Lao PDR: Lao PDR is aiming to remove itself
from the list of least developed countries (LDC) by
2020 and eradicate mass poverty by 2010. However,
to achieve those goals, it must first deal with a
number of constraints such as a low production base,
lack of highly skilled human resources, poor
infrastructure, and an unfavorable geographical
position as a landlocked country. The government
hopes that infrastructure development, tourism
development, and promotion of natural resourcesbased
industries will change the country from being a
landlocked one to a land-linked one. It is also hoped
that this will provide Lao PDR full access to the
seaports of neighboring countries and other regional
networks of roads and railways. These priority sectors
are expected to significantly enhance the process of
economic development and poverty reduction