VIENTIANE: The Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) member countries have formulated a five-year plan of action for 2023-2027, which aims to deepen the good neighbourliness, friendship and practical cooperation among the nations, and drive economic and social development.
They issued joint initiatives on MLC innovation corridor development to promote economic development and social progress, and the building of a community with a shared future of peace and prosperity.
Leaders of the Lancang-Mekong countries reaffirmed the “Nay Pyi Taw Declaration” to work together to address common challenges.
A declaration was issued following the fourth Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting on Monday, titled “Join Hands in the Building of a Community of a Shared Future and Modernisation among the Mekong-Lancang Countries”.
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (pic) led the Lao delegation attending the online meeting on Monday (Dec 25) with other leaders of the Lancang-Mekong countries. The leaders of China and Myanmar co-chaired the meeting.
The meeting reviewed the achievements of the grouping over the past seven years, especially in the fulfilment of the declaration of the 3rd MLC leaders’ meeting and the five-year action plan for 2018-2022.
The plan was implemented in the Mekong countries including Laos through projects supported by the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Special Fund to develop infrastructure and build capacity to ensure sustainable development.
In addition, leaders of the Mekong-Lancang countries discussed the direction of future cooperation, focusing on cooperation to enhance economic integration and regional connectivity, and the modernisation of all sectors.
They agree to continue to partner in sustainable development with regard to green technology, tourism, cultural exchanges, and responses to Non-traditional Security Challenges.
On behalf of the Lao government, Prime Minister Sonexay expressed his appreciation of the success of the joint chairmanship of China and Myanmar in Mekong-Lancang cooperation.
He thanked China for contributing US$300 million to the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Special Fund, including funding for training courses and scholarships.
Lao leaders presented their perspective on increased cooperation to jointly create an environment of peace, stability and prosperity in the Mekong-Lancang region.
The meeting ended with the handover of the co-chairmanship of the Mekong-Lancang cooperation framework from Myanmar to Thailand, which will share the chair with China. - Vientiane Times/ANN
