THE
ECONOMIC COOPERATION STRATEGY
PLAN OF ACTION

Introduction

At the Special ASEAN Leaders' Meeting on SARS in Bangkok on 29 April 2003, Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra informally introduced the possibility for the four nations to develop an Economic Cooperation Strategy (ECS) to fully harness the enormous economic potential among them. The Leaders of Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar had welcomed the idea. Such cooperation is expected not only to bring about a win-win situation for all four countries, but also to facilitate deeper economic integration through greater intra-regional trade and investment.

To this end, the first meeting of Foreign Ministers on the Economic Cooperation Strategy (ECS) between Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Thailand (CLMT), held in Bangkok on 1 August 2003, discussed the concept, principles and strategic areas of economic cooperation among the four nations in order to increase trade and investment, enhance competitiveness and generate more employment and improved distribution of income and quality of life in the sub-region.

In order to implement the ECS, action plans are being drawn up to materialize this strategy.  The Economic Cooperation Strategy Plan of Action (ECSPA) is the first in a series of plans of action, building up to the realization of the goals of the ECS.

The ECSPA has a 10-year timeframe from 2003 to 2012. The progress of its implementation shall be reviewed every two years. To facilitate implementation, the proposed investment programs, projects and cooperation arrangements are divided into phases: immediate-to-short term (2003-2005), medium term (2006-2008) and long term (2009-2012).

In recognition of the need to promote economic cooperation, the CLMT countries shall implement initiatives to reduce trade barriers, improve transport linkages and upgrade major border checkpoints and promote cooperation in five strategic areas as follows:

1. Trade and Investment Facilitation

The ECS shall capitalize on the comparative advantages of the CLMT countries to establish a prosperous and highly competitive sub-region. The objective is to facilitate the flows of goods and investments, which are crucial for job creation, income promotion and reduced socio-economic disparities.

1.1. Strengthen production and marketing potentials, expand trading activities and improve the flows of goods and services within and across markets;

1.2. Explore various payment modalities to facilitate trade transactions and encourage the increased use of CLMT currencies for border trade transactions and explore the introduction of an account trade system;

1.3. Facilitate transit shipment of goods to provide better access to export outlets/ product distribution centers along the border areas;

1.4. Enhance trade facilitation in customs by simplifying customs procedures and strengthening customs administration;

1.5. Establish contact points to facilitate ongoing exchange of information/ ECS Business Forum;

1.6. Enhance the competitiveness of the CLMT sub-region for attracting sustainable levels of direct investment flows into the sub-region;

1.7. Extend, where it is appropriate under the laws, the 100 percent shareholder status in industrial sector to investors from the CLMT countries and open up relevant industries for investments;

1.8. Enhance transparency and simplify rules, regulations and policies relating to trade and investment, including rules on, (a) licensing, (b) access to domestic finance, (c) payments and receipts and (d) repatriation of profits by investors;

1.9. Create attractive investment environment via the provision of major off-site infrastructure and regional supply systems, such as power and transportation.

2. Agricultural and Industrial Cooperation

The CLMT nations shall strengthen and enhance cooperation efforts in agriculture and industry through such means as establishing or improving infrastructure facilities, joint production, marketing and purchasing arrangements, research and development and exchange of information.

Agricultural Cooperation:

The objective is to strengthen agricultural cooperation by increasing productivity, improving market access and promoting investments in agriculture, livestock, fisheries and forestry among the CLMT countries.

2.1. Identify potential cash crops for joint development (i.e. soy bean, corn and castor bean) among the CLMT countries;

2.2. Increase farmers’ production efficiency by broadening institutional frameworks to enable effective cooperation in production, research and development activities;

2.3. Develop and strengthen farmers and rural communities in economic, social and environmental management to promote sustainable development through enhanced human resource development programs;

2.4. Promote close consultation and cooperation of private sector of CLMT countries in investments in agriculture and agro-processing industries;

2.5. Enhance the competitiveness of agriculture sector through development and use of appropriate technologies to increase productivity and quality;

2.6. Integrate the production base by introducing appropriate technologies, expanding and improving supply chains of agricultural produce;

2.7. Promote information sharing, joint marketing and systematizing flows of primary goods from production areas to processing facilities and market networks;

2.8. Undertake analysis of the long-term supply and demand prospects of major food commodities (rice, corn, soybean, sugar, oilseeds, vegetable and fruit trees) in the four countries;

2.9. Provide support services in research and development;

2.10. Strengthen programs in food and agriculture technology transfer, training and extension to increase productivity and food safety;

2.11. Enhance cooperation in Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary Standards (SPS).

Industrial Cooperation:

The objective is to promote ECS industrial cooperation in particular in industrial estate in strategic areas.

