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Inside

First European Food Festival to titillate Vientiane taste budspage 3

EU to play a bigger role in ASEAN page 6

Private investment can improve health, education in Laos: ADBpage B

4500 kip 4500 kip Monday aprIl 30, 2012 ISSUE 98 www.vientianetimes.la

Vientiane TimesThe First national English language newspaper

Continued page 3

Govt plans salary increase for state employees

Somsack Pongkhao

The government is planning to increase salaries for state employees next year in line with rising living costs.

A three-day government meeting held in Vientiane last week agreed in principle with the findings of research pointing to the need for increases in salaries and allowances for civil servants, in line with economic growth and inflation.

Government spokesperson Ms Bounpheng Mounphosay told Vientiane Times at a press conference after the meeting that the government proposed to increase salaries by about 30 percent, or 1,000 kip per index

point, which is the system by which officials’ salaries are set based on different levels of qualification, experience and position.

The government has asked the Ministry of Finance to verify if the national budget can respond to the proposed increases.

“Our government has tried to raise the salary for officials for a long time, but financial difficulties delayed the process,” she said.

She added that the salary increases aimed to reflect the present economic reality of Laos and respond to the basic needs of government officials in the face of inflation.

Vientiane Times notice

There will be no issue ofthe Vientiane Times on International Labour

Day on Tuesday, May 1.

Times Reporters

Champassak provincial authorities have been bombarded with requests from concerned locals to rescue a sacred manikhoth tree - a holy tree in Buddhist tradition - from being swept away by the Mekong River after it toppled over last month.

The tree stood on a rock in the middle of Khonephapeng waterfall, the thunderous 10km wide falls in southernmost Champassak province, near the Cambodian border.

The fallen tree is still partly on land while some of the trunk lies in the river, and locals fear the holy tree will

Champassak authorities asked to rescue fallen holy tree

The uprooted manikhoth tree lies in the Mekong River.

be swept away by the strong current.

Locals want the authorities to lift the tree out of the river and display it appropriately as a cultural relic.

According to local media, the tree fell on March 19, which has sparked public reaction as far north as Vientiane because of its perceived supernatural powers.

The manikhoth features as a holy tree in the ancient Sanskrit epic of Phra Lak-Phra Lam or Ramayana. A manikhoth has three limbs, and according to the legend fruit eaten from the first limb will bring eternal youth and long life, the second will bring

great power and status, while fruit eaten from the third limb, pointing to the west, brings bad luck – the eater will turn into a monkey.

The people of Khong district believe that the fallen tree is holy and has powers as stated in the epic.

Champassak authorities reported that many people were trying to collect pieces of the tree for good luck and health, and some were cashing in by selling pieces of bark that peeled away, claiming they contain the powers of the manikhoth tree if consumed.

The practice is not limited to Champassak province. “Some

Continued page 2

Times Reporters

Party Secretary General Mr Choummaly Sayasone has urged all Party members and government officials to strengthen the Party by preventing the erosion of political ideology.

Mr Choummaly, who is also President of the Lao PDR, made the call on Saturday while addressing the 9th Nationwide Organisa t ional-Personnel Meeting in Vientiane.

“To date, we can confirm that the directions and policies formulated by the Party are basically correct, especially the renovation policies, while we should properly implement propaganda, education and training, and realise the breakthrough approach on knowledge and imagination in order to achieve fruitful results of the implementation of our directions and policies,” he said.

President Choummaly acknowledged the importance and attention the Party gives to its personnel, building and strengthening officials to ensure the Party’s continued existence and growth.

However, the Party has

also realised its weaknesses and deficiencies such as insufficient dedication by Party organisations and units to implementing the two national strategic missions, with a central focus on economic development.

“This requires Party oganisations at all levels to

strengthen their leadership and the knowledge and skills of their personnel. However, what we have done doesn’t meet the requirements,” Mr Choummaly said.

He noted issues of concern about which

public criticism is on the rise, saying this pointed to the erosion of political ideology, diligence of heart and ethics among civil servants, as evidenced by non-transparent livelihoods, opportunism and corruption.

Recognising that these problems directly affect the Party’s role and power, stability and political strength, he called on Party members and all involved officials to study the issues properly in depth, to identify comprehensive measures and tools for solutions.

party Secretary General urges struggle against ideology erosion

Mr Choummaly Sayasone speaks

at the meeting.

Continued page 2

2 Vientiane Times

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Home news

Bounfaeng Phaymanivong

Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) presented new digital broadcasting equipment donated by the government of Japan to Lao National Television (LNTV) on Friday, to enable staff to produce more attractive TV programmes.

The equipment was presented by JICA Office Chief Representative Mr Masato Togawa and received by LNTV Director General Dr Bounchom Vongphet.

The handover ceremony was witnessed by Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Mr Savankhone Razmountry, Counsellor of the Embassy of Japan to Laos Mr Shigeki Kobayashi, and other officials.

The new equipment,

which is valued at more than US$70,000, includes digital HDV camcorders, digital HDV players and other broadcasting equipment.

“On behalf of LNTV, I’d like to express my sincere thanks to the government and people of Japan, especially to JICA, for providing such valuable equipment which will contribute greatly to production and broadcasting at LNTV,” Dr Bounchom said at the ceremony.

He said the government of Japan has helped LNTV over an extended period, especially through an US$8 million grant provided to rebuild the television station in 1993. They also sent Japanese experts to work with LNTV staff from 1994-2000.

“The digital broadcasting equipment that has been

donated will enable us to produce more attractive programming and draw a lot more local viewers,” Dr Bounchom said.

The government of Japan and LNTV share a long history of cooperation, especially in the installation of broadcasting equipment and rebuilding of facilities.

Since 1994, technical cooperation has enabled Lao staff to learn about modern broadcasting and equipment maintenance.

Under the “Project for the Improvement of TV Programmes of Lao National Television” which was funded through a cultural grant aid, 178 documentaries and 306 educational programmes have been provided, which will contribute to social development and children’s education.

Japan gives boost to lao TV programming

Mr Savankhone Razmountry (sixth left) attends the handover ceremony on Friday.

Ounkham Pimmata

Savannakhet police recently seized 80 pieces of rosewood, after receiving a tip off from a local man to check a suspicious truck seen in the area.

Customs officials told the Pathet Lao newspaper on Friday the truck was travelling from Kaysone Phomvihane district to Outhomphone

district when they stopped it to conduct a search.

Whilst inspecting the contents of the load, police discovered a quantity of rosewood on the back of the truck, which may have been illegally logged.

The driver of the truck, a Vietnamese man named Mr Tong, told police he had no idea that there was rosewood

on board and said he was merely a driver. He said he collected the load of wood at No 10 factory in Nakham village and was to take it to another destination.

Police confiscated the truck and the wood, which will be held at the customs depot until the owner of the wood can produce the necessary documentation to certify that it is legal.

Authorities said that so far, no one has come forward to claim the wood, and if this remains the case, ownership will revert to the state. However they still intend to investigate the origin of the wood, so that any wrongdoers may be punished according to the law.

An official told the media that the illegal logging and export of rosewood to neighbouring countries remains a problem, with illegal operators engaging in corrupt practices and destroying native forests.

After an assessment by a timber expert, authorities estimate the confiscated rosewood to be worth around 1.8 billion kip.

Savannakhet authorities seize rosewood shipment

The confiscated load of rosewood in storage at the customs office.

Times Reporters

The authorities are preparing to ask the government to designate Nam Lort Cave in Bualapha district, Khammuan province, as a new national tourism site.

Tourism-related officials met in the province last week to discuss the steps to be taken to raise the profile of the cave, by declaring it to be of national significance.

Meeting participants came from the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism and Khammuan provincial and district authorities.

The cave is located north-east of Hin Nam Nor Mountain National Protected Area near three villages in Bualapha district, about 154km from the provincial capital Thakhek.

The 13.5km cave is a fascinating natural wonder

and the authorities believe it could attract large numbers of Lao and foreign tourists if it were widely advertised.

Officials discussed how they might develop facilities and bring the cave to the attention of overseas visitors, while bringing in income to alleviate the poverty of local villagers.

Khammuan province has many caves that have yet to be exploited. Many people believe that if the right facilities were provided, the province could attract tourists in large numbers.

The most well known caves in the province are Buddha Cave, the 7.5km Konglor Cave, Nang Aen Cave and Phachan Cave.

The province also has waterfalls and other areas of natural beauty where various eco-tourism activities are operated, including in the

Nakai protected area.Last year, about 300,000

tourists visited Khammuan province and this figure is expected to increase by more than 20 percent this year.

The opening of the third Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge connecting Khammuan province in Laos to Thailand’s Nakhon Phanom province across the Mekong has brought more Thai tourists to Laos on their way to Vietnam.

Laos and Thailand jointly run eight buses a day between Thakhek and Meuang district in Thailand.

In addition, several buses bringing Thai tourists to Khammuan province and Vietnam operate over the weekend.

The provincial authorities have decided to invest more in infrastructure to accommodate the expected boom in tourism and business.

Khammuan cave to be opened up to tourists

The 13.5km long Nam Lort Cave in Khammuan province is to be made accessible to tourists.

people in my office even wrote an advert to sell manikhoth bark, saying it has supernatural powers,” a Vientiane resident told Vientiane Times.

However, at present no one knows the exact species of the tree because it is surrounded

by the falls, making collecting the bark a dangerous activity.

“Only birds can get to the tree,” said an elderly woman in nearby Thakhor village.

According to local residents, branches of the tree that have been found floating

in the Mekong in the past are kept in some houses for religious purposes or sold to believers.

Champassak authorities are considering how the tree can be safely removed from the river.

Champassak authorities... FROM PAGE 1

Mr Choummaly stressed the need for political ideology training to be conducted in the right direction, to achieve the correct understanding of Party directions and policies, success in political alertness, and activeness in national defence and development, and poverty reduction. He also highlighted the need

for officials to earn a living legally for the enrichment of their family and nation.

He recommended that political ideology training should be conducted alongside a struggle against negativity and the erosion of ideology and revolutionary diligence of heart, and other undesirable behaviour. “Conducting political ideology

work should involve both building and struggling against erosion. This means we should summarise, conclude and widely disseminate the lessons learned and the good and progressive models we have, while persistently uncovering, preventing and minimising antagonist ideology and behaviour,” he said.

Party Secretary General... FROM PAGE 1

Vientiane Times 3Monday April 30, 2012 Home news

Times Reporters

The first European Food Festival will be held in Vientiane on May 9 at the National Culture Hall to mark the 62nd anniversary of the European Union.

The culinary event is organised through a joint initiative of the European Union Delegation, European Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Union of French Expatriates.

The festival aims to showcase the diverse, rich and well-loved cuisine of the old continent that has been handed down over many generations and gained worldwide acclaim.

Chargé d'Affaires of the EU Delegation to Laos Mr Michel Goffin, Director of Marketing & Event Management of the European Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mrs Flavia Usher,

and President of the Union of French Expatriates Mr Alain Daout held a press conference in Vientiane on Friday to inform the media about the festival.

Mr Goffin said this first European Food Festival will help promote cultural cooperation and will include numerous activities, especially concerning food. Various food tents will be designed to match each country's most notable characteristics, serving drinks including European wines and beverages. There will also be fun contests for children and live entertainment.

Up to 17 European restaurateurs and food vendors from Vientiane will be joining the festivities and guests will have a chance to enjoy a journey through the amazing culinary world of Europe.

There will be activities for

children including games and performances. The festival is not designed only for foreigners but will also be of interest to the Lao community.

Mr Daout said the main aim of the event is to promote products from Europe, such as chocolate, as well as to showcase their skills and food products.

Mrs Usher said “For us it is very important to start focusing on unity with all the bad economic headlines coming out of Europe. For us it is more a celebration of unity and sharing moments together after the desperate news coming out of Europe.”

“We like to showcase the unity and the culture of Europe. In Europe, it is very important to share a meal with friends and we would like to invite Lao people to join us to experience the new taste from Europe.”

First European Food Festival to titillate Vientiane taste buds

(From left) Mrs Flavia Usher, Mr Michel Goffin and Mr Alain Daout attend the press conference in Vientiane.

Khonesavanh Latsaphao

The soldiers of Battalion 642 in Borikhamxay province are planting out some of their training grounds with cassava, as they don’t require the land for military exercises at this time of the year.

“We are planting cassava in some places because the land is lying fallow when we have a break from training, Lieutenant Colonel Sengmanivone Khammany told Vientiane Times on Thursday.

It’s a bit of an experiment by Battalion 642, who have never grown cassava before. However they view it as a way to put army land to productive use, and have signed a contract to sell the crop to the Lao Indochina Group’s tapioca factory.

They have signed a three year contract with the company, and plan to grow 30 hectares of cassava over the next three years, for supply to the factory. The tapioca factory will pay the battalion 500,000 kip per tonne.

“We expect yields of 25 to 28 tonnes per hectare when the cassava is harvested in October,” Lt Col Sengmanivone said, saying the sandy soil was well suited to the hardy root crop.

This may be the first time they have tried their hand at cassava, but Battalion 642 has various agricultural enterprises underway.

Each soldier must plant and maintain two vegetable plots, and help raise cattle, pigs and poultry to supply their army mess with food.

Battalion 642 also has its own chicken farm, with more than 300 hens in all. They collect the eggs for the kitchen, with the remainder sold at local markets, Lt Col Sengmanivone explained.

Cultivating cassava was one of the best ways to keep the soldiers fit and strong, he said, and they could kill two birds with one stone by planting out a commercial crop.

The soldiers of Battalion 642 have now finished planting, after sowing out the 30 hectares earlier this month.

The army aren’t the

Army battalion tries hand at cassava farming

Lieutenant Colonel Sengmanivone Khammany tends to the cassava crop.

only ones growing cassava in Borikhamxay however; many local villagers are also farming it, because cassava is proving to be a profitable crop.

The Lao Indochina Group has contracts with many farmers in the area, while others are selling to factories in neighbouring Thailand and Vietnam. Chairman of the Lao Indochina Group Public Company Mr Sengmaly Sengvathana said they are currently expanding their factory as more people start planting cassava.

The company is investing about 16 billion kip (US$2 million) to add two more production lines and boost tapioca output.

The factory requires four production lines to produce at least 600 tonnes of tapioca from 2,400 tonnes of cassava per day.

Lao Indochina Group also has branches in Nanning

city, Guangxi province, and Hangzhou city in Zhejiang province of China. The factory can buy cassava from villagers at a guaranteed rate because it now has a large market in China.

China needs about 12 million tonnes of tapioca per year, so the company is working with farmers in Laos to expand the cassava plantation area to try to capitalise on Chinese demand.

The company reported last year that it had a total of 7,689 hectares under cassava cultivation, which provided jobs for over 2,700 families and company members, in 171 villages in Vientiane and the provinces of Borikhamxay and Vientiane.

It originally planned to expand cultivation to 10,500 hectares this year, but this may increase by three times the initial estimate due to the increasing number of farmers now growing cassava.

Times Reporters

The government will include new criteria in next month’s nationwide survey to assess the level of development in rural areas and to quantify poverty reduction.

The government released Decree No. 201 on April 25 concerning the new poverty and development criteria, which will be followed from now until 2015.

The new criteria will take into account environmental sustainability and gender equality. Several of the new criteria will be used to evaluate the development status of districts. Those used to determine the status of development village groups will be replaced by criteria to assess the progress of large villages on the transition to becoming small towns.

Government Decree No. 201 supports Politburo Decision No. 3 on the Building of Village as Development Unit, Building of Big Village as Small Town, and Resolution No. 3 on Building of Province as Strategic Unit, District as Comprehensive Strong Unit, and Village as Development Unit.

Government Decree No. 201 maintains the same structure as Prime Minister’s

Govt to add new criteria to development classification

Decree No. 285, including parts and articles. However, it rearranges the classification of the status of families and villages in accordance with the new criteria.

Heads of the Government Office and Central Committee for Rural Development and Poverty Reduction (CCRDPR) on Friday released an instruction for Vientiane and provincial authorities to follow, concerning the progress of poverty and development in 2012, starting with use of the new decree.

According to a press release from the CCRDPR, changes in accordance with the new decree will relate to administrative data collection, and capacity building among local administrations, with the aim of pursuing democratic systems.

The information collected must be summarised so higher-level authorities can analyse whether it is sufficiently comprehensive and in line with the four themes and four targets, and reflects the progress of poverty reduction in keeping with Politburo Decision No. 3.

The results of next month’s survey will be compared with those obtained from a survey

undertaken in the middle of last year, which was implemented under Prime Minister’s Decree No. 285. This survey revealed there were about 200,000 poor families in the country, or 19 percent of the total 1,053,000 families.

The survey also revealed there were 3,100 poor villages, or 37 percent of the total 8,600 villages in the country’s 143 districts. Some 495,000 families were classified as developed, or 47 percent of the total, and 883 villages were classified as developed, or 10 percent of the total.

The government aims to reduce the number of poor families to 17 percent or less of the total, and for the number of developed villages to be 15 percent of the total.

The result of next month’s survey will be used as the basis for plans to reduce poverty from now until 2015. The government has set a target for the number of poor families not to exceed 10 percent by that year, and for the number of poor villages to be not more than 11 percent, or less than 960 villages.

The government is also aiming for 50 percent of all villages to be classified as developed by the year 2015.

“The government’s intention is to reasonably respond to the needs of officials, despite limited income and revenues. The salary increase also aims to encourage government officials to concentrate more on their duties.”

The increase was proposed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which has been looking at how to restructure salary increases from 2013 to 2015.

Ms Bounpheng was unable to unveil further details of the salary and allowance increases because the level of the increase in each year would depend on the government’s financial capacity.

Currently, the salary of state officials ranges from 500,000 kip to 1.5 million kip per month depending on their

index total. However, those who hold

a bachelor degree now earn about 700,000 kip per month, and holders of advanced degrees receive a higher sum than this.

In 2007, the year before the global financial crisis hit, the government decided to increase salaries for state employers by 20 percent.

Last year, the government increased salaries once more from 3,000 kip to 3,500 kip per index, or about 16 percent.

The salary increase not only aims to improve the living standards of state officials, but also to maintain public purchasing power.

An important side issue to the move is the effective management of product prices so that market vendors

don’t use the higher salaries as an excuse to hike their prices.

The Lao economy continues to grow at 8 percent annually. The country’s revenue collection is on the rise, and the government considers it important to raise state salaries to counter inflation.

According to the Bank of the Lao PDR, the average inflation rate in Laos in 2011 was 7.58 percent. Higher monthly averages were recorded however, and inflation stood at 9.24 percent in April, 9.76 percent in May, and 9.52 percent in June.

This year, the inflation rate has fallen but remained relatively high at 6.69 percent in January, 6.11 percent in February, and 5.33 percent in March.

Govt plans salary increase... FROM PAGE 1

4 Vientiane TimesHome news Monday April 30, 2012

News in Brief

Vacancy AnnouncementVientiane Times

Positions available

1. Secretary (2 positions)- Lao nationality, female (aged below 25, single).- Advanced university degree in English (Secretary Diploma required)- Good communication in spoken English and writing. - Computer skills in Microsoft Word and Excel.- Good character and friendly disposition. - Able to work overtime if necessary.

2. Finance and accounting (1 position)- Lao nationality, aged below 30.- Advanced university degree in finance and accounting with 1 year

experience.- Experience in statistics and planning will be advantage. - Computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and Accounting

programmes.- Able to work overtime if necessary.

All interested candidates are invited to submit an application letter and CV to Vientiane Times office during official working hours until May 25, 2012.

* Vientiane Times corner of Pangkham and Setthathirath Roads, Vientiane, Lao PDR.

Tel: 021 216364

Luang Namtha residents benefit from new road Transport in Long district in Luang Namtha province has now become easier with the completion of a new asphalt road in the town centre. The Deputy Head of the district’s Public Works and Transport Office said the road is now finished, and the work was undertaken by the locally-based Phonpaseuth and Luangpaseuth construction companies. The Phonpaseuth company was responsible for a section of just over 1 km in length with financial support from the government in excess of 500 million kip, while the Luangpaseuth company built a section just over 2 km in length at a cost of 2.5 billion kip, funded by the Namlong Power Company.

Khammuan to expand access to information networksKhammuan provincial Information and Culture Department plans to develop a framework for the use of mass media technology, particularly the Internet.The department is also expected to declare more than 1,000 families in 20 villages as models of culture by 2015. The department’s plan from now until 2015 also features the promotion of ethnic arts and culture and the naming of more villages as models of development. The department will urge the sectors involved to work together to follow Party and government policy and guidelines in order to reach these goals.In particular, the department will highlight the government’s commitment to implement the Resolution of the Ninth Party Congress, especially the four ‘breakthrough’ approaches in thinking, human resources development, improving management and governance regulations and systems, and poverty eradication.

