VIENTIANE, June 10 (Xinhua) -- Laos has launched a national plan aimed at strengthening human resource development and advancing science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of sustainable national development.

The National Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy and Development Plan 2026-2040 and the National Teacher Policy for the Education and Sports sector were launched to set out clear goals, directions, and priority areas for both the public and private sectors, according to a report from the Lao Ministry of Technology and Communications on Wednesday.

Lao officials emphasized that science, technology, and innovation are key drivers of socio-economic development, contributing to national security, improved quality of life, solutions to global environmental challenges, and more efficient public administration.

The plan includes 17 programs and 85 projects aimed at improving production efficiency, creating added value, and advancing toward sustainable, self-reliant, and globally integrated development. ■