The central province of Thanh Hoa and its Lao neighbouring province Houphanh, which share 192 km of borderline, have signed a programme to coordinate in forest protection from now to 2012.

The programme on forest protection and fire control will be carried out at three levels - provincial, district and communal.

The Authorities and relevant agencies of the two provinces will launch education campaigns in order to mobilise local people to involve in fire prevention efforts and the fight against illegal logging and poaching.

The programme is expected to contribute to maintaining border security and building a border of peace, friendship and development.