elderly woman who wanted to buy bricks to

The Lunar New Year has once again passed, with people of Chinese and Vietnamese descent living in Laos marking the occasion in a joyous and friendly manner.

However, one major blight on the festivities was the large number of Lao people, not of Chinese or Vietnamese extraction, who used the event as an excuse to drink to excess.

While Lao people are generally easygoing and it is in their nature to be generous, which helps them interact

Soil and sand dropped from large trucks as they transport loads to and from construction sites is dirtying Vientiane’s roads, inconveniencing road users and people who live alongside roads, and increasing the risk of accidents.

Solving this problem requires contributions from all sectors of society, especially truck owners. The situation in Laos is no different from in other countries, where soil and

build a house in Vientiane.She paid for about 4,000

bricks, but then noticed that almost 1,000 bricks were missing. When she called the vendor, he hung up on her. He probably knew what he had done and felt ashamed.

The woman told her story to others who had built a house and found they had similar tales

Be careful when buying bricksto tell. Other people have also complained about underhand tactics employed by vendors, such as inflated transport costs and sub-standard bricks.

This is a warning to buy bricks only from reliable factories to ensure you are not cheated in any way.

--Vientiane Mai Daily, January 30

well with people from other countries, this predisposition to partying also reveals a few social ills.

It is clear that some Lao people don’t take their limited resources into account and spend beyond their means on copious amounts of food and alcohol.

Living an unsustainable lifestyle can lead to all sorts of family problems, so people should take stock of their true financial situation.

Every year, there are many festivals and events which

require people to dip into their pockets, but we must not give in to temptation and should only spend within our means.

Of course, not all Lao people drink and party to excess; there are many who only take part in such activities when tradition deems it appropriate.

All Lao people can learn lessons from the New Year festivities, most notably that drinking should be done in moderation.

--Social Economic Daily, January 26

Lessons learned from Lunar New Year

DustyroadsthescourgeofVientianesand is often transported from the city outskirts to urban construction sites. However, Vientiane seems to suffer much more from dust that piles up on roadsides.

This calls for better management and regulations for trucks that transport soil and sand.

Many other countries have checkpoints for large trucks, where their wheels are washed and loads secured before they

are allowed to drive on a main road. These checkpoints are manned by a small number of staff, with the process rarely taking more than two minutes.

Such supervision can reduce the amount of dirt on our roads and lessen the strain on the Vientiane Urban Development Administration Authority.

--Social Economic Daily, January 30

Vientiane Times 11Thursday February 2, 2012 Opinion

Post Title: Project Assistant (PA)Level: SC-6 ( Step will be up to qualification)Duty Station: Oudomxay provinceStarting date: 1 March 2012Duration: One year basis

Duties and Responsibilities: The PA will work with the National Project Director, Project Manager (PM) and National Community Development Officer (NCDO) and will carry out the following tasks and responsibilities:• Assist to plan, organize and implement the establishment and training of VDC for

the Management and Implementation of activities.• Assist to organize and carry out participatory rural appraisal in target villages and

assist in the planning and implementation of subsequent village-level activities.• Assist to prepare yearly plans for community development activities in the target

villages.• Help to organize training, workshops and meetings • Assist for the implementation of community based treatment and rehabilitation

programme. Help to develop the program for ATS raising awareness• Assist the NPD, TA and NCDO to monitor and report on all community development

activities in target villages.• Translate of all document related to the programme• Function other duties as required

Experience and Qualifications: • The PA should have a recognized qualification in rural development field and at

least 3 years practical field experience of participatory rural appraisal and planning techniques. Knowledge of micro credit, rural drug demand reduction and health promotion would be an advantage;

• Experience of working with international organization or UN• Good social communication skills and experience of working effectively with local

authorities and ethnic minorities;• Working knowledge of spoken and written English. A working knowledge of a

relevant ethnic minority language would be an advantage;• Familiar with Microsoft office such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint • Capable of living and working effectively in remote rural areas.• Be flexible, can work under pressure and willing to learn.

How to apply:You can submit your application in hard copies or to email: latsamy.

[email protected] attaching your (1) CV & Personal History (UNDP form can be collected at: http://www.unodc.org/laopdr/en/employment.html), and (2)

justification of education by Wednesday 15th February 2012

Post Title: Project SecretaryLevel: SC-5 ( Step will be up to qualification)Duty Station: Oudomxay provinceStarting date: 1 April 2012Duration: One year basis

Duties and Responsibilities: The Project Secretary will have the following tasks and responsibly: • Translate Lao Document into English & English to Lao• Local procurement and inventory • Arrangement for local TA and get approval from field office in Vientiane• Type correspondence, reports, faxes and other secretarial duties for the PFU;

dispose incoming/outgoing PFU and programme module mail and pouch.• Operate the photocopying and fax machine.• Perform telephone calls, receive visitors, arrange appointments for programme

module personnel and staff from other field office on mission; maintains records of invitations and meeting.

• Assist in preparing packages of documents, meeting arrangement, accommodation reservation, and air tickets for the missions.

• Draft simple correspondence independently or within guidance from supervisor;• Classify, register and file PFU and programme module correspondence as

appropriate.• Assist the Programme Officers.• Perform other duties as required.

Experience and Qualifications:• The Administrative Assistant/Secretary should have a recognized qualification in

related field and at least 3 years practical experience with the administration and secretary

• Experience of working with international organization or UN• Good social communication skills and experience of working effectively with local

authorities and ethnic minorities;• Working knowledge of spoken and written English. A working knowledge of a

relevant ethnic minority language would be an advantage;• Familiar with Microsoft office such as Word and Excel• Capable of living and working effectively in remote rural areas• Be flexible, can work under pressure and willing to learn

How to apply:You can submit your application in hard copies or to email: latsamy.

[email protected] attaching your (1) CV & Personal History (UNDP form can be collected at: http://www.unodc.org/laopdr/en/employment.html), and (2)

justification of education by Wednesday 15th February 2012

Ede Ijjasz-Vásquez

WASHINGTON (Tierramérica, IPS) -- After the climate change negotiations in Durban, South Africa in December, there is space to continue advancing in the short and medium term. Now the attention of Latin America and the rest of the world is turned towards the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development taking place this June in Rio de Janeiro.

In Durban, delegates from 194 countries agreed to develop a new global climate pact by 2015, which would enter into force in 2020.

Substantial agreements were also hammered out in two other areas critical for progress in combating climate change: a new period of commitments under the Kyoto Protocol, and specific steps in the creation of the Green Climate Fund.

Greater attention was paid to combined measures for climate change mitigation and adaptation in agriculture, in addition to progress in technical discussions on forest protection programmes in the context of the climate.

In Durban the international community also recognised the urgent need to do more to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, keep the increase in global average temperature below two degrees, and help developing countries adapt to the inevitable effects of climate change.

This June in Rio de Janeiro, delegates will address the protection of the environment as part of the development process. The conference is better known as Rio+20, because it is taking place two decades after

a similar summit where participating countries first adopted the concept of sustainable development as the only way to build a more just and viable world.

This includes dimensions related to health, housing, air pollution, management of the seas, forests and mountains, desertification, water resources management, sanitation and waste management.

The world is moving dangerously close to the limits of the unsustainable use of natural resources, and we could reach a point from which there is no turning back. These issues impact on quality of life and the struggle that still must be waged against poverty and inequality, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Despite the fact that Latin America produces relatively clean energy in most of its countries, and proportionally contributes substantially less than other regions to climate change, it is one of the regions most severely affected by the consequences of climate change.

Numerous countries in the region have demonstrated great leadership by example to become part of the global solution that must lead the world towards a low-carbon development path.

Brazil has unilaterally committed to ambitious voluntary targets aimed at reducing its emissions by 39 percent by the year 2020. Other Latin American countries have also made voluntary commitments, including Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica and Mexico.

Worldwide, 90 countries have registered mitigation plans for 2020 with the United Nations Framework

Convention on Climate Change, and 78 of these are developing countries.

According to the World Bank study “Low-Carbon Development: Latin American Responses to Climate Change”, Latin America contributes only six percent of global greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector, and 13 percent of all global emissions if we include deforestation and land use change.

This relatively low level of emissions is largely due to widespread use of hydroelectric power.

However, this situation is expected to change over the next 25 years as the transportation and industry sectors expand.

For example, if current trends are maintained, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from energy consumption are projected to increase by 33 percent per capita in the region by 2030, a greater increase than the projected global average of 24 percent.

These trends represent a challenge for Latin America in its search for sustainable development through greener and more equitable growth.

Many of the measures that could be considered as steps on the road to green economic growth also have significant local environmental and social benefits:

Greater energy efficiency often saves money; less deforestation and better management of forest resources have social and environmental benefits; better public transportation can reduce traffic congestion and local pollution, and have beneficial effects on health, productivity and quality of life.

The next decade will bring great opportunities for synergy between

environmental and economic sustainability. For example, developing countries can adopt a “green” attitude in their new investments in infrastructure, as well as developing agriculture and other natural resources so as to improve livelihoods, create jobs and reduce poverty.

The agreement reached in Durban represents a step forward, but tough negotiations towards a global commitment lie ahead in the next few years.

In the meantime, we must continue to move forward in the implementation of programs with local and global benefits, projects that demonstrate the best ways to adapt to the climate changes of the future and the climate disasters of today, and technological and institutional innovations that promote green and inclusive growth.

Ede Ijjasz-Vásquez is the World Bank director of sustainable development for Latin America and

the Caribbean.

After Durban, Latin America looks towards Rio+20

Unsustainable use of natural resources. --Photo IPS


Feature

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 Carbon Sinks and Biodiversity Conservation (CarBi) Project is part of a comprehensive programme of conservation activities being implemented by WWF in the Central Annamites landscape. It is part of the Greater Annamites priority ecoregion, containing many significant populations of globally threatened and flagship species. WWF aims to protect and restore these species and their habitats and a large part of this work involves strengthening the management of key protected areas.

