Overview of the working session

In recent years, Lao Cai Province has received significant support from non-refundable ODA funding provided by the Australian Government through the GREAT 1 and GREAT 2 projects. The total ODA funding for GREAT 1 and GREAT 2 amounts to AUD 31.17 million (equivalent to nearly VND 500 billion), representing an important resource contributing to gender equality objectives and the province’s overall socio-economic development.

Ms. Naomi Cook, Counsellor for Development Cooperation, highly appreciated the results of the implementation of the GREAT Program in Lao Cai

Currently, GREAT 2 Lao Cai Project (2022 - 2027), with ODA funding of AUD 14.32 million (equivalent to VND 224 billion), is being actively implemented and has achieved encouraging results. The Lao Cai Provincial People’s Committee has approved 10 project proposals submitted by 10 key partners, with a total investment of VND 170.2 billion, including VND 79.5 billion in project funding and VND 90.7 billion committed by participating partners. Cumulative disbursement from the beginning of the project to the end of December 2025 reached VND 107.09 billion, accounting for 46% of the total project investment (including VND 101.04 billion in non-refundable ODA, VND 1.65 billion in counterpart funding from partners, and VND 4.4 billion from Lao Cai Province).

At the meeting, Ms. Naomi Cook highly appreciated the results of the GREAT Program in Lao Cai, emphasizing that it delivers tangible benefits to women, particularly ethnic minority women and vulnerable groups. She expressed her hope that Lao Cai would continue sharing its implementation experience at bilateral forums and suggested that the province expedite the approval of sub-projects to ensure timely implementation. The Australian Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to long-term and sustainable partnership with Lao Cai Province in socio-economic development.

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Sinh, Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee, requested the Australian Embassy to continue its attention and support for the province during the implementation of the GREAT 2 Project.

To further enhance project effectiveness, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Sinh requested the Australian Embassy to continue supporting Lao Cai during the implementation of GREAT 2, and to consider allowing more flexible budget adjustments and allocations among project components to better align with changes in administrative arrangements, organizational restructuring, and local practical requirements. Such flexibility, he noted, would help ensure project progress and effectiveness.

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Sinh presented a traditional brocade scarf to Ms. Naomi Cook.

He also affirmed that Lao Cai Province would continue to direct relevant departments, agencies, and localities to closely coordinate with the Project Management Unit and implementing partners; proactively assign focal points; and promptly address difficulties arising during implementation. The province is committed to creating the most favorable conditions in terms of mechanisms, policies, and inter-sectoral coordination to ensure the effective implementation of GREAT 2, thereby contributing to socio-economic development goals, promoting gender equality, and strengthening the Vietnam - Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the coming period.