KUALA LUMPUR - The Japanese government is continuing its support to help Laos build a skilled workforce and strengthen its administrative capacity for national development.

The Lao-Japan Human Resource Development Institute (LJI), in cooperation with the National University of Laos, held a seminar on Wednesday to discuss the role of human resource development in national growth and Japan’s contribution in sharing its experience.

National University of Laos President, Professor Dr Dexanourath Seneduangdeth said the seminar reviewed past achievements in human resource development, especially through cooperation between Lao and Japanese experts.

“This gathering is an opportunity to share perspectives by expressing our varying views on ways to broaden knowledge and develop more effective cooperation with Japan,” he said.

He added that human development is central to Laos’ progress as it supports economic growth, social stability and cultural development.

Dexanourath said investing in people is essential to ensure sustainable development and long-term prosperity.

He added Japan has become one of Laos’ key partners by providing broad support to strengthen human capital.

Through scholarships, cultural exchanges and business training programmes, Japan has enabled Lao students, professionals and civil servants to gain valuable skills and knowledge.

These initiatives not only improve individual capabilities but also contribute to the country’s wider development goals.

The cooperation reflects a shared belief that empowering people is the most effective way to drive national progress.

Japan’s assistance also includes efforts to strengthen governance by supporting institutional reforms and capacity-building programmes in public administration.

This support helps ensure that development policies are implemented effectively and benefit communities nationwide.

Japanese Ambassador to Laos,  Koizumi Tsutomu said the Lao-Japan Institute, together with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has played a key role in strengthening human capital and business development in recent years.

He said their collaboration has helped produce quality businesses and skilled experts, contributing to Laos’ socio-economic growth.

Last year, Laos and Japan marked 70 years of diplomatic relations after upgrading ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.