Xayaboury to grow over 100,000 hectares of wet season crops Xayaboury provincial Agriculture and Forestry Department this year expects farmers to grow wet season crops on more than 100,000 hectares of land, including rice, vegetables and fruit trees. The department will cooperate with district agriculture and forestry offices to help farmers to prepare rice and sweetcorn seedlings.The department’s agriculture and forestry staff said farmers will be given technical assistance and fertiliser. This wet season, the province has set a goal to harvest 150,000 tonnes of rice and 400,000 tonnes of sweetcorn.Farmers will plant the TDK 1, 3, 6 and 11 rice varieties and hope to harvest 4.5 tonnes per hectare.

Saravan to combat dengue feverSaravan and Vapy district health officials in Saravan province are continuing their efforts to combat dengue fever, which is still prevalent in many areas.Officials said that over the past year, dengue fever has resulted in several deaths in these districts and more than 50 people have fallen ill.District authorities and the health office held a series of meetings to discuss ways to combat the outbreak of the virus by clearing out mosquito breeding areas.Health officials have advised local residents to keep their homes clean, free of any potential mosquito breeding sites, and to sleep under mosquito nets.

Times Reporters

A delegation of representatives from the United States Embassy to Laos, the Ministry of Education and Sports, and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), has completed a three-day visit to Saravan province where they observed activities under WFP’s School Meals programme.

The visit ended on April 27 and followed a US$10 million contribution by the United States to WFP’s School Meals programme, which provides daily nutritious snacks to 150,000 schoolchildren in six provinces of Laos, according to a WFP and US joint media release.

“School meals have been shown to be an effective way to encourage parents to send their children – especially girls – to school,” said WFP Representative and Country Director to Laos Ms Eri Kudo.

“Education is vital to break the cycle of under-nutrition: educated children grow into adults who produce and earn more, and are more likely to be able to provide enough of the right food to their own children.”

During the three-day trip,

US Ambassador Karen B. Stewart, Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Lytou Bouapao, and WFP’s Eri Kudo visited Nabone village in Laongam district and Na village in Toumlan district to take part in the preparation and distribution of food to schoolchildren and see for themselves the positive impact of the programme.

The visit was part of the joint effort by the US Embassy and WFP to raise awareness of malnutrition in Laos. Malnutrition is the single biggest contributing factor to infant mortality in the country and can cause long-term damage to brains and bodies from childhood. WFP and the US Embassy are committed to working with other development partners to identify and develop effective solutions to address malnutrition.

In recent years, WFP’s School Meals programme has proved an effective tool to improve both educational achievement and nutrition among Lao children. The US Department of Agriculture, through the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition grant, is the programme’s

largest donor.“On behalf of the American

people, I am very pleased that this support is helping thousands of Lao children receive the nutrition they need to pursue their studies and reach their full potential,” said Ambassador Stewart.

The US$10 million contribution was delivered in the form of 1,600 metric tons of rice, 556 metric tons of vitamin and mineral fortified Supercereal, and 110 metric tons of vegetable oil.

The oil and Supercereal are used by village cooks to prepare mid-morning snacks, keeping hunger at bay among the schoolchildren. The rice is given as a take-home ration to students who live far from school, as an incentive for their families to ensure their continued attendance.

A US$1 million tranche of the US grant will be used to provide training and support to the Ministry of Education and Sports as part of the transition towards a National School Meals Programme.

WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide. Each year, on average, WFP feeds more than 90 million people in more than 70 countries.

US backs nutrition, school meals programme in laos

Ms Karen B. Stewart and Mr Lytou Bouapao help prepare mid-morning snacks for schoolchildren in Nabone village. --Photo Credit: WFP/ Viengsone Phimmasone

The World Bank Patou Xay, Nehru Road, Vientiane Lao PDR

GARDENING SERVICEThe World Bank Office, Vientiane seeks for gardening and landscaping services for the following offices: World Bank Vientiane Office 1, Patou Xay, Nehru Road, Vientiane, Lao PDR World Bank Vientiane Office 2, Nongbon Road, Seysattha District Vientiane, Lao PDR

Interested companies may inspect and collect the detailed Terms of Reference [TOR], from the Reception Desk of the World Bank Vientiane Office at the address mentioned above from May 7, 2012 – May 18, 2012 during 10:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. from Monday through Friday, excluding holidays if any. To get an electronic copy of the TOR, please send email request to laoinfo@worldbank.org or call 021 450010

THE WORLD BANK OFFICE, VIENTIANE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ACCEPT OR REJECT ANY OR ALL BIDS WITHOUT ASSIGNING ANY REASON WHATSOEVER.

Vientiane Times 5

Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Secretary General and President of the Lao PDR Mr Choummaly Sayasone (seated, seventh right), Politburo members, high-ranking Party and government officials, and participants on Saturday pose for a group photo at the 9th nationwide Organisational-Personnel Meeting.

Monday April 30, 2012 Photo news

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT FORAssistant to Project Manger

Project Title: Second National Communication on Climate Change (SNC) Position Title: Assistant to Project ManagerFunding: Project number 00048165Location: Climate Change Office, DoE, MONRE, Vientiane, Lao PDRDuration of Appointment: 3 monthsExpected Starting Date: As soon as possible1. BackgroundUNDP is supporting the Government of Lao PDR to develop both their Second National Communication (SNC) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the National Climate Change Strategy for Lao PDR. 2. Overall duties and responsibilitiesOverall responsibilities- The APM will assist the project manager (PM) to run the project on a day-to-day basis on behalf of

the SNC Project Board within the constraints laid down by the Board.- The APM’s major responsibility is to support WREA and the PM to ensure that the project produces

the results specified in the Annual Work Plan (AWP) to the required standard of quality and within the specified constraints of time and funds.

Overall project management- Provide assistance and support to the project team, Working Groups, and International Technical

Advisor in the development of project activities. - Provide comprehensive support to the implementation of the project work plan.Project planning- Prepare plans on an annual and quarterly basis in close coordination with the PM, technical

working groups, and the UNDP Environment Unit manager / Programme Analyst responsible for this project.

Project monitoring- Plan and engage in project monitoring and evaluation activities, including the identification of

risks, issues and lessons learned on a monthly basis.Project reporting- Support the PM to report regularly to the national project director (NPD), technical working

groups and the Project Board. 3. Expected resultsHigh quality support, advice and substantial technical, administrative and logistical assistance to the PM. Project implementation on track. Deliverables may include (but are not limited to): required project reports, work plans, presentations, result based management logs, minutes of meetings and recommendations.4. Qualifications - A bachelor or master’s degree in Environmental Economics, Policy, Climate Change Science,

Project Management or related social science fields - A minimum of seven (5) years of work experience in strategy formulation and management, and

advisory capacity in the area of climate change or related fields. - Proven professional experience and sound technical knowledge on climate change.- Experience in the development of greenhouse gas inventories, and vulnerability and adaptation

analysis preferred.- Track record of successful capacity building and institutional strengthening activities with the

public sector.- Experience in externally-funded development projects and working in teams. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and positive attitude towards working with

nationalDetailed job description (TOR) available at: http://www.undplao.org.

Please send detailed CV along with a letter of interest by 05 May, 2012 to:Department of Environment, MONRE Email: min999.mini@gmail.com and inthaboualy@hotmail.com

Telephone/Fax (856 21) 254350, 020-56336662, 020-55629734Female candidates are encouraged to apply

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview

lao people's democratic republicPeace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity

Ministry of Health - PR Office supported by Global Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis

and Malaria

request for Quotation of procurement ofOffice equipment for Centre of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology

Procurement N°027 .CMPE.GF.Procurement Unit The Lao Peoples Democratic Republic has received a grant from Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The Procurement Unit ofCentre of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomologyintend to pay this grant to procure Office equipment by using budget for Round R7/P2/Y4. Act P 44052.

This Procurement will follow Public procurement procedures for Request of Quotation according Procurement Guideline of The Principal Recipient of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis/Malaria in Lao PDR issue on November 2009.

TheProcurement Unit of Centre of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomologyinvitesall suppliers about office equipment to participate in this competition of requested quotation.Interested Contractors may obtain further information and receivea complete set of RFQ Documents at the address given below :Centre of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology(Procurement unit)Ban Kualuang, Chanthabuly district, VientianeTel: 856-21 214040, fax: 856-21 216 917, 218 131.responsibles: Mrphongsavanh MEUanGCHanH (020 56 40 33 68) Miss Chandaly laTHSaBoUT (020 23 34 52 52)

Quotations must be delivered to :Procurement Unit.first floor in Malaria building. In working time8h30 – 12 h00 and 13h30 – 16h30 every day since advertising date. Close requested quotations on07/05/2012 at 14 h00 .

Quotation will be opened in the presence of the companies’ representatives who choose to attend this meeting.

The road linking Nongtaeng to Tadmoun waterfall in Sikhottabong district, Vientiane, is being rebuilt to include drainage and piped water supply. This road is very congested, particularly at present with construction underway.

Villagers in Nong district of Savannakhet province tell members of a UXO clearance team about the bombs they have found on their farms and villages. They say they cannot grow more crops as they are afraid to farm land that has not been cleared of UXO, which keeps them in poverty. They say they continue to live in fear of the threat of the bombs dropped by American planes during the Indochina War more than three decades ago.

6 Vientiane TimesMonday April 30, 2012

In brief from Asia News Network

Region

VaCanCy annoUnCEMEnT

programme assistant_SrH (GS-5) – post no. 4134

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the world’s largest international source of population assistance. UNFPA provides support to improve health through reproductive health and maternal health services, to achieve gender equality and to formulate/implement population policies and strategies in support of sustainable development. UNFPA in the Lao PDR is seeking a qualified Lao national candidate to fill a staff position of programme assistant_SrH. Under the direct supervision of the National Programme Analyst - SRH/Health Systems Strengthening, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:1. As a member of the programme support pool for the SRH team, provide programme and administrative support to all team

members and consultants, in line with the needs and priorities identified by the team.2. Assist in following-up with activities and expenditures (FACE) under the projects as needed. Provide programme financial

assistance through ATLAS requisitioner and buyer functions; also facilitate audit requirements3. When required, prepare programme/projects-related correspondence for clearance by the Programme Officers for the SRH

Coordinator’s endorsement: carefully check enclosures and addresses and accuracy conformity of statement; screen and submit in-coming correspondence /documents for the SRH coordinator’s perusal; draw attention to matters of high priority; timely distribute correspondence to related team members; and timely follow up with the concerned on the implementation of these correspondence

4. Assist the Team in following up with the projects activities, other agencies on projects-related issues; administrative matters such as: hotel bookings, transport, printing publications/booklets, workshop arrangements, national and international consultant recruitment.

5. Draft supporting documents for the issuance of SSAs and sub-contracts and timely payment processing for these contracts.6. Assist in organising overseas study visit, training course and fellowships under UNFPA-supported as well as under regional

programmes7. Arrange meetings and take minutes and/or notes at meetings; arrange appointments for Team Members, receive visitors, place

and screen telephone calls, respond to routine requests for programme and project information and assist in making travel arrangements for Team Members.

8. Carry out specific operational/control tasks in accordance with instructions received for programme/project implementation.9. Help retrieving files and documentation. 10. Collect information, assemble and prepare background materials required by SRH coordinator and Supervisor for briefings,

meetings, travel on missions, etc; type a wide of materials, proof-read for correctness; translate documents; and may act as an interpreter for various meetings and during field trips.

11. Keep lists of names, addresses and telephone numbers of ministers, government officials and members of the diplomatic corps.12. Assist in initiating procurement if required. 13. Demonstrate and promote gender sensitive behavior and gender equality within UNFPA and with partners. 14. Undertake any other tasks when required.

The following qualifications and experience are required:• Bachelor’s degree in English or administration/management • Minimum of 5 years of secretarial and administrative and clerical/interpreter skills• Core Competencies:

o Values/guiding principleso Developing peopleo Personal leadership and effectivenesso Building and managing relationships

• Functional Competencies: o Logistical supporto Managing datao Managing documents, correspondence and reportso Managing information and workflowo Planning, organizing and multi-taskingo Providing financial supporto Job knowledge / technical expertise

• Fluency in both oral and written English and Laos• Proficiency in current office software applications

The salary for the above position plus other benefits will be in accordance with UN rules and regulations for fixed term staff. All interested applicants must submit an application letter with a UN standard personal history form, P11, in English to: UNFPA Office, Phonesavanh Tai, P.O. Box 345, Vientiane (Tel: 315547, 353048-50) or e-mail to: laos.office@unfpa.org indicating “Application for Programme Assistant_SRH”. Please contact UNFPA office to obtain P11 form or download from http://countryoffice.unfpa.org/lao/. The deadline for application is 04 May 2012. We will only consider applications with complete P11 attached. UNFPA will only be able to respond to those applicants in whom UNFPA has a further interest. UNFPA reserves the right to appoint prior to the closing date. UNFPA does not solicit or screen for information in respect of HIV or AIDS and does not discriminate on the basis of HIV/AIDS status. Notice: There is no application, processing or other fee at any stage of the application process.

VaCanCy annoUnCEMEnT programme analyst (population and development) - noB – post no. 34400

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the world’s largest international source of population assistance. UNFPA provides support to improve health through reproductive health and maternal health services, to achieve gender equality and to formulate/implement population policies and strategies in support of sustainable development. UNFPA in the Lao PDR is seeking a qualified Lao national candidate to fill a staff position of programme analyst (population and development).Under the direct supervision of Assistant Representative, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:1. Provide technical and management support to the relevant IPs and related partners in planning, development, implementation,

monitoring and evaluation of population related policies and programme interventions 2. Coordinate technical assistance for and provide technical inputs to the conduct of key surveys. Articulate the inter-linkages

between population dynamics, reproductive health and rights, GBV/VAW and the needs of adolescents and young people; and assess technical assistance for the integration of population variables into development planning

3. Provide substantive inputs to UNFPA’s response and advocacy strategies relating to population and development, taking into account political and social sensitivities.

4. Identify policy issues from data analysis to facilitate policy dialogues and the incorporation of these evidences into national plans and strategies. Ensure population issues emerged from data analysis, ICPD goals and MDGs are translated into local interventions, and responsive to Government plans and priorities.

5. Co-ordinate and support UNDAF Outcome 1 working group as co-convener and facilitate inputs to all joint initiatives with other UN Agencies and Implementing Partners including joint planning, joint missions and joint reporting/reviews.

6. Document good practices and lessons learned from other countries on population related policies and programme interventions7. Work with the Assistant Representative on upstream policy advice and support the work of other team members. Collaborate with

programme staff of other teams to promote programme coherence and linkages with the programmes on Women’s reproductive health and rights as well as the needs of young people and adolescents

8. Demonstrate and promote gender sensitive behavior and gender equality within UNFPA and with partners.9. Actively contribute to advancing the ICPD agenda and mainstream gender, human rights, and culture into policy advocacy,

programming, and monitoring and evaluation as appropriate; also contribute to the review on the implementation of ICPD PoA and developing strategies for way forward to fully achieve ICPD goals

10. Use multi-media approaches for the implementation of population and SRH advocacy strategies.11. Strengthen capacity of IPs in programme management of UNFPA supported activities for timely and high quality substantive

and financial reporting12. Contribute to the development resource mobilisation strategy by analyzing information on potential donors, preparing

substantive briefs and project proposals in line with donor priorities, creating feedback mechanisms and providing information on progress of donor funded projects

13. Provide timely feedback to the Assistant Representative and the Management Team of UNFPA on programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation

14. Implement any other assignments requested by the Supervisor and UNFPA Management Team.The following qualifications and experience are required:• Master’s degree in population, demography, and/or population and social development related field. • At least 5 years of increasingly responsible professional experience in programme/project management in the public or private

sector which demonstrates expertise in the substantive area of work and programme experience. • Experience in policy analysis, policy research with track record of data analytical skills and proven ability to produce

demonstrable results.• Demonstrated ability to network among partners active in supporting development issues.• Good understanding of the Lao PDR Government’s population related policies, laws, policy making processes • Field experience would be desirable.• Core Competencies:

o Values/guiding principleso Developing peopleo Personal leadership and effectivenesso Building and managing relationships

• Functional Competencies: o Advocacy/advancing a policy-oriented agendao Result-based programme development and managemento Leveraging the resources of national governments & partners/building strategic alliances and partnerships o Innovation and marketing of new approacheso Resource mobilization (programme)o Job knowledge/technical expertise

• Fluency in both oral and written English and Lao• Proficiency in current office software applications. Good writing and presentation skill.The salary for the above position plus other benefits will be in accordance with UN rules and regulations for fixed term staff. All interested applicants must submit an application letter with a UN standard personal history form, P11, in English to: UNFPA Office, Phonesavanh Tai, P.O. Box 345, Vientiane (Tel: 315547, 353048-50) or e-mail to: laos.office@unfpa.org indicating “Application for Programme Analyst (Population and Development)”. Please contact UNFPA office to obtain P11 form or download from http://countryoffice.unfpa.org/lao/. The deadline for application is 04 May 2012. We will only consider applications with complete P11 attached. UNFPA will only be able to respond to those applicants in whom UNFPA has a further interest. UNFPA reserves the right to appoint prior to the closing date. UNFPA does not solicit or screen for information in respect of HIV or AIDS and does not discriminate on the basis of HIV/AIDS status. Notice: There is no application, processing or other fee at any stage of the application process.

Mekong Committee boosts ties HCM CITY (Viet Nam News) -- The Vietnam National Mekong Committee has made great contributions to the Mekong River Commission (MRC)’s achievements through its active role as chair of the MRC for the 2011-12 period. Speaking at Friday’s review meeting of the committee, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment and chairman of VNMC, Nguyen Minh Quang, said: “The VNMC has issued many initiatives to solve major issues in Mekong co-operation.”

Thunderstorms, severe weather predictedTHAILAND (The Nation) --The Thai Meteorological Department on Saturday warned people of summer thunderstorms with gusts and hail in upper Thailand, especially the Central region, while reporting a maximum temperature of 37-40 degrees Celsius in Kanchanaburi and 37-38 degrees Celsius in Bangkok. In its 10th warning of summer storms issued on Saturday, the department said the heat caused a low pressure system that covered upper Thailand, while a high pressure system covered the Northeast and the South China Sea, so people should beware of bad weather during this period.

BRUNEI (The Brunei Times) -- The European Union (EU) has signalled its intent to join the East Asia Summit and will sign a non-aggression treaty with ASEAN as it moves to play a bigger role in Asia, officials said on Friday.

The two regional blocs also agreed for greater economic cooperation, lauding the “rapid progress” in negotiations for bilateral trade agreements with key ASEAN partners, paving the way for a single ASEAN-EU free trade agreement.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Brunei’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said it was good to see “practical results” from the conclusion of the 19th ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting (AEMM) on Friday.

HRH also announced

EU to play a bigger role in aSEan

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah (Second right) and High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the European Commission, Lady Catherine Ashton (left) at the ASEAN and EU Foreign Ministers Summit. –Photo The Brunei Times

two new EU-sponsored programmes to help ASEAN reach its “regional integration targets,” at a cost of 20 million euros (US$32.83million).

“This will strengthen the development of all ASEAN member states. We are grateful for the support of the European Union,” he told reporters during a press conference.

The EU is ASEAN’s second largest trading partner and single largest investor with trade volumes topping US$200 billion.

Lady Catherine Ashton, the EU’s high representative for Foreign Affairs and Political Security said both parties look forward to an early signature to the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, which bans signatories from using violence to settle conflicts in the region.

KUALA LUMPUR (Xinhua) -- At least 10,000 people congregated in downtown Kuala Lumpur on Saturday to participate in a mass sit-in rally for electoral reform, and police fired water cannon and tear gas after some protesters broke through the barricades around the square where the rally was planned to be held.

The protesters gathered near Dataran Merdeka, or the Independence Square, with many chanting slogans for

Thousands rally in Kuala Lumpur for electoral reformreforms.

Some protesters broke through the barricades around Dataran Merdeka, even after the organizers asked the crowd to remain calm and disperse.

Police then fired water cannon and tear gas to disperse the protesters, before arrested those remaining on the scene. At least a dozen of people were injured during the process.

The capital was in a

lockdown since dawn as Dataran Merdeka was cordoned off with razor wire fences, and police deployed large force, water cannon trucks and helicopters to keep security.

A Kuala Lumpur court has barred the public from gathering or organizing any activities at Dataran Merdeka for 4 days commencing Saturday.

The organizer Bersih 3.0 chairman Ambiga Sreenevasan

said earlier that they would not breach the police barricade and march as far as the authorities allows.

Prominent opposition figures including Anwar Ibrahim, a former Deputy Prime Minister, have joined the protest.

The group, Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih 3.0) that consists of more than 80 non-governmental organizations held a similar rally on July 9

last year - one of the largest ever in the country, where tens of thousands of people marched to downtown Kuala Lumpur demanding a clean and fair election.

Police arrested about 1,600 people and fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse the crowd.

They demanded sweeping changes that include cleaning of the electoral roll and an extension of the election campaign period to 21 days.

