Phnom Penh, 6 April 2023 (TDI): The Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Sen called for attention to UXO in the Mekong River where he attended the Mekong River Commission (MRC).
The theme of the Commission this year was, “Innovation and Cooperation for a Water Secure and Sustainable Mekong” held on 5 April 2023.
He was invited by the Prime Minister of Laos, Sonexay Siphandone, to Vientiane. Hun Sen spoke at the summit and emphasized the strategic significance of the Mekong as a vital source of support for sustainable development.
Likewise, he highlighted the progress of the Mekong nations as well as the welfare of the basin’s inhabitants.
The Mekong River Basin’s resilient, sustainable, and inclusive development as well as ensuring that it is a river with a brighter and more prosperous common future, benefiting all countries along the river.
To prevent potential danger to the lives of people living in the Mekong River Basin, Prime Minister Hun Sen proposed a new proposal to collectively settle the undersea unexploded ordnance (UXO) left over in our Mekong River from conflicts.
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The MRC Member Countries’ Heads of Government acknowledged the possibilities the Mekong River provided for socioeconomic development and progress and reaffirmed that sustainable water security is a crucial underlying support.
Furthermore, it is recognized that developments have international ramifications to address collaboratively, including those related to the impending climate change.
By assuring a more efficient and prompt warning and communication system, basin nations can help communities adjust to shifting river conditions by supporting operational and growth choices with improved technology.
The Heads of Government reaffirmed their dedication to working together to enhance the MRC’s position in ensuring water, food, and energy are safe, economically, socially, and ecologically viable Mekong River Basin.
Meanwhile, they welcomed the strategic shift to proactive regional planning and coordinated operational management, and urged all basin countries, partners, and stakeholders to continue working with the MRC.
The Heads of Government gathered at the Retreat to debate the MRC’s role and regional collaboration, as well as the enhancement of data and information exchange for sustainable control.