2.12. Capitalize on the existing GSP and MFN status to increase market access to industrialized countries by expanding industrial and agricultural facilities among the CLMT countries;

2.13. Promote co-production ventures in industrial estates in strategic areas;

2.14. Establish clustered networking and strategic alliances with the private sector to promote investment opportunities in order to promote import substitution and the growth of entrepreneurial skills;

2.15. Ensure sustainable energy supply by promoting joint development of petroleum resources in the overlapping areas and establishing partnership in developing hydropower;

2.16. Institute the implementation modalities for the realization of the sub-regional power transmission networks;

2.17. Share experiences and render assistance in developing legal framework for industrialization among the CLMT countries;

2.18. Provide maximum encouragement to the employment of labor in the CLMT countries in the production process;

2.19. Establish R&D and Skills Development Centers;

2.20. Develop a modern, dynamic, competitive and efficient SME sector by addressing priority areas of human resource development, information dissemination, access to technology and technology sharing, finance and marketing;

2.21. Establish national export financing/credit guarantee schemes for SMEs in strategic areas of cooperation;

2.22. Promote information networking between existing SME-related organizations in the CLMT countries and organize regular joint training programs and seminars for SMEs;

2.23. Enhance the development of geological and mineral resources through the exchange of information, publication and strengthening cooperation among the CLMT countries;

2.24. Enhance trade and industry technical infrastructure in laboratory testing, calibration, certification and accreditation;

2.25. Promote investment in supporting infrastructures through the development of ‘economic corridors’, ‘inter-corridor linkages’ and ‘special economic zones’;

2.26. Enhance incentive investment packages among CLMT countries, in strategic areas joint publications of investment and business information as well as databases and statistics;

2.27. Develop agro-processing industries.

3.    Transport Linkages

The objective is to develop and utilize transport linkages among CLMT countries to facilitate trade, investment, agricultural and industrial production, and tourism.

3.1. Attach first priorities (immediate-to-short term status) of transport linkages to existing/ongoing transport projects, as well as projects with the highest potential of short term economic return; second priorities (medium-to-long term status) to other projects that are complimentary to the first priority projects;

3.2. Utilize existing routes and corridors in the CLMT countries by implementing existing ASEAN and Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Framework Agreements on Goods in Transit and Cross-border Transport and implementing Protocols Annexes to facilitate the movement of goods and people in transit;

3.3. Promote technical cooperation in areas related to transport linkages;

3.4. Promote possible public-private partnerships in transport linkage delivery system.

4.   Tourism Cooperation

The objective is to promote joint strategy for tourism cooperation among the CLMT countries in order to facilitate travels of people from outside and within the region.

4.1. Conduct joint promotion and marketing of the sub-region and convene top-level tourism marketing missions to promote the CLMT countries;

4.2. Jointly promote existing and explore new forms of tourism development, in which the natural and cultural resources are preserved;

4.3. Cooperate to enhance tourism safety and security;

4.4. Develop a joint CLMT tourism website/ information database;

4.5. Establish a network of tourism training centers and develop trainers and training materials for employment across the CLMT;

4.6. Upgrade international border checkpoints to promote cross-border facilitation and ease travel into and within the CLMT countries;

4.7. Cooperate and promote air linkages among the CLMT countries.

5. Human Resource Development

The CLMT countries will cooperate to increase capacity of their peoples and institutions to prepare them for global competitiveness through the following activities:

5.1. Identify each country's needs and expertise to mutually promote and implement capacity building and HRD in the strategic areas of ECS and related sectors;

5.2. Intensify and strengthen existing institutional linkages and university networks;

5.3. Develop ECS integrated HRD strategy;

5.4. Promote and strengthen effective technical cooperation in HRD, R&D, infrastructure development, SME and supporting industry development, information and industrial technology development;

5.5. Identify and seek cooperation from other countries and international organizations for ECS activities.

Conclusion

In order to facilitate implementation o f the Plan of Action, as a part of the Bagan Declaration, the four countries shall carry out projects in the order of priority set out in the annexes of the Plan of Action.