7Vientiane Times Monday April 30, 2012

VaCanCy annoUnCEMEnT(Announcement No. 12/30)

Re-advertised

opEn To: All interested candidatespoSITIon: Shipping Clerk (oBo), FSn-6opEnInG daTE: April 20, 2012CloSInG daTE: May 4, 2012WorK HoUrS: Full-time; 40 hours/weekConTraCT: Two YearsSalary: Actual salary will be based on the qualifications of the applicant.

noTE: THIS IS a loCal poSITIon. THE SElECTEd CandIdaTE WIll CoME UndEr loCal laBor laW, and BE paId aCCordInG To THE EMBaSSy’S loCal CoMpEnSaTIon plan. all ordInary rESIdEnT applICanTS MUST BE rESIdInG In laoS and HaVE THE rEQUIrEd WorK and/or rESIdEnCy pErMITS To BE ElIGIBlE For ConSIdEraTIon.

The U.S. Embassy in Vientiane is seeking an individual for the position of Shipping Clerk in OBO. The position is temporary, for two years.

BaSIC FUnCTIon oF poSITIon:

The incumbent is responsible for tracking, clearing, and receiving at the Vientiane New Embassy Construction (NEC) Project Site all diplomatic and commercial shipments intended for use on the project. He/she also assists with resolving any customs clearance issues and overseeing the progress of local utility installation.

Full position description is available in HR Office.

QUalIFICaTIonS rEQUIrEd:

1. Education: Completion of Secondary School is required.2. prior Work Experience: Two years experience in managing logistics, freight forwarding, and customs clearance for a

major corporation or government entity is required. 3. Language Proficiency: Level III (good working knowledge) of English and level IV (fluent) Lao. 4. Knowledge: Must develop knowledge of the Department of State regulations and procedures governing the shipment

of household and personal effects, POV, and other private property, US Embassy Construction Materials, and U.S. Government property. Must have detailed knowledge of the Lao government’s custom clearance, immigration and border regulations and procedures. Must have knowledge of the abilities, general procedures, and quality of work of local shipping carriers and transfer companies. Should have knowledge in design and construction practices, preparation of engineering drawings and specification. Must have general knowledge of vehicle operation and safety.

5. Skills and abilities: Must have a valid Lao driver’s license. Must have good organizational and interpersonal skills. Must be tactful, yet effective, in dealing with host country customs, immigration, border and other officials, and with officials of shipping, packing, and transfer companies, and with US Embassy and other project personnel. Ability to negotiate best prices and services. Must be a MS Office package and engineering management software user. Ability to review utility construction drawings for code compliance.

HoW To applyInterested applicants for this position must submit the following for the application to be considered: 1. Universal Application for Employment (Form DS-174). Download the form at: http://laos.usembassy.gov/job_opportunities.html 2. Candidates who claim U.S. Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD-214 with their application.3. Any other documentation (e.g., essays, certificates, awards, copies of degrees earned) that addresses the qualification requirements of the position as listed above.

SUBMIT applICaTIon ToHuman Resources OfficeAmerican EmbassyRue Bartholonie, That DamPO Box 114, Vientiane, Laos(Hardcopy or e-mail attachments are accepted) poInT oF ConTaCTTelephone: 856-21-267176Fax: 856-21-267140E-mail: VientianeHR@state.gov

Interested persons should contact Embassy Human Resources Office for more information. Blank application forms may be picked up from the cabinet inside the Embassy entrance. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

CloSInG daTE For THIS poSITIon: May 4, 2012

An Equal Opportunity Employer

World

Vacancy notice

The World Health Organization has a vacancy for the position of:

Secretary for HIV/AIDS and STI Programme (G4 level) – Fixed-term Position

duties:Under the general supervision of the Medical Officer of HIV/AIDS and STI Project, the incumbent performs the following functions:

1. Screen and routes incoming mail, documents and reports to the supervisor with full background information; ensures its distribution and follows up on deadlines;

2. Takes/transcribes non-technical and technical correspondence, reports, etc., from dictation, tapes and manuscripts, using word-processing equipment, ensuring grammatical accuracy, conformity with procedural accuracy and format; types reports, studies, including statistical tables, etc,. from manuscripts using the word processing equipments.

3. Drafts correspondence on routine matters on own initiative or from brief instructions; takes notes at meeting as basis for minutes and assists in providing interpretation as and when required;

4. Arrange appointments for supervisor, receives visitors; places and screens telephone calls, responds to routine requests for information, and prepares briefing folders for supervisor's duty travels;

5. Maintains general and project files;6. Assists in searching; compiling and maintaining information relevant to the programme. Maintains appropriate

follow-up system on status of programme implementation;7. Provides supports in the arrangements for meetings, workshops and training courses, including preparation of

related folders;8. Provides secretarial and clerical support to visiting staff and consultants as and when required;9. Occasionally replaces secretarial staff within the office during their absence, as coordinated by the Programme

Management Officer or the Administrative Officer. 10. Performs other related duties as and may be required.

Education:Equivalent to graduation from secondary school with torough training in secretarial and clerial duties.

Knowledge & skills:Thorough knowledge of office procedures. Typing and stenographic skills at required speed. Ability to discern routine from non-routine. Ability to draft correspondence, summary of meeting and notes for record. Ability to use word processing equipment and adapt to various solftweare applications. Ability to work harmoniously as a member of a team, adapt to diverse educational and cultural backgrounds and maintain high standards of personal conduct.

Experience:Three years' experience in secretaial/clerical posts, preferrably, including experience in WHO or in another international organization.

languages:Excellent knowledge of spoken and written English and the local language.

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit applications and curriculum vitae in the English language with a subject "Secretary for HIV/aIdS and STI programme" to the below address by 11 May 2012.

The World Health Organization 125 Saphanthong Road, Unit: 5 Ban Saphanthongtai, P.O. Box 343 Vientiane, Lao P.D.R. Tel: (856-21)353902-04; Fax: (856-21)353905; Email: who.lao@wpro.who.int

HUNTINGTON BEACH, California (AP) -- A wayward dolphin that has spent two days in a narrow wetlands channel along the southern California coast was on its way out to the ocean Saturday when it suddenly turned tail and swam back to shallow waters.

Wildlife experts on paddleboards managed to coax the animal towards the open sea on Saturday but it was spooked by a pair of fellow dolphins.

“He freaked out for some

California rescuers hope dolphin finds way to sea

Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari shows a gray whale entangled in netting in the waters off the coast of Southern California on April 17. –Photo AP

reason,” said Peter Wallerstein of Marine Animal Rescue. “He split almost full-speed back under the bridge where he had been.”

Rescuers decided to let the healthy, strong and fast dolphin try to find its own way out, Wallerstein said. Any attempt to capture it could be dangerous to the animal and rescuers.

The 1.8-metre long, black-and-white common dolphin was spotted in a channel of the Bolsa Chica wetlands Friday, circling in shallow waters as crowds

grew along the banks and TV helicopters flew overhead.

Wallerstein said the 180-kilogramme dolphin doesn’t need a high tide to escape.

“He’s not stranded and he’s not trapped,” Wallerstein said. “He can make it out if he chooses to.” The wetlands are separated from the ocean by a wide beach and the Pacific Coast Highway. Sea water flows in from Huntington Harbour on one end and an inlet cut through the beach on

CANBERRA, Australia (AP) -- Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard sidelined two scandal-tarnished parliamentarians on Sunday in a move aimed at restoring public confidence in Parliament.

The move distances Gillard’s unpopular minority government from the unrelated scandals without cutting loose two crucial supporters who help it maintain its tenuous grip on power.

Gillard had previously stood by parliamentary Speaker Peter Slipper and Labor Party lawmaker Craig Thomson, who are under separate criminal investigations. Both deny all allegations.

“I believe a line has been crossed about respect for the Parliament, and that has given me sufficient concern that I believe it was the right thing to act and to take the decisions that I have taken,” Gillard told

Australian PM sidelines speaker and lawmaker

reporters at Parliament House.“I feel keenly that Australians

are looking at this Parliament, and at the moment they see a dark cloud over it,” she said.

Gillard said Slipper had agreed to stand aside as House of Representative Speaker until allegations that he fraudulently misused taxi payment vouchers and that he harassed a male adviser for gay sex are resolved.

Thomson agreed to sit in Parliament as an independent lawmaker while prosecutors examine allegations that he misused a union credit card on prostitutes and other personal expenses while he was a union official, she said. Gillard’s minority government is expected to maintain its tenuous control over the House of Representatives, with Thomson continuing to support it as an independent despite his suspension from the ruling

party.Thomson later said he

hoped to be cleared of the allegations “reasonably soon” and would remain loyal to Labor. Nick Economou, a Monash University political scientist, said the prime minister was responding to concerns within Labor ranks that her unpopular government needed to distance itself from the two scandals.

Labor Sen. Doug Cameron welcomed Thomson’s suspension more than three years after an investigation into his credit card use began.

“It’s been a major diversion for the government,” Cameron told Australian Broadcasting Corp. television.

Slipper had stepped aside as speaker a week ago after former adviser James Ashby filed complaints in the Federal Court of sexual harassment and fraud.

SANTO DOMINGO (Xinhua) -- At least 10 people were killed and many others missing in flooding and mudslides caused by days of downpours that have swepted through much of Haiti, the country’s Civil Protection Office said Saturday.

Floods and mudslides destroyed hundreds of houses

At least 10 people killed in floods, mudslides in Haitiand public buildings, and inundated large areas of farmland, it said.

The western and southern parts of the country were worst hit. And in the capital Port-au-Prince, many tent camps sheltering earthquake victims were severely damaged.

More than two years after a devastating earthquake hit

Haiti on Jan. 12, 2010, nearly half a million Haitians are still accommodated at 660 camps scattered around the capital city.

Over the last two weeks, some 150 suspected cholera cases were reported in Haiti every day.

A cholera outbreak in 2010 in Haiti has killed more than 7,000 people.

8 Vientiane TimesMonday April 30, 2012

Vientiane Times 9Monday April 30, 2012

10 Vientiane Times

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES No 011/12

Now is an exciting time to build a career with Phonesack Group, Ltd. We have a huge range of projects which require driven and talented people to join our team, to lead and collaborate innovative ideas. We offer a diverse workforce and attractive work/life initiatives. We are urgently seeking the following positions for our growing team.

1. Goal EXploraTIon ManaGEr – 1 position in SaravanQualification required:• Bachelor of Science in Geology and Exploration;• At least 10 years of coal industry, experience in mine, resource and

exploration geology with 5 years of Management experience;• Well qualified with mapping and ore deposit estimation methods and

software. (Experience with MapInfo preferred);• A strong leader to lead a field Geologist and to manage, develop, support

the exploration geologists.

2. dEpUTy adMInISTraTIVE ManaGEr – 1 position in SaravanQualification required:• Bachelor's degree in business, human resources or liberal arts;• At least 10 years of supervisory and administrative support experience;• Ability to lead, motivate and delegate work;• Managerial, cooperative and supportive skills are necessary;• Excellent English and Lao written and verbal communication skills;• Ability to work within deadlines and should achieve the targets;• Flexible and quick in responding within short notice period;• Good organizational skills, which are essential for managing every type of

administrative job responsibility.

3. Coal GEoloGIST – 3 positions in Saravan Qualification Required: • Bachelor of Science in Geology or equivalent;• At least 10 years experience in Geological work;• Well qualified with mapping and ore deposit estimation methods and software. (Experience with MapInfo preferred);• Good organisational skills;• Computer literacy and ability to analyse numerical and graphical data;• Good written and verbal communication skills both in Lao and English.

4. SInIor SoCIal and EnVIronMEnT oFFICEr – in VientianeQualification required:• Bachelor Degree in Natural Science;• At least 10 years experience in an environment sector, mining industry;• Must be proficient in speaking, writing and understanding both English and

Lao;• Knowledge of computer systems, internet navigation and various office

applications including Word, Excel;• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills;• Ability to work independently and as part of a team;• Ability to meet tight deadlines and work under pressure;• Ability to work in the project sites, if necessary.

5. CIVIl EnGInEEr - 1 position in VientianeQualification required:• Bachelor degree in Civil Engineering or relevant fields;• At least 10 years of working experience in Civil/Structure Design,

Mechanical and Electrical Engineering along with project experience for road, industrial, dam and/or Hydro Power Projects;

• Knowledge of standard engineering practices, techniques, and procedures;• Ability to using other software in Civil Engineering• Fluency in English and Lao with very good writing and oral skills;• Proficient in MS Office Suite, to include Word, Excel, PowerPoint and

other programs.

We offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits package, which include Health, Accidental, and Life Benefits. only short listed candidates will be contacted for interview. Individuals interested should send required documents including a Cover letter, CV, Copies of diplomas and other relevant information directly to the Human resources department at: Phonesack Group, Ltd. Attn: Human Resources Department, Unit 15, Sithong Road, Pakthang Village, Sikhottabong District, P.O. Box 1808, Vientiane Lao PDR. Fax: (856-21) 550498 or E-mail to: careers@phonesackgroup.com. Please include in the subject line: position title, which is applied for.

Closing date for this position is 30 april 2012

GIZ and Sunlabob are hosting the Event“Energy Efficiency: the forward-looking and cost-

saving response to lao p.d.r.’s vulnerability to climate change”

at the Settha Palace, May 17th 2012, 4:00 – 7:00

and a Follow-up Workshop“Implementing Energy Efficiency – best practice

examples and options for companies and institutions”at the Settha Palace, May 23rd 2012, 8:30-16:00

In this event and the follow-up workshop we will present our goals for energy efficiency in the Lao P.D.R. Private local enterprises, subsidiaries of international companies and public institutions are invited to come together and learn more about energy efficiency, a possible solution for CSR policies. Best practice examples will be presented by renowned experts in the field. We will provide information on various energy saving options and develop innovative tailor-made ideas so as to help companies and institutions to reach their energy efficiency goals.

For more information and registration, please contact GIZ representative Ms Judith Schicklinski (phone: 021 353 605 133, email: judith.schicklinski@giz.de) or Sunlabob representative Ms Fanny Boulloud (phone: 021 313 874 102, email: Fanny.Boulloud@sunlabob.com)

Job announcementLocation: Phontong Street, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital City

Great Peace in Lao PDR (GPL) is an International-Non-Government-Organizationthat was established by Taiwha Social Welfare Foundation in Republic of Korea. It is a model of social welfare center that performs a social welfare service and socio-economic aids to enhance the capacity of needy peoplein community

Great Peace is planning to start work in Lao PDR in 2012, we are seeking Lao National staff for :

program Manager / Coordinator

Responsibilities1. Produce detailed work plan and activity budgets in cooperation with partner Government (MoU)2. Manage all aspects of program cycle : assessment, design, monitor, implement, evaluation and regular report3. Coordinate program activities with partners at district, Village level and implement all activities in target area4. Build and maintain good relationships with government partner and negotiate at provincial, district, Village level

Qualifications 1. Bacheloror Master degree majoring in social science, community development or related expected graduates2. At least 5years work experience, preferably in an INGO, NGO, GO3. Experience in representing and communicating with Government 4. Experience in planning and managing the project or program with children, women and/or disability sector5. Proven skill at building relationships with community members and strong communication skills6. Fluency in spoken and written English and the ability to write narrative report in English in mandatory

Administration Officer

Responsibilities1. Administer and monitor the financial system in order to ensure that the municipal finances are maintained in

an accurate and timely manner2. Oversee the accounts payable and accounts receivable systems in order to ensure complete and accurate

records of all moneys3. Administeremployee files and records in order to ensure accurate payment of benefits and allowances4. Supervise administrative services within the office5. Perform other related duties as required

Qualifications 1. Bachelordegree majoring in Administration or related expected graduates2. At least 3years work experience in administration or/and accounting, preferably in an INGO, NGO, GO3. Fluency in spoken and written English and the ability to write report in English4. Good knowledge of computer application (Microsoft) 5. Exceptional interpersonal, organizational, business communication, multi-task and time management skills6. Be honest and trustworthy, respectful, ability and willingness to work with all kinds of people

Closing date will be on 6th May 2012.

Please forward your cover letter and CV withapplied positionand salary history to greatpeacelaos@gmail.com(Do not send certifications or letter of reference at this time)

We will contact by e-mail only eligible candidates to further discuss their availability. Please no phone calls. To learn more about Great Peace (Taiwha social welfare foundation)Please visit our website,http://www.taiwhafound.org/eng

Monday April 30, 2012

Vientiane Times 11

FOR INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANCIES IN THE PREPARATION OFTHE FOREST INVESTMENT PROGRAMPROJECT 3: SCALING UP PARTICIPATORY SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT

Lao PDR is one of eight countries worldwide selected in October 2010 as a pilot country for the Forest Investment Program (FIP), which is a targeted program of the Strategic Climate Fund (SCF), one of two funds established under the Climate Investment Funds (CIF).

The Department of Forestry (DoF) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF), on behalf of the Government of Lao PDR (GOL), presented a proposed $30 million FIP Investment Plan to the FIP Sub-Committee (SC) for consideration on October 30, 2011 and received the SC approval on January 30, 2012. The approved FIP Lao Investment Plan which consists of 3 projects will be implemented under two Ministries (MAF and MoNRE) in partnership with the international agencies as follows:

Project 1 ($13.34 million): Protecting Forests for Ecosystems Services – to be implemented by the Department of Forest Resources Management (DFRM) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE) in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB);Project 2 ($3.33 million): Smallholder Forestry – to be implemented by DoF under MAF in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC); andProject 3 ($13.33 million): Scaling-up Participatory Sustainable Forest Management (PSFM) – to be implemented by DoF under MAF in partnership with the World Bank.

In preparation of the FIP project under MAF, DoF, in collaboration with the World Bank (WB), has begun a process to prepare the FIP Project 3: Scaling up Participatory Sustainable Forest Management (SUPSFM). Based on a participatory and consultative process, the preparation of Project 3 will build on the experience of the Sustainable Forestry for Rural Development Project (SUFORD), which is currently being implemented in 16 Production Forest Areas (PFAs) located in 9 provinces. This new FIP funding to the government of Lao PDR will be used to co-finance with the World Bank and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland (MFAF) resources to scale up PSFM to as many of the remaining 35 PFAs. Other activities that will be financed by this project are piloting Village Forestry (VF) and Smallholder Forestry (SHF) in forest land adjoining PFAs, and contributing to enhancing various enabling frameworks including legal and governance, FLEGT (Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade), REDD+ public awareness and MRV (Monitoring, Reporting and Verification) with a focus on law enforcement, inter-ministerial coordination, and engagement of provincial authorities in land-use planning and village forest allocation.

DoF is therefore seeking individuals to fill the following positions for four (4) short term international consultants and four (4) national consultants in preparing the detailed components of Project 3 based on the broad concepts identified in the approved FIP Investment Plan as described below:

1. SENIOR FORESTRY SPECIALIST AND TEAM LEADER (International) to lead a Team of Consultants and work with GOL counterparts and various stakeholders in the Capital and in the provinces and rural areas, including liaising with donors and coordinating with the MFAF Project Preparation Team, in formulating SUPSFM. The preparation process will include assessing and collecting additional information on past implementation of PSFM in PFAs and in potential project sites, analyzing different issues affecting the implementation of PSFM, generating options to resolve those issues, and consolidating the analytical work and various other inputs (recently approved government policies and legislations) in preparing SUPSFM and its documents to a standard that is acceptable to GOL, the FIP Sub-Committee, and the World Bank.

Experience and Qualifications:• Advanced degree in forestry or natural resource management;• Extensive experience in preparing and leading natural resource management projects;• Minimum 15 years experience in managing projects financed by multilateral development agencies,

especially World Bank/IDA projects;• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development; having prior experiences

working in Lao PDR, including Southeast Asia will be an advantage;• Significant experience in working closely with and transferring capacity to local counterparts;• Knowledge of climate change issues and related international processes will be an advantage;• Proficiency in oral and written English.

The total duration of the assignment will be 8 months between May and December 2012. The duty station will be at DoF in Vientiane, Lao PDR.

2. SOCIAL DEVELOMENT SPECIALIST (International) to lead in (i) identifying the potential social impacts from the planned SUPSFM investments; (ii) preparing the stakeholder consultation plan, as well as assisting DoF in conducting the consultation processes with the active participation of all key stakeholders including line government ministries at the central and local levels, development partners, ethnic communities, mass organizations (Lao Women’s Union), Lao Front for National Construction, and civil societies organizations (CSOs); (iii) formulating village development and poverty alleviation strategies and approaches, including participatory land-use planning and communal land titling; and (iv) based on the outcomes of the potential social impact analysis, assisting DoF in the preparation of social safeguards documents for the project including the ‘Social Management Framework’, ‘Ethnic Group Development Framework’, and ‘Resettlement Management Framework’.

