Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has called for leading officials in the Ministry of Energy and Mines to ensure more effective management of investment projects.
The Vientiane Mai newspaper reported on Monday that Sonexay made the call when speaking at a meeting of the ministry on Friday.
Minister of Energy and Mines Phoxay Sayasone summarised the work of the ministry over the past year.
The minister cited improved management of the use of electricity within Laos, efforts to balance energy sources and regulate mineral exploration.
There were efforts of carrying out effective assessments of companies with operations in the mining sector.
In addition, he reported on mining and mineral processing operations and the management of rare earth and iron ores.
Sonexay instructed the energy and mining sectors to introduce stricter guidance in their respective areas of work, asking ministry officials to also focus on reviewing policies.
Also review on electricity supply across all sectors of society to contribute to socio-economic development and ease poverty levels.
He called on the ministry to help fulfil the resolutions adopted by the government regarding the increased use of electric vehicles as well as the greater use of the clean energy sources available in Laos.
In addition, Sonexay urged the ministry to evaluate the progress of mineral exploration and processing operations that have not yet been completed.
This would also determine specific criteria for the licensing of mining development and investment companies, according to the report