In a statement released on 24 December 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced that Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, will participate in the Fourth Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) Leaders' Meeting via video conference.
The co-chairs of the meeting, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council of Myanmar, and Li Qiang, Premier of China's State Council, have invited Samdech Thipadei to review overall progress and chart future directions for widening cooperation among MLC member countries. The theme of the meeting is "Join Hands on the Building of a Community of Shared Future and Modernization among Mekong-Lancang Countries."
During the meeting, leaders are expected to promote mutual trust and strengthen partnerships under the MLC framework, contributing to socio-economic development and enhancing the well-being of the peoples of the sub-region. Three documents are likely to be adopted:
The Nay Pyi Taw Declaration
The Five-Year Plan of Action on MLC (2023-2027)
The Joint Initiative on the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Innovation Corridor Development.
The Fourth MLC Leaders' Meeting marks a significant milestone for the Mekong-Lancang countries in realizing their common goals of promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the sub-region. The successful implementation of the Five-Year Plan of Action will contribute to advancing MLC cooperation to a higher level through the launch of its implementation.
Cambodia's participation in the meeting highlights its commitment to regional cooperation and strengthening partnerships with neighboring countries. As an active member of ASEAN, Cambodia continues to play a vital role in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
The significance of the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation lies in its potential to foster economic growth, enhance trade, and promote sustainable development among MLC member countries. By joining forces, these countries can pool their resources, expertise, and knowledge to address common challenges and achieve shared goals.
The Fourth MLC Leaders' Meeting will serve as a platform for Cambodia to share its experiences and best practices in regional cooperation and development. As a key player in the region, Cambodia's participation in this meeting underscores its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.