WWF Greater Mekong (WWF GM) is seeking to recruit well-qualified and experienced candidates to fill in the position of Short-term International Consultancy for REGIONAL MANAGEMENT PLAN LEAD. The major roll of the consultant is to delivering a Protected Area Management Plan for XeSap National Park, Lao PDR and to advise and support the National Management Plan Lead in Central Vietnam.

Duration: 5 months from February to June 2012 Location: Home based with regular field trips to Salavane and Xekong Provinces in Southern Lao PDR, and short visits to Hue and Quang Nam Provinces, Central Vietnam.

Compensation based on qualification and experience. The detailed TOR of the position and requirements are posted on www.panda.org and www.panda.org/greatermekong under Jobs.Interested candidates should email a cover letter, curriculum vitae to [email protected] by 3 February 2012.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

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 (WWF GM) is seeking to recruit well-qualified and experienced candidates to fill in the position of Forest Coordinator for Greater Mekong region.

The Forest Coordinator will provide strategic leadership for the implementation of the forestry industry related conservation activities under the WWF GMPO Strategic Plan 2011-2015. In particular, she/he will provide guidance to the national managers of the GFTN operations in the Greater Mekong Countries Laos and Vietnam, and oversee the review and implementation of the GFTN-Greater Mekong regional business plan.Base Location: Vientiane, Lao PDRSalary range: From US$ 36,960 to US$55,464 or from Lak295,680,000 to Lak443,712,000 per year (gross)

The detailed TOR of the position and requirements are 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 15 February 2012.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Xayxana Leukai

After giving alms in the early morning of the full moon day in February each year, devotees place balls of rice around the That Phonh stupa in Savannakhet province to honour the guardian spirits.

The stupa was built in the 16th century in Phonthat village, Xayphouthong district, and the annual ritual has been passed down through the generations ever since. The stupa is highly revered among the local community.

This year, the event begins on February 4 when the provincial governor, provincial Party committee, and people from around Laos and neighbouring countries will gather to worship at the stupa.

The rice balls will be placed on the ancient edifice on February 7.

There will also be night-time candlelight processions around the stupa, when the faithful will call on Buddha to bless their family.

Secretary of the Youth Union of Xayphouthong district Office, Mr Phomma Songvilay, said thousands of people would come to the stupa to seek good fortune from the guardian spirits. The rice balls will be stuck directly onto the exterior to make sure that all the spirits receive the rice offered to them.

According to legend, Buddha taught his followers under a large tree. He also used the place as a toilet and subsequently the god Indra built a shelter with silver and golden shelves around the area where it was believed Buddha defecated. Not long afterwards, his devotees built a stupa on the site and called it That Phonh. The word ‘phonh’ means stool in Lao.

In addition, most of those who ask for good luck have their wishes answered, so more and more people come to the stupa each year. “This is a strong belief on the part of many individuals,” Mr Phomma said.

Mr Phomma is also the former tourism sector Head of Xayphouthong district and an organiser of the That

Phonh festival. He said the rituals that take place at That Phonh are similar to those practiced at That Luang in Vientiane, Vat Phou in Champassak province, and That Sikhottabong in Khammuan province.

This event runs for three days and three nights. On the sidelines there are exhibitions of local produce, sports events and folk song performances.

That Phonh has become a major money spinner for the district’s tourism sector. Each month, the

Rice ball ritual brings devotees to That Phonh stupa

district and local community earn 150 to 200 million kip from the sale of souvenirs, flowers and other paraphernalia related to the stupa.

Visitors can also make an excursion to the Heuan Hin (Stone House) about 20km away.

The Heuan Hin is believed to have been one of 121 rest houses built by King Jayavarman VII (1181-1218) along the roads which once connected every corner of the Khmer Empire.

how to get to That Phonh From Savannakhet provincial capital take Route 9B south to Ban Lak 35 and continue on for another 3km before turning right. Continue onwards for 18km before turning left. The stupa is 3km down this road and is open daily from 8am to 6pm. The road is sealed so the stupa is accessible year round.

by bus1.International Bus from Thailand: Buses depart from the Mukdahan Bus Station. The bus will stop at the border so you can get a stamp in your border pass/visa/passport. You can ride from the border checkpoint too. It may take about one hour including immigration at Savannakhet Bus Station.from Vietnam: Buses depart from the Lao Bao border and Dong Ha (on even days only), Quang Tri and Hue (Monday, Wednesday and Friday), Danang and Hanoi (Saturday and Sunday only). It may take about five hours from the Lao Bao border to Savannakhet Bus Station.

2.Domestic Bus: from Vientiane: There are two types of bus running to Savannakhet: seven public buses and one VIP bus with toilet and air conditioning. Both depart from the Southern Bus Station every day. The journey to Savannakhet Bus Station takes 8-9 hours.From Pakxe: Night public buses depart from the bus station in Pakxe and take 4-5 hours to reach Savannakhet Bus Station.

by Carfrom Vientiane: Take Route No. 13 South via Pakxan, Thakhek and Seno to Savannakhet. The journey is 457 kilometres and may take 6-7 hours.From Dansavan-Lao Bao (Vietnam): Take Route No. 9 via Sepon, Phin, Phalanxay and Seno, over a distance of about 240km. Expect the journey to take 4-5 hours.From Mukdahan (Thailand): Cross the Friendship Bridge and stop at the border to get your border pass/visa/passport stamped. The journey should take about one hour, including the immigration stop.From Pakxe: Take Route No. 13 South via Saravan to Savannakhet, over a distance of 247 kilometres. The drive will take 2-3 hours.

by Airfrom Vientiane: Three flights a week to Savannakhet on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The flight takes about one hour. from Luang Prabang: Two flights a week on Thursday and Sunday, taking about 90 mins. from bangkok: Three flights a week on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Flight time is 1 hour and 20 mins.

by ferryFrom Mukdahan (Thailand): Boats cross the Mekong from the Mukdahan ferry pier. However, only people who have a border pass can take the ferry into Laos.

Devotees pay homage at That Phonh stupa, hoping for good fortune in their lives.

Vientiane Times 13Thursday February 2, 2012 Feature

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Han Bingbin

CHINA (China Daily, ANN) -- Perfume bottle collector Cui Shaosong repeatedly apologises for the state of his apartment, saying it’s not suitable for visitors. The dwelling, which is less than 40 square metres, is filled with fragrances and crammed with intricately designed cabinets. These warehouse more than 5,000 perfume bottles of about 200 brands - old and new, empty and full. The 55-year-old’s bed is set in the middle of the elegant mess. Cui says his collection cost him nearly 1 million yuan (US$159,000), with which he could have purchased a larger apartment. He has responded to his wife’s complaints over the years by saying: “Who can refuse an unexpected and happy fate?”

His perfume bottle collection started 30 years ago, when the then liquor collector asked a friend for three bottles but forgot to mention he meant liquor containers and was instead given perfume bottles.

Two were beautiful bottles of Mitsouko and Shalimar, both by Guerlain. They outshone his liquor bottles, and his passion for pretty perfume containers was born.

The latest addition is a silver bottle of Marc Jacobs Bang, which was released in 2011. The oldest bottle is from the 1890s.

His greatest source of pride is a pair of crystal bottles from a Japanese brand called Seven and a Half Drops.

The brand is so named because the small bottle contains only seven and a half drops of liquid that has changed from light yellow to dark red over the decades. The bottles were produced in 1926 to celebrate

the first Showa Year, and each have a large pyramidal cap inside on which the likeness of the Showa Tower of Nara is sculpted.

One of the bottles was a gift from the owner of a bottle museum in Japan.

Cui intended to donate some of his finds to the museum when he visited in 1990.

The owner politely refused and gave him the precious item because he was the first Chinese visitor.

Cui is a devout Buddhist, who believes his obsession is the product of fate.

He believes it was destiny that he came across a larger but otherwise identical bottle at a Tokyo flea market, so he could create a pair.

Cui says this event was also related to the philosophical concept espoused by the museum’s owner: “The bottles are like a huge family, and a collector’s responsibility is to reunite them one way or another.”

This has inspired him to try to collect entire series. He has more than 200 bottles from the Christian Dior Tendre Poison series, for instance.

The collector has befriended perfume dealers who offer him samples, discontinued varieties, and commemorative and limited editions at discounts or for free. He sometimes trades liquors for perfumes.

Cui doesn’t wear perfume or care about fashion, which makes his current collection different from his liquor bottle collection, as he was a tipple connoisseur.

He knew little about perfume and only cared about the containers’ appearances.

“It’s the bottles’ attractiveness that leads people to buy perfume in

the first place,” he says. It was only a few years ago that

the former archeology student started digging deeply to learn more about perfumes.

His room is scattered with international shopping catalogues, fashion magazines and brand biographies.

He enjoys talking about the production of the world’s first perfume bottles and the differences between plant and musk fragrances. But his pronunciation sometimes betrays how new he is to the subject.

His decision to learn about perfume, he says, has been inspired by

an interest to discuss his collection. Cui has staged annual exhibitions

at Beijing’s antiques hub, Panjiayuan, since 2009.

He recalls displaying 110 bottles in a 1-metre display area, although he knew from a shop window-display design class that the upper limit is nine.

He has won fans through the exhibitions, who defend him online when others post photos of his collection and claim it’s theirs.

He is also frequently approached by businesspeople from as far away as Hong Kong, who are interested in buying his collection. Through them, he has come to realise it has

increased in value. His bottle of Clive Christian with a gold-colored cap, for example, sells for up to 80,000 euros (US$105,161).

Cui refuses to sell any of his bottles, although he realises their accumulation will eventually become burdensome. He instead plans to donate them to people who like them, he says.

