The newly announced ‘Expanded Partnership for Quality Infrastructure’ from the government of Japan will facilitate the Mekong-Japan Connectivity Initiative to implement infrastructure connectivity, as was outlined during the 9th Mekong Japan Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Vientiane on July 25.

The meeting was co-chaired by Lao Minister of Foreign Affairs MrSaleumxayKommasith, Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Fumio Kishida, and attended by foreign ministers from other Mekong countries.

The ministers said they highly valued the progress made in the execution of the Mekong-Japan framework cooperation, particularly the implementation of the Mekong-Japan Action Plan for Realisation of the New Tokyo Strategy 2015 which encompasses four priority pillars. These are industrial infrastructure development, industrial human resource sustainable development, and coordination with various stakeholders.

The meeting also discussed the future direction of Mekong-Japan cooperation, with Japan to continue to support and assist in the implementation of programmes and projects for Mekong countries.

In particular, Laos and Japan are currently implementing the Vientiane International Airport Terminal Expansion Project, the Southern Region Power System Development Project, the Project for Construction of the Xekong Bridge, and the Project for Acceleration of UXO Clearance in Laos.

Speaking at the event, MrSaleumxay affirmed Laos’ commitment to Mekong-Japan Cooperation, saying “More focus should be put on environmental protection, green growth, adaption to climate change, and the sustainable use and management of water resources.”

The ministers all emphasised the importance of human resource development, disaster risk reduction, climate change adaption, and the sustainable management of water resources.

They agreed to strengthen collaboration between the Mekong-Japan Cooperation and the Mekong River Commission for sustainable development towards a green Mekong.

Other development projects for the Mekong region supported by Japan include human resource development, particularly in the field of industry, health and disaster relief, as well as women’s empowerment in economic sectors.

Ministers also adopted the Co-Chairs’ Statement of the 9th Mekong-Japan Foreign Ministers’ Meeting as a reference for the implementation of Mekong-Japan Cooperation.

The 10th Mekong-Japan Foreign Ministers’ Meeting will be held in the Republic of the Philippines in 2017.