On March 22, Oudet Souvannavong and Bounleuth Luangpaseuth of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) met with Tetsuya Watanabe, President of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), to discuss renewable energy initiatives and Laos' role in the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC). The dialogue emphasized Laos’ commitment to decarbonization and energy transitions.

Laos, with its vast hydropower potential, aims to deliver over 25,000 megawatts of green energy. The government is also promoting solar and wind energy development. However, challenges like lack of legislation and high financing costs hinder progress. Collaborative efforts with international investors and organizations like ERIA are seen as crucial to overcoming these obstacles and achieving energy security and economic growth while transitioning to renewable energy sources.

ERIA's involvement includes supporting the Asia Zero Emission Center, which aids in achieving net zero emissions through policy research and project platforms. As Laos prepares to host the ASEAN summit, the country aims to showcase its green growth potential and attract international cooperation. The dialogue underscored the importance of public-private partnerships and practical pilot projects to drive Laos’ green energy future.