“Some people create beautiful things, and others use them,” Cui says.

“If beautiful things remain unbroken, they can be passed along to next person, the next 10 people or even the next 100. This is the procession of beauty.”

Bottled up passion

Cui Shaosong at his Beijing apartment, which houses a collection of more than 5,000 perfume bottles.


Art & Entertainment 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 training, please contact the LE President at [email protected] for

Vientiane - Elephant Festival in Xayaboury district, Xayaboury

province: Art and craft fair from Feb. 15-19 and Elephant Festival from Feb 17-19.

- Sikhottabong festival in Thakhek district, Khammuan province and neighbouring That Phanom festival in Thailand will be held from Feb. 5 to 7.

- Vat Phou Champassak annual festival will take place from Feb. 2 to 7.

- 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.

Contact Venerable Mr Khuan or Venerable Ms Keo on 021-231938.- English Language Church Service every Sunday 10am

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

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.

(CHINA DAILY) -- Simon Cowell gave his talent show “The X Factor” a major shake-up, showing the door to host Steve Jones, judge Nicole Scherzinger, and even his old friend Paula Abdul after a lackluster first season on US television.

Cowell and broadcaster Fox confirmed on Tuesday that British host Jones, and former Pussycat Dolls singer Scherzinger would not be returning for the second season of the show in September.

Abdul -- Cowell’s old “American Idol” sparring partner -- was also voted off in what some industry watchers called a bloodbath for the TV show that failed to measure up to its hype last year and struggled to achieve the top-level viewership promised by Cowell.

“Yes, it’s true; I won’t be returning to The X Factor next season,” Abdul said in a statement on Tuesday. “I’ve learned through my longevity in this industry that business decisions often times override personal considerations. Simon (Cowell) and I, along with Fox and Fremantle, have been communicating about this for a while now, and I have absolute understanding of the situation.”

Abdul said that Cowell “will remain a dear friend of mine.”

Cowell gave “a massive thank you to Paula, Nicole and Steve for being part of ‘The X Factor’ last year.”

“Now is the time to thank them all for everything they did last year,” he added in a statement

Fox reality programming chief Mike Darnell called Abdul “a remarkable talent” and said the network appreciated her contributions.

The shake-up leaves only Cowell, the “X Factor” creator

Ounkham Pimmata

Just three weeks after Alexandra Bounxouei officially released her music video “My Radio” on YouTube, it had recorded more than 100,000 views, becoming an instant hit with Lao audiences.

The music video is generating plenty of interest and positive feedback, with many viewers commenting on her daring video clip which features her dressed in a cosmopolitan style more common oversees and depicts her as a confident young woman.

“My Radio” is a song about a girl who has been lonely and sad for a long time and now realises she should stand up for herself. To her “life” is like a radio; if she doesn’t like you she can just turn you off.

Dubbed as the superstar of Laos, Alexandra released her latest hit single ahead of an upcoming album release, and her fans have commented on her more mature new style as she continues to grow as a singer.

Lao diva Alexandra hits the airwaves with fresh new single

Alexandra surprised fans with her new pop-rock style, which also blends with dance and R&B. Fans were especially surprised with her new dance style, where she appears in a tight black leather dress and long heeled boots, with windswept hair.

Her latest single is as cosmopolitan in style as the accompanying music video, with Alexandra singing in Lao but mixing it with English lyrics and displaying the feminine power of a modern woman.

Alexandra released her debut album “Dream” in 2006 and her popularity has grown ever since. Her much anticipated new album premiere, produced by KPY Entertianment, will be released on an as yet unspecified date, and will feature eight exciting new songs which are sure to be just as popular as “My Radio”.

Alexandra became better known among younger people and older audiences after teaming up with a Lao country singer to produce the popular

hit “Khalom Hak, Khalom Luang” which bridged the generation gap by resonating with a large segment of the population.

She is also a talented violinist, and often incorporates violin solos in her headline acts, showing she

is not just a pop singer with a pretty face but has other talents as well.

Alexandra is also well known in Thailand after she featured in the television series on Channel 7 “Pheng huk lim fang khong” back in 2007 with Thai actor Vear.

‘Ex-Factor’forAbdul,Scherzinger,Jones

(KOREA HERALD) -- Ardent fans of legendary K-pop musician Seo Taiji are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the singer’s debut by naming a forest after him.

Seo Taiji Mania, Seo’s fan club, announced on Tuesday that they are creating “Seotaiji Forest” in Brazil’s Guapi Assu rainforest. They signed an MOU last year with World Land Trust, a British environmental organisation which conducts tree-planting projects, about the forest creation and conservation.

“The documentary ‘Tears of the Amazon’ came as a great shock at the time, and also reminded us of Seo Taiji’s eco project. So we decided to initiate the long-term Seotaiji Forest project,” said a representative of the fan club in a statement, adding that only 7 percent of Guapi Assu’s forest is preserved and many animals and plants there are endangered.

The fans organised a team in 2010 for the ambitious project and raised funds by hosting the Seo Taiji Forest sketch contest and auctioning Seo Taiji dolls. The fundraising ended on Dec. 31, with about 39 million won collected, significantly more than their goal of 20 million won. The forest will open to the public on March 21.

“The forest was planned to be slightly larger than 5 hectares but will be expanded as we raised more funds than expected. We hope that this unprecedented event brings attention to endangered rainforests,” said the representative.

Paula Abdul kisses the cheek of Simon Cowell as Nicole Scherzinger reacts at the world premiere of the television series “The X Factor” at the Arclight Cinerama Dome in Hollywood, California September 14, 2011.

and acerbic judge, and record producer Antonio “L.A.” Reid left on the panel of the singing contest.

The ouster of Jones, seen as wooden and flustered in the live shows, was expected. He broke the news on Twitter, saying on Monday, “I won’t be hosting next seasons ‘X Factor’ which is a shame but I can’t complain as I’ve had a great time.”

Scherzinger had also drawn criticism from audiences and some of her critiques were openly ridiculed by Cowell. But the exit of Abdul -- whom Cowell had courted assiduously for the show -- took industry watchers by surprise.

“Shocked to see Simon has fired Paula Abdul, Nicole and Steve from the X-Factor,” tweeted Nigel Lythgoe, executive producer of “American Idol”.

“X Factor Shake-Up continues! Paul Abdul ALSO out!” wrote TVLine.com. Industry website TheWrap.com called the firings an “X-Factor implosion”.

There was no word on Tuesday on who would replace the three but speculation swiftly fell on singer Mariah Carey. Cowell said last year that she had been his top choice but she was sidelined because she was pregnant. Carey gave birth to twins in April.

Cowell launched “The X Factor” in the United States boasting that it would beat “American Idol” as the nation’s most-watched TV show. But it drew less than 13 million viewers -- about half those who tune into “Idol” -- and many TV critics found it over-produced and too similar to “Idol”.

Cowell admitted in December that he had been “a little too cocky” when he told brought the show over to the United States after years of success in Britain.

But he also told reporters that it would improve in its second season and Fox executives said in January that Cowell was planning “tweaks” for the new episodes ahead.

FanshonourSeoTaijiwithBrazilianrainforest

Vientiane Times 15SportsThursday February 2, 2012

Request for Expression of Interestfor

Final Evaluation ConsultantsCRS is concluding a pilot project in Xaibouathong District of Khammouane Province, focused on victim’s assistance and mine risk education. CRS is seeking a qualified consultant to lead an evaluation team of project partners and staff to conduct the final evaluation of its project. The final evaluation will feed into the development of the next phase.

CRS seeks a qualified consultant with previous experience designing and conducting evaluations in Laos; working with and training a team on data collection; facilitating analysis and dissemination workshops; and producing a report in English. CRS expects to complete the evaluation by the end of March 2012, with the data collection starting in February 2012. Previous experience working in the UXO and/or Health sector is highly preferred.

Interested consultants should submit an Expression of Interest along with their CV and list of references. The letter should cover relevant experience and also include expected remuneration.

To apply , please contact: Mr. Phetdavone KEOSOMPHOUMY, CRS Administration Assistant, [email protected], Tel/fax +856 021 351 066

Closing date for applications: february 10, 2012

LONDON (AP) -- Manchester United wiped out Manchester City’s lead at the top of the Premier League on Tuesday with a 2-0 victory over Stoke as its neighbour went down 1-0 at Everton to a goal by a former United player.

Darron Gibson, who left Old Trafford earlier in January, struck on the hour for Everton against City, which is now only top due to its superior goal difference over United.

Defending champion United scored both goals from the penalty spot through Javier Hernandez and Dimitar Berbatov.

Tottenham is five points off the lead after Gareth Bale’s double helped the north London sweep past Wigan with a 3-1 win. Chelsea is now seven points adrift of Spurs in fourth after requiring an own goal to salvage a 1-1 draw at Swansea.

Liverpool provisionally climbed above Arsenal into fifth place with a 3-0 win at Wolverhampton Wanderers, ahead of the Gunners’ match against Bolton on Wednesday.

The Premier League’s

leading sides were in action as their officials were wrapping up deals in the final hours of the January transfer window.

Alex Ferguson’s United side was without 11 senior players, including both first-choice goalkeepers, but had little trouble against a lackluster Stoke side that rarely threatened.

United took the lead after Park Ji-sung raced onto a short pass from Paul Scholes and was brought down by Jermaine Pennant.

Hernandez found the bottom corner in the 38th-minute spot kick, sending Thomas Sorensen the wrong way. But he handed over penalty duties to Berbatov seven minutes into the second half after Jon Walters had bundled Antonio Valencia over in the area.

“The first (penalty) one was very debatable,” Stoke manager Tony Pulis. “The second one was (a penalty) ... and the one he didn’t give for a foul on Patrice Evrawas a definite penalty.”

