Vietnam helps Laos develop broadcasting infrastructure Construction started on a Vietnamese-funded radio and television broadcasting station in Laos’ central Savannakhet province on December 12. The groundbreaking ceremony saw the participation of officials from the Lao Government and Ministries of Planning and Investment and Information, Culture and Tourism, and those from Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment and Radio The Voice of Vietnam. Covering an area of more than 10,000 sq.m, the project is built at a total cost of nearly VND117 billion (US$5,199 million) sourced from the Vietnamese government’s non-refundable aid. It will comprise of a 135-metre-high antenna pole, working offices, and an internal road system, completed with modern equipment. Speaking at the ceremony, VOV General Director Nguyen Dang Tien affirmed that the project is one of the key cooperation activities between his VOV and the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism. For his part, Lao Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Savankhone Razmontry thanked the Vietnamese Party, Government and people for their support for Laos, stating that this shows the special relations between the two countries. He said this is the fourth broadcasting facility Vietnam has built for Laos, which when completed will bring radio and TV broadcast coverage to 95 percent and 85 percent of Lao’s territorial area, respectively, as well as ensure uninterrupted signals reception from the Lao National Television. On the occasion, Lao Deputy Prime Minister Somsavad Lengsavath presented the Labour Order, third class of the Lao State to VOV General Director Nguyen Dang Tien in recognition of his recent contributions to Laos’ broadcasting sector.  VNA