The Extraordinary Friends of the Lower Mekong (FLM) Sub-Cabinet Level Meeting on Mekong Sustainability was held during 2 -3 February 2015 in Pakse, Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

The meeting discussed regional challenges arising out of the nexus of water, energy,and food security, as well as shared experience and practical approaches and strategies for a sustainable Mekong.  Discussion topics included economic integration and development of sustainable environment, infrastructure and finance, planning and management, as well as environmental safeguards.

Mr. Noppadon Theppithak, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs who led the Thai delegation stressed the importance of the water, energy and food security nexus, especially at the time when the Mekong Region is exploring various ways and means to support the ASEAN Community 2015.  He further pointed out that water, energy and food security are also important issues under Thailand’s Eleventh National Economic and Social Development Plan (2012-2016) and relate to His Majesty the King’s Sufficiency Economy philosophy.  Deputy Permanent Secretary affirmed Thailand’s role as a development partner and welcomed the recommendations of the First LMI Eminent and Expert Persons Group meeting at the margins of the LMI Regional Working Group Meeting in Bangkok on 29-30 January 2015.

The FLM meeting also exchanged views and best practices on the water, energy, and food nexus especially the water management in major rivers e.g. Mississippi River in the United States, Rhein and Danube Rivers in Europe.  The meeting also agreed that Mekong sustainability is a shared priority among the LMI member countries, where emphasis should be placed on delivering a sustainable future for economic growth and sustainable development, including the areas of smart agriculture, water management, energy efficiency, environmental safeguards and an integrated regional power grid.  FLM members and regional institutions affirmed their support for implementing the technical cooperation programs to advance sustainability in the sub-region.  The meeting also welcomed input provided by the LMI Eminent and Expert Persons Group.

The FLM is an important platform to synchronize collaboration in the Lower Mekong region.  Participating FLM members include Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, the European Union, the Asian Development Bank, , World Bank and Mekong River Commission. Thailand also plays an important role in the LMI as a Development Partner with the United States.