The result at Goodison Park made it a perfect night for

United.At White Hart Lane,

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp went to the match straight from his tax evasion trial at a London court. His side had little trouble dispensing of Wigan on another night when Bale shone for the north London club to consolidate its bid for an automatic Champions League qualification place.

Bale volleyed in a 29th-minute opener that was followed up by Luka Modric’s cool finish five minutes later from 18 yards.

Bale struck again for his 11th goal of the season in the 64th, before James McArthur scored a consolation goal for Wigan in the 80th.

In south Wales, a last-gasp own goal by Neil Taylor salvaged a point for Chelsea against Swansea, which beat Arsenal at home two weeks ago.

Former Chelsea winger Scott Sinclair had given Swansea the lead five minutes before halftime, volleying the ball over goalkeeper Petr Cech after a slack defensive header by Jose Bosingwa.

Man United wipes out City’s Premier League lead

Manchester United’s Dimitar Berbatov (centre) fights for the ball with Stoke’s Andy Wilkinson (right) at Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester, England, on Tuesday. --Photo AP

MONTPELLIER, France (AP) -- Feliciano Lopez beat Igor Kunitsyn of Russia 6-4, 7-6 (7) Tuesday to reach the second round of the Open Sud de France.

The fifth-seeded Spaniard finished with 19 aces, earning the only break of the match in the third game of the opening set. He then jumped out to a 5-1 lead in the second-set tiebreaker.

Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany and Jarkko Nieminen of Finland also advanced.

The seventh-seeded Kohlschreiber broke serve twice in each set to defeat Olivier Rochus of Belgium 6-1, 6-4. French qualifier Maxime Teixeira saved 11 break points but still lost 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 to the eighth-seeded Nieminen, who won the Sydney International this

month.Flavio Cipolla of Italy,

American veteran Michael Russell and Frenchmen Paul-Henri Mathieu, Edouard Roger-Vasselin, Nicolas Mahut and Florent Serra also moved into the second round.

Cipolla rallied past Marc Gicquel of France 1-6, 6-4, 7-5, Russell dismissed Adrian Mannarino of France 6-3, 7-5, and Mathieu beat Cedrik-Marcel Stebe of Germany 6-4, 6-4 to earn his first victory this year after missing the 2011 season because of a knee injury.

Roger-Vasselin downed Roberto Bautista-Agut of Spain 7-5, 6-2, Serra ousted Tobias Kamke of Germany 6-3, 6-3, and Mahut was hardly troubled in his 6-3, 6-2 win over Albert Ramos of Spain.

Lopez,Kohlschreiber,NieminenadvanceinOpenSud

Feliciano Lopez celebrates at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne,

Australia, on Friday. --Photo AP

JACKSONVILLE, Florida (AP) -- American golfer Robert Garrigus didn’t see any reason to stick around for the finish.

He had watched enough of the final round at Torrey Pines to see that Kyle Stanley, whom he described as “exploding with talent,” had a three-shot lead and headed for a sure win. Garrigus left for the spa to get a massage.

It didn’t take long for him to figure out what had happened.

“I got back to my car, saw my phone and it was blowing up,” Garrigus said. “I had six or seven text messages. I had four or five voicemails. I wasn’t talking to anyone on Sunday, so there was no need for anyone to call me.”

He didn’t have to read a single message. He didn’t have to listen to a voicemail.

He knew.“I looked at my phone

and thought, ‘Uh-oh. He blew it,’” Garrigus said Monday evening.

Among his priorities this week at the Phoenix Open was to find Stanley and offer

the kind of advice that only comes through experience.

Garrigus has every bit of that.

He had a three-shot lead on the final hole of the 2010 St. Jude Classic when he smothered his tee shot into the water, took a drop, then tried to go at the green not realising the size of his lead. He went left of the water into the trees and eventually made triple bogey. He lost in a three-man playoff.

Stanley can relate only to the triple bogey, the water and a playoff.

He did everything right on the final hole of the Farmers Insurance Open, even taking a sand wedge instead of a lob wedge for his third shot over the pond to a hole location in a bowl at the front of the green. What happened next surprises him still. His shot landed behind the hole and raced off the front of the green and into the water.

After a drop into the first cut to eliminate even more spin, he landed his shot on the top shelf and three-putted for triple bogey. On the second

playoff hole, he missed a 5-foot par putt and watched Brandt Snedeker pose with a trophy that should have been his.

Stanley was still in shock when he faced the media. His eyes were glassy with tears. His lip quivered. He answered every question, even if he had to stop at times to compose himself. Looking back, he realises that was part of the healing.

“I tend to wear my emotions on my sleeve a little bit,” Stanley said Tuesday at the Phoenix Open, where he agreed to another interview to help put his collapse behind him. “It was very tough to swallow. But one of the things I learned is I think you need to really be prepared for whatever this game can throw at you. “It’s a crazy game,” he said. “It can love you; it can hate you.”

Stanley, like Garrigus, was going for his first PGA Tour victory. Both grew up in the Pacific Northwest. Both are in the top class of power players in golf. The similarities end there.

StanleyreadytomoveonfromTorreycollapse

Sangkhomsay Bubphanouvong

Following construction of a 30 million kip sports complex, the Khammuan provincial Sports Department will hold its annual games next month.

Sports to be featured include football, volleyball, petanque, badminton and boxing.

Department Deputy Director Mr Bounpone Thongsouvannaleth said the event would enable the department to select the best athletes to play at national level events later this year.

Athletes from around the country will compete at the annual Lao Sports Day, which the department will host in July.

Every year from February 1-7 during the Sikhottabong Stupa festival, the department stages competitions in the sports of football, sepak

takraw and petanque.Mr Bounpone said the

department spent more than 300 million kip annually to stage various events and festivals in the province.

Next week the department will hold a meeting to discuss preparations for Lao Sports Day. Following this, he will be in a better position to discuss the possibility of holding other events in the new sports complex.

After the meeting the Khammuan Sports Department will submit a budget to the provincial authorities and to the Ministry of Education and Sports.

At the 2010 Lao Sports Day, held in Borikhamxay province, competitions took place in football, volleyball, petanque, beach volleyball, sepak takraw, badminton, top spinning, crossbow, boxing and muay lao.

As the province hopes

to provide a warm welcome and excellent facilities for all those attending the games, including athletes and leaders from around the country, a large part of the budget will go towards celebratory activities.

In view of the logistics involved and to ensure that everything runs smoothly, the Sports Department has set up a plan of action.

Lao Sports Day is normally held every year but last year, because of budget constraints, this wasn’t possible. The Lao National Sports Committee was busy preparing athletes for the SEA Games in November, followed by the National Games in December. Most of the national sports budget was swallowed up by these two major events.

At the National Games, Khammuan province finished in tenth place, winning five gold, nine silver and 18 bronze medals.

Khammuan to host annual games

Vientiane Times16SportThursday February 2, 2012

Sangkhomsay Bubphanouvong

The Trade Union of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism held a friendly football and petanque event at the Lao National Television’s sports ground on Wednesday to celebrate the 56th anniversary of the foundation of Lao Trade Union Day (1966-2012).

The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Mr Savankhone Razmountry and senior ministry officials.

The petanque competition was contested by six male and six female teams representing the three divisions of Information, Culture and Tourism.

Meanwhile the football competition was contested by three male and three female teams from each division.

The event was the first of its kind and was carried out in a friendly atmosphere to mark the special occasion.

Many officials from the ministry took part in proceedings, with the winners in each category receiving trophies.

ICT Ministry holds sports event to mark Lao Trade Union Day

Mr Savankhone Razmountry (second right) and senior ministry officials watch Wednesday’s football event at Lao National Television’s sports ground.

A woman from the ministry’s tourism division takes part in Wednesday’s petanque competition.

Vientiane Times 17

Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.la Thursday February 2, 2012

Business Vientiane TimesIn

side Lao cement makers

can survive in AFTA: Business leader[PAGE B2]

Sany buying German firm[PAGE B2]

Nokia Siemens cuts 2,900 jobs in Germany[PAGE B3]

Somsack Pongkhao

Vientiane Water Supply Enterprise has reassured businesses and residents that it has the necessary capacity to supply sufficient water to meet the needs of the growing industrial sector.

Enterprise Director Mr Daophet Buapha told the Vientiane Times this week the installation of several new treatment plants was planned to supply industry and to cater to the rapid expansion of the capital.

“We are working closely with the industrial sector to assess their exact requirements in terms of water use in different areas, and the growth in demand that is expected over time,” he said.

He said he was aware there would be a strong demand for water in the Xaythany special industrial zone, Vientiane Long Thanh Golf specific economic zone in Hadxaifong district, and the That Luang Marsh specific economic zone, as well as in other development projects that are slated along the 450 Year Road.

However, demand from these development projects is expected to increase gradually over time, he said, which will give the enterprise ample time to increase output in line with demand.

It is planned to expand the capacity of the plant in Donggmakkai village, Xaythany district, from about 20,000 cubic metres per day to more than 100,000 cubic metres. Work is expected to start this year and is set for completion next year.

WaterSupplyEnterprisegearinguptomeetindustrialgrowth

The enterprise also plans to build another plant in Saendin village, Naxaithong district, which will have a capacity of 20,000 cubic metres per day, which should also be operational next year. They will also study the upgrade of another plant in Dongbang village, Xaythany district, as well as other areas where there is potential need.

Enterprise Deputy Director Mr Khamseng Pakitkhounnouvong said the enterprise currently has the capacity to supply about 180,000 cubic metres of water per day, which is far below demand of almost 300,000 cubic metres per day.

He admitted that water consumption was growing more quickly than expected, meaning the sector is now struggling to meet the needs of both a burgeoning residential population and rapid industrial expansion.

