30 Years of Shared Prosperity

For the past three decades, the 1995 Mekong Agreement has been the foundation of regional cooperation in the Mekong River Basin. The agreement is a commitment made by Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam to manage and share this mighty river responsibly.

As we mark 30 years of shared prosperity, it is clear that this agreement has shaped the way we work together, making sure the Mekong continues to nourish communities, power economies, and sustain ecosystems.

A Story of Cooperation and Progress

Back in 1995, the four countries came together with a simple but powerful idea: the Mekong is a shared lifeline, and that we are stronger when we manage it together. That's how the Mekong River Commission (MRC) was born as a water diplomacy platform and a knowledge hub where countries could share data, coordinate projects, and tackle challenges.

Since then, we have seen real progress:

• Better water monitoring and early warnings - With improved forecasting, millions of people are now updated before floods and droughts hit.
• Smarter hydropower planning - Countries are using MRC studies, policies, and guidelines to balance energy needs with environmental protection.
• Stronger regional dialogue - Even China and Myanmar, though not MRC members, now share key hydrological data, helping everyone plan better.
• More active engagement with Development Partners and Other Stakeholders, on water resources management, climate change and sustainable development.

"For 30 years, the Mekong Agreement has stood as a testament to our shared commitment to cooperation, sustainability, and prosperity. Based on trust and through dialogue, we have strengthened regional partnerships, safeguarded livelihoods, and ensured that the Mekong River continues to support millions of people living in the region. As the MRC marks its 30^th anniversary, I appreciate our resolute dedication to upholding the principles under the Agreement and to advancing regional cooperation in the face of evolving global and regional challenges," said H.E. Mr Prasert Jantararuangtong, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Chairperson of the MRC Council 2025.

DPM Prasert also added, "As we reflect on our past achievements, we must also recognize the dynamic challenges that lie ahead, particularly climate change, rapid urbanization, and the increasing demands on water resources. Our continued resilience and collective commitment will be key to addressing these challenges. Let this milestone serve not only as a reminder of what we have achieved together, but also as a catalyst for a renewed determination to ensure the sustainability of the Mekong River for future generations."

The Road Ahead

If the last 30 years have taught us anything, it's that working together is the only way forward. The MRC and its Member Countries are stepping up with new solutions - better data, smarter investments, and stronger regional planning - to make sure the Mekong remains a river of life, not conflict.

As we celebrate this milestone, let's remember what's made the Mekong Agreement work: trust, cooperation, and a shared vision for a sustainable future and a shared prosperity.

Watch a video message from Ms. Busadee Santipitaks, Chief Executive Officer of the MRC Secretariat.

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