The progress of implementation shall be reviewed biennially.

Annex 1

Common CLMT Projects, Programs and
Cooperation Arrangements

“Common projects” are those undertaken by at least three countries with the consensus of all CLMT countries.

1. Trade and Investment Facilitation

1.1. Expansion of the coverage of AISP offered by Thailand.

1.2. Joint campaigns in areas of trade fair promotion among the CLMT countries.

1.3. Trade mission arrangement.

1.4. Establishment of ECS Business council.

1.5. Conduct a feasibility study on the establishment of wholesale and export markets at the border areas.

1.6. Establishment of one stop service on trade and tourism in CLMT countries at the border areas.

1.7. Arrangement for public-private sector meeting.

1.8. Encouragement of increased use of local currencies for border trade transaction.

1.9. Implementation of account trade system.

1.10. Facilitation of transit shipment of goods to the third countries.

1.11. Setting up single stop inspection at major border areas.

1.12. Establishment of contact points to facilitate exchange of trade information.

1.13. Promotion of export oriented investment opportunities to enhance investment.

2. Agricultural and Industrial Cooperation

2.a.   Agricultural Cooperation

2.a.1. Conduct a feasibility study on cooperation in agriculture, particularly cash crops such as soybean, maize, coffee, beans, and livestock.

2.a.2. Contract farming in Agricultural Products.

2.a.3 Feasibility study and establishment of National Accreditation boards including the
     creation of Verification Centers.

2.a.4 Cooperation between the Standards Body of the CLMT countries.

2.b. Industrial Promotion

2.b.1. Promotion of Energy collaboration.

2.b.2  Conduct competitiveness study of various sectors for joint SME development and promotion.

2.b.3. Establishment of a mechanism to facilitate the transfer of standardized production technology.

2.b.4.   Facilitattion of subcontracting in manufacturing sector.

2.b.5. Establishment of a common fund for SME promotion and development especially in joint venture projects.

2.b.6. Establishment of national food packaging centers.

2.b.7. Establishment of a network of national Information and Consultation Centers in CLMT.

3. Transport Linkages

3.a. Air Linkages

3.a.1. Conduct a feasibility study on, among others, upgrading of the existing airports of the CLMT countries.

3.a.2 Encouragement of air linkages between existing airports in major cities and smaller towns in CLMT to strengthen air linkage for expansion of tourism cooperation.

3.b. Road Linkages

3.b.1. Feasibility study of additional routes and corridors that will encourage economic activities among CLMT countries and nearby economies such as China, India and Vietnam.

3.b.2 Provision of training programs in Thailand on such topics as road planning, design, construction, maintenance and management.

4. Tourism Cooperation

4.1 Implementation of “Four countries one destination” concept such as establishment of
a website to distribute tourism information.

4.2 Tourism training through technical cooperation in the areas of tourism, marketing, IT,
 tourism management, and hotel management.

4.3 Identification and feasibility study on tourism attraction.

4.4 Facilitation of travel, such as visa on arrival, entry permit at the border entry points.

4.5 Joint marketing campaign of safety and security of tourism in CLMT.

4.6 Establishment of a joint working committee on tourism cooperation comprising
 public and private sector at national and local levels) of CLMT countries.

4.7 Pursue feasibility studies of clusters of common tour packages both in the categories
 of eco - tourism and cultural/historical tourism such as: Bagan – Sukhothai –
 Siem Reap - Champasak;

4.8 Arrangement of cross-border overland tours, caravan tours, cross country tours and
 bicycle tours.

4.9 Promotion of protected areas and wildlife protection along the border areas of CLMT
 countries in order to promote eco-tourism.

4.10 Feasibility study on air linkages.

4.11 Introduction of regular charters and charter flights.

4.12 Review of existing Aviation Agreement and other related regulations.

4.13 Opening of potential border entries.

5. Human Resource Development

5.1. Training courses in Thailand on topics related to five strategic areas of ECS cooperation for CLMT countries.

5.2 Provision of 100 scholarships for general education in schools and universities in Thailand.
 
5.3 Offering training programs for journalists and government officials aimed at the understanding of systems (economic, social, and political) in CLMT.