In 2010, the enterprise projected the demand for water would be 300,000 cubic metres per day by 2015, but present-day consumption is already nearing this amount.

“The capital authorities want us to be able to supply 90 percent of the projected water demand by 2015. I think we can do that but we need to find more funding to expand our capacity so that we can meet the needs of businesses and local residents,” Mr Khamseng said.

Vientiane has undergone a growth spurt over the past five years. GDP growth has reached 12.1 percent and annual per capita income now stands at US$1,755.

Times Reporters

The Lao wood processing industry expects to face a shortage of raw materials this year if the government continues to export unprocessed timber.

Lao Wooden Products Association President Mr Thongsavanh Souliyamath made the comment yesterday after the government announced a decision to postpone its logging quota, which could slow the supply of timber to the domestic wood processing industry.

The government still has a policy to allow felling of trees in development project areas, such as road construction sites, and mining and hydropower plant development areas. However, most of the unprocessed timber extracted from these areas is sold to neighbouring countries.

Mr Thongsavanh, who is also the managing director of the Lao Furniture Industry Company in Vientiane, said association members would like the government to halt the export of unprocessed timber and instead sell the stocks to the domestic wood processing industry, which is experiencing a shortage.

“We have learnt that there is about 300,000 cubic metres of timber from development project areas,” he told Vientiane Times.

He explained that the wood processing industry has the capacity to process this amount of timber, so the government should supply the raw materials for processors

to add value to the country’s natural resources prior to export.

Mr Thongsavanh said Laos can benefit more from supplying unprocessed wood to domestic firms than exporting it, because processed timber can generate more income than unprocessed wood.

Building up the industry in Laos would also create more jobs.

At present, there are about 1,000 small and large wood processing plants nationwide, employing more than 20,000

workers. About 100 of these units are members of the Lao Wooden Products Association, which operates under the umbrella of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

A number of factories have markets in China after attending trade exhibitions in the country. Some have invested in new technologies in order to make more efficient use of wood in line with government policy.

According to a study on timber supply in Laos carried out by the Global Forestry

Service Inc, Laos exported about 640 billion kip (US$80 million) worth of semi-finished and finished timber-based products last fiscal year.

The major importers of Lao timber are Thailand with a trading value of about US$22 million, Vietnam with a trading value of US$11 million, and Japan with a trading value of US$4.5 million.

The European Union and Australia also imported Lao timber products worth US$147,579 and US$151,691 respectively.

Govt urged to halt export of unprocessed wood

Lao-made wooden furniture has found an appreciative market in China.

Exchange rates as of February 01, 2012Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao

Foreign Currencies Buying Selling

US Dollar 50-100

Thai Baht

Euro 50-500

7,986

258.40

10,425

8,020

259.70

10,476

Fuel pricesLocation Regular DieselVientiane 10,600 9,520Khammuan 10,640 9,570Savannakhet 10,650 9,570Champassak 10,640 9,590Bokeo 10,730 9,650Xieng Khuang 10,860 9,750

Ministry of Industry and Commerce 856 21 990115

Vientiane Times18b 2 Thursday February 2, 2012

All the “technical indicators” point to a stock price rally Landlocked stock market prices remained unchanged as a 4 day volumes rally continued. Volumes are always a good indicator things are changing. This week the past 3 days have seen invigorated volumes trading. The prices have remained on a very level playing field and very much unchanged, indicating a breakout rally is long overdue. All the “technical indicators” in today’s chart for Jan. 1 to Feb. 1 support our sentiment for a price breakout rally.

The Lunar New Year holidays and festivities throughout Asia disrupted trading at the Lao LSX with lower turnover.

However not deterred, this past week has seen renewed interest and good volumes, especially from EDL-Gen.

In January the Lao LSX Stock Market index recovered 39 points, when it moved from 898.35 points, in 21 days of trading, to close on Jan. 31 at 936.81 points - a monthly gain of 4.28 percent.

Total shares traded over the index for the month of January was 711K shares, with daily volumes averaging 33.9K shares. Yesterday’s share stock trades were 83K greater than January’s daily average and turnover yesterday exceeded the January daily average by 250 percent at just over US$71.

EDL-Gen is finally on the right side of the ledger at 4,450 kip, but further improvement is warranted.

However, somehow the daily volumes see EDL-Gen and BCEL reappear, all very much unchanged prices at what look as bargain short term.

Early trading yesterday saw very good volumes for the 4th day, but EDL-Gen gave up the high ground, losing 50 kip and retracing to 4,400 kip. But by the close it rallied back to 4,450 kip and has good prospects to rally higher.

BCEL found support as it regained, erasing the previous day’s loss, up 50 kip to close at 7,000 kip.EDL-Gen took charge of trading in January with a monthly turnover of 584K (US$313K) and

daily volumes of 28K (US$15K). EDL’s volumes represented a mighty 82.19 percent of market share and 74 percent of the market’s turnover.

Global Markets: Copper lost US$103 to US$8,350 but is still good value. Crude oil lost US$1 Tuesday and Brent traded US$111.87 and Nymex US$98.48. US stocks flatlined and closed mixed. European markets had small gains. Shanghai capped off January as its best result since 1986. Portugal is coming under immense pressure and its financials are heading further south into troubled waters. A lot of Asian exchanges improved yesterday, particularly HCMC and Bangkok. Gold was flat at US$1735 with many traders gambling on 2012 direction. Today’s trading will be led by the nose, by last night’s US Nasdaq Exchange results. PanAust (Phu Bia) is back at 70c on the old scale trading at AUD$3.50 on low volumes 3.05M shares. NWT.ASX (Newsat) ex rights issue closing lost ½ cent but will recover from AUD$0.595.

Times Reporters

Cement factories are becoming more efficient and will be ready to deal with stronger business competition when Laos joins the Asean Free Trade Area (AFTA) in 2015, according to a local business leader.

“We are aware of the competition we will face after 2015 and have taken steps to improve our business operations,” Lao Cement Producers’ Group President Mr Vanthong Sitthikoune said yesterday.

He made the comment following a report from the Vientiane Industry and Commerce Department which indicated that cement producers would face strong challenges when Laos joins the AFTA, because cement made in Laos is more expensive than imported cement.

In 2015 Laos will have to abolish import duty on foreign made cement and remove all international trade barriers as part of its obligations as a member of the AFTA. By establishing the free trade area, Asean aims to create a single regional production base and market.

BEIJING (China Daily) -- Sany Heavy Industry Co Ltd, China’s largest construction equipment group, will buy a leading German machinery producer as the company seeks to expand globally amid slower growth for the domestic construction industry.

The company is to spend 324 million euros (US$427.4 million) to buy Putzmeister Holding GmbH, based in Germany.

Sany made the deal along with Citic PE Advisors, a private equity fund, which will control 10 percent of the German company.

Sany announced the transaction, its first overseas deal, in a statement to the Shanghai Stock Exchange on Monday.

“The cooperation is good for Sany to improve its research ability and international marketing,” Xiang Wenbo, president of the company, told a news conference on Tuesday.

Sany will gain access to all of the German

company’s patents, as well as its distribution and service networks, Xiang said.

Chinese machinery manufacturers have been stepping up their overseas merger and acquisition activity as the domestic housing boom slows. The lethargic US economic recovery and sovereign debt crisis in Europe have also made their peers in developed markets ideal buying targets.

Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science and Technology Development Co, Sany’s domestic rival, said on Monday it had won approval to build a plant in the US.

Liugong Machinery Co Ltd, another machinery giant, bought a division of Polish heavy equipment company Huta Stalowa Wola SA in December.

Putzmeister is the leading brand in the concrete machinery market, and the acquisition is a good way for Sany to upgrade its technology and brand, Li Xiaoguang, an analyst with SWS Research

Co Ltd, said in a research note on Tuesday.

“Sany’s market share has been increasing in China, but growth has slowed ... due to the tightening policy of macro economy,” Li wrote.

Sany gets most of its profits from China, and exports generate less than 5 percent of total sales.

About half of Putzmeister’s sales come from Europe, with 20 percent from the US. It is also the leading concrete pump manufacturer in India.

“Sany has found the golden key to the market in Europe, America and India by buying Putzmeister,” Liu Rong, an analyst with China Merchants Securities Co Ltd, wrote in report on Tuesday. The share of Chinese machinery products is very low in these markets, according to Liu.

After the acquisition, the German company will keep its brand and maintain its own management team, according to Liang Wengen, chairman of Sany.

SanybuyingGermanfirm

A visitor photographs Sany Heavy Industry Co Ltd mining equipment at an exhibition in Beijing.

Mr Vanthong said members of the Lao Cement Producers’ Group had already begun to invest in more modern technology, which would enable them to boost output and cut operating costs. This would be a major factor in giving them a competitive edge in the regional market.

Increased output would enable producers to sell cement at a price below that of imported products.

Mr Vanthong said one of the major challenges the industry faced was to improve the efficiency of business operations so factories could bring down production costs and sell a cheaper product.

A number of people have asked why Lao cement is more expensive than imported cement given that Lao factories use raw materials that are sourced locally and labour costs are low compared to those in other countries.

Mr Vanthong said one of the reasons for the high cost of Lao cement is the high interest rate carried by loans. Cement producers have not been given soft loans by the government as is the case in other countries.

Some cement factories in neighbouring countries have sourced investment capital through stock markets and so do not have to pay interest on loans, which cuts their production costs and lowers the price of the end product.

Producers in Laos will be able to sell cement at more competitive prices once they have paid off their debt to the bank, he added.

Small-scale production is another factor in the high price of Lao products, he said, explaining that if a factory can produce a large quantity of cement, it can sell the product at a lower price.

Most cement factories in Thailand have a production capacity of about 5 million tonnes a year, while the largest factory in Laos has a production capacity of about 1 million tonnes a year, Mr Vanthong said.

