In a statement released on 26 Dec 2023, the Cambodian government reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation and economic development in the Mekong-Lancang region. The Fourth Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) Leaders’ Meeting, co-chaired by Myanmar and China, brought together leaders from Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, and China to discuss ways to build a better community of shared future of peace and prosperity.
Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, took part in the virtual meeting and expressed his satisfaction with notable progress under the MLC framework. He highlighted the substantial outcomes of 89 projects in Cambodia under the MLC Special Fund since 2017.
Bilateral Relations and Regional Cooperation
Leaders from the five countries welcomed the approved projects by the MLC Special Fund in 2023 and called for more efficient implementation of these projects to better serve economic and social development and improve people’s livelihoods. The meeting also focused on advancing a people-centered Lancang-Mekong Economic Development Belt, leveraging opportunities from scientific, technological, and industrial advances to boost economic recovery.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working together to address common challenges and enhance mutual trust and respect. They agreed to synergize national development strategies and promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Mekong-Lancang region.
Key Outcomes and Future Directions
- The adoption of three documents crucial for further development in the MLC region: the Nay Pyi Taw Declaration of the Fourth Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting, the Five-Year Plan of Action on MLC (2023-2027), and the Joint Initiatives on the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Innovation Corridor Development.
- The emphasis on building a closer community with a shared future among MLC countries by supporting the people-centered Economic Development Belt, strengthening sub-regional supply chains and linkages to global value chains, and bolstering the digital economy in cross-border economic cooperation.
During the meeting, Samdech Thipadei conveyed his heartfelt condolences to His Excellency Premier Li Qiang, the Government and people of China, and bereaved families for the loss of loved ones and damage caused by the recent earthquake in Gansu Province. He also extended his best wishes to all MLC Leaders and peoples of the Mekong-Lancang region for a Happy New Year in 2024.
Ambassadorial Efforts for Regional Peace and Stability
As the meeting concluded, Cambodia reiterates its commitment to regional peace and stability. The government looks forward to continuing cooperation with other nations in the Mekong-Lancang region to promote sustainable development and improve people’s livelihoods.
With the adoption of three crucial documents, the MLC countries have taken a significant step towards strengthening regional cooperation and economic development. Cambodia is poised to play a key role in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Mekong-Lancang region.
- Cambodia’s commitment to regional cooperation and economic development is reflected in its participation in the MLC Leaders’ Meeting.
- The adoption of three documents highlights the importance of building a closer community with a shared future among MLC countries.
- Regional peace and stability are critical for sustainable development, and Cambodia looks forward to continuing cooperation with other nations in the Mekong-Lancang region.
The significance of the Fourth Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting lies in its emphasis on regional cooperation, economic development, and people-centered approaches. As a key player in the MLC, Cambodia is committed to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.