5.4 Conduct researches on economies of CLMT.

5.5 Conduct a joint research on ECS tourism areas and activities to promote practical programs of cooperation.

Annex 2

Cambodia - Lao PDR Bilateral Projects (CL)

Sister Cities

CL.1. Siem Reap (C) – Pakse (L)

CL.2. Stung Treng (C) – Champasak (L)

CL.3. Preah Vihear (C) – Champasak (L)

Group 1: Trade and Investment Cooperation

CL.4. Feasibility study on trade facilitation on border area between Champasak and Stung Treng

CL.5. Improvement of border checkpoints at Champasak (Voeun Kham) - Stung Treng (Dong Kralor) and Champasak - Preah Vihear (To be determined)

CL.6. Strengthening and promoting border trade between Lao PDR and Cambodia

Group 2: Agriculture and Industrial Cooperation

Agricultural Cooperation

CL.7. Technical cooperation on crop production, forestry, livestock and fisheries (Long term)

CL.8. Strengthening cooperation in Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary Standards (SPS) regulations and standardization

CL.9. Cooperation in the development of protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries in the border areas

Industrial Cooperation

CL.10. Sharing of information and establishing the network of SMEs/SMIs

CL.11. Promotion of contract farming and agro-industries in the border areas

CL.12. Encouraging power trade between Cambodia and Lao PDR

CL.13. Exchange of experience on industrial estate development

Group 3: Transport Linkages and Cooperation

CL.14. Establishing road connections (Stung Treng to Champasak and Preah Vihear to Champasak)

CL.15. Improving air linkages between existing airports between the two countries

 (Vientiane – Pakse - Siem Reap - Phnom Penh)

Group 4: Tourism Cooperation

CL.16. Establishing tourist information center (Siem Reap - Pakse)

CL.17. Studying joint tour package (Siem Reap - Preah Vihear - Champasak)

CL.18. Improving border checkpoints (Champasak - Stung Treng)

CL.19. Study on a joint promotion of eco-tourism in the border areas

Group 5: Human Resource Development

CL.20. Sharing of information on training activities

CL.21. Organizing joint workshops on development experience

Annex 3

Cambodia – Myanmar Bilateral Projects (CM)

Proposed Sister Cities

CM.1 Siem Reap (C) – Bagan (M)

Group 1: Trade and Investment Cooperation

CM.2 Establish Contact Points to facilitate the exchange of trade information
 (Cambodia Ministry of Commerce and Myanmar Ministry of Commerce).

CM.3 (Cambodia proposes to delete)

CM.4 Arrange frequent visits between public and private sectors of both sides.

Group 2: Agriculture and Industrial Cooperation
 
Agricultural Cooperation

CM.5 Exchange of plant germplasm for field crops, industrial crops, vegetable, fruits
 and perennial crops.

CM.6 Exchange of information on plant genetic resources and crop production technologies.

CM.7 Strengthening of sanitary and phyto-sanitary regulation/ standardization and capacity.

CM.8 Technical cooperation on crops production.

Industrial Cooperation

CM.9 Exchange of information on industrial sector, energy and mining.

Group 3: Transport Linkages and Cooperation

CM.10 Feasibility study on air linkages between Siem Reap and Bagan.

CM.11 Cooperation on Mekong River transport.

CM.12 Development of road linkages under Asian Highway projects.

Group 4: Tourism Cooperation

Short-term

CM.13 Development of Action Plan for the Agreement on Tourism Cooperation.

CM.14 Relaxation of entry formalities between the two countries.

CM.15 Feasibility study on joint - tour packages between Phnom Penh - Siem Reap – Yangon  – Bagan – Mandalay.

CM.16 Joint promotion of cultural/ historical sites between Cambodia and Myanmar.

CM.17 Exchange of information and training activity.

CM.18 Development of air linkages between Myanmar and Cambodia.

Long-term

CM.19 Feasibility study of historical sites of Ankor Wat and Bagan.

CM.20 Development of nature-based tourism between the two countries.

CM.21 Long-term cooperation in human resource development program and exchange
 of information.

CM.22 Development of air linkages not only between Bagan and Siem Reap
 but also among potential destinations of both countries.

Group 5: Human Resource Development

CM.23 (Cambodia proposes to delete)

CM.24 Sharing of information on training activities.