According to a study by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, businesses that use domestic raw materials will be able to compete when Laos joins the AFTA in 2015, while those that rely on imported raw materials will struggle to survive.

Lao cement makers can survive in AFTA: Business leader

Vientiane Times 19

Continued from last issue

IN BRIEF

Thursday February 2, 2012 b 3

Oil hovers below US$99 after US crude supply jump SINGAPORE (AP) -- Oil prices hovered below US$99 a barrel Wednesday in Asia as investors eyed a jump in US crude inventories and signs of sluggish economic growth. Benchmark crude for March delivery was up 15 cents at US$98.63 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Hong Kong says economy slowed in 2011 HONG KONG (AP) -- Hong Kong’s economic growth fell further in the final quarter of 2012 as global trade weakened, and the government forecast an anemic expansion this year.The economy expanded by 3 percent in the three months ending in December, following a steady decline from 7.6 percent in the first quarter, Finance Secretary John Tsang said in an annual budget speech.

Proposed Iran budget cuts spending 5 percentTEHRAN, Iran (AP) -- Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has presented parliament a draft budget that would cut government spending by 5.6 percent while allocating more money for development projects.The US$416 billion budget, unveiled Wednesday, is about 5 percent less than the previous year’s budget.

Abu Dhabi gives go-ahead for huge airport terminal ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) -- Airport authorities in the Emirati capital have been cleared to begin building a futuristic airport terminal that will house fast-growing Etihad Airways. State-run Abu Dhabi Airports Company said Wednesday it hopes to begin construction on the planned Midfield Terminal Complex between April and June after getting approval from the emirate’s Executive Council.

Shell reaches tentative deal with refinery workers DALLAS (AP) -- The United Steelworkers union and Shell Oil have as announced a tentative deal on a new three-year contract covering Shell refinery workers across the United States. The deal was announced in statements issued by the two sides on Tuesday night, hours before a midnight on Tuesday deadline to reach a new agreement or risk a strike.

S. Korea posts first trade deficit in 24 months in JanuaryKOREA (The Korea Herald) -- South Korea’s trade balance turned into the red for the first time in 24 months in January due to a drop in exports amid worsening global economic woes, the government said on Wednesday. The country recorded a trade deficit of US$1.96 billion last month, a sharp turnaround from a surplus of US$2.9 billion a year earlier, according to the Ministry of Knowledge Economy.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, BERLIN (The Jakarta Post) --Nokia Siemens Networks says it will cut some 2,900 jobs in Germany this year as part of a global restructuring effort.

The Finnish-German joint venture said Tuesday that about a third of its 9,100 employees in Germany will be

Flags wave in front of a building of Nokia Siemens Networks in Munich, southern Germany, on Tuesday.

laid off and its administrative seat in Munich will be shut down.

In addition, it said some 1,600 jobs will be relocated to the company’s remaining five production and research sites across Germany.

The network equipment company, based in Espoo near the Finnish capital Helsinki,

Nokia Siemens cuts 2,900 jobs in Germanyannounced in November it would cut 17,000 jobs worldwide from its work force of about 70,000 to slash annual costs by (euro) 1 billion (US$1.32 billion) by 2013.

The joint venture of Nokia Corp. and Siemens AG aims to slim down its operations with a view to becoming an independent company.

SINGAPORE (The Straits Times) -- A newly introduced duty on compressed natural gas (CNG) at the pumps has sent taxi companies and pump operators into a tailspin.

Just weeks after the duty of 20 cents per kilogramme kicked in on January 1, Mr Johnny Harjantho, managing director of CNG refuelling company Smart Energy, said business has plunged by 50 percent.

Mr Harjantho, who also

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (The Star) -- MRT Co, the project and asset owner of the Klang Valley My Rapid Transit (MRT), will make public the list of all the works for the Sungai Buloh-Kajang MRT line that total up to 90 packages soon.

This list of packages of the largest infrastructure project that the country has ever undertaken is expected to excite the construction industry which is eagerly waiting to be involved in this massive project.

MRT Co chief executive officer Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid told StarBiz the list of 90 packages included about 20 that had earlier been awarded.

“For the future packages, we will also give the dates for the call for tenders, periods of evaluation and expected dates of awards.

“We expect to release this information this week or the next.

“Most of the big packages will be awarded this year and

HCM CITY, Vietnam (VNS) -- Foreign tourists will receive value added tax (VAT) refunds on goods they purchase in Vietnam when leaving the country via Ha Noi’s Noi Bai and HCM City’s Tan Son Nhat airports.

Under a decision issued by Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, the pilot VAT refund scheme will be implemented from July 2012 to June 30, 2014.

Under the pilot scheme, any foreigner leaving Vietnam with an invoice worth at least VND2 million (US$95.2) from a shop on a day can claim VAT refunds at the two major terminals.

The net VAT refund will be the total VAT payment minus the VAT refund fee, which will be paid in the local currency, the dong. The fee will not exceed 15 percent of the total VAT payment.

However, goods that overseas travelers claim refunds for must meet certain conditions. They should be new items, subject to VAT and eligible to be taken on flights under aviation safety rules. They are also subject to export regulations regarding banned or restricted products.

The receipt (also used as the VAT refund declaration form) must be issued within 30 days of the date the visitor leaves the country.

Commercial banks selected to handle the tax repayments will be allowed to charge a service fee of up to 15 percent of the refund value. The refund will be paid in dong and can be converted to other currencies.

Travel firms have

runs Smart Taxis, which has about 200 CNG cabs, said both businesses are unlikely to be viable ‘unless oil prices shoot up very high and the price gap between gas and other fuels widens’.

With the duty, CNG is now around $2 per kilogramme, compared with $1.63 per kilogramme and $2.07 per kilogramme for a litre of diesel and 92-octane petrol respectively.

Singaporetaxifirmshithardby new CNG duty

A Prime taxi being stripped of its CNG kit.

proposed several times that the Government refund VAT for overseas visitors so as to motivate them to spend more.

In July 2011, the Government asked the Ministry of Finance and related agencies to launch a pilot plan for VAT refunds. The plan was introduced to the public last September.

“The VAT refund aims to promote tourism, increase foreign currency in the country and encourage on-the-spot exports,” said head of the Finance Ministry's Import-Export Tax Department Lo Thi Nhu.

The ministry had disseminated VAT collection and refund criteria to eligible businesses in Hanoi, HCM City and traditional trade villages, Nhu said.

To attract foreign visitors, other ASEAN countries have, for several years now, been offering VAT refunds for foreigners. Singapore gives a 7 percent VAT refund for receipts of over SGD100 (US$80.5) but the net refund is about 5 percent.

Thailand also applies a 7 percent VAT refund on bills of over 5,000 baht (US$160), excluding administrative charges.

A recent survey done by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism shows that the average stay of a foreign tourist in Vietnam is 10.5 days with an average expense of US$1,024, excluding air fares.

The country welcomed more than 6 million international tourists last year, up19.1 per cent year-on-year.

Vietnam’s airports to offer VAT refundstoforeigntravellers

the smaller ones in the early part of next year.

“I think it is only fair that everybody is informed of what’s going on and at the end of the day, everyone is a stakeholder of this project,” he said.

Azhar said the packages earlier awarded included advanced works such as relocation of utilities and land clearing.

Clearing of land was already done in the Sungai Buloh depot, Semantan portal site and Cochrane site.

“Two of big packages were recently awarded to IJM Corp Bhd and Ahmad Zaki Resources Bhd.

MRT Co had recently announced that IJM Construction was appointed the main contractor for package V5 which entailed the construction and completion of viaduct guideway and other associated works from the Maluri portal to the Plaza Phoenix station worth RM974mil.

Ahmad Zaki will be the

main contractor for package V6 which entails the construction and completion of a viaduct guideway and other associated works from the Plaza Phoenix to the Bandar Tun Hussein Onn station with a contract value of RM764mil. A viaduct guideway is an elevated guideway structure where the tracks of the MRT trains will be located in.

Both awards are subject to the successful tenderers accepting the letters of award to be issued by MRT in due course.

Azhar said these were two out of the eight elevated portion packages.

“For the remaining six, we will award the packages by middle of this year,” he said.

Besides the elevated packages, Azhar said the award of the single largest package that involved tunnelling works would be announced in April.

“The tunnelling works are anticipated to take 30 percent -40 percent of the total cost of the project,” he said.

Liston90packagesofjobsfromSungaiBuloh-KajangMRTtobeunveiled

Vientiane Times20 Thursday February 2, 2012b 4

Individual Consultant Procurement Notice [International Consultant, Training in Microfinance Audit and Analysis]

Date of issue: 27.01. 2012

Location: LAO PDR, Vientiane Capital deadline for applications: 15 february 2012 Type of Contract: Individual Contract (IC) [International Consultant]Period of assignment/Duration: 10 working days in-country and shall be completed before 31 March 2012Starting Date : 1 March 2012 background: The project “Making Access to Finance more Inclusive for Poor People” is a joint programme of UNCDF and UNDP, nationally implemented by the Bank of Lao PDR (BOL). Operating under the UNCDF Inclusive Finance initiative, MAFIPP is designed to expand financial services outreach to low income households and entrepreneurs in Lao PDR on an equitable and sustainable basis. MAFIPP is seeking a Consultant to provide support services based on a needs assessment conducted by the BOL. The objectives of this assignment are to conduct training in “auditing principles and on-site examination” for FISD staff together with local audit firms as participants. The content of the training shall focus on “on-site examination” including audit standards and principles contained in the CGAP Handbook “External Audits of Microfinance Institutions” while taking a risk-based approach toward the audit function.This notice has been developed in response to an assessment of the required training and TA requirements of the sector institutions for the period 2011-2014 for enhancing the capacity of financial sector professionals and increasing the pool of trained and competent financial sector professionals in Lao-PDR.

