LMC becomes effective model of win-win cooperation: Cambodian FM

PHNOM PENH, March 19 (Xinhua) -- Eight years on, the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) mechanism has reached new heights, becoming an effective model of win-win cooperation, Cambodian Foreign Minister Sok Chenda Sophea said on Tuesday.

The LMC countries comprise China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.

He said the launch of LMC in Sanya, south China's Hainan Province, in 2016 reflected the common aspirations of the leaders of the six countries in promoting peace, stability and all-round development, and in building a community of shared future of peace and prosperity for the people in the sub-region and beyond.

"Over eight years, the LMC mechanism has reached new heights. It has become an effective model of win-win cooperation, offered consistent and significant progress, and enhanced cooperation," he said in a congratulatory message on the eighth anniversary of LMC and LMC Week 2024.

"It has also promoted the region's long-term growth and sustainable development, especially through the five-year Action Plan for 2018 to 2022, which has provided fruitful benefits for the well-being of our peoples," he added.

Chenda Sophea, who is also a deputy prime minister, said despite growing geopolitical uncertainty, volatility and complexity, the LMC framework remains on its practical path.

He said the LMC Special Fund remains a crucial financing instrument for new projects in the fields of rural development, poverty alleviation, water resources, agriculture, air transport, health, education, tourism, culture and women's empowerment.

"I sincerely thank the government and people of the People's Republic of China for their support and active engagement in advancing the LMC framework," he said.

Chenda Sophea said the LMC will continue as a positive catalyst with other mechanisms.

"It complements the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership as well as China's Belt and Road Initiative, Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, Global Civilization Initiative and Global Artificial Intelligence Governance Initiative," he said.

He added that these are designed to further promote inclusive growth and digital economic development, which will advance sub-regional integration and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) community building.

"I am confident the framework will continue to support a community with a shared future with prosperity for all as a promising development for the region," Chenda Sophea said.

Originating from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in China, the river is called the Lancang River in China and the Mekong River when it flows through the lower reaches before emptying into the sea.