 Vietnam is hosting the 6th Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS6) Summit in 2018. (Photo: VNA) |
Seeking paths to sustainable development in Mekong sub-region
The GMS Cooperation Program, launched in 1992 by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), includes six members: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and two Chinese provinces of Guangxi and Yunnan.
Over the past 22 years, with support from the ADB and other partners, GMS countries have made considerable progress, especially in infrastructure connectivity with major cooperation initiatives for multiple regions and multiple economic corridors like the North-South, East-West, and Southern Economic Corridors.
The GMS economic cooperation mechanism has attracted a large amount of investment capital. In recent years, sectoral collaboration within the GMS has achieved significant success in energy, environmental conservation, tourism, telecommunications, trade, and investment, among others.
Despite these achievements, GMS economic cooperation continues to face challenges, including limited resources for development, low starting points, climate change, food insecurity, and low environmental sustainability.
At GMS 8, leaders will focus on adjusting macro-level policies; deepening cooperation with development partners; boosting financial support, technical assistance, capacity building, and knowledge sharing to mitigate and adapt to climate change; developing water resources in the lower Mekong; and addressing food security, renewable energy, and human resource development issues.
Vietnam strives to develop a strategy for GMS development to 2030
Since joining the GMS Cooperation Program in 1992, Vietnam has made significant strides in economic development and poverty reduction, contributing to enhancing regional economic connectivity. Vietnam is a key player in the North-South, East-West, and Southern Coastal Economic Corridors. With Vietnam’s engagement, many infrastructure projects have been completed, enhancing transport and logistics within the GMS.
Leveraging its strengths and commitment to cooperation, Vietnam has established an increasingly influential role in connecting GMS countries and has effectively engaged with partners beyond the region. Vietnam plays a key role in developing production networks and value-added chains within the GMS.
At this year's summit, Vietnam will propose new initiatives in targeted areas of cooperation, tapping its strengths and resources to contribute to GMS programs and initiatives.
These proposals will focus on information sharing and coordinated management of Mekong River water resources, minimizing natural resource exploitation, protecting forests, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting the use of biological products.
Vietnam will join other GMS leaders in endorsing the Innovation Strategy for GMS Development to 2030, which aims to advance sustainable development across the Mekong sub-region.
During his visit, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will participate in the 10th Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy Summit (ACMECS 10) and the 11th Cambodia-Laos-Myanmar-Vietnam Cooperation Summit (CLMV 11). These meetings will provide a valuable opportunity for the countries to strengthen cooperation, boost economic growth, create jobs, and reduce income disparities.