Detailed Terms of Reference (TOR), qualification requirements, evaluation and award criteria, General Terms and Conditions for this consultancy can be downloaded from uNdP CO web-site at: http://www.undplao.org/vacancies/index.php

Requirements for submission of proposals: All interested and qualified candidates should apply on-line through the UNDP website at http://www.undplao.org/vacancies/index.php or http://jobs.undp.org Interested individual consultants must submit the following documents/information to demonstrate their qualifications: a) CV including past experience in a similar project and at least 3 references;b) Financial proposal - lump sum offer with clear cost breakdown (international travel, consultancy

fee and DSA). Note: Any request for clarification must be sent in writing to the following e-mail:[email protected] UNDP Lao PDR will respond in writing by standard electronic mail. The copies of the response will be also placed on our web-site at: http://www.undplao.org/vacancies/index.php and linked to the current Procurement Notice. All interested candidates are encouraged to visit the above web-site for updates.

female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply

Please visit our web-site at http://www.undplao.org to see other Procurement Notices/Vacancies and detailed information about uNdP Lao PdR

Vacancy Announcement: Sustainability Officer StoraEnsoLaoisundertakinganagroforestryprojectinremotepartsoftheSavannakhetandSaravaneprovinces.Wehaveayoungandprofessionalmulti-sectorteamworkingcloselywiththevillagers,wellunderstandingthattheyarethecornerstoneoftheproject.WearenowlookingforLaocandidatestojoinourteam.

Requirements: - DegreeinForestry,SocialScience,EnvironmentalScience,orrelatedfield- Workingexperienceinforestry,environmentandsocialworkisanadvantage- GoodcommandinMSOffice- GoodcommandofEnglishinlistening,speaking,reading,writing- Abilitytoworkindependently- Willingtoworkinchallengingenvironment- Goodcommunicatingskills

Applicants should submit a CV and proof of qualification or experience in an envelopemarkedwith‘SustainabilityOfficer’,before22February,2012toStoraEnsoLaoCo.,Ltd.,46Kaysone PhomvihaneAvenue, Ban Phonesaat.Telephone: 021 451 841-2. Email:[email protected]

StoraEnso is aglobalpaper,packagingandwoodproductscompanyproducingnewsprintandbookpaper,magazinepaper,finepaper,consumerboard,industrialpackagingandwoodproducts. The Group is the world leader in forest industry sustainability. We offer our customers solutions based on renewable raw materials. Our products provide a climate-friendly alternative to many non-renewable materials, and have a smaller carbon footprint. StoraEnsoislistedintheDowJonesSustainabilityIndexandtheFTSE4GoodIndex.StoraEnso employs some 27 000 peopleworldwide, and our sales in 2009 amounted to EUR8.9 billion. Stora Enso shares are listedonNASDAQOMXHelsinki (STEAV, STERV) andStockholm(STEA,STER).Inaddition,thesharesaretradedintheUSAasADRs(SEOAY)intheInternationalOTCQXover-thecountermarket.

10

Vientiane Times 21

RentsBuy is a leading full-service realestate company which has largestdatabaseforhouses,apartments,offices,business and land for rent/sale.

Sodon’twasteyourvaluabletimearound.Visit www.RentsBuy.com updated daily and tells us what properties you’d like to visit/call for free professional service at02077600059,22229744,and021223032Email:[email protected]

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, 020 7765 , 23666333, 4464 or 021 453 919.030 981 902, 020 23220022English*French*Japanese * ChineseEmail:[email protected]

Thursday February 2, 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

+8562055599430

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 +856-20-55673163Phone: +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

Bouakham HOUSE RENTAL

We can show you Land, Houses or Apartments in any location. Call us!

P.O.Box1940,Vientiane,LaoPDRTel:02055711396,77959199

Would you like to rent or buy property?

Available Hotel in the top of the mountion for sale in the center ofLuangPrabangProvince.

Guesthouseforrentwith25roomsclosetotheBusstationandStadiuminLuangPrabang

NewApartmentsforrentandsaleclosetoMercureHotelwith10rooms,reasonableprice.(Singleroomorallbuildingavialableforsale)

We have great places to rent and buy: Land, Houses, Apartments, Hotels, Resorts,

GuesthousesFor urgent sale at

reasonable price: House close to Donchan Hotel

with 8x22 m2

Email:[email protected]

(Sale now, not expensive)

Vientiane Times22

HOTEL LAO*Value*Comfort*ServiceIntheheartofVientiane

Idealforbusinessortourist43/7HengbounRoad,Vientiane

Tel:(85621)219280-1,Fax:(85621)219282Email:[email protected]

CityCentre,Short&longtermstayFrom3,200,000kip($400)permonth

Air-conditioning,cableTV,housekeeping,laundry,electricityandwater

Call:02055505840,55023782Email:[email protected]

SERVICED APARTMENTS Spacious&tastefullydecoratedFullyfurnished1&2bedroom

Air-conditioning,CableTV,Swimmingpool,Garden,Housekeeping,Laundry

MP: 020 55505840, 020 55023782Email: [email protected]

C 2 Classifieds Thursday February 2, 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

Lao Air Service Co.LtdÍçÖéÅèÈ Öà×ãÜÕ âÆê×éÈ ÄáÀèÈ

Email: [email protected], Fax: 021 217441Tel: 021 260419/020 55878688/020 55509957

PATuXAy APARTMENT Service Type: 2-Bed Room, 1-Bed Room & Studio Suite RoomFull Description: A brand new with fully furnished apartment, located at Ban Phonexay, Unit 02, Kaysone Street, Saysettha District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR, secured and encompassed in diplomatic areas, very close to Patuxay Monument. Free of charge utility services: water consumption, car parking, internet, etc. Rental Available for daily, weekly, monthly & yearly.

Contact No: Tel/Fax +856 21 415 965

Mobile: +856 20 2222 0747, 58888519, 55046458Email:[email protected]

Email: [email protected], [email protected]

job AnnouncementNative English Speaker 2 position

Physical Education Teacher 1 position

Art Teacher 1 positionGardener 1 position

Position 2 and 3 can be Lao or Foreign.Tel: 021 261 614-5, 020 22455655

Among cut, clarity and colour,the cut plays a critical role in expressing the brilliance

and fire in a diamond. It is the quality of the cut which releases the beauty of the diamond to your eyes. The ideal cut ensures a bright

and lively diamond forever. It’s the moment when you look

deep within yourself; the moment when you feel you can be everything you want to be;

the moment when you set yourself free from life’s definitions.

It’s the moment when you realise you want just to be you…

Rashmi Diamond JewelleryReflects your inner fire.

Rashmi JewellersDealing in Diamonds, Precious and Semi-precious

Gems and Jewellery, Set in 14/18 Kt Gold

316, Samsenthai Road,[Opposite Lao Plaza Hotel]

Tel #: [856-21] 251513,252790Fax #: [856-21] 243791, Mob #: [856-20] 2212021, 5513101

Email: [email protected]

VACANCIES ANNOUNCEMENTCesvi, established in 1985, is a secular, independent association, working for global solidarity. Cesvi has been operating in LAO PDR since 1996. Currently CESVI is implementing a Maternal and Child health care project in Southern Laos and is inviting applications for the following job position:

Administrative and Finance Officer (Lao national)

Location: Vientiane Contract duration: 1 year with possible extensionReports to: Program ManagerExpected start date: 15 February 2012Primary Duties:- management of petty cash- management of project accounts and payment of bills- process and file financial documentation- assist with data input including monthly financial data into Excel templates- ensure records and supporting documentation for financial transaction- assist the Project Manager in preparation of monthly financial reports- prepare a consolidated funds request for the following months as required- supervise and work with Provincial office regularly- maintain full transparency of finance systems - provide administrative supports, such as logistic work and purchasing matters - maintain office filing system- maintain Human Resources system and documents- assure adherence to internal rules and regulations- ensure smooth functioning of the office premises and oversee office equipment and inventory tracking- vehicle management- responsible for making travel arrangements for all staff- track and coordinate contract renewals- serve as focal point with suppliers - provide oral and written Lao to English and English to Lao translation as requiredKey Qualifications:- University graduate or equivalent demonstrated ability essential - Minimum 2 years relevant work experience in both administration and finance- Good communication skills in English and Lao, both spoken and written- Prior NGO experience strongly preferred - Ability to work both independently and as a team member - Strong communication, organizational and reporting skills- Able to meet deadlines- Strong computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, Microsoft Project and other basic applications and financial software)- deputize for the Project Manager during his/her absence - willingness to travel frequently to Southern Laos (Pakse, Attapeu, Sekong, Saravan).APPLICATION dEAdLINE: 15 February 2012APPLICATION PROCEduRE: To apply for the position please send by email your CV and a cover letter quoting and detailing your experience for the post, your salary expatiation including your phone number, address and names and contact details of three referees, to: [email protected]: Please state “Application for position of Administrative and Finance Officer” in the subject lineCandidates will be initially screened using the data in the CV submitted. Interview dates will be communicated in due course. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Professional Staff NeededCommunity and Environmental Services is a rural development consulting company established in the Lao PDR since 1998. In order to fill existing vacancies on projects, and in anticipation of future staffing needs, we would like to hear from competent Lao professionals with experience in the following fields:

If you are an experienced skilled and committed professional, please send your up to date and detailed cv to: [email protected] Find out more about CES by visiting our website: www.ceslao.com

Community Development

Roads and Bridge Engineers

Irrigation Engineers

WATSAN

Climate Change

Environmental Science

Bio Energy

Environmental Law

Agriculture and Value Chain Development

Economists

Monitoring and Evaluation

Gender and Indigenous Peoples

In the World Heritage Town of Luang Prabang, LuangPrabang Holiday Travel Co., Ltd is a tour operator specialising in Lao and Indochina package tours, car rental and ticket bookings for all forms of transport. We serve customers including individuals and group bookings at reasonable prices. We can also arrange inbound and outbound tours.

