The achievements Laos has made over the past 38 years would not have been possible without the support of international friends, Lao President Choummaly Sayasone has said.

Addressing a reception given to foreign diplomatic missions and international organisations in Laos to celebrate the country’s forthcoming National Day (December 2) in Vientiane on November 29, the president described this global assistance as one of the most important factors helping Laos escape from the list of underdeveloped countries by 2020.

In implementing the country’s five-year socio-economic development plan for the 2011-2015 period, Laos lowered the rate of poor households to 10.57 percent in 2013, creating a firm foundation for it to fullfil the target of reducing the percentage to under 10 by 2015, according to the president.

The national per capita income reached 1,500 USD in the year, he added.

He also reiterated Laos ’ consistent external relations policy of peace, independence, friendship and cooperation for mutual development while getting prepared for regional and international integration, especially the formation of the ASEAN Community by 2015.

The state leader expressed his hope that the diplomats will continue to support and work with Laos in building peace, stability, friendship and cooperation for sustainable development in the region and the world at large.-VNA