Experience and Qualifications:• Advanced degree in social sciences, rural development, and related subject areas;• Minimum 15 years experience working on social impact assessment, community development issues

related to communal land tenure, livelihood of ethnic minorities and other local population in relation to forestry and natural resources, and on formulation of various social safeguard instruments following World Bank policies and practices;

• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development, including related work experience in Southeast Asia particularly in Lao PDR;

• Significant experience in working closely with and transferring capacity to local counterparts;• Proficiency in oral and written English.

The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months between May and July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane, Lao PDR.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARD SPECIALIST (International) to support (i) identification of the main environmental risks associated with the proposed investments as laid out in the proposed FIP Investment Plan and detailed activities, linking the environmental risk identification to that of key social risks identified by the Social Safeguard Specialist; (ii) stakeholder consultation processes toward the formulation of the environmental management framework of SUPSFM; (iii) providing recommendations on mitigation to minimize the risks/impacts, as well as developing the Payment for Ecosystems Services mechanisms that are relevant to the proposed project areas; and (iv) the formulation of environmental safeguards documents related to natural habitats, forests, physical cultural resources, access restriction process, and pest management.

Experience and Qualifications:• Advanced degree in environmental sciences and related subject areas;• Minimum 15 years experience working on ESIA in relation to forestry and natural resources and on formulating

environmental safeguard frameworks following World Bank safeguard policies and practices;• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development, including related work experience

in Southeast Asia particularly in Lao PDR; • Significant experience in working closely with and transferring capacity to local counterparts;• Knowledge of climate change issues and related international processes will be an advantage;• Proficiency in oral and written English.

The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane, Lao PDR.

4. PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOMENT SPECIALIST (International) to support the (i) analyses of issues related to current practices in timber harvesting from production forests; (ii) review of relationships among MAF, MOIC, and MOF to address the gaps in and identify opportunities for defining clear roles, improved coordination, sharing records and information, and reviewing development (including legislation and practices) in timber processing businesses, as well as programs to promote forest products value chains.

Experience and Qualifications:• Advanced degree in forest industries and business management and related subject areas;• Minimum 15 years experience working in the forest industry covering different aspects including timber

harvesting; locating, tooling, and operating processing plants; industry business management; and marketing of forest products.

• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development, including related work experience in Southeast Asia particularly in Lao PDR;

• Knowledge of non-timber forest products will be an advantage; • Proficiency in oral and written English.

The total duration of the assignment will be 1 month from May-June 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane, Lao PDR.

5. ECONOMIST AND FINANCIAL ANALYST (National) to assist the Team in economic and financial assessment of the components and sub-components of SUPSFM, particularly in analyzing and estimating project benefits and costs, formulating the project financing plan, and assessing risks and their mitigation.

Experience and Qualifications:• Advanced degree in resource economics and related subject areas;• Minimum 7 years experience working in forest or natural resources management, particularly in

preparing projects in their economic and financial aspects.• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development;• Knowledge of climate change issues will be an advantage;• Proficiency in oral and written English.

The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane, Lao PDR.

6. AGROFORESTRY AND NTFP SPECIALIST (National) to support (i) the identification of criteria for zoning PFAs, particularly Agroforestry and NTFP management zones; (ii) assessing the suitability of degraded land in PFAs for sustainable agroforestry-based livelihoods and enterprises; (iii) generating and assessing the suitability of sustainable agroforestry-based livelihood options; (iv) assessing the potential of PFAs for sustainable management of NTFP resources and developing village enterprises based on NTFP processing and marketing; and (v) incorporating the results of analyses in the preparation of SUPSFM.

Experience and Qualifications:• Advanced degree in agriculture/agroforestry/forestry and related subject areas;• Minimum 7 years experience working in areas related to agroforestry and NTFP based livelihoods and

enterprises development;• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development;• Proficiency in oral and written English.

The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane, Lao PDR.

7. SOCIAL AND ETHNIC GROUPS SPECIALIST (National) to work with the Team particularly the (International) Social Development Specialist in (i) development of the consultation plan and conducting stakeholder consultation processes toward strengthening the participation of women, ethnic communities, and mass organizations/civil society/non-governmental organizations; (ii) analyses of the potential social impacts of the proposed investments and implementation of the SUPSFM; (iii) assisting DoF in the formulation of village development and poverty alleviation strategies and approaches; and (iv) providing inputs to the preparation of social safeguards documents.

Experience and Qualifications:• Advanced degree in social science, rural development, and related subject areas;• Minimum 7 years experience working in areas related to the analyses of social issues in village

development and participation of villagers, especially women and ethnic groups.• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development;• Proficiency in oral and written English.

The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane, Lao PDR.

8. BIODIVERSITY AND FOREST ECOSYSTEMS SERVICES SPECIALIST (National) to work with the Project Preparation Team in aspects related to biodiversity and forest ecosystems services in production forestry situations, and support the Team particularly the Environmental Safeguard Specialist in (i) participation in stakeholder consultation processes toward the formulation of the Project’s environmental management framework; (ii) analyses of potential environmental impacts, with special focus on biodiversity, of proposed investments and implementation of proposed activities; (iii) providing recommendations on mitigation to minimize the risks/impacts, as well as developing Payment for Ecosystems Services mechanisms that are relevant to the proposed project areas; and (iv) providing inputs to the preparation of various environmental safeguards documents.

Experience and Qualifications:• Advanced degree in environmental sciences and related subject areas;• Minimum 7 years experience working in areas related to conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems

services in production forestry situations and to environmental safeguards.• Knowledge of and experience in developing Payments for Environmental Services will be an

advantage.• Sound knowledge of issues and priorities in Lao national development;• Proficiency in oral and written English.

The total duration of the assignment will be 3 months from May-July 2012. The duty station will be Vientiane, Lao PDR.

Expression of Interest including CV and description of similar assignments must be submitted not later than Friday, 26th of May 2012 to the person and address below.

Attention:Mr. Khamsene OunekhamPlanning Division, Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and ForestryP.O Box 2932, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic RepublicTel/fax: + 856 21 219561Email: ounekham_k@yahoo.com

Lao People’s Democratic RepublicPeace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Monday April 30, 2012

12 Vientiane TimesMonday April 30, 2012

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Vientiane Times 13Monday April 30, 2012

14 Vientiane Times

The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines is urgently looking for a qualified and highly-motivated individual to fill the position of Researcher / Translator / Interpreter to perform the following duties:

• Research, collect and update information on trade and investment policies and statistics;

• Conduct market research and analysis;• Arrange business meetings and undertake preparations for Philippine trade

and investment missions;• Monitor and prepare regular reports on pertinent political, economic and

development issues; and,• Translate news items, official documents and publications of interest into

English and vice versa and provide simultaneous interpretation as needed.

Required Qualifications:a• College / University graduate;• Excellent command of English (written and spoken);• Good organizational and analytical skills; and,• Basic computer (Word and Excel programs) and internet skills.

All interested applicants may submit their Curriculum Vitae with picture at the Philippine Embassy, Ban Sapanthong-kang, Sissatanak District, Vientiane Capital from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm or email to pevientiane@yahoo.com / pelaopdr@laotel.com or fax to +856 21 452-493.

Monday April 30, 2012

Vientiane Times 15

Invitation of local Competitive Bidding (open to International Bidders) for the construction of dispensary buildings in attapeu province

rural livelihoods Improvement program in attapeu province

IFad Top up Grant no: G-I-dSF-8082-la

1. Government of Laos has received a loan from International Agricultural Development Fund (IFAD) in various currencies towards the financing of the Rural Livelihoods Improvement Program in Attapeu Province and intends to apply a portion of this loan to proceeds to eligible payments under the construction of dispensary buildings in Attapeu province of Lao PDR.

2. Department of Health and Rural Livelihoods Improvement Programme in Attapeu Province invites sealed bids from eligible bidders to offer the construction of dispensary buildings in the form of Local Competitive Bidding but open to the international bidders of the IFAD member countries as per the details given below:

Lot 1: Construction of Dispensary and dormitory for nurses in Samluang zone of Xansai district of Attapeu Province

3. Detailed technical specifications, bills of quantity, drawing etc. are provided in bidding documents.

4. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information and bidding documents on the submission of a written application to and upon payment of non-refundable fee of US $ 100 (United States Dollar one hundred) from the Provincial Department of Health, the office of the Basic Health Care, Attapeu Province, Lao PDR, Tel: + 856 36 211571 or +856 20 9834393 or +856 20 2345 385 or from RLIP Office in Attapeu Province +856 20 55521416 (Mr. Soulichanh Phonekeo, Provincial Programme Director, RLIP)

5. Interested bidder can visit the construction site of the school buildings during any working day before the submission of the bids.

6. Bids must be delivered to the Provincial Programme Coordination Unit, Rural Livelihood Improvement Programme, IFAD, Attapeu, Lao PDR on or before 10: 00 AM local time on 26th May 2012.

7. Bids will be opened by the Bid Evaluation Committee in the presence of bidder’s representatives on 26th May 2012 at 10:15 AM at the Meeting Hall of the Provincial Programme Coordination Unit, Rural Livelihood Improvement Programme, IFAD, Attapeu, Lao PDR.

rural livelihoods Improvement program in attapeu province

Invitation of local Competitive Bidding (open to local and International Bidders) for the renovation of 12 school buildings in attapeu province

IFad Top up G-I-dSF-8082 la

1. Government of Laos has received a grant from International Agricultural Development Fund (IFAD) in various currencies towards the financing of the Rural Livelihoods Improvement Program in Attapeu Province and intends to apply a portion of this loan to proceeds to eligible payments under the Rennovation of school and dispensary buildings in Attapeu province of Lao PDR.

2. Department of Education and Rural Livelihoods Improvement Programme in Attapeu Province invites sealed bids from eligible bidders to offer the rennovation of schoosl in the form of Local Competitive Bidding but open to the international bidders as per the details given below:

Lot 1: Renovation of school buildings in Saysettha district1.1 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Keangmarkheua)1.2 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Sakhae)1.3 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Haatxan)1.4 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Hathsaty1.5 Renovation of School Building (3 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Phaosamphan Mexay

of Saysettha District)1.6 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Kaengsai of

Saysettha District)1.7 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Sapuan Siet of

Saysettha District)

Lot 2: Renovation of school buildings in Phouvong district

2.1 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban 2.2 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Viengsai2.3 Renovation of School Building ( 3 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Houaykeo2.4 Renovation of School Building (5 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Taoom2.5 Renovation of School Building (3 class rooms and 1 teachers’ room in Ban Vongsai

3. Detailed technical specifications, bills of quantity, drawing etc. are provided in bidding documents.

4. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information and bidding documents on the submission of a written application to and upon payment of non-refundable fee of US $ of 20 (United States Dollar Twenty only) separate for each lot from the Provincial Programme Coordination Unit, 18 B Road, KM 6, Saysettha district, Attapeu Province, Lao PDR, Tel: + 856 36211884 and 020 55521416 Mr. Soulichanh Phonekeo

5. Interested bidder can visit the Rennovation site of the school buildings during any working day before the submission of the bids.

6. Bids must be delivered to the Provincial Programme Coordination Unit, Rural Livelihood Improvement Programme, IFAD, Attapeu, Lao PDR on or before 10:00 AM local time on 22nd May 2012.

7. Bids will be opened by the Bid Evaluation Committee in the presence of bidder’s representatives on 22nd May 2012 at 10:15 AM at the Meeting Hall of the department of Education, Attapeu, Lao PDR.

Monday April 30, 2012

16 Vientiane TimesMonday April 30, 2012

Disclosure regulations in South Korea do not allow earnings guidance to be provided as a range, therefore the official disclosure was made based on the median value as stated above. The guidance is provided ahead of the full announcement of quarterly earnings results for the convenience of investors and media, before our external audit on the financial results of our headquarters, subsidiaries and affiliates is completed. Therefore, the above estimate may differ from the actual results. The full earnings for the first quarter will be disclosed following the Board of Directors’ approval of the financial statements and quarterly reports.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2011 consolidated sales of US$143.1 billion. Employing approximately 206,000 people in 197 offices across 72 countries, the company operates two separate organizations to coordinate its nine independent business units: Digital Media & Communications, comprising Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, and Digital Imaging; and Device Solutions, consisting of Memory, System LSI and LED. Recognized for its industry-leading performance across a range of economic, environmental and social criteria, Samsung Electronics was named the world’s most sustainable technology company in the 2011 Dow Jones Sustainability Index. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

Samsung Electronics Announces Earnings Guidance for First Quarter 2012Consolidated revenues estimated at 45 trillion Korean won

Operating profit at 5.8 trillion won

SEOUL, Korea – April 6, 2012 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced its earnings guidance for the first quarter, 2012. Consolidated Sales: Approximately 45 trillion Korean won (Range: 44 – 46 trillion Korean won) Consolidated Operating Profit: Approximately 5.8 trillion Won (Range: 5.6 – 6.0 trillion Korean won) Note: The above figures are consolidated earnings estimates based on K-IFRS

‘11 4Q and ’11 1Q consolidated figures based on K-IFRS are as follows

(in trillion won)Sales

Operating Profit

‘11 .4Q47.30

5.30

‘11.1Q36.99

2.95

Vientiane Times 17Monday April 30, 2012

site

18 Vientiane TimesMonday April 30, 2012

SElECTIon oF ConSUlTanTS By THE World BanKJoB annoUnCEMEnT

Lao PDRCommunity development Consultant (Individual Consultant)

TRUST FUND #: TF095254

The Water and Sanitation Program (WSP) is a multi-donor partnership created in 1978 and administered by the World Bank to support poor people in obtaining affordable, safe, and sustainable access to water and sanitation services. WSP provides technical assistance, facilitates knowledge exchange, and promotes evidence-based advancements in sector dialogue. WSP has offices in 24 countries across Africa, East Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean, South Asia, and in Washington, DC. WSP is led by a Program Manager located in the World Bank’s Transport, Water and ICT Department in the Sustainable Development Network (SDN) Vice Presidency. In East Asia, the program currently operates offices in 5 countries—Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, the Philippines, and Vietnam— with the regional office located in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Regional Team Leader is accountable to the Program Manager in Washington DC. For more information, please visit www.wsp.org.In Lao PDR, WSP focuses on two of its business areas: i) Scaling Up Rural Sanitation and Hygiene, and ii) Supporting poor-inclusive water supply and sanitation sector reform. Since 2008 it has been supporting Nam Saat, the National Centre for Environmental Health and Water Supply in the Ministry of Health, in the piloting of Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) in Champasak and Sekong Provinces, and a small number of international NGOs are also supporting CLTS pilots in other locations. The program is now being expanded to ensure that demand for sanitation via CLTS is matched by the supply of affordable latrines, fostered by an enabling environment at national and decentralized government levels. This integrated program will also incorporate the promotion of essential hygiene behaviours, particularly hand-washing with soap at critical times. To support implementation of this program, the WSP Lao Team is now seeking to hire a Community Development Consultant to strengthen its team on providing technical advice and supervision of field work activities on rural sanitation in the two provinces.

prIMary oBJECTIVESa. Provide technical support and inputs to the design, development and adaptation of tools, training resources, and the provision of

training, in close collaboration with other trainers such as CLTS facilitators and community development outreach, etc;b. Provide support on effective project implementation, monitoring and evaluation through enhancement of local government

partners focusing on planning, advocacy and promotion, supervision, and coordination at provincial and district levels;c. Periodically follow-up on the tasks performed by WSP contracted agencies in the two provinces, where the rural scaling up

program is under implementation;d. Facilitate and participate in studies, and assessments and researches as well as in facilitation on developing Behavior Change

Communications (BCC) materials;e. Regularly coordinate and build effective partnerships with government partners at all levels and with other relevant development

partners, NGOs, or other large-scale rural development programs nationally;The Water and Sanitation Consultant will be based at the WSP Lao PDR Country Office. Frequent travels within Lao PDR and the East

Asia region will be required to accomplish the responsibilities under this assignment.

GEnEral QUalIFICaTIonS A Masters Degree or higher level degree in a relevant field, such as public health, economics, social sciences or

communications; Extensive knowledge of the issues and challenges involved in promoting sanitation and hygiene in low-income rural

community; Minimum working experience of five years in Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) or similar participatory approaches. Demonstrated ability to effectively work with governments at various levels and experience with capacity building for government

agencies; Excellent oral and written communication and presentational skills in English and Lao; Strong computer skills; ability to use standard MS Office programs; Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated capacity to work effectively in teams with dispersed members, and with colleagues

from government and civil society, will be essential; Good understanding of and sensitivity to the multi-disciplinary character of the water sector and the importance of institutional,

economic, and socio-political factors in policy formulation and implementation, and demand-responsive project design.Interested consultants shall submit their applications indicating that they are qualified to perform the service (curriculum vitae, description of similar assignments, experience in similar conditions, appropriate skills etc. not later than 27 april 2012. For further information and application submission, please contact the address given below.

Water and Sanitation Program - East Asia and the PacificWorld Bank Vientiane Office

P.O.Box 345, Pathou Xay, Vientiane, Lao PDRTel: ++856 21 450014-16 ext. 100, fax: ++856 21 450015

Ms. Phommachanh Sosourivong (Team Assistant), psosourivong@worldbank.org Applicants will be treated strictly confidentially and only short-listed candidates will receive responses. Late submission will not be

considered and phone inquiries will not be accepted.

Water and Sanitation Program -East Asia and the Pacific, Lao PDR Country Office (WSP LCO)

World Bank OfficePathou XayP.O Box 345Vientiane, Lao PDR

phone: + 856-21-415729 + 856-21-413710fax: + 856-21-450015http://www.wsp.org

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT(Re-advertisement)

“Capacity Development for Sector-wide Coordination in Health Phase II (CDSWC-II)” is now looking for a Project Assistant (Translation/Interpretation) for the JICA-funded project. CDSWC-II is a five-year project started in December 2010 in order to strengthen the capacity of the health sector in Lao PDR in the coordination of various efforts and interventions both by the Government and the Development Partners. This post is only open for Lao Nationals.

POSITION IN VACANT: PROJECT ASSSISTANT (TRANLATION/INTERPRETATION) (1 Position)DUTY STATION: Project office close to Ministry of Health, VientianeGENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Perform as an interpreter between Lao and English at meetings; Translate wide variety of documents from Pasa Lao to English, and vice versa. Perform a wide range of office support functions with other project staff

CONTRACT TYPE: 6 months renewableQUALIFICATIONS:

Fluent in both written and spoken Lao and English Computer literacy, especially MS Word and Excel High motivation and willingness to learn about the health sector and

international development cooperation Good interpersonal and communication skill Ability to Work within a team environment Good organizational skills and time-keeping

APPLICATION: Those who are interested in and qualified for the position are highly encouraged to apply as follows: Please send by e-mail (cdswc2@gmail.com) the followings:

A Cover Letter, briefly stating applicant’s qualifications, including English qualification, and will to apply (Not more than 2 pages)

A Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume with your photo, articulating applicant’s personal, educational, and occupational backgrounds, skills, salary expectation and contact information (Not more than 4 pages)

A Reference letter from someone who is accessible by e-mail Please quote ‘Project Assistance (Translation/Interpretation)’ as the title of your e-mail. Closing Date Friday 11 May, 2012. Only those who are short-listed will be contacted for an interview.

Vientiane Times 19

Opinion Monday April 30, 2012

lao people's democratic republicPeace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity

Ministry of HealthThe Office of Principal RecipientThe Global Fund to Fight aIdS, Tuberculosis and Malaria

Expression of InterestFor Supplying audit Service

For Global Fund to Fight aIdS, Tuberculosis and Malaria program

Procurement N° GFLAO/AUDIT/GFATM/2011 Date: 20/04/2012

The Lao People’s Democratic Republic has received grants from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The procurement unit of the Principle Recipient (PR office) intends to procure audit Services for the TB Single Stream Funding Grant 2011-2013 (lao-T-GFMoH) and audit Services for Malaria round 7 Grant 2011-2012 (lao 708-G09-M) by using budget under the GFATM project.

This Procurement unit will follow the Public Procurement Procedures for request for quotation according to the Procurement Guideline of the Principal Recipient issued on November 2009.

The Procurement Unit now invites the International Audit Firms to apply to the audit Services for the above Projects.

Interested Companies may obtain further information and receive a complete set of Term of Reference and Request for Quotation documents (RFQ) at the address given below:The Principal Recipient Supported by Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria opposite of Ministry of Public Health. Tel: 856-21 242980, Fax: 856-21 242981Mr. Keophouthone Inthivong, Procurement Specialist, email address: keophouthone@theglobalfundlao.org and Cc; Mr. Khampiew Thipavongphanh, Head of Finance unit, email address: khampiew@theglobalfundlao.org

Quotations must be delivered to the address below:The Principal Recipient supported by Global Fund to fight AID, Tuberculosis and Malaria opposite of Main Building of the Ministry of Public Health. At 14:00h on May 19, 2012. Tel: 856-21 242980, Fax: 856-21 242981.

