The fourth Summit, which focused on the theme ‘Innovation and Cooperation for a Water Secure and Sustainable Mekong‘, was hosted by the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and held on 5 April 2023 following a preparatory Ministerial Meeting on 4 April 2023 and an International Conference of stakeholders on 2-3 April 2023.
The 4th MRC Summit objectives were to:
- Reaffirm the highest political commitment to the 1995 Mekong Agreement and the mandate of the MRC as a treaty-based inter governmental river basin organization for Mekong cooperation;
- Recognize the progress and achievements of the MRC in fostering cooperation and managing transboundary issues since the last Summit and its role going forward;
- Recognize the broader regional developments, challenges and opportunities and the need for a multilateral cooperation, joint effort and partnership; and
- Provide directions and guidance on enhancing innovation and cooperation for the water-secured Mekong in line with the priorities stipulated in the Basin Development Strategy 2021-2030.
The International Conference of the 4th MRC Summit provided an opportunity for the MRC and stakeholders from the riparian countries, NGOs, academia, regional/international organizations, the private sector, and other river basin organizations to exchange perspectives, best practices and cutting-edge ideas. Leading by the theme “Innovation and Cooperation for a Water Secure and Sustainable Mekong”, the Conference covered two sessions:
1) How innovative technologies are transforming water management and
2) How responsible financing and gender inclusiveness are making a difference in water resources management.
The provided an opportunity for the MRC and stakeholders from the riparian countries, NGOs, academia, regional/international organisations, the private sector, and other river basin organisations to exchange perspectives, best practices and cutting-edge ideas. Leading towards the Summit, the International Conference addressed opportunities and challenges of the Mekong basin to enhance joint efforts and partnerships towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in the region. Plenary keynotes and discussions on global developments, implications and opportunities for the Mekong framed the floor for more in-depth exchanges during the parallel sessions on how to: 1) Optimize regional benefits and adverse impacts, 2) Provide water security in the face of climate change, flood and drought, 3) Enhance joint efforts with multiple stakeholder engagement and support, and 4) Strengthen Mekong cooperation and partnerships between MRC and Mekong related regional mechanisms and frameworks.
4th MRC Summit Statements
- Opening statement by Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, H.E. Dr. Sonexay Siphandone
- Statement by Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen
- Statement by Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, H.E. Mr. Pham Minh Chinh
- Statement by Secretary-General of the Office of the National Water Resources of Thailand, Head of Thai Delegation, Dr. Surasri Kidtimonton
- Statement by Minister of Water Resources of the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Mr. Guoying Li
- Statement by Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, Head of Myanmar Delegation, Mr. Hla Maung Thein
- Statement by High-level representative of the Development Partners of the MRC Vientiane Declaration
- Vientiane Declaration adopted by Prime Ministers of the MRC Member Countries on 5 April 2023 in Vientiane, Lao PDR.
