2nd ASEAN-Mekong Dialogue: Discussion on water security in ASEAN and Mekong Regions

Myanmar delegation led by Union Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation U Khin Maung Yin arrived back at Yangon International Airport on 19th September after attending the 2nd ASEAN-Mekong Water Security Dialogue hosted by Laos in Vientiane.

The delegation was welcomed at the airport by concerned officials. The delegation attended the the opening ceremony of 2nd ASEAN-Mekong Water Security Dialogue on September 18th, where Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR Mr. SaleumaxyKommasith, delivered an opening remark. This was followed by a discussion on acceleration of investment for overcome water security challenges.

Union Minister U Khin Maung Yi discussed that due to abundance of special ecosystems and biodiversities, water resources of Mekong and other resources plays a vital role in the region and the world as a whole. He added taht Mekong river is the improtance source for food sufficiency, Hydroelectric energy distribution and socio-economic development of the ASEAN region.

The Union Minister added that water related problems are occurring in most countries due to climate change, calling for implementations in setting creative procedures for water security in harmonizing with climate change, better water management and water utilization systems, investing water management sector and conducting human resource development works.

Then, the attendees made discussions on water sufficiency in Mekong and ASEAN region, implementation for effective and creative Policy formulation for promoting cooperation in ASEAN region.

In the afternoon, the Myanmar delegation met with the delegation from Thailand and cordially discussed about the current issues of the two countries and matters on strengthening cooperation.

In a sperate meeting with the Union Minister of Natural Resources and Environment from Lao PDR, Union Minister U Khin Maung Yi discussed the working processes on reducing of dust pollution and future plans. The Union Minister also met with the Bruneian Minister of Development and cordially exchanged views on signing on establishing of ASEAN Climate Change Center.