CM.25 Academic exchange/ linkage between universities of Cambodia and Myanmar.

Annex 4

Bilateral Projects between Cambodia and Thailand

Showcase, Immediate and Short-Term Projects, Programs and Cooperation Arrangements (2003-2005):

Group 1: Trade and Investment Cooperation

CT.1. Feasibility study on the establishment of wholesale and export markets.

CT.2. Investment and trade mission program.

CT.3. Joint trade fair

CT.4. Draft agreement on border trade

CT.5. Draft agreement on transit of goods

CT.6. Sister cities programs

a. Siem Reap – Sisaket
b. Oddar Meanchey - Surin
c. Banteay Meanchey – Sa-Kaew
d. Pailin - Chanthaburi
e. Koh Kong - Trat

CT.7. Improvement of international points of entry:

a. Chong Sa-Ngam – Choam Pass connecting Khun Han (Sisaket) and Choam Pass, Anlong Veng (Oddar Meanchey)
b. Chong Chom – O Smach Pass connecting Kap Choeng (Surin) and Samrong (Oddar Meanchey)
c. Poipet (O' Chrov-Banteay Meanchey)-Aranyaprathet (Sa-Kaew)
d. Daung (Kamrieng-Battambang)-Ban Laem (Chanthaburi)
e. Pailin (Pailin City)-Ban Pakkard (Chanthaburi)
f. Cham Yeam (Mondol Seima-Koh Kong)-Ban Hat Lek (Khlong Yai-Trat)

CT.8. One-stop service arrangement at Thai-Cambodian border

CT.9. Feasibility study on the introduction of account trade

CT.10. Establishment of a Cambodia-Thai ECS business council

CT.11. Feasibility Study on poverty alleviation in the border areas.

Group 2: Agriculture and Industrial Cooperation

CT.12. Koh Kong Industrial Estate

CT.13. Technology transfer in field crops (maize, castor beans, sesame, soya bean, cassava, sugarcane, coffee, cashew nut) production improvement

CT.14. Study of environmental impact from inland fishery promotion

CT.15. Feasibility study for contract farming of tropical fruits

CT.16. Development study of Stung Menam hydro power project

CT.17. Study for identification of suitable sites for eucalyptus farming;

CT.18. Feasibility study on post harvest in fisheries of catch and culture

CT.19. In house training in sanitary and phyto-sanitary measures

CT.20. Target area for agriculture cultivation at the border areas in Koh Kong, Pursat, Kampot, Battambang for joint investment in cash crops (soybean, sesame, maize, castor bean, potato)

CT.21. Feasibility study for the establishment of electricity network in Cambodia

CT.22. Installation of thermal power plants in Kampong Som and Pursat

CT.23. Exploration of mineral resources in Cambodia

CT.24. Shallow seismic survey of Tonle Sap and Lower Mekong River

Group 3: Transport Linkages and Cooperation

CT.25. Inter-corridor linkage upgrading programs

a. Cambodia provincial road 48, Koh Kong to National Route 4

b. Cambodia provincial road 67 from Siem Reap to Anlong Veng to Thai boder

Group 4: Tourism Cooperation

CT.26. Cambodia-Thailand tourism and marketing promotion

CT.27. Development of linkage between tourism sites in Cambodia and Thailand

CT.28. Study of land use master plan in Koh Kong

CT.29. Facilitation of travel, including the introduction of border pass

CT.30. Survey of potential tourist attractions along Koh Kong coast lines

Group 5: Human Resource Development

Cambodia will discuss with Thailand on human resource development programs to support the various projects outlined above.

Medium to Long-Term Cambodia-Thailand (CT) Projects, Programs and Cooperation Arrangements (2006-2008)

Group 1: Trade and Investment Cooperation

CT.33. Feasibility study on Poi Pet Industrial Estate

CT.34. Feasibility study on Pailin industrial Estate

CT.35. Feasibility study on reservoir at Poipet

CT.36. Feasibility study on trade distribution center in Sisophon Town

CT.37. Sister City Programs:

a. Preah Vihear - Ubon Ratchathani

b. Battambang-Chantaburi

c. Pursat-Trat

d. Oddar Meanchey - Buriram

CT.38. Feasibility study of SBEZ new towns (Poipet-Aranyaprathet, Koh Kong-Klong Yai,  Pailin-Ban Pakkard and Kamrieng-Ban Laem;

