LMC Foreign Ministers Strengthen Connectivity and Cooperation in Thailand
The ninth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting took place in Thailand’s northern city of Chiang Mai, marking another milestone in the collaborative efforts of China, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. The meeting focused on enhancing connectivity and cooperation across various sectors, reflecting the shared commitment of the participating countries to foster regional stability and prosperity.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, co-chairing the meeting, emphasized the progress made by the LMC countries in building a community with a shared future among the Lancang-Mekong nations. He highlighted the tangible benefits that have accrued to the people of these six countries as a result of their collective efforts, underscoring the significant contributions made to regional development.
Wang also outlined China’s commitment to deepening its reform agenda and advancing its modernization drive, which he believes will create new opportunities for modernization initiatives globally. He expressed China’s willingness to lead the way in establishing demonstration zones for high-quality Belt and Road Initiative cooperation and pilot zones for the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative. These initiatives aim to solidify the foundation for a Lancang-Mekong community with a shared future to flourish and yield positive outcomes for all stakeholders.
Moving forward, Wang proposed a four-point plan to guide Lancang-Mekong cooperation in the next phase. This plan includes a focus on maintaining peace and stability, promoting innovation-driven development, enhancing connectivity, and fostering people-to-people exchanges to cultivate a shared Lancang-Mekong culture. These pillars are seen as essential for sustaining the momentum of cooperation and addressing common challenges in the region.
During the meeting, participants commended the rapid growth of the LMC as a dynamic and fruitful mechanism for regional cooperation. They acknowledged the pivotal role played by China through the LMC Special Fund in supporting a diverse range of practical projects that have effectively narrowed development gaps, facilitated ASEAN integration, and improved the livelihoods of people in LMC countries. The commitment was reaffirmed to deepen cooperation in key areas such as interconnectivity, investment, innovation, food security, energy, water resources, climate change, and cultural exchanges, while also collaborating on combating cross-border crime.
The joint press release issued after the meeting highlighted the focus on deepening LMC cooperation in critical areas such as water resources, clean air, and cross-border crime prevention. Moreover, a comprehensive report was released detailing the progress made in implementing the LMC five-year action plan, the list of projects supported by the LMC Special Fund for 2024, and the achievements in agricultural cooperation within the Lancang-Mekong framework. Additionally, a think tank report provided insights into the common aspirations and implementation strategies for building a community with a shared future among LMC countries.
Before the formal proceedings, the foreign ministers had the opportunity to visit an exhibition showcasing the tangible outcomes of projects supported by the LMC Special Fund. This exhibition served as a testament to the impact of collaborative efforts in driving sustainable development and improving the quality of life for people in the region.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Minister Wang engaged in bilateral discussions with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sok Chenda Sophea, as well as Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith. These interactions underscored the commitment of LMC countries to strengthening ties and fostering mutual understanding for the collective benefit of all nations involved.
In conclusion, the ninth LMC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Thailand exemplified the spirit of cooperation and partnership among the Lancang-Mekong countries. The commitment to enhancing connectivity, promoting innovation, and fostering people-to-people exchanges reflects a shared vision for sustainable development and regional prosperity. Through continued collaboration and mutual support, the LMC countries are poised to overcome challenges and seize opportunities for growth and advancement in the years ahead.
