September 20, 2024
VIENTIANE – Representatives of Laos and its development partners have discussed ways to address critical challenges to water security across the Mekong and ASEAN regions.
The second ASEAN-MRC Water Security Dialogue was held in Vientiane on September 18 with the theme of “Sustainable investment for a connected, resilient and water-secure Southeast Asia”. The dialogue was jointly convened by the Mekong River Commission (MRC) and ASEAN Secretariats.
This dialogue has evolved into an important mechanism for fostering regional cooperation, enhancing resilience, and advancing sustainable development in the Mekong and ASEAN regions.
In his welcome address at the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos, Mr Saleumxay Kommasith, emphasised: “The ASEAN-MRC Water Security Dialogue has the potential to become a cornerstone of our regional efforts, fostering collaboration not just among the Mekong countries, but across all ASEAN member states.”
The meeting focused on numerous pressing challenges facing the ASEAN and Mekong regions, including the impacts of climate change, disaster-related events such as floods, droughts and landslides, human-induced changes, water scarcity, and food security concerns.
The ongoing impact of these challenges demand urgent action, and also present an opportunity to chart a common vision for cooperation, he said.
The Lao Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Dr Bounkham Vorachit, who chaired the high-level meeting, said, “This dialogue provides a platform for policymakers and stakeholders to exchange innovative ideas, identify possible areas for enhancing cooperation toward sustainability, and reaffirm our dedication to tackling water security challenges in the Mekong and ASEAN.”
The participants emphasised the need for increased investments in water infrastructure, climate adaptation, and sustainable management and conservation of natural resources. They also underlined the importance of enhanced cooperation among ASEAN member states and their institutions to effectively address these inter-connected issues.
The participants further acknowledged that only concerted and unified regional, multilateral and trans-boundary efforts can ensure resilience and water security for the people and ecosystems of Southeast Asia.
Dr Anoulak Kittikhoun, the CEO of the MRC Secretariat, said: “Investments in MRC-ASEAN institutional cooperation, disaster monitoring, forecasting and management, and joint infrastructure projects will make the Mekong and broader region more connected, resilient and water secured.”
The dialogue reinforced a forward-looking and optimistic vision whereby regional cooperation, mutual understanding, shared investments and joint projects will drive progress toward water security and sustainable development for all.