Any Quotations received later than the scheduled time will be rejected. Quotations will be opened in the presence of the Suppliers’ representatives who choose to attend at the meeting room of the Principal Recipient office at 14:00h on May 19, 2012

Director of GFATM Project Ministry of Public Health, Lao PDR

Request for quotation Sewing Equipments and Sewing Supplies

No.Shopping-Sup001/12

Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is a Korean government agency with objective to implement Korean Government’s Grant Aid Program in Lao PDR and is working in various fields of works with Lao Government on socio-economic development.KOICA office in Laos is pleased to invite interested vendors to submit sealed quotation for supply of:

- Sewing machines 14 each- Over lock sewing machine 1 each- Button cover hand press machine 1 each- Sewing supplies 24 items

This invitation is open to all interested bidders and not limited to specific experience in the supply of goods and services.Interested vendors can obtain the quotation documents in full details from the following address with free of charge:

KOICA officeVientiane Plaza Hotel, 3F

Sailom Rd, Hadsadyneua VillageTel: 021 263 331

The deadline of submission of the sealed quotation is 14th May 2012 at 3:00 PM.

Patricia Grogg

HAVANA, (IPS) -- As a result of climate change-related extreme weather events like a rise in the sea level and increasingly intense storms alternating with drought, Caribbean island nations are facing the challenge of adopting adaptation measures that could be too costly for their budgets.

One important message from the report is that costly investments are not needed to mitigate the effects of extreme weather events; there are other ways of dealing with the impacts that do not involve major spending on infrastructure, he told IPS.

That clarification is important because funds for climate change adaptation are scarce in this region, added the expert, who is co-chair of IPCC Working Group II: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability.

The IPCC, which was established in 1988, has published four comprehensive assessment reports reviewing the latest climate science, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for its “efforts to build up and disseminate greater knowledge about man-made climate change, and to lay the foundations for the measures that are needed to counteract such change.”

Field was in Havana to participate in a workshop held to divulge the results of

the IPCC “Special Report on Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation”, produced as a tool for climate adaptation policy-making.

According to statistics provided in the Apr. 18-19 workshop, the rise in sea level could lead to a reduction in the size of the Caribbean islands and have a negative impact on infrastructure, including airports, roads and capital cities, which tend to be located near the coast.

More than half of the population in the region lives less than 1.5 km from the coast. Ian King, an expert from Barbados with the United Nations Development Programme Caribbean Disaster Risk Reduction Initiative (UNDP CRMI), said the first challenge is to assess the threats, in order to decide on the most suitable adaptation policies.

King told IPS that research on management of coastal areas and marine ecosystems has been carried out in Barbados, and that it is now a question of investing in these areas to protect not only the species but the population and infrastructure, facilitating access to information that helps evaluate the best way to manage disaster risks.

One of the ways is to model different scenarios of the risk of high-intensity storms and their impact on coastal areas,

King said. Better adaptation policies can be established on this more scientific basis, he added, saying the decision of whether or not to pull out of at-risk areas largely depends on the communities themselves.

Although it is clear that adaptation to climate change is a pressing need, there is a problem of financing for programmes in countries with weak economies like the islands of the Caribbean.

“It is precisely the lowest-income sectors that are most vulnerable to these problems,” Beat Schmid, Oxfam director in Cuba, told IPS.

He said the financing of adaptation programmes in developing countries by those who caused global warming was a question of “climate justice.”

There is a broad scientific consensus that the rise in the average global temperatures is due to greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere by human activities, mainly in the industrialised nations.

Schmid pointed out that in international negotiations, Oxfam and other organisations advocate the creation of a US$100 billion a year global fund to finance the adoption of

concrete adaptation measures. “There are also other

mechanisms on the table, such as a financial transaction tax and an airline ticket tax,” he added.

The capacity of developing nations to undertake adaptation measures is limited, added the expert from Oxfam, an international confederation of 14 organisations working with over 3,000 partners in more than 100 countries to come up with lasting solutions to poverty.

In Schmid’s view, Cuba is a symbol of what can be achieved. But he clarified that

this is a country with a strong state whose social policies reach the most remote areas, and which has invested steadily in human capital.

He also mentioned that this country has carried out large-scale, long-term programmes focusing on water sources and forests, for example, which started to be implemented years ago, not with the idea of adaptation, but to reduce risks like water scarcity and desertification – problems that are aggravated by climate change.

“But many countries do not have these strengths, or the level of poverty is so high that governments cannot even think about climate change adaptation programmes,” he said. “Even in the case of Cuba, the needs far surpass the possibilities of financing these programmes.”

He also lamented that there is still talk of each country paying for adaptation measures, and that only five industrialised nations are living up to the commitment to spend 0.7 percent of GDP on development aid, while several countries have actually cut their official development aid.

The IPCC special report on risk management warns that economic losses caused by global warming-related natural disasters are increasing, and this will have a great impact in the future on areas like tourism, agriculture and water supply.

Low-cost adaptation measures needed

Experts predict more and more intense storms in the Caribbean. --Credit:Jorge Luis Baños/IPS

20 Vientiane TimesMonday April 30, 2012

Feature

S J K Lao Co., LtdOur CompanyGlobal Company with Top Priority Placed on our Customers SJK Lao co., Ltd was established in 2011 as a subsidiary of Seoul Alloy Metal Co., Ltd (SAM) of Korea with a purpose of exploding potential mineral operations here in Lao PDR. now our company is looking for new employees many positions in the following:

Vacancy announcement

Education and Experience :- Good verbal and written communication skills in both Lao and English.- Proficiency in Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Power Point, Internet, Email….- Ability to maintain direction and achieve work objectives with minimal supervision.

all interesting applicants please kindly bring in the following:

Cover Letter and CV in English, Certificate of graduation with score in English.- Copy ID card, Family book and concerned documents in all applications.

A generous salary will be provided based upon experience.Only short-listed candidates will be contracted for interview. In order to keep contact, Please note down your mobile phone number in the application. All applications will be confidential.

Start and Closing date for applications : as soon as possible!

Vientiane Office 501,503 Alounmai Building. P.O. Box: 8156, Ban Nongbone, Saysettha District, Vientiane Cap, Lao PDR Phone +856-21 455 073, 020-

95573559 Fax +856-21 455 074 Email: visean.sjklaos@gmail.comA Member of Seoul Alloy Metal Group

1. / accounting staff (01 position) 2. / General affairs (01 position) 3. / Mine staffs (03 Surveys, 01 Drilling,

01Mining) male. 6. / law staff (01 position) male or female.

7. / Translator staff (02 Korean and 02 English) 8. / Marketing, logistics staff (01 position) male.9. / Quality control staff (05 position)10. / Mining processing staff (03 positions) male.

Vacancy Announcement for Translator and InterpreterDescription:We are a fast growing multi-national company with significant business interests throughout the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and are looking for a motivated and multi-skilled translator and interpreter to join our team.

Education: Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in English Language or related field preferred

Experience: 2+ years of experience in English/Lao translation and interpretation

Job Responsibilities:* Translate and/or revise company generated business plans, feasibility studies, PowerPoint

presentations, and pitchbooks for potential projects and senior management team* Proofread, edit, and revise translated materials* Check translations of technical terms and terminology to ensure that they are accurate and

remain consistent throughout translation revisions* Translate oral messages consecutively into specified language, maintaining message

content, context, and style as much as possible

Skills:* Motivated, multi-talented team player * Fluency in both English and Lao language (oral and written)* Strong presentation and interpersonal skills* Ability to meet deadlines and work well under pressure* Previous translating and interpreting experience required* Previous experience in finance, law, business or related field preferred* Ability to work with a wide range of sensitive and confidential issues* High degree of confidence, intellectual curiosity and a passion to succeed

Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest and Curriculum Vitae to Mr. Jody Jordahl at jody.jordahl@sanuminvestment.com. Only short listed candidates will be notified.

Lu Chang, Li Yingqing and Guo Anfei

CHINA (China Daily) -- What is common with Chanel, Coty and Davidoff? Nothing, one would tend to say, as they have different fragrances and positioning. But very few know that some essential ingredients that make up most of the famous perfume brands come from Yunnan, in China. Though the province is still home to many aromatic treasures, it seems to be fast losing its edge in the global markets as rampant price wars among domestic suppliers and failure to embrace modern manufacturing techniques are fast eroding the profit margins of companies.

Situated in the southwestern subtropical zone of China, Yunnan is home to more than 400 species of natural spices. The annual output of geranium oil - an essential ingredient for perfumes - in Yunnan is about 120 tons and accounts for half of the global trade, according to information provided by the provincial agriculture department.

In 2010, Yunnan’s fragrance manufacturers exported US$105 million (80 million euros) worth of natural oils and fragrances of synthetic chemicals, up 20 percent from a year earlier. This accounted for more than half of the US$239 million revenue earned by the province’s flavor and fragrance industry, a 15 percent growth over the previous year, according to the China Association of Fragrance Flavor and Cosmetic Industry. Most of these exports were to destinations like the United States, Europe, India and the Middle East.

Aromatic fusionTough times, thin margins prompt Chinese fragrance

makers to embark on value-adding trail

A cabbage rose production base in Yunnan. The southwestern province exported US$105 million worth of natural oils and fragrances of synthetic chemicals in 2010.

Fragrance manufacturers need to upgrade techniques to meet market demand.

Zhou Yong, general manager at Yunnan MeiJie Industrial Trade Co Ltd, says his company has supplied aromatic raw materials, through traders, to many French fashion houses such as Chanel and L’Oreal.

“It requires many different fragrances to make a perfume, but ingredients such as geranium oil and michelia oil from Yunnan are essential ingredients,” he says. “You may find them in other places in the world, but the aroma is not as good as the flowers in Yunnan and it is also difficult to replicate it with synthetic chemicals. So technically speaking nearly every French perfume house uses raw materials from Yunnan.”

Though the short-term numbers look impressive, considering that exports are increasing and growth is stable, experts express concern that in the long run the prospects are not that rosy as lack of deep processing skills may hinder the further development of the fragrance industry in Yunnan.

Feng Rui, director of the China Association of Fragrance Flavor and Cosmetic Industry, says Yunnan’s fragrance industry has seen a steady growth in line with the fast development of the cosmetic, healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, the key industries that use natural oil, fragrance extracts and synthetic chemicals. Industry growth may slow down if local fragrance makers are unable to develop their own skills to meet the demands from key consumers.

“Profit margins for local fragrance makers have been shrinking rapidly and are currently only about 10 percent

of the total revenue,” Feng says. “Margins have been falling for Chinese fragrance companies as most of them are essentially raw material suppliers situated at the bottom of the industry chain and hence more prone to demand fluctuations.”

One person who is facing such a dilemma is Zhao Yan, the chief technician of Yunnan Emerald Essence Ltd, one of the largest fragrance companies in the province, which relies on exports to the US, Europe and the Middle East.

His company reported export earnings of 200 million yuan (US$31.7 million, 24 million euros) last year, but net profits of only 2 million yuan.

“Most of the fragrance makers in Yunnan are stagnating in the upstream of the industrial chain with the core business of making simple extracts from raw materials. International traders need to do further processing before selling the products to global fashion houses. The Chinese companies have no pricing power and this itself depletes our profits by more than half,” Zhao says.

“We need an industrial upgrade in the fragrance industry, lest our profit margins be squeezed further.”

Zhou from MeiJie says that his company saw a sharp decline in turnover from 30 million yuan to 2 million yuan in the past decade as a result of the bitter price wars in the industry.

“Many local companies are trying to gain an advantage by cutting prices drastically to sell more of their products. But they don’t realise that it causes immense financial damage to their competitors,” Zhou says, citing the example of geranium

oil, where prices have dropped from 1,600 yuan per kg to 800 yuan. “Such actions have hampered the whole industry. Due to the price wars, many fragrance companies had to shut shop, while several others had to curtail production.”

Zhou Tiesheng, director of the Yunnan Flavor and Fragrance Research and Development Center, says the way out for the companies is to move up the value chain by imbibing more scientific research and output techniques along with launching more medium- and high-end products.

“For a long time Chinese fragrances companies have failed to invest in important techniques for extracting aromatics to move up the value chain,” Zhou says. “At present, China’s fragrance industry is still in the growth stage and the industry concentration needs to be enhanced further.”

“When raw material prices fluctuate, companies need to focus more on brand building, technology and upstream resource management.”

One good example that many Chinese companies can learn from is Firmenich Aromatics Co Ltd, the world’s second largest manufacturer in the perfume and flavor business. The Geneva -based company has been investing an average more than 10 percent of its returns on technology and product development. Alex Kuo, general manager of Kunming Firmenich Aromatics Co Ltd, says the privately owned Swiss company has done a lot of sensory tests on Chinese consumer preferences to cope up with requirements from those like Procter & Gamble, Unilever and L’Oreal.

Vientiane Times 21Monday April 30, 2012 Feature

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United NationsPROFESSIONAL VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT NO: 2011/04 (RE-ADVERTISE) Issued on: 17 April 2012 Deadline For Application: 31 May 2012

POSITION TITLE: Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) GRADE LEVEL: NOB DUTY STATION: Vientiane, LaosORGANIZATIONAL UNIT: FAO Representation in Laos DURATION*: 12 months renewable (Fixed term contract)

Applications from qualified women as well as from qualified nationals of non-and under-represented member countries are encouragedDUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Liaise and cooperate with government authorities and local, national and international institutions in the areas of

FAO’s activities in the country and in liaise with other UN agencies. He/she may represent FAO at inter-agency meetings as required;

• Promote the image of FAO through advocacy of the Organization’s mandate, programmes, national priorities and activities including development and maintenance of communication tools (e.g. website, press releases and publications) and support the implementation of FAO’s regulatory frameworks (Codex Alimentarius, Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, Safe Use of Pesticides, etc.) in the country;

• Coordinate the collection, consolidation and maintenance of country data on food, crops, livestock, forestry and fisheries including information on external aid in FAO’s corporate systems and monitor changes in national policies affecting the agricultural sector;

• Participate in producing technical, economic and policy studies as required and developing country level development frameworks such as the National Medium Term Priority Framework (NMTPF) and the United Nations Development Assistance Frameworks (UNDAF);

• Participate in the identification, formulation and preparation of programme and project proposals and monitor and review the status of programme/project implementation to ensure that all operational activities are carried out in line with the work plan and the project document; identify inconsistencies and delays and, when necessary, propose corrective measures to overcome operational constraints;

• Act as Officer-in-Charge for the day-to-day running of the FAO Representation during the absence of the FAOR, if required;

• Perform any other duties as required. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTSCandidates should meet the following: Education:University degree in agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, or in any other field related to the work of the Organization.Work Experience:Minimum of five years of professional experience in agricultural development and/or project implementation in an area of FAO’s activities in the country. Languages:Working knowledge (level C) of English and working knowledge of the most widely used local language. SELECTION CRITERIACandidates will be assessed against the following:• Level and relevance of experience in programme/project development and management.• Demonstrated understanding of the purpose and functions of the technical programme, operational guidelines and project / programme management procedures, possibly of those adopted by the United Nations or FAO. • Proven capacity to approach work assignments in systematic and efficient manner with judgement and analytical

skills.• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. • Demonstrated ability to use standard office software, such as MS Office (Windows, Word, Outlook, Excel,Power Point, and Internet) and project management software and other information systems /databases. Please note that all candidates should possess computer/word processing skills and should be capable of working with people of different national and cultural backgrounds.* The length of appointment for internal FAO candidates will be established in accordance with applicable policies pertaining to the extension of appointments. REMUNERATIONA competitive compensation and benefits package is offered. For information on UN salaries, allowances and benefits, click on the following link: http://icsc.un.org/TO APPLY: Carefully read and follow the Guidelines to applicantsInterested applicants should submit their applications in writing (clearly indicating on the sealed envelope the Vacancy Announcement number 2011/04 (Re-Advertise) to the FAO Representation, 128 Phonexay Road, P.O. Box 1640, Vientiane Capital, Tel: 021 413205, 414503 or email their applications to: FAO-LA-Vacancies@fao.orgApplications sent to any other address will be rejected.The latest date for receiving the applications is 31 May 2012. Please note that application received after the closing date will not be given consideration. Only short listed candidates will be contacted.In line with FAO policy on gender equity, the vacancy is open for both male and female candidates. FAO is also committed to increasing the number of ethnic group staff in its programmes and offices. Therefore, Candidates from ethnic groups are especially encouraged to apply.Please note that FAO staff members are international civil servants subject to the authority of the Director-General and may be assigned to any activities or office of the organization.

Vangie Baga-Reyes

THE PHILIPPINES (Philippine Daily Inquirer, ANN) -- Is it just a fad or is it here to stay?

Whatever it is, the bubble milk tea business is raking in big bucks, and Chatime intends to prove that it’s not just a fad, but something that will last.

“Before, you only drank tea like twice or thrice a week,” said Henry Wang, president of Chatime, the bubble milk tea chain from Taiwan. “Now, we want to show that drinking tea regularly is good for your health. It should be a special treat every day.”

“It’s like building a habit,” added Johnlu Koa, who obtained the Chatime master franchise for the Philippines, along with family members Marilou Koa, Michael Koa, Elisa Koa, Johnyan Koa and Christopher Cua.

“It’s more of a trend now than a fad,” said Johnlu, who’s also The French Baker founder. “Consumers are always on the lookout for ‘halfway’ houses where they can while away time to meet up with friends, organise their activities or finish up on some paperwork.

hatime can customise to individual tastes and preferences. Its tea lounge concept is also an affordable alternative to pricey coffee shops.”

BeginningsWang, under his mother company

La Kaffa Coffee, started Chatime in 2005 in Hsinchu, Taiwan, where a lot of milk tea brands were already competing against each other. But Wang attempted to modernise the traditional tea culture by producing high-tech tea machines to make consistent-quality fresh teas and a variety of tea flavours, fruit essences and toppings.

Wang also didn’t stop at being known locally. He dreamt big: to be number one internationally in the bubble tea industry.

“I wanted to expand internationally and make bubble tea an international drink,” said Wang. “In order to go international, it has to be standardised, so we invented the technology of brewing machines. We were the first one to use the technology.”

There are several bubble tea brands in Taiwan but, according to Wang, they still use the traditional way of brewing teas by humans, not machines. “If you use the human way to brew tea, there are two things you can’t control: first is quality; second, the danger of handling hot water. If you use a machine, it takes care of all the dangerous issues.”

Wang’s advanced system allows the brewing of larger amounts of tea in a shorter period of time, thus offering faster service at affordable prices. Other brands brew their teas per order. The batch brewer can afford to serve several orders at the same time, while keeping its teas fresh all the time.

“Chatime is not just products; we want to sell our service, too,” said 42-year-old Wang. “Like the Japanese—they sell great service, so we want to follow that tradition and have a great product like Chatime.”

Wang added: “Our target group, 15-30 years old, is the fashion group. We want Chatime to be a fashion. We want to be known not just a drink but also a dessert, that’s why we’ve added more toppings like pearls, grass jelly, red beans and coconut jelly. We know most Filipinos like sweets, and that’s a very big market.”

Chatime, which means sunrise in Chinese, has 580 stores around the globe, with $20 million sales last year.

Tea processWe were given a quick tour of the

Chatime tea farm in Nantou County, Taiwan, and a short demo on how tea leaves are harvested and processed. Nearly 54 per cent of teas in Taiwan are

from Nantou, about three hours by bus from Taipei. Lush greenery and rows upon rows of verdant, low-rise tea plants welcome first-time guests to the tea country. Here, you discover where the company got its logo from—a leaf formation called “one heart, two leaves”.

Tea leaves are harvested (about seven times a year) in their young state for their strong flavour. Most teas come from the same species, but the process of making them into oolong, black or green tea is what accounts for their segmentation. Green tea is the fastest and most popular because it dries out within four to five hours, with no fermentation. Oolong is baked green tea with half fermentation. Black tea takes a bit longer because it’s full fermentation.

“When they spray fertilizer, they don’t pick the leaves in the next 60 days,” said Johnlu.

After harvesting, the machine-picked leaves are first left to dry for hours under the sun, then transferred to a spinning dryer until the leaves begin to wilt. Subsequently, they are put in a mill to extract the oil out of the shredded leaves and; the oil is then wiped back, in a way, onto their outer layer to bring out the rich tea essence.

The final result, after going through another spinning machine and a conveyor belt to loosen up the dried leaves, are dry, aromatic, dark tea leaves ready for packaging and later brewing.

“It’s a 24-hour tea production,” said Johnlu. “Chatime collects different blends from different suppliers to come up with its own superior blend.”

all in the familyMost ingredients for Chatime

Philippines are shipped from Taiwan, including the concentrates and powdered milk, pearls, cups, straws, sealers, machines and tea leaves.

Perishable stuff like fresh milk and whipping cream are sourced in Manila.

Chatime Philippines is run by Johnlu and his young entrepreneur nephews. Michael is the general manager in charge of opening new stores. Elisa, Michael’s wife, handles operations and personnel, including the training of new staff, implementing new procedures, auditing the stores and handling store inquiries.

