In a statement released on 24 Mar 2025, His Excellency Prak Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, extended warm congratulations to the people of the Mekong-Lancang sub-region on the occasion of the Ninth Anniversary of Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Week 2025. The announcement made on 24 Mar 2025 highlights Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to regional stability and sustainable development within the sub-region.
A Milestone in Regional Cooperation
Since its inception in 2016, the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) has served as a vital platform for the six nations of Cambodia, People’s Republic of China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchanges, and cooperation across three pillars: political and security, economic and sustainable development, and social, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges. At its core, the MLC embodies the spirit of equal partnership, collective leadership, mutual benefit, and shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous future.
Significant Progress in Regional Development
As Cambodia approaches the tenth year of cooperation with its regional partners, it can proudly reflect on significant strides made together. These achievements include narrowing the development gap, enhancing connectivity through infrastructure development, and improving the livelihoods and well-being of people in the sub-region. Notably, the Five-Year Plan of Action on Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (2023-2027) provides clear direction for collaborative efforts to foster regional stability and sustainable development.
People-Centered Development and Innovation
The plan prioritizes people-centered development and innovation, aiming to improve livelihoods and promote inclusive growth. Furthermore, it serves as a platform to address shared challenges, such as climate change and cross-border issues, ensuring a more prosperous and harmonious future for the MLC sub-region. The MLC Special Fund supports current and future projects across key sectors, including rural development, water resources, agriculture, connectivity, education, tourism, cultural heritage preservation, and women’s empowerment.
Looking Ahead
Cambodia remains fully committed to playing an active and constructive role in shaping a more closely integrated community, one founded on enduring peace, shared prosperity, and a common vision for the sustainable advancement of its sub-region and people. Looking ahead, Cambodia must remain steadfast in its commitment to upholding the principles of mutual trust and respect, deepening practical cooperation, and addressing emerging challenges through close collaborative approaches.
Inclusive, Sustainable Development
In conclusion, the Ninth Anniversary of Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Week 2025 serves as a testament to Cambodia’s dedication to regional cooperation and sustainable development. As the sub-region continues to evolve, it is crucial that all nations prioritize inclusive, sustainable development while advancing the realization of a community with a shared future.
By strengthening regional ties and fostering people-centered development, Cambodia reaffirms its commitment to creating a more prosperous and harmonious Mekong-Lancang sub-region for the benefit of all its citizens.
The international community is invited to join Cambodia in celebrating this milestone and reiterating the importance of regional cooperation in achieving a brighter future for the region.