VIENTIANE, May 21 (Xinhua) -- Laos is accelerating efforts to prevent and eliminate child labor while promoting decent work opportunities for youth and strengthening child protection across the country.

Students play at Phiawath School, in Vientiane, Laos, Oct. 23, 2025. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

The Lao Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, in cooperation with the International Labor Organization, held a consultation meeting on the draft National Strategy on the Elimination of Child Labor and the Promotion of Decent Work for Youth in Laos, according to the ministry's report released on Thursday.

The meeting was held from Tuesday to Wednesday in Vientiane province, bringing together government officials, development partners, and relevant stakeholders to discuss measures aimed at preventing child labor and improving employment opportunities for youth across the country.

In his speech, Deputy Director General of the ministry's Department of Labor Management Khamphat Onlasy highlighted the Lao government's commitment to strengthening regional and international cooperation to sustainably eliminate child labor, expand access to education, and improve coordination among relevant sectors.

The meeting marked an important step in strengthening cooperation between the government, international organizations, and development partners to protect children from labor exploitation and support the development of the country's future workforce.