Christopher, the youngest in the group, is the finance director, taking charge of the cash flow and all money matters, particularly between the mother company and franchised stores.

Johnlu’s brother, Johnyan, deals with the logistics, deliveries and warehouse operations. Johnlu and Marilou take care of the overall marketing strategy of Chatime.

The successful business know-how behind The French Baker was what sealed the deal for the Chatime franchise.

“At first, they were not minding us because we were just e-mailing and calling them,” recalled Chris. “In the end, we just bugged them so much that

the wife of Henry Wang picked up the phone and said,

‘Okay, we have lots of inquiries from the Philippines. Please tell me what you have and don’t waste my time.’”

The group sent The French Baker profile to Taiwan and got the attention of the owners. Wang visited Manila in 2010 and signed the contract.

“They chose us because they wanted a more entrepreneurial experience. At the same time, we have a Taiwanese in the family, Elisa, so it was easier to communicate,” Chris said.

Favourite flavoursSince Chatime opened in 2011,

people have been queuing up to buy their favourite milk tea flavour. The best-selling drink is still the signature Chatime Pearl Milk Tea. The store prides itself on using real tea leaves in all its milk teas, as well as having the chewiest black pearls in town.

It’s also proud of its taro drink, using real taro, and not just synthetic ube powder. Fruit teas also offer wider appeal, since they offer hesitant newcomers something familiar to their taste buds.

How bubble milk tea came to Manila

22 Vientiane Times

What’s on

Luang Prabang

Big Brother Mouse helps young people practise their English at free drop-in sessions, 9-11am and 5-7pm, open every day. Just come to our office at 9am or 5pm in Ban Vat Nong, around the corner from 3 Nagas Hotel. www.bigbrothermouse.com. Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. Open 9am-6pm, Tues-Sun. www.taeclaos.orgOck Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre open daily for free guided tour. Natural dyes, weaving and batik drawing classes daily. 9am-5pm. Free transfer from Ock Pop Tok shops in town to the weaving centre on the Mekong. Call 071 212597Royal Palace National Museum. Open 8.30-11.30am and 1.30-4.30pm from Wednesday to Monday.UXO Visitor Centre. Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-12 and 2-5pm. Right turn just before President’s Monument on the Northern Rd.

MuseumsLao National Museumon Samsenthai Road opposite National Culture Hall. Open Mon-Fri during office hours and on weekends from 9am to 4pm.Horphakeo Museum on Setthathirat Road opposite Vat Sisaket. Open Mon-Sun during office hours.

Sports ANZ Vientiane Lions Women’s Rugby Club – Wednesday night fitness sessions from 7:30 at VIS. Pitch trainings Thursday nights from 19:30 and Sunday from 16:00 at Polytechnic Pitch in Ban Phonphapao. Contact Vieng on 020 54234111 or Maggie on 020 78110019 for more information. Champa Ban Youth Rugby – Rugby activities with a focus on fun, games and healthy living message. Free and open to all. Visit www.laorugby.com or contact Noui 020 54905090 or Maggie on 020 78110019 for more information. Lao Elephants Australian Rules Football Club -Meet at 6.30 pm on Thursdays for

Vientiane- The 6th Lao Women Artists Exhibition at the National Institute

of Fine Arts in Ban Chao Anou until May 10, open until 5.30 pm.

- Action with Lao Children Library: Open Mon to Fri 9am to 6pm and Sat 9am to 3pm. Come in and read and borrow Lao, Japanese, Thai and English books. Located in Ban Saphangmor, Xaysettha district.

- Permanent UXO exhibition and the provision of artificial limbs for victims. COPE Visitor Centre, Khouvieng Road, opposite Green Park Hotel. Every day: 9am-6pm.

- Chess Club meets at 1pm every Sunday at City Inn on Pangkham Road, Vientiane.

Contact: Gabriel_smit@hotmail.com- Women’s International Group. For activities and times

email wiglaosmembership@gmail.com - Toastmasters Club meets every Sun. from 4-6pm at

Khopchaideu restaurant (3F). Everyone is welcome.- Meditation at Vat Sokpaluang every Saturday, 4-5.30pm.- English Language Church Service every Sunday 10am at

the ARDA Language Centre (near the Mercure, formerly Novotel). Call (021) 261441, or visit http://www.the-chs.org

training, please contact the LE President at president_laoelephants@laopdr.com for details and other meeting areas.Buffalos Rugby - men’s rugby training Tuesday evenings 6 - 7:30pm. All welcome. Sunday morning social touch rugby - male, female all ages welcome. Free. For either, contact John (020 77140176), Bob (020 55510443) and Tom (020 2281111) for more information.Wild Hogs Rugby training at the Polytechnic pitch in Phonpapao village, Sisattanak, at 8pm on Tues. and Thurs. Optional Saturday touch session at That Luang at 5:30pm, Sunday fitness at That Luang at 5:30pm. Call 020 77615677 or Chris 020 77834385.Lao Mahout Netball team trains every Tues. at 6pm at Vientiane International School. For more information contact Saeng on 020 77442689.Lions Women’s Rugby from 7.30pm on Tues and Thurs at the Polytechnic pitch. Contact Noui on 020 4905090 or Maggie on 020 54656153.Youth Community Rugby SessionsTraining for U15 Boys and U17 Girls at the Polytechnic pitch in Phonpapao village, Sisattanak, at 7:30pm on Wed. Training for children of all ages at 9am on Sunday.Aqua-fitness Fri 10-11am; Sat 11-12. Please contact Sarah at 020 54147069 or nsteam @live.frBody Language at Vientiane Accueil, Khouvieng Rd. Class includes stretching and respiratory exercises with an oriental touch. Tues. and Thurs. from 5.30-6.30pm. Contact 020 5612107.Aerobics at Sokpalouang swimming pool, Sisattanak district. Open every day from 6am-8pm.Vientiane Hash House HarriersMeet at Nam Phu Fountain every Saturday for travel to out-of-town runs. Mixed Hash, register at 3.45pm and depart 4pm. Monday,VH3, family Hash. 3 runs - short, medium and long. Meet at 5pm at advertised venue. Phones: 223867, 217493, mobile 020 5511293, 5514669.

Monday April 30, 2012

Art & Entertainment

(CHINA DAILY) -- Universal brought Snow White, Bourne and a battleship to CinemaCon on Thursday in the hopes of astonishing theater owners, but all it really needed to pack was a pot-smoking teddy bear.

With a reported budget of US$65 million, Seth MacFarlane’s “Ted” was made for a fraction of what it cost to blow up half the Navy in “Battleship,” but the resounding laughter that greeted the extended footage indicates the studio might have a huge R-rated hit on its hands.

The film centres on a boy whose Christmas wish comes true after his teddy bear comes to life. But that dream turns more nightmarish when the pair grows up.

Universal highlighted the stuffed bear, played by McFarlane in a motion-capture suit, hanging out with prostitutes, taking hits from a bong and humping a cash register - all activities that would be pretty foreign to, say, Winnie the Pooh.

Mark Wahlberg and Mila Kunis star along with MacFarlane. The reaction was so enthusiastic that Adam Fogelson, Universal Pictures chairman who was emceeing the event, probably did not mind when he found himself the target of MacFarlane’s raunchy zingers.

“You have the boyish charm of Rick Santorum,” MacFarlane told Fogelson.

Later, MacFarlane dared the studio chief to expose himself. Fogelson opted to keep his appendage in trou.

Universal also screened footage of “Snow White and the Huntsman,” bringing out stars Kristen Stewart and CharlizeTheron to preview an extended trailer that has the

title character leading a band of knights and dwarves to battle against the wicked queen.

The film is a spectacular epic, directed by a first-time talent, Rupert Sanders, who spun a world of mythical creatures, an imperiously evil Theron and a dark look that is miles removed from the rococo Snow White picture from Relativity, “Mirror, Mirror.”

The studio also gave exhibitors a look at “Battleship,” which hits these shores on May 18, but has already debuted in many foreign territories. It has grossed north of US$150 million, so something must work, but it just seemed to pummel convention-goers into submission with its pyrotechnics and jingoism.

More interesting were “The Savages,” a dark thriller that Fogelson said would

return director Oliver Stone to the ultra-violent territory he covered in his script for “Scarface” and “Natural Born Killers.” The movie, which centers on two pot dealers whose mutual girlfriend (Blake Lively) is kidnapped by a Mexican drug cartel, looks to ride the knife’s edge. Salma Hayek plays a drug lord, while John Travolta plays a crooked D.E.A. agent.

Travolta came on stage and said he had never worked with “...such decent people doing such awful things.” As for the Bourne franchise, Fogelson said that after Matt Damon passed on a fourth installment, the studio wanted to open up the paranoid world of the thrillers without recasting the lead.

He said that Universal had decided to let Bourne swim off into the Hudson, his memory

restored, “for now,” holding out the possibility that Damon could be in for a big payday down the road.

“The Bourne Legacy” sees Jeremy Renner taking over as another super-assassin on the run from the government. Based on the early footage, he is equally adept at turning from prey to predator and single-handedly tearing through an intelligence agency.

Looking farther ahead, Universal also previewed glimpses of its winter and spring slate, including footage from the “This is 40,” which centers on the “Knocked Up” characters played by Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd; “Les Misérables” with Russell Crowe and Hugh Jackman flexing their singing voices; and the 3D martial arts adventure “47 Ronin.”

Pot-smoking teddy bear a hit at CinemaCon

Mark Wahlberg in a scene from Seth MacFarlane’s ‘’Ted’’. --Photo Agencies

(CHINA DAILY) -- Three Kanye West albums have made it on to the latest edition of Rolling Stone magazine’s authoritative “500 Greatest Albums of All Time” list, placing him among the greats of popular music.

The new ranking, which combines a 2003 list (updated in 2005) with a later survey of the 2000s, saw two Radiohead records join the elite club, while long-established names including Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan also had albums added.

Rolling Stone has published the list, along with details of the albums and several new recording histories based on first-hand accounts, in “bookazine” format available for $11.99 on newsstands between Friday and July 25 in the United States.

As with any survey that tries to put arguably the greatest rock and roll recordings into a particular order, there was plenty of heated debate among the journalists and editors who came up with the final list.

Much of the hard work had been done, however, with hundreds of reporters, executives and musicians

involved in the earlier surveys.“We had arguments in

the office, and I hope those arguments are replicated elsewhere,” said Christian Hoard, a senior editor at Rolling Stone, of the selection process.

“These special issues are great sellers,” he told Reuters. “But they also turn people on to music they haven’t heard, and hopefully start fun arguments too.

“People like to get angry about these ‘best’ lists. It was really a great deal of fun to make.”

The big beneficiary was

US hip-hop star West, who saw 2005 album Late Registration, The College Dropout (2004) and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010) make it to the top 500.

In total, 30 albums were added and 30 taken away, with the casualties including several artists well-represented on the list already and whose “lesser” albums have now been dropped.

The highest entry among recent albums was West’s Late Registration at No. 118.

Asked whether the relatively low position of recently released albums reflected a barren period for great rock and pop, Hoard replied:

“My personal opinion is no. Music is as inspirational as it’s ever been.

“Things get clearer as the years pass. If you held this poll in 10 years, say, Arcade Fire could be a lot higher and the same could be said of Kanye West. Reputation and time definitely help an album, especially with pollers like ours.”

Canadian band Arcade Fire’s Funeral is among the 30 additions, as is British act Arctic Monkeys for their 2005

hit Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not.

Radiohead features twice -- for Amnesiac (2001) and In Rainbows (2007), Jay-Z is added for The Black Album (2003), Lil Wayne makes it with Tha Carter III (2008) and the late Amy Winehouse for Back to Black.

Among those dropping out to make way for the additions were The Beach Boys (Sunflower), David Bowie (Changesone), Elton John (Elton John) and Madonna (Music).

The first change to the previous list comes at number 59, leaving the Beatles to dominate the top 10.

The Fab Four feature no less than four times in the first 10; at number one (Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band), three (Revolver), five (Rubber Soul) and 10 (The White Album).

Three acts have 10 albums each on the list -- the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan -- and the oldest album on the list is from 1952 (The Anthology of American Folk Music).

Only 40 albums released since 2000 feature, compared with 187 from the 1970s.

Rolling Stone overhauls album ranking, Kanye stars

Recording artist Kanye West sits courtside as he attends the NBA basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls in Los Angeles December 25, 2011. --Photo Agencies

Vientiane Times 23SportsMonday April 30, 2012

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) -- Six-time champion Rafael Nadal thrashed Fernando Verdasco 6-0, 6-4 on Saturday to ease into the Barcelona Open final, where he will face fellow Spaniard David Ferrer for a fourth time.

A ruthless Nadal dominated from the start, winning 21 of 27 points to steal Verdasco’s first three service games and set him on his way to his 33rd straight win at the competition.

In the other semifinal, Ferrer held off Milos Raonic’s powerful serve for a 7-6 (2), 7-6 (5) victory to give him a shot at his fourth title of the year.

“Rafa is the best player clay-court player ever,” said Ferrer. “He has beaten me three times in the finals here. I hope tomorrow is different.”

Verdasco, who won here in 2010 when Nadal sat out the tournament he has otherwise dominated since 2005, barely offered resistance as the world’s second-ranked player hit winner after winner.

Nadal ran off seven straight points to open the match, breaking Verdasco’s first service game with an intimidating smash.

“I began the first set very strong, and getting the first break gave me a lot of confidence,” Nadal said. “He also made some errors early on which helped me.”

Verdasco dropped his second service game when his volley fell wide, and Nadal kept pressing, not dropping a point in the fourth game to race out to an insurmountable lead as light rain began to

fall.Down a set, Verdasco

showed some fight and had a chance to break the favourite early, but Nadal won three straight points with strong serves to hold on.

But Verdasco faltered in the fifth game when after saving three break points he committed a costly double fault to fall behind for good at 3-2.

Nadal improved to 13-0 all time against Verdasco and predicted a close final.

“David is always tough. He is a rival you never want to face,” Nadal said. “I wish him the best. Well... not for tomorrow, but for the rest of the season.”

Raonic hit 15 aces against Ferrer, displaying the same massive serve that led to his

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) -- Bernd Wiesberger of Austria shot a second straight 7-under 65 Saturday to open up a five-shot lead after the third round of the Ballantine’s Championship.

He equalled the Blackstone Golf Club course record he had set the previous day to reach 14-under 202.

Marcus Fraser of Australia was in second after a third-round 69, with England’s Oliver Fisher (67) and Chile’s Felipe Aguilar (68) one shot back in a tie for third.

The 26-year-old Wiesberger had led by one shot overnight and he extended his advantage with a 15-foot birdie putt on the fourth green and another from five foot at the sixth.

He made a further five birdies on the back nine to

Wiesberger opens up 5-shot lead at Ballantine’s golf champ

Bernd Wiesberger during the Ballantine’s Championship golf tournament in Incheon, Republic of Korea, on Saturday. --Photo AP

close in on his first European Tour victory.

“I have never had a five-shot lead in a European Tour event,” said Wiesberger, who lost a playoff to Thomas Bjorn at the 2011 Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles in Scotland.

“But I am not thinking about trying to win by one shot, I am thinking maybe to win by 10 shots. I am going to try to relax and stay positive.”

Fraser has won twice on tour including victory at the Ballantine’s in 2010 at Jeju Island, but he conceded his young playing partner would be difficult to beat.

“He played great today,” Fraser said. “He gave himself a chance of birdie on almost every hole and he putted great. If I was a betting man I would put my house on him

winning.”Two of Europe’s veteran

Ryder Cup stars climbed up to joint fifth.

Paul McGinley, the 45-year-old from Ireland, is playing only his fifth tournament since undergoing his seventh knee operation last December.

Having missed two cuts and withdrawn from the Trophee Hassan II in Morocco because of fitness problems, McGinley had expressed doubts about his playing future.

But after a flying start which saw him make five birdies in his first six holes, he went round in 65.

Miguel Angel Jimenez of Spain joined McGinley on 7 under, seven shots off the lead, after he shot a 69.

Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat also shot a 65 to move up into a tie for seventh.

upset of Andy Murray in the quarterfinals.

But the third-seeded Ferrer worked his Canadian opponent around the red-clay court with well placed ground strokes and proved the better finisher in the two tiebreakers.

“It was very difficult to beat him,” Ferrer said. “We both had our chances. It was a question of winning or losing the key points.”

Behind 3-1 in the second-set tiebreaker, the sixth-ranked Ferrer fought back and claimed the match in just over two hours with a superb return that clipped the sideline.

“I’m very happy to make my fourth final,” Ferrer said. “I have a special relationship with this tournament. I hope I can fulfill my dream of finally winning here.”

Nadal to meet Ferrer in 4th Barcelona Open final

Rafael Nadal during the Barcelona open tennis tournament in Spain on Friday. --Photo AP

SAO PAULO (AP) -- Two-time race winner Will Power edged defending IndyCar Series champion Dario Franchitti to win the pole position for Sunday’s Sao Paulo 300.

Power had a lap of 1 minute, 21.4045 seconds on the (4-kilometre), 11-turn Anhembi circuit on the streets of South America’s biggest city, less than half a tenth of a second ahead of Franchitti. Scott Dixon, Franchitti’s Chip Ganassi Racing teammate, will start third.

It was Power’s second pole of the season and second consecutive in Sao Paulo. His lap on Saturday eclipsed the previous qualifying record at the track.

“It was a good run,” Power said. “They were telling me it was going to be close. It’s satisfying when you get pole by such a small margin because you have to rag it so much to do that. It seems like very tough, close competition, which is typical of IndyCar. We’re just giving ourselves the best opportunity for the first corner.”

Power is trying to win his third straight race in Sao Paulo. The Australian also won the last two races heading into Brazil and is the series points leader. He will try to give Penske its

Power wins pole position for Sao Paulo 300 fourth straight win to start the season for the first time in team history in IndyCar. The team has already won every pole this year.

James Hinchcliffe, Ryan-Hunter Reay and Justin Wilson rounded the fastest six in qualifying on Saturday.

Franchitti had been fastest in Saturday’s practice but made a mistake in qualifying that he said was costly.

“The car is very good,” he said. “I’m a little disappointed with myself, on that last lap I made a mistake.”

He added: “You have to congratulate Will, he put it together, he did the lap. I’m happy that I feel the time is in the car and we can adjust it for a good race car tomorrow. It’s a good position to be in second. Feels a lot better than in the first three races.”

Franchitti won the last three series titles but struggled at the start of the season, not finishing better than 10th.

Qualifying was run under overcast skies but dry conditions. Rain affected the first two races won by Power in Brazil. The inaugural event was postponed for a day and last year the race was cut short.

“It’s wet tomorrow, obviously that’s going to change

everything,” Power said. “It’s not the average race. There are always position changing and different strategies, so we’ll see how it plays out and we’ll adjust accordingly.”

Some of the main changes to the track this year aimed to improve the drainage system at the street circuit. Officials also reduced a strong bump near the braking point for the first chicane, which drivers had complained about last year.

“It is much better now, they were able to fix that,” said Helio Castroneves, who qualified only 20th for his home race after crashing during practice earlier in the day.

It was the first time the cars were able to race after Honda was allowed to make changes to the turbochargers on its engines, giving the six teams using them an extra boost of power. Honda was permitted to make the change after a three-person panel on Thursday upheld an IndyCar decision against an appeal by Chevrolet.

“That helped as well,” Franchitti said about the engine change.

Power got the pole with Chevrolet in his Penske, but six drivers using Honda engines will start in the top 10 on Sunday.

24 Vientiane Times

SportMonday April 30, 2012

LONDON (AP) -- Wigan demolished Newcastle 4-0 on Saturday for another remarkable win in their attempt to avoid relegation from the Premier League and severely dent the opponent’s chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

With the fight for the title not resuming until leaders Manchester United make the short trip to second-place Manchester City on Monday, much of Saturday’s action centred on the teams fighting to stay in the lucrative Premier League.

Newcastle won six straight matches to move into fourth place but Wigan, who looked certain to be relegated just over a month ago, followed recent wins over Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal with four first-half goals.

Wigan are now three points clear of the three-team relegation zone. Bolton remained in 18th place despite rallying for a 2-2 draw at Sunderland, while Aston Villa are still in danger after a 0-0 draw at mid-table West Bromwich Albion.

At the other end of the table, Robin van Persie scored his 28th league goal of the season to earn third-place Arsenal a 1-1 draw at Stoke.

Uruguay striker Luis Suarez scored from near halfway to complete a hat trick and give Liverpool a 3-0 win at Norwich, while Nikica Jelavic scored twice as Everton scored four for the third straight league game to beat Fulham 4-0.

Wigan were still last in the standings on March 17 after just one win in 14 Premier League matches but kept faith with a passing, attacking game and are now one of the division’s in-form teams.

