Newly signed Grant Agreement supports the National Statistical System in Lao PDR to improve access, quality and reliability of macroeconomic and poverty statistics
Vientiane, May 17, 2013 – The Vice Minister of Finance of Lao People’s Democratic Republic, H.E. Santiphab Phomvihane and the World Bank Country Manager for Lao PDR Keiko Miwa, signed today grant agreement in the amount of US$8 million to further support the Government’s efforts in strengthening National Statistical System and improving production, availability and use of quality statistics.
“The ceremony today reaffirms the commitment and cooperation between the Government of Lao PDR and the World Bank in supporting the Government priorities as outlined in its National Socio-Economic Development Plan. This grant will contribute to modernizing and streamlining the National Statistical System to ensure that it is well equipped in terms of human resource, essential tools and infrastructure to effectively produce and disseminate good and reliable statistics”, said Mr. Santiphab Phomvihane.
The objective of the Project is to improve the capacity of the national statistical system to produce and disseminate reliable and timely macroeconomic and poverty statistics in accordance with international standards and in response to rising needs. The funds are expected to contribute to the improved quality, timeliness and reliability of macroeconomic and poverty socioeconomic data and easy access to statistical information for effective policymaking, good governance, the design and monitoring of programs and policies.
“This grant supports the Government to strengthen evidence-based policy making and monitoring of implementation”, said Ms. Keiko Miwa, World Bank Country Manager for Lao PDR. “Improving statistical related policies as well as enhancing macroeconomic and poverty data sharing and access are critical investment for the sustainable and inclusive development of Lao PDR”.
