(MENAFN) Lao Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Linkham Douangsavanh is urging the public to take an active role in preserving the country’s forest resources, stressing the need for their conservation, development, and sustainable use.

During a press briefing on Tuesday in anticipation of Laos' upcoming National Arbor Day, Linkham highlighted that forests are vital to the nation's overall economic and social progress.

He pointed out that forests play a key role in maintaining soil and water health, protecting biodiversity, lessening the impact of climate change, and supporting major sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, energy, and rural development.

According to a newspaper on Wednesday, managing forests sustainably also contributes significantly to poverty reduction, particularly within ethnic communities.

National Arbor Day, held annually on June 1, seeks to enhance public understanding—especially among young people—about the value of forests and the importance of managing them responsibly.

The Lao government has made forest stewardship a priority, implementing strategies and legal frameworks in line with broader national development objectives.

To commemorate Arbor Day in 2025, large-scale tree planting events are planned across the nation, aiming to reforest approximately 1,600 hectares with over 997,000 new trees.

The ministry is calling on government agencies, private organizations, and local communities to join in these planting initiatives based on regional needs. Citizens are also being encouraged to support forest preservation and reforestation, reinforcing forests as a sustainable pillar of Laos’ development strategy.

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