(230323) -- VIENTIANE, March 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Lao Minister of Education and Sports Phout Simmalavong (2nd R) , Zhao Wenyu (2nd L), economic and commercial counselor of the Chinese embassy in Laos, Miao Hongcai(1st L), director of the Shanghai Education Publishing House and Saysana Sitthiphone, Vice President of Laos-China Cooperation Committee, attend the launching ceremony for the China-aided project of technical support for distance education in Laos in Lao capital Vientiane, March 22, 2023. The Chinese government is supporting projects to improve the skills of teachers in rural areas and distance education in Laos, aiming to promote educational development in the country. TO GO WITH "China helps improve distance education in Laos" (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)