VIENTIANE, June 7 (Xinhua) -- The Lao Ministry of Health remains committed to collaborating with its development partners to strengthen the national health system and build greater resilience to the impacts of climate change.

The Strengthening Climate Resilience of Laos' Health System project, funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), was officially launched recently to enhance climate change adaptation and improve the sustainability of health systems in seven provinces across Laos, Lao News Agency reported on Saturday.

Key projects include strengthening health information systems by incorporating climate change data, upgrading health facilities in target areas to manage climate-related diseases better, and equipping communities to respond effectively to early warning systems, helping reduce risks and ensure timely treatment.

Children in the target provinces are especially vulnerable to climate-related health risks, including dengue fever, diarrhea, and malnutrition, driven by extreme weather events that disrupt agriculture, habitats, water supplies, and sanitation systems.

The Lao Ministry of Health will continue working closely with development partners to strengthen the country's health system and enhance its resilience to the impacts of climate change. Key efforts include training health workers to address climate-related health risks, upgrading health infrastructure to withstand climate impacts, and raising community awareness to improve preparedness and response. ■