Bangkok: Working together to create the “Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Framework 2.0”. The Lancang-Mekong River, known as the “river of life,” has been a vital source of nourishment and connectivity for the people of six countries. This year commemorates the 10th anniversary of the first Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Leaders’ Meeting. Since its inception, the LMC has been guided by the principles of “drinking from the same stream, sharing a common destiny,” promoting a culture based on “equality, sincerity, and family.” The cooperation framework is founded on development-first, equal consultation, effective practical cooperation, and inclusive openness. It drives initiatives across three pillars and five key areas, making it a dynamic and promising regional cooperation model.
According to Thai News Agency, over the past decade, strategic trust among the six countries has grown, leading to comprehensive bilateral relations. The ‘Safe Lancang-Mekong Operation’ has made strides in combating transnational crimes such as online gambling and telecommunications fraud. Economic and trade cooperation has expanded significantly, with trade between China and the five Mekong River Basin countries increasing by 125%. Infrastructure development has advanced in both physical and digital realms, enhancing industrial and supply chains. The ‘Lancang-Mekong Visa’ and the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund have facilitated travel and supported over a thousand projects in areas like agriculture and public health.
Last August, the foreign ministers of the six countries convened in Yunnan Province for the 10th Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of constructing the ‘Lancang-Mekong Cooperation 2.0’ framework, based on principles such as ‘Unity, Openness for Mutual Benefit, Green Innovation, and Peace.’ This framework aims to accelerate economic integration, focusing on the Lancang-Mekong Economic Corridor and enhancing the region’s transportation, industry, and energy networks. It also seeks to address issues like transnational crime, water resource management, and environmental protection.
The Lancang-Mekong River Basin aims to become a model for initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the global development initiative. By adhering to principles of good neighborliness, stability, and shared prosperity, the region seeks to strengthen relations with neighboring countries. China is committed to building “Five Homes” of peace, security, prosperity, beauty, and friendship, fostering a brighter future for the Lancang-Mekong River Basin.
Thailand and China share a long-standing friendship, marked by mutual respect and cooperation. The recent visit of the Thai monarch to China underscored the strong bond between the two countries. Thailand plays a key role in the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation framework and is a co-host country. As China embarks on its 15th Five-Year Plan, it aims to enhance strategic coordination with Thailand, supporting the 5th Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Leaders’ Summit and promoting a shared future for both nations.