For further information, please contact us: Tel: +856-71-213 150; +856-20-55 04 64 74Fax: +856-71-213 150E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]

Vientiane Times 23Thursday February 2, 2012 Classifieds C 3

Big Discount Notice

Vientiane Times Marketing Department would like to inform all reader that: Effective from 2011 we will cut the cost of our online subscription and CD-Rom.

ONLINE

1 1 months (26 issues) 50,000 kip/account2 6 months (156 issues) 270,000 kip/ account3 1 year (312 issues) 500,000 kip/ account

CD ROM

1 Year 250.000 Kip 1 DVD3 years 560.000 Kip 1 DVD5 years 960.000 Kip 1 DVD6 years 1.120.000 Kip 1 DVD8 years 1.440.000 Kip 2 DVD10 years 1.600.000 Kip 3 DVD

Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding (NNRBDSP-AF)Department of PlanningMinistry of Agriculture and ForestryADB Project Number: 2780-LAO (SF)

job AnnouncementProject Management Advisor (International/Regional)

Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding is financed by ADB. The expected impact is the optimal use of the Water resources, especially in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The project outcome will be integrated watershed management improved in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The Additional Funding Project covers 3 provinces (Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang Province and Xiengkhuoang Province), 10 Districts and Headquarter located at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Vientiane. Nam Ngum Watershed covers 16,906 Km2 are including 8297 Km2 of upper watershed, 5000 Km2 of Forest area and 40,000 Ha of irrigated areas. Project Activities are implemented through three components and one office of the national project Manager: (1) Integrated Water Resource Management Component assigned under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE) (2) Integrated Watershed Management Component assigned under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and (3) Agriculture extension Component under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (4) The Office of the National Project Manager which is under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. The consultant will be assigned to the Project Component (4) the Office of the National Project Manager.MAF now invites qualified individuals to indicate their interest by providing their CVs (including information showing the candidate’s general experience for similar assignments and experience in similar assignments, knowledge of local conditions, etc.).

duties and Responsibilities Project management advisor will be responsible for overall project progress and Performance, under the supervision of the national project manager and Director General, DOP of MAF. The expert will supervise other experts engaged for the Project and work closely with project staff. The expert will, inter alia:

1. Facilitate project activities and coordination among project components and related agencies;2. Monitor project progress and performance, provide recommendations, and assist project

staff in implementing corrective actions;3. Update institutional and human resources capacity and needs assessments and annual

capacity development plans of the EA and IAs for project administration and coordination including information sharing;

4. Strengthen the capacity of the EA and IAs through the implementation of the annual capacity development plans;

5. Assist ONPM and PIUs at NAFES and districts in facilitating semi-annual review and planning at village, khet, district and central levels;

6. Assist ONPM and PIUs at NAFES and districts in facilitating the participatory village development planning process;

7. Prepare annual reports including detailed project progress and performance, lessons learned and recommendations;

8. Assist ONPM to prepare quarterly project progress reports; and 9. Report project-related issues to MAF, PSC and ADB as required.10. Assist ONPM as required for the whole project management.

Expected Outputs Project Coordination meeting report and the report on the follow up status of the meeting agreements produced.Human resource and Capacity Building, training need assessment report producedAnnual Capacity Building Plan (Training plan) producedAdditional target villages selectedPRA plan, PRA reports producedMonitoring and Evaluation (M&E) and reporting system updated following the Design and Monitoring FrameworkProject Quarterly Progress Report and Annual Progress Report producedAnnual Work Plan and Budget Plan producedAnnual procurement plan (including the consultant recruitment plan) producedTimely project implementation within budget

Training Conduct Project Administration Manual Application Training Conduct Financial Management and Procurement TrainingConduct Safeguards Training Jointly with M&E team, conduct M&E and Reporting TrainingConduct district staff training in preparing and/or revising district land use zoning in accordance with the Watershed Land Continuum Plan

Qualification Required• Master degree in agricultural economics, agronomy, and/or rural development, project

management. A first level university degree (Bachelor degree) with a combination of relevant experience can be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.

• At least 10 years of experience with the Management of the Agriculture development and livelihood development projects, Water resources management projects in the remote upland areas of Southeast Asia.

• Experience in participatory methods in extension and development and in working with ethnic minority groups and on gender issues; and

• Previous experience with the Project Management of the International Financial Institutions, be a team leader, project management advisor will be a good asset.

• Proficient in English. • Lao or Thai language capability is more preferable.• Computer literate.

Assignment duration: Six (6.5) Person months intermittent (Input spread over the three years of the Project Life) duty station: Vientiane Laos (conduct field visits as required)

The deadline for the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI), including the CVs is at 14:00 hrs 10th February 2012 at the address below. EOIs should be submitted (i) electronically (completed EOI form in CSRN on the ADB website), and (ii) manually (one hard copy and one electric file: CD-ROM). Late submissions will not be accepted.

Mr. Sisovath PhandanouvongProject Director Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional FundingDepartment Of PlanningMinistry of Agriculture and ForestryVientiane 01000, Lao PDR Tel. +856-21-263161 Fax +856-21-416556E-mail: [email protected]

Vientiane Times24C 4 Classifieds Thursday February 2, 2012

Lao People’s Democratic Republic Peace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity

Ministry of Education and Sports (MOES)Technical and Vocational Education Department No.:0036 /TVED.STVET.2012 Strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training Project Vientiane Capital, date: 16 January 2012

Invitation for BidsDate of Invitation : 18 January 2012Grant No and Title : ADB Grant No.: 0211-Lao (SF) Strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training Project (STVETP)Contract No. and Title : Construction of Dormitories and workshops in four Technical and Vocational institutions as follow: - NCB/STVETP/CW/VTP/02 (Technical College of Vientiane Province); - NCB/STVETP/CW/VTE/03 (Dongkhamxang Agriculture Technical School + Polytechnic College); - NCB/STVETP/CW/CPS/04 (Champasack Technical and Vocational College). Deadline for Bid Submission : 17 February 2012, 09:00 AM Lao time 1. The Lao Peoples’ Democratic Republic has received a grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) towards the cost of the Strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training Project (STVETP), and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to payments for the civil work contracts mentioned above. 2. The Ministry of Education and Sports (MOES), the employer, now invites sealed Bids from eligible Bidders for the construction of dormitories and workshops comprising 3 packages as follows:

3. National Competitive Bidding will be conducted in accordance with ADB's Single-Stage: One-Envelope Bidding Procedure and is open to all Bidders from eligible source countries of ADB.

4. Only eligible bidders with the following key information should participate in this bidding according below:Work Experience: • Have successful construction contracts in the role of contractor, subcontractor, or management contractor for at least the last 3

(three) years prior to the application submission deadline;• Participation as contractor, management contractor, or subcontractor, in at least two (2) contracts within the last five (5) years,

each with a value of at least following as below:

that have been successfully or is substantially completed and that are similar to the proposed works. The similarity shall be based on the physical size, complexity, methods, technology or other characteristics as described in Section 6, Works Requirements. Financial Status: • Submission of audited balance sheets and income statements or, if not required by the law of the bidder’s country, other financial

statements acceptable to the Employer, for the last three (3) years to demonstrate the current soundness of the bidders financial position. As a minimum, a Bidder’s net worth calculated as the difference between total assets and total liabilities should be positive;

• Minimum average annual construction turnover within the last three (3) years, calculated as total certified payments received for contracts in progress or completed shall be not less than as follow:

• All pending litigation shall be treated as resolved against the Bidder and so shall in total not represent more than 50% percent of the Bidder’s net worth;

• The bidders must demonstrate access to, or availability of, financial resources such as liquid assets, unencumbered real assets, lines of credit, and other financial means, other than any contractual advance payments, to meet the financial requirements of the contract in the amount of the bid. As a minimum, the bidder must show its resources in terms of at least the latest year’s working capital and lines of credit shall be adequate to cover the total Bid Price and current work commitments on the basic of the following formula: “5 X working capital + lines of credit – 40% (current contract commitments) ≥ bid price”. In case of joint venture bidder, all partners combined must meet the requirement; each partner must meet 25% of the requirement and one partner must meet 40% of the requirement.

Human Resource: • Interested bidders must be able to provide Project Manager with at least seven years of work experience and at least five years

of experience in work of similar nature; • Site Engineer with five years of work experience and at least three years work experience in similar nature. 5. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information and inspect the bidding documents at the address given below from

08:00 am - 04:30 pm, Monday - Friday. 6. The Bidding Document, in the English Language, maybe purchased by interested bidders on the submission of a written

application to the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee 800,000 LAK (eight hundred thousand Kip) or US $100 for each package. The mode of payment will be in cash or cashier’s check. The document will be sent through express mail/courier service. No liability will be accepted for loss or late delivery. Additional nonrefundable charges of 960,000 LAK (Nine hundred sixty thousand Kip) or US $120 for international courier service and US $ 20 for domestic courier service.

7. Bids must be delivered to the address indicated below, on or before 9 AM, 17 February, 2012. All bids must be accompanied by a bid security as specified in the bidding document. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened immediately after the deadline for bid submission in the presence of the bidders representatives who choose to attend at the address below.

8. The Ministry of Education and Sports will not be responsible for any costs or expenses incurred by Bidders in connection with the preparation or delivery of Bids.

Address: Ministry of Education and Sports Technical and Vocational Education Department Strengthening and Technical Vocational Education and Training Project Room No.: 129 (New Building 1st floor) Lane Xang Avenue Tel: 856-21-240008, 216473 Fax: 856-21-240008 E-mail: [email protected]