Overall, the Lao PDR has achieved remarkable economic and social progress over the past two decades or so. The proportion of people living below the poverty line has been reduced by more than 40 percent from the levels recorded in 1992/93. The infant and under-five mortality rates show a steady decline over time.

Indeed, the country has already achieved the national MDG target for under-five mortality rate, previously set at 80 per thousand live births. In addition, there is good progress towards universal primary education; and the access to health services has increased steadily.

Gender parity has steadily improved in all three levels of educationin Lao PDR. Malaria and tuberculosis also show a steady decline. Yet we recognize that we cannot afford to be complacent and that huge challenges remain.