“It was huge win today and we have two more huge games against Blackburn and Wolves,” Wigan manager Roberto Martinez said. “This result is fantastic for the fans but if we don’t achieve our aim of staying in this league then it is going to mean nothing.”

Victor Moses headed Wigan into the lead in the 13th minute and made it 2-0 two minutes later after Magpies defender Fabricio Coloccini failed to clear the ball and left his opponent with a simple finish from a loose ball.

Shaun Maloney rounded off a team move with a finish from a tight angle on the left and Franco Di Santo struck a fourth goal in first-half injury time with a curling shot from outside the area.

Wigan now has 37 points with two games remaining, three more than Queens Park Rangers and Bolton immediately below them and the same as Aston Villa.

Villa needed a late save from goalkeeper Shay Given to earn a valuable point at West Brom. Last-place Wolverhampton Wanderers, who have already been demoted, fought back from 4-1 down to draw 4-4 at Swansea.

Kevin Davies earned Bolton a point at Sunderland

with his second goal of the game, while QPR play Sunday at Chelsea. Blackburn, the other side in the relegation zone, are at Tottenham in Sunday’s other game.

Southampton were promoted Saturday after a 4-0 win over Coventry sealed their return to England’s topflight after a seven-year absence.

The Saints scored twice in each half to clinch a second straight promotion and finish as runner-up to Reading in the second-tier League Championship.

“We’ve put a lot of hard work in and a lot of hours and we’ve achieved something special this season,” Southampton manager Nigel Adkins said. “Everyone works so hard at this football club and it’s great to see the smiles and delight on the supporters’ faces.”

West Ham finished third despite a 2-1 win over Hull and will enter the playoffs with Blackpool, Birmingham and Cardiff.

Wigan beat Newcastle to boost survival hopes

Wigan Athletic’s Conor Sammon (left) and Newcastle United’s Mike Williamson contest a header during their English Premier League match in Wigan, England, on Saturday. --Photo AP

Sangkhomsay Bubphanouvong

Luang Prabang is preparing to host the opening event of the Asean Professional Golf Association (PGA) Tour at the Luang Prabang Golf Club on May 3-6.

Golfers from six Asean countries will compete against their Lao hosts during the event, the first of its kind in Laos, which joins other cultural and sporting events throughout the year in promoting Visit Laos Year 2012.

On Tuesday, the province will warm up for the tournament with a friendly golf competition attended by ministers, sponsors and golfers from the Asean countries.

In the PGA tournament, regional level professional

golfers and Lao amateur players will compete for a share of US$80,000 in cash prizes. Each country will enter four players in the event.

The Asean PGA Tour has added three extra events to the calendar in 2012, bringing the total to 10, with a total prize fund of US$640,000.

The tour aims to boost the popularity of the sport and support pro golfers at the Asean level.

For the Lao players, the Luang Prabang event offers an opportunity to gain experience competing against professionals, as well as inspiring the younger generation to take up the sport. The tournament also showcases the new Luang Prabang Golf Club, set amongst fine views near the World Heritage town.

The Asean PGA is

cooperating with the World Sport Group to stage the event, which will be broadcast live on ESPN and Star Sports.

The Lao government has rallied private sector support for the event to promote the sport in Laos, encourage more visitors and bring world class players to Luang Prabang.

Luang Prabang has a wide variety of accommodation at different levels to host players, media crews and the many spectators expected for the event.

At the 25th SEA Games in 2009, the golf event was held at the purpose-built SEA Games Golf Course in Vientiane.

Luang Prabang Golf Club was the venue for the golf event at the ninth National Games, held in the province in December last year.

Luang Prabang readying to tee off Asean PGA Tour

CHENNAI, India (AP) -- Captain Gautam Gambhir slammed a superb 93 to help Kolkata Knight Riders beat Royal Challengers Bangalore while Kings XI Punjab beat Chennai Super Kings by seven runs in the Indian Premier League on Saturday.

Gambhir smashed five sixes and nine fours off 51 balls as Kolkata posted an intimidating 190-4 and then restricted Bangalore to 143-6 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

New Zealander Brendon McCullum (43) and South African Jacques Kallis (41) also came up with useful knocks for the home side.

For Bangalore, swashbuckling West Indies opener Chris Gayle waged a lone battle, bludgeoning 86 off 58 balls with six sixes and seven fours but the team was never in the chase after Kallis removed Virat Kohli and AB de

Villiers off successive deliveries in the sixth over.Kolkata was second overall behind Delhi

Daredevils with five wins, three losses and a no-result from nine games. Bangalore has four wins, four losses and a no-result from nine games and was fourth. At Chennai, Pakistan allrounder Azhar Mahmood struck vital blows with his accurate seam bowling in Punjab’s hard-fought win.

Mahmood shone with the ball in grabbing 3-25 after chipping in with a useful 18 runs as Punjab scored 156-8 and then restricted Chennai to 149-8 on a slow Chidambaram Stadium pitch.

Mahmood removed openers Faf du Plessis (29) and Subramaniam Badrinath (25) in successive overs and came back to dismiss the dangerous Albie Morkel in the final over to clinch the game for Punjab.

Gambhir stars in Kolkata cricket victory

Vientiane Times 25In

side Hyundai Motor

posts record operating profitpage B3

China to promote TCM overseaspage B3

HDB may stop releasing all cash-over-valuation datapage B2

read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.la Monday April 30, 2012

Business Vientiane Times

Euro 50-500 10,526 10,578

Exchange rates as of april 26, 2012Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao

Foreign Currencies Buying Selling

US Dollar 50-100

Thai Baht

7,971

258.65

8,010

259.95

Phonsavanh Vongsay

The Nam Ngiep 1 hydropower project, to be built in Borikhamxay prvonce, will have a smaller installed capacity than the Nam Theun 2 (NT2) hydro plant in Khammuan province, but will cost a similar sum to build.

The Nam Ngiep 1 plant will have installed capacity of only 290 megawatts (MW) and an investment budget of about 8 trillion kip (US$1 billion).

However, the NT2 dam, which was officially inaugurated in December 2010, has installed capacity of 1,070MW and cost US$1.4 billion to build.

“The investment cost of the Nam Ngiep 1 project is high because we will follow a similar policy to that used for the NT2 dam, and we will produce a plant of equal quality,” Nam Ngiep 1 project representative Mr Yoshihiro Yamabayashi said in an interview at a recent national workshop held in Borikhamxay province.

Investors are confident the Nam Ngiep 1 project will be built to a similar standard achieved by the developers of the NT2 dam.

Mr Yoshihiro said the cost of the Nam Ngiep 1 project was high because of the high cost of resettlement of 27 villages and the cost of various developments for the resettled communtities.

The investors have a budget of about 496 billion kip (US$61.8 million) for the management of environmental and social issues around the dam site.

This budget will fund the cost of resettlement site development, a livelihood restoration programme, compensation, environmental management, environmental

and social development, a watershed management fund, and other village development funds.

The project will affect 27 villages, both directly and indirectly. “We will also do the same for other villages nearby,” Mr Yoshihiro said.

At the NT2 site, social improvements and opportunities projects included relocating affected households into purpose-built quality housing, designed and located in consultation with the villagers. All the houses have electricity. Each resettlement village has community buildings (primary school, nursery school, village office and meeting hall, a market, warehouse and rice mill). Seed processing and storage facilities and organic fertiliser facilities are located at various villages, according to NT2’s website.

Mr Yoshihiro said another issue is that current construction expenditure is much higher than it was a few years ago when the NT2 developers began the project in 2005.

“Even though the NT2 project was quite a bit larger, we expect the Nam Ngiep 1 dam to be built to a similar standard.”

The developers plan to start building the Nam Ngiep 1 dam this year, with a planned commercial operating date of 2018.

Kansai Electric Power Co Inc of Japan will be the largest shareholder, with 45 percent, while EGAT International Co Ltd of Thailand will hold a 30 percent stake and Lao Holding State Enterprise will hold 25 percent.

The majority of the energy generated will be exported to Thailand, with a portion saved for domestic use in line with national electricity export policies.

Borikhamxay dam developers focus on community,

environmental standardsTimes Reporters

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has urged the government to facilitate private sector investment in education and health, to enable Laos to fulfil the UN Millennium Development Goals.

ADB officials met with senior government officials in Vientiane on Friday to explain new approaches to sourcing investment funding for education and health development, so that Lao people can have access to better state services.

Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Mr Somchit Inthamith, ADB Country Director Mr Chong Chi Nai and other senior government and ADB officials attended the half-day Workshop on Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Chong Chi Nai said the ADB would provide Laos with financial and technical support to assess public-private partnership potential in education and health.

The ADB will also help the Lao government to share the experiences of communities in the region and the world in

developing the education and health sectors through public-private partnership modalities, as well as identify and develop some bankable partnership models, he said.

In addition, the bank will provide technical assistance to strengthen capacity to structure the public-private partnership at the local and central levels.

“Experience elsewhere shows that pro-poor PPPs are possible. These partnerships can increase equity in education systems and improve education quality, make service delivery more effective and expand

possibilities for alternative financing,” Mr Chong Chi Nai said as quoted in his opening remarks at the workshop.

“Countries that have witnessed a surge in private education have achieved improved efficiency, more choices and wider access.”

Mr Chong Chi Nai said the private sector also played a key role in delivering health care services. By some estimates, more than one half of all health care - even to the poorest people - is provided by private doctors, pharmacists, other health workers and other non-

state actors.While Laos has the potential

to boost private investment in education and health, designing and implementing PPPs is not easy, especially in social sectors, he added. Developing formal PPP structures in health and education will be more complex than in infrastructure and will require innovative mechanisms.

Mr Chong Chi Nai said the biggest constraint Laos would face in developing PPPs was the lack of essential technical know-how, skills, tools and management systems to engage the private sector. One of the key aspects in this regard is the risk-sharing concept, which is generally poorly understood in Laos.

There are also constraints with respect to the capacity of the private sector to engage effectively in public-private partnerships, he said.

Mr Chong Chi Nai said Laos was one of many countries facing challenges in providing good health and education services due to budget constraints. Education and health are among the UN Millennium Development Goals, which all UN member countries have to achieve.

private investment can improve health, education in laos: adB

Mr Somchit Inthamith (left) and Mr Chong Chi Nai preside over the opening ceremony of the workshop on Friday.

CHICAGO (Xinhua) -- United Continental Holdings, Inc. (United) on Thursday reported a total first quarter loss of US$448 million, as integration costs and a sharp increase in fuel expenses brought down profits at the world’s largest airline carrier.

The Chicago-based com-pany said that it lost 286 million dollars in the first quarter of 2012, as well as suffering another 162 million dollar

charge due to integration costs.Despite the steep net income

loss, in revenue United actually posted year-over-year gains. First-quarter consolidated passenger revenue was up 5.5 percent versus last year, and first-quarter consolidated passenger revenue per available seat mile increased 5. 2 percent from the same period in 2011.

Fuel costs, however, had skyrocketed for United since last year. 2012 first quarter

consolidated fuel expense increased by more than 20.8 percent compared to the first quarter of 2011, or by 557 million dollars.

Together, the integration costs and higher fuel expenses led to United’s 448 million dollar total first quarter loss, or 1.36 dollar loss per share.

“This was a difficult quarter, but we made significant progress with our integration and we’re now able to serve our

customers as a single airline,” United President and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Smisek said.

“We are now on the steep back slope of our integration and can look forward to delivering more benefits from the merger in the remainder of the year,” Smisek said, expressing a belief that the situation was set to improve in the future now that most of the integration has been solidified.

United Continental reports first quarter loss of US$448 mln

26 Vientiane Times

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B 2 Monday April 30, 2012

MALAYSIA (The Star) -- Pengerang Indepen-dent Terminals Sdn Bhd (PITSB) plans to set up dedicated terminals for crude oil storage under its second phase of expansion.

Chairman Dr Ngau Boon Keat said the project would probably take place two years after the commercial operations of the company’s independent terminal start in 2014.

He said the dedicated terminals would cater to national and international oil companies and traders to store crude oil for refineries-related activities.

“We’ll also conduct a feasibility study on whether there is demand for liquefied national gas (LNG) storage at the complex,’” said Ngau at the ground-breaking ceremony of the Pengerang Independent Deepwater Petroleum Terminal by Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman yesterday.

He said if there was a need for the LNG storage terminals in the future, the company would definitely proceed with the project. Based on the growing demand for energy in the region, Ngau said the possibility that the LNG storage terminals would take place was good.

The RM5bil complex on 323.74ha site in Pengerang would provide storage, blending and distribution services for crude and clean petroleum products, he said.

He added that the complex’s petroleum storage facilities of about 1.3 million cu m could be further expanded by an additional 1 million cu m.

Dialog Group Bhd and Royal Vopak hold 51 percent and 49 percent equity respectively in a joint-venture company, Pengerang Terminals Sdn Bhd, which owns 90 percent of PITSB.

The Johor government, via its investment arm State Secretary Inc, holds the remaining 10 percent stake in PITSB.

Ngau said the deepwater jetty facilities of up to 24 metres would be able to accommodate very large crude

carriers and ultra large crude carriers.

“We want to transform Pengerang into an international oil and gas hub and today’s event reflects our commitment towards that objective,”’ said Ngau.

He said Pengerang was strategically located at one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes and close to petroleum and demand centres in the Middle East, India and China.

Ngau added the area had the right ingredients to grow and become a large oil-refining and petrochemical-manufacturing centre and trading hub for oil, petrochemical and LNG within five to 10 years.

PITSB to set up crude oil storage terminals

Johor Memteri Besar Datuk Abd Ghani Othman(left), President (Asian Division) of Royal Vopak N.V Patrick van der Voort (centre) and Dr Ngau Boon Keat (right) looking at the deepwater petroleum terminal area.

SINGAPORE (The Straits Times) -- The Housing Board (HDB) may be relooking its policy of releasing official cash-over-valuation (COV) figures of resale Housing Board flats, according to top executives of some property companies.

They say the board has

signalled through its actions and in private conversations its intention to stop publishing these figures altogether, a move that would put the final nail in the coffin of a measure that is criticised for pushing up prices in the resale market.

In the past year, the Housing Board had moved

to hold back several types of COV data, such as the nationwide median and the proportion of resale flats sold above valuation.

Last June, the Council for Estate Agencies began penalising agents who, in their advertisements, promise to get a specified amount of COV.

The Housing Board had moved to hold back several types of cash-over-valuation data.

HdB may stop releasing all cash-over-valuation data

Market edges higher

Vientiane: The market recorded a good groundswell of volumes on Friday for both stocks. EDL-Gen continues its good turnover with support for larger parcels of stock. BCEL’s bigger turnover on Friday says a price rise is warranted, but that remains in the hands of the sellers. Sellers will take to the high ground expecting a price appreciation. Should that occur, this week should experience a continued turnover rally. As they say, trading is all about timing the market. Technical charts say it’s time to accumulate at today’s prices and hold for the long term.

GloBal MarKET SnapSHoT: Markets are very much in limbo, down early last week then recovering Thursday and Friday. Trading this week is expected to also be tame. The EU zone however may rock the boat as new dramas unfold with Spanish and Netherlands austerity measures and rising bond yield rates for Spain and Italy.• US Indexes: US markets finished positive but all on upbeat Apple I-phone results.• dow gained 23.69 to 13228.31, NASDAQ +18.59 to 3069.20, S&P500 +3.38 to

1403.36.• European indexes: London FTSE +28.39 to 5777.11, German DAX +61.42 to 6801.32,

Paris CAC40 +36.95 to 3266.27. • asia indexes: Most gains in ASEAN exchanges were reversed on Friday, Indonesian

banks had a bad day. The Thai SET continues to impress and sat at a new 52W high of 1211 points. The Lao LSX closed much stronger on good support for extra volumes. Japans Nikkei lost -40.94, Hong Kong’s HIS index the Hang Seng was down -68.28, China lost -8.38 and the S&PASX200 was down -13.20 to 4362.10 points. The HCMC VND index looks set to break the 480 resistance barrier. The Vietnamese indexes will be closed today and tomorrow for public holidays. Cambodia’s index US$1 million to sub US$100K’s fell 4.5 percent per day for the last 4 days with the index down 7 percent (903.23) to its benchmark 1,000 point IPO of last week.

• oils: Nymex 104.93; Brent was edging higher from US$118 / brl.• Metals: Gold saw a 2 week gain to US$1664 /oz. • Currencies: €uro US$1.32, GBP US$1.62 and the ¥en 80.23.• VTtimes selected stocks. PanAust PNA looks great value anywhere under AU$3.40.

NewSat NWT completed a US$13 million sales contract and has been well above its 60c resistance line. Sundance SDL has huge volumes returning, suggesting something is about to turn with the price. * announcement’s view at asx.com.au.

Vientiane Times 27

Continued from last issue

Monday April 30, 2012 B 3

IN BRIEF

Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) is an International NGO working to support development projects in Laos since 1989. According to NCA’s Strategic Plan 2011-15, our program priority areas in Laos are: Gender-based Violence, Livelihood and trade, Climate change adaptation, Social mitigation of HIV and AIDS and Access to quality Health Care.

JoB annoUnCEMEnT lao naTIonalS

Position : Provincial ManagerDuties Station : Long district, Luang Namtha ProvinceStarting Date : June 2012

As part of our Integrated Livelihoods Program for the Empowerment of Ethnic Minorities in Long District, Luang Namtha province NCA is looking for a highly qualified national staff to fill the position as Provincial Manager with the overall responsibility for the implementation of NCA’s programs in Luang Namtha province.

Key responsibilities:• Overall responsibility for the implementation of program activities in the province

including agriculture, animal husbandry, forest management, gender empowerment, health and education .

• Ensuring effective implementation of the various program activities applying a rights based approach through timely provision of inputs, effective backstopping, timely and efficient delivery of outputs, and monitoring and evaluation of activities in accordance with NCA policies and program strategies as well as administrative and financial procedures.

• Lead effort for continued development of program interventions to ensure the most efficient delivery of support to the programs rights holders and duty bearers.

• Direct supervision of more than 20 local staff and government and Government counterparts.

Qualifications/Selection criteria:• University degree or diploma in Agriculture, or related field. • A minimum of 7 years proven senior program management experience.• Proven experience in support and supervising staff • Excellent communication skills and relevant experience working with Ethnic groups is

an advantage.• Extensive experience in working with Government counterparts and other development

partners.• Good communication skills in English and Lao both oral and written

All tasks are carried out in close cooperation with local authorities, District and Communities targeted.NCA offers accommodation in office compound, competitive salaries and excellent benefits package including health insurance and pension scheme.All interested candidates are invited to submit an application letter and CV to NCA Office: 338 Donpamai Road, Thaphalanxay Village, Sisattanak District, PO Box: 4804, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Tel: (856-21) 315812, 354017, or e-mail Address: nlov@nca.noThe closing date for applications in Friday 11th May, 2012 at 17.00 hours.

Spain unemployment rises to 24.4 percent in Q1 MADRID (AP) -- Official figures show that unemployment in Spain has risen to 24.4 percent in the Q1 from 22.9 percent in the fourth quarter of 2011.The National Statistics Institute says 365,900 more people lost their jobs in the first three months of the year, taking the total out of work to 5.6 million.

Siemens Q2 profit slides, firm cuts 2012 outlook BERLIN (AP) -- German engineering company Siemens said on Wednesday its second quarter net profit fell by almost two thirds as sizable writedowns weighed on earnings. The company’s profit slumped to €1.02 billion (US$1.34 billion) in the first three months of 2012, its fiscal second quarter, from €2.84 billion (US$3.74 billion) the year before.

S&P cuts Fiat rating due to European losses MILAN (AP) -- The Standard & Poor’s ratings agency has cut Fiat’s rating due to weak European results. Fiat’s long-term corporate credit rating dropped to BB- from BB. The ratings agency said Fiat will continue to suffer from overcapacity in European auto plants in general, and from the underutlisation of its plants specifically.

Insulin sales lift Denmark’s Novo Nordisk in Q1 COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) -- Danish drug maker Novo Nordisk A/S says its first quarter profit soared 15 percent on the back of increased sales of its core insulin products.The world’s top producer of insulin said net profit in the January to March period reached 4.6 billion kroner (US$818 million), up from 4.1 billion kroner in the same period in 2010.

Petrochemicals dent profit at France’s Total in Q1 PARIS (AP) -- French oil company Total says its revenues grew strongly in the first quarter of the year but that a drop in European demand for petrochemicals hit profits.While energy prices have soared amid unrest in the Middle East, the economic slowdowns in Europe has weighed on demand. France’s largest company by market value reported on Thursday that its net profit fell 7 percent to €3.7 billion (US$4.9 billion) for January to March.

CHINA (China Daily) -- China will build 10 traditional Chinese medicine trading centres worldwide by 2015 to develop TCM services in Southeast Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.

The State Council Information Office held a news conference on Thursday to discuss advice given by 14 administrative departments on measures to develop the TCM industry. Building trading centers was one of the eight key tasks announced at the news conference.

