Laos prepares for face-to-face EU FLEGT, VPA negotiations
The Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade technical working group on December 15 met in Vientiane to discuss finalised key parts of the draft timber definitions to be submitted to the European Union by the end of this month. The submission is crucial preparation for the first face-to-face negotiations between the government of Laos and the EU on the Voluntary Partnership Agreement, scheduled for late February next year. “The proper definition of legal timber is very crucial towards improving sustainable forest management and good governance in Laos, as it helps to enhance understanding among relevant government staff and the private sector in the forestry and timber industry, especially when it comes to forest inspection practices,” Forest Inspection Department’s Director General, Mr Khamphout Phandanouvong said.