According to a written reply from the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine to China Daily, the government departments have not issued specific plans for the construction of the 10 trading centers, but the administration is already carrying out market research and seeking support to start a special campaign for the centers.

Other key tasks include fostering TCM talents, supporting scientific innovations and developing a statistics system for TCM trade.

Currently, China exports its TCM services, such as TCM training and medical treatments, to 160 countries and regions worldwide.

The services are provided mainly through the following channels - foreign tourists visiting China to gain TCM services, Chinese doctors providing remote service through the Internet and Chinese TCM doctors going abroad to practice medicine or to open clinics.

Statistics show that the total trading volume of TCM services is nearly 2.5 billion yuan (US$397 million), said Wang Guoqiang, director of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

“The whole health industry will see favorable development in the coming years, both at home and abroad, and I believe TCM will have a large part to play,” Wang said.

Wang also said that TCM services are facing challenges in the international market.

“The Chinese culture is so different from Western culture, so TCM still does not have high approval in some Western countries.”

“At home, our understanding about international trading is not enough, and we do not have globally recognized TCM brands,” Wang said.

He said funding for the industry should be boosted, and legal affairs and talents improved.

“TCM has a long history in China, and is an industry that China owns completely independent intellectual property rights,” said Qiu Hong, assistant minister of commerce.

“As a result, developing TCM trading will accelerate spreading the Chinese culture to the world, enhance the TCM industry worldwide and benefit China’s own TCM industry,” Qiu said.

So far, several companies and institutions have presented successful overseas business models, such as Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Tongrentang and the chemical company Tasly Group, according to the State administration of TCM.

China has 36,000 institutes involved in TCM medical services, researching and training, 803,000 certificated TCM teachers and 15,000 people involved in new technology research and development of TCM.

China to promote TCM overseas

Medical workers prepare Chinese herbal medicines for customers at Huatuo Chinese Medicine Hospital in Bozhou, in East China’s Anhui province.

KOREA (The Korea Herald) -- Hyundai Motor reported a record performance on the back of improved profitability despite sluggish sales at home.

The nation’s largest carmaker said Thursday that it posted 2.28 trillion won (US$2.02 billion) in operating profit during the first quarter of 2012, up 24.9 percent from the same period last year.

This marked all-time high quarterly earnings for the automaker. Company executives attributed the performance to a product quality-oriented management policy.

Thanks to a change in the assessment method of financial statements, its net profit also surged by 30.6 percent on a year-on-year basis to 2.45 trillion won.

“Despite external uncer-tainties from the eurozone debt crisis, we could achieve remarkable improvement in profitability by putting priority on vehicle quality over mass production,” a Hyundai spokesman said.

He said the company will continue to closely monitor the coming market situations, citing sagging domestic consumption as

well as shakiness in European countries.

In the first quarter, Hyundai Motor recorded combined vehicle sales of about 1.07 million units in the local and overseas markets, up 16.7 percent from a year before.

The company saw its sales at home post 154,855 units in the first quarter, down 7.1 percent from 166,749 units over the same period in 2011.

For March sales, the nation’s largest automaker reported a 9.5 percent drop with 56,022 units at home,

compared with 61,932 units a year earlier.

By contrast, its exports, including production at overseas factories, grew 21.6 percent from 749,933 units in the first quarter of 2011 to 911,805 units in the same quarter of 2012.

Hyundai posted all-time high monthly sales in the European market in March, despite the worsening business environment due to the debt crisis.

It reported 13.8 percent growth with sales of 50,131

unitsIn the United States, the

company saw its sales reach an all-time high last February. It sold 51,151 units in that month in the US, up 18 percent from 43,533 units a year earlier. It is a record performance for the carmaker’s February sales.

Sales of the Sonata and Avante, called the Elantra in the US, came to 17,425 and 13,820 units, respectively.

Hyundai Motor has recently been prioritizing upgrading its brand image across the globe, shifting from its earlier business focus of expanding market share overseas.

The world’s fifth-largest automaker has revealed its ambition to cultivate brand power approaching the level of top global brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

“Hyundai Motor has been successful in selling many cars. But the performance in brand power is lagging behind in the overseas markets,” a company executive said in a statement.

“So we have decided to put more investment in improving the brand image,” he said.

Hyundai Motor posts record operating profit

Hyundai Motor executive director Kwak Jin (left) poses with LG Chem executive director Ham Jae-kyoung in Seoul on Thursday.

28 Vientiane TimesMonday April 30, 2012B 4B 4

Vientiane Times 29

BElGIan BEErS Bar

“Moules-frites”

40 BElGIan BEErS Tel: 020 56103434, www.chokdeecafe.comFagnum, Mekong riverside road infront of bus stop

CHoK dEE CaFE

Lao land company is one of the leading real estate service agency based in Vientiane.We are specialized in property service sector, and proud to say your needs is our answer. For further inquiry, please feel free to contact us at 020 5551 0155, 23666333, or 021 453 919.030 981 9052, 020 23220022English*French*Japanese * ChineseEmail:oad.laoland@gmail.comwww.laoland.com

Monday April 30, 2012Vientiane Times Classified

Oudalee finds a suitable house for you to live in Vientiane.Traditional Lao house, house with swimming pool, house on the river.House with swimming pool available now.Price range from Kip 3 000 000 and up.Call Oudalee for free advice and pick up at your convenient.10 years experience guarantee.

Tel: 020 55 51 25 02 and 020 55 65 91 46Email: oudalee@oudaleehomes.comwww.oudaleehomes.com

1,700,000 kip to 42,500,000 kip/month

• We have many types of cars for rent new model and old, sedan & 4 wheel such as: MG.TOYOTA. NISSAN. KIA. HYUNDAI, SMALL AND MIDDLE SEDAN FOR CITY

• AGL assurances Allianz Group• Short term 1-7days & long 1-12 months• Self drive or with driver• Provide vehicle for Project & Private • Affordable price and best service• Office B. Thonkang, R. sokpalaung 15/279• For English call Mr. Chanh anytime• Tel: 020 55599900. 55593013, office: 030 9800630• Email: vpscarrental@yahoo.com• www.vpscarrental.com

V p S Car rental service

+856 20 55599 430

9999080322401446

AB ApartmentServices: 2Bedrooms, 1Bedroom & Studio room

Features: Fully furnished apartment in Vientianewith garden, A spacious parking, Air cond, Cable TV, house keeping, 24 hours security surveillance, washing machine and wireless connectivity.

Nearby: International community, diplomatic area & minute drive from Patuxay Monument.Ban Sibounheuang, Chanthabouly District,Vientiane Capital Lao PDR

Mobile: +856-20-5551 2828 or +856-20-28184400phone: +856-21-263253 Fax: +856-21-222565E-mail: abapart@gmail.com

www.abapartment.com

ManIraaTH GEMS and JEWEllEryGENUINE DIAMOND & SETTED

JEWELLERY WITH 18K PRECIOUS, SEMI PRECIOUS AND ITALIAN CHAINS

TALAT SAO MALL #2-10 SECOND FLOOR VIENTIANE LAO PDR, TEL: 021 285 051, MOBILE: 020 55676545, 020 55775544

Service offered: Logistics, Transport, Home Removal,Custom clearance for air

freight and sea freight.

Contact Information: Ban Donkoy, T4 Road, Sisattanak District Vientiane, Lao P.D.R Tel/Fax: +856- 021- 330154, Mobile: +856- 020- 55506402 Email: chan@cstransportlao.com and www: cstransportlao.com

“All transportation solution under one roof”C.S TRANSPORT CO., LTD

RentsBuy Co., Ltd is a leading professional real estate company offering; house, land, apartment, office, warehouse, business for rent /for sale and property valuation throughout Lao PDR.

020 77600059, 22229744, and Office: 021 223032

www.RentsBuy.com email: rentsbuy@gmail.com

Bouakham HOUSE RENTAL

We can show you Land, Houses or Apartments in any location. Call us!

P.O. Box 1940, Vientiane, Lao PDRTel: 020 5571 1396, 77959199

Would you like to rent or buy property?

Available Hotel in the top of the mountion for sale in the center of Luang Prabang Province.

House for rent with 4 room include swimming pool close to International school and Germany embassy

New house for sale close to Mekong river with 3 rooms,

reasonable price. (Not expensive)

We have great places to rent and buy: Land, Houses, Apartments,

Hotels, Resorts, Guesthouses

(Sale now, not expensive)

Email: bouakham_nang@hotmail.comwww.bouakham-property.com

Sale now!

30 Vientiane Times

HOTEL LAO*Value *Comfort *ServiceIn the heart of Vientiane

Ideal for business or tourist43/7 Hengboun Road, Vientiane

Tel: (856 21) 219280-1, Fax: (856 21) 219282Email: hotellao.vientiane@gmail.com

City Centre, Short & long term stay From 3,200,000 kip ($400) per month

Air-conditioning, cable TV, housekeeping, laundry, electricity and water

Call: 020 55505840, 55023782Email: lao.heritage@gmail.com

SERVICED APARTMENTS Spacious & tastefully decoratedFully furnished 1 & 2 bedroom

Air-conditioning, Cable TV, Swimming pool, Garden, Housekeeping, Laundry

MP: 020 55505840, 020 55023782Email: lao.heritage@gmail.com

C 2 Classifieds Monday April 30, 2012

Sale Agents for Lao AirlineThai Airways, Vietnam Airlines

& World Wide Air-Tickets serviceTel: 900241-242-243New Tel: 454034-36

Fax: (856-21) 900244Mobile: 856-20 5515870, 5503979Email: laoairservice1@etllao.com laoairservice2@etllao.com

Lao Air Service Co.Ltd1st Floor K.P Tower

Thatluang Rd (Opposite of Min. foreign affairs)

Vientiane Lao P.D.R

Lao Air Service Co.LtdÍçÖéÅèÈ Öà×ãÜÕ âÆê×éÈ ÄáÀèÈ

Announcement to all valued customers and clients ofKERBEROS SECURITY SYSTEMS CO., LTD.We kindly inform all of you about our company will relocate to it`s new beautiful admin headquarter office to Ban Naxay Unit 5 Saysettha Distich Vientiane Capital, Lao PDRThis new office will open customer service and store after Pi Mai Lao in April 2012, another representative office also opens in downtown Vientiane soon.Architect department, Accounting department, Security Systems department are subject of relocation. Sales department and our executives are continuously available for meetings, visits and advisory. None of our ongoing project is affected by the relocation.Our old office at 25/325 Sibounheung Rd, Ban Sibounheung, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital will be closed.In the meanwhile we are standing to disposal on the following contacts: Tel: +856 30 5261300 & 021 260419 E-mail: office@kerberossecurity.com

Garage for saleGarage for sale in Houayhong village on Dondaeng-Dongdok

Road in Xaythany district, Vientiane. The garage sits on

a 38 metre by 20 metre plot of land and has a high roof that can accommodate large vehicles, and would suit an industrial business.

There are 6 two-storey units adjoining the garage complex, and a

villa at the rear.For more information please call:

020-55717569

Email: office@kerberossecurity.com, Fax: 021 217441Tel: 021 260419/020 55878688/020 55509957

Mosquitoes are more dangerous than tigers

direct sale by Tel: 020 54434207, English= 55599209 (free transportation )

Environmentally friendly

Win the battle against mosquitoes!

Beware of fakes!

Job AnnouncementWe are looking the qualified candidate to fill in the vacancy Position: Translator Nationality: LaoSex: Male and FemaleAge: Up to 23 years oldEducational Background: English Bachelor DegreeLanguage Ability: (1) Fluent in English (in speaking, writing and reading) Expected Characteristic: Hard working and diligent.

For further information please contact: 020 97970554, 020 55602942

House for RentAt Ban Saylom in city centre,

20m from main road.

The building has 3 floors: 4

bedrooms with Air-condition,

3 bath rooms, 1 kitchen room

and some furniture.

Call: 020 55608444 or Email:

kapookni@yahoo.com

Kongphet Machinery and part co., LtdAll heavy equipment for lease, sale and provide all type of spare part as well. Please contact below number: (+856-21) 640 723, Fax: (+856-21) 640 724, Mobile: 020 2222380, 55509500 E-mail: kongphetmachinery@yahoo.com

Big land of Teak wood, fish pone, fruit trees at cheap price with urgently need to sale at Ban Parkhaed , Nasaythong District

near the Hin Khun Naa water fall 20 minute from city.

Call: 020 955 01110 or 020 541 42728.

For sale

land for Sale

Developed land 20m x 40m = 800 m2. Paved roads, water and electricity. Residential area in Ban Noncor,

Vientiane. Properly registered land titles. Tel: 020 2307 2772 and 021 264 484

Ms. Sanethavong.

land for SaleBan Watnak 2493 Sq MNear Chinese, Singapore,

Australian Embassies, 4 km from Central VTE

Cement WallsPower, Water, Large Trees,

Flat, High Ground.

Ban Hong Suparp 3628 Sq MNear KM 6 Golf Course,

Made Road,Quiet, Power Water, High

Ground.

Ban nam Moune 3277 Sq MNear KM 6 Golf Course

Good Road AccessPower Water.

Ban Hong Suparp 4949 Sq MNear KM 6 Golf CourseRice Field View, Quiet

Road Access, Power, Water

Private sale, call 020 55512 060, 020 54466724

Vientianeproperty@yahoo.com

Vientiane Times 31Monday April 30, 2012 Classifieds C 3

32 Vientiane TimesC 4 Classifieds Monday April 30, 2012

lao pEoplE’S dEMoCraTIC rEpUBlIC

The Ministry of planning and InvestmentMainstreaming disaster and Climate risk Management into

Investment decisions

EXprESSIonS oF InTErEST

national Financial Management Consultant

BackgroundThe Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) has initiated preparation of a Technical Assistance (TA) in the amount of US$2.7 million, which is supported by the World Bank who is acting as administrator of grant funds provided by Japan under the Japan Policy and Human Resources Development Technical Assistance Program to Support the Government of Lao PDR in its efforts to measurably decrease the vulnerability of the population and national economy to climate change and natural hazards. Scope of service:The consultant would be a part of the project team based at MPI, but will also provide support to FM team at MPWT and Department of Irrigation. He/She would work in close cooperation with the project’s international consultant team leader, and would be responsible for the following specific tasks:

Project Financial Management:• Maintain an update to date Project Financial Information System.• Work closely with accounting software provider to design appropriate chart of

accounts and reporting format to ensure the project’s financial reporting requirements/needs are met.

• Ensure a proper internal control system is in place to achieve accountability at all levels.

• Prepare financial management manual to be approved by the World Bank. • Compile and review financial proposals by participating Implementation Units for

preparation of budget and financial reports in accordance with required formats by World Bank.

• Understand funds flows arrangements between from MPI, MAF and MPWT to ensure timely budget planning in each period.

• Assist the Project manager to prepare and updated budget based on work plans and prepare any proposals for fund re-allocation as needed.

• Monitoring disbursements from various accounts. Managing and maintaining project bank accounts and its reimbursement to ensure project liquidity and smooth implementation of project activities.

• Prepare all withdrawal applications and required supporting documents. Perform a follow up as necessary.

• Monitor cash advances (including making necessary follow-up on long-outstanding advances) and contract management.

• Liaise with the National Treasury, the Bank of Lao and External Finance Department of the Ministry of Finance for payment/replenishment requests.

• Work closely with the Finance Department or designated finance officer of Line Agencies.

• Prepare annual financial report for auditing, and coordinate with and facilitate the work of auditors when needed. In consultation with project management, prepare an action plan and monitor the implementation of recommendations arising from annual audit.

• Prepare, maintain and update from time to time the inventory management system for all project’s assets. .

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, semi-annual and annual financial reports for the Project Manager.

• Coordinate with relevant implementing units, compile and prepare the project’s Interim Unaudited Financial Report (IFR) in the form and format acceptable to the World Bank and ensure timely submission of such report to the World Bank

• Prepare and process all invoices for payments• Be available to travel occasionally to the provinces and districts, including provide

training and other capacity building support as needed.• Provide information of necessary taxation-related documents, including taxes on

project personnel.• Analysis and reporting of financial performance of actual expenditure against

approved budget• Provide financial information to various regulatory Authorities as required.• Perform other duties as may be reasonably requested by the Project Director.

Qualifications:• At least a bachelor degree in relevant field such as: accounting and finance. Post

graduate qualification in relevant field e.g. Master Degree or hold a professional qualification in finance and accounting are highly desirable

• A sound knowledge in accounting and financial reporting, including at least 5 years of professional experience.

• Experience with the World Bank projects or other major donors are an advantage. Good PC/systems literacy, including strong Excel skills. Skills in using computerized accounting software is an advantage

• Fluency of Lao and English (strong written and spoken skills)• Able to work in a team, with close cooperation and coordination with key line

Ministries, World Bank team and other counterparts.• Good understanding of Government institutional and budgetary structures and ability

to work with a range of agencies at national, provincial, and local level. • Reliable, independent and dynamic worker with high social competence and good

team spirit• Good interpersonal skills and result orientation.

duration of assignment:The indicative estimated inputs for this assignment are 12 person months on a full time basis, with a possibility for extension of year by year based on performance. Expected start date is Middle-May 2012.Please send all applications before 2 May 2012to: v.bouaphachanh@gmail.com or the address given below:Department of PlanningMinistry of Planning and InvestmentSithan Neua Village, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDRTel/Fax: 021 216719

Finance Director positionLao Pride Inc. designs and manufactures finest diamond jewelry in Vientiane, serving American fine retail stores through our partner Valentina Diamonds Inc., a US based Corporation. We are currently seeking qualified applicants for our Finance Director position.

JOB SUMMARYReporting to the CEO, the Finance Director oversees all financial activities - Planning and Reporting, Budgeting, Business controls, Taxes - and provides necessary analysis to improve the decision making process and the profitability of the company.

RESPONSIBILITIES1. Manage and develop the accounting team, ensure accuracy and timeliness of finance

and accounting deliverables2. Reporting: Prepare financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, cash

flows and other financial reports required by the CEO or government regulatory agencies. 3. Planning: Lead and support the management team in preparing company budget. Provide

financial and cash forecasts.4. Business analysis: provide performance analysis by product, client etc… to improve

decision making process5. Implement adequate financial controls and policies to manage all financial transactions:

cash handling, purchases and vendors payments, fixed assets, inventory controls.6. In conjunction with the CEO, assess the long term financial trends and review prospects

for future growth of income. Provide advice and guidance on financial strategy and direction to maximize profitability

7. Liaison with top management to develop and maintain financial policies, processes and systems

8. Ensure Payroll accuracy and provide advice to COO and HR team on compensation and incentive programs

9. Analyze production costs and propose ways to improve the productivity

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS 1. Minimum 8-10 years of experience in finance function with 2-3 years in a similar position2. Management experience3. Solid accounting skills, Master or Bachelor degree in Accounting or Business

Administration 4. Strong business acumen, experience in manufacturing environment preferred 5. Good understanding of systems/enterprises dynamics, ability to provide recommendations

beyond the finance function6. Microsoft Excel expert, solid knowledge of at least one accounting software (Quickbooks

preferred), database tools proficient7. English fluency both written and oral, Lao proficiency is definitely a plus8. Work experience in South East Asia preferred

Interested applicants are invited to send their CV and indicate the reference FD0412:LAO PRIDE INC., Ban Fai, Nongbone Road, Saysetha District, Vientiane CapitalTel: 021 452 888, 020 77 910 049 Email: jobs@laoprideinc.comOnly shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview

Vacancy for Lao National: Projects Manager (based in Oudomxay)

POWER International has been working in Lao PDR since 1995 to support people with disabilities and promote their rights, in close partnership with national and provincial Disabled People’s Associations. Power International is recruiting a Lao National to manage projects aimed at improving 1) access to education for children with disabilities, and 2) employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, in Oudomxay province. The position is based at the POWER office in Oudomxay with frequent field work to the districts.

responsibilities:• Manage all aspects of project cycle,• Plan, monitor and report on project activities, • Implement all activities in target areas (7 districts of Oudomxay province), • Manage staff and budgets, • Work with government partners and negotiate at provincial, district and village levels, • Work closely with the Oudomxay Disabled Peoples Association,• Report regularly to Vientiane Office Programme Manager.

Qualifications / Experience:• Higher education in relevant field.• At least 3 years experience in development work, preferably in the education and/

or disability sectors,• Good experience in preparing project plans and budgets and managing

implementation, • Significant experience in staff management and supervision, community

development and participatory approaches with children and communities,• Understanding of human and disability rights issues,• Good knowledge of English (speaking, writing), • Computer knowledgeable in Windows MS Office including Word, Excel and email.

Please send detailed CV along with a letter of interest (don’t send copies of diplomas)

by Friday 25 May to: Recruitment, Power International Laos, Ban Thongkhang, Lao-thai Road, Soi 5, Vientiane, Lao PDR.

Email: thongsy51@hotmail.com

only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviewPeople with disabilities are encouraged to apply.