CT.39. Improvement of cross-border checkpoints

 a. Chong Bok Pass connecting Na Chaluai (Ubon Ratchathani) and
  Choam Khsan (Preah Vihear)

 b. Chong An Mah Pass connecting Nam Yun (Ubon Ratchathani) and
  Choam Khsan (Preah Vihear)

 c. Ta Praya (Sa-Kaew) –Boeung Trakuon (Thmor Pouk-Banteay Meanchey)

 d. Ban Mamuang  (Bo Rai-Trat) –Chhoak Roka (Samlot-Battambang)

 e. Ban Chamrak (Muang, Trat)-Phluk Damrey (Veal Veng-Pursat)

CT.40. Siem Reap International Conference Center Project

CT.41. Sisophon, Siem Reap, Battambang Urban Growth Triangle Feasibility Study

Group 2: Agriculture and Industrial Cooperation

CT.42. Study of environmental impact from coastal fishery promotion

CT.43. Joint venture of marine fishery

CT.44. Feasibility study of rice production and processing development

CT.45. International Marine Park Management Study

CT.46. Master Plan for Koh Kong Protected Area

CT.47. Study and Master Plan for Management of Wildlife Sanctuaries

CT.48. Study and Master Plan for Management of Mangroves, Seagrass Beds and
 Coral Reefs Eco-System of Koh Kong

CT.49. Feasibility study of exploitation of petroleum resource in the area of
 overlapping maritime claims to the continental shelf

CT.50. Feasibility study and construction of water supply in Pailin

CT.51. Feasibility study and construction of water supply in Preah Vihear

CT.52. Evaluation of limestone resources in Battambang and Banteay Meanchey

CT.53. Study of Promotion of Para Rubber-based industry

CT.54. Ayuthaya – Sakeao - Poipet Gas Pipeline Feasibility Study

CT.55. Maptaphut – Chanthaburi – Trat - Koh Kong Gas Pipeline Feasibility Study

Group 3: Transport linkage Cooperation

CT.56. Cambodia’s Provincial Road 68 from Thai border to Samrong and Kralanh

CT.57. Feasibility study of telecommunications network development;

Group 4: Tourism Cooperation

CT.58. Historical Trail of Angkor Wat and Phimai

CT.59. Crystal Coast of South China Sea Tour from Bangkok

CT.60. Crystal Coast of South China Sea Tour from Phnom Penh

CT.61. Identification of potential additional historical sites in Cambodia

CT.62. Feasibility study of improvement of Koh Kong airport

CT.63. Development of Koh Kong eco-tourism

CT.64. Sapphire - Ruby Trail of Chanthaburi and Pailin

Group 5: Human Resources Development Cooperation

CT.65. Transfer of technology and technical know-how of industry
 

Annex 5

Lao PDR – Myanmar Bilateral Projects (LM)

Sister Cities

LM.1. Luang Prabang (L) – Mandalay (M) (to be confirmed)

LM.2. Tonpheung (L)  - Wan Pung  (M) (to be confirmed)

Group 1: Trade and Investment Cooperation

LM.3. To encourage the promotion of border trade and increased use of Myanmar-Laos currencies for border trade transactions.

LM.4. Facilitate transit shipment of goods to third country.

LM.5. Establish contact points to facilitate the exchange of trade information (Myanmar’s Ministry of Commerce and Laos’ Foreign Trade Department – to be confirmed).

LM.6. To conduct/ participate trade exhibitions.

LM.7. To conduct market festival at the border area of the two countries.

LM.8. To start the operation of border trade at the Won Kyin - Xieng Kok and

              Won Pon – Mouang Mom border check points.

LM.9. Arrange frequent visits between public and private sectors of both sides.

Group 2: Agricultural and Industrial Cooperation

Agricultural Cooperation

LM.10. Exchange of plant germplasm for food and industrial crops.

LM.11. Exchange of information on plant genetic resources and crop production technologies.

LM.12. Strengthening of sanitary and phyto-sanitary regulation/ standardization and capacity.

LM.13. Study on demand and supply of key agricultural products.

LM.14. Strengthen technical cooperation on seeds production, forestry and fishery at Tonpheung Agricultural Centre between Laos and Myanmar
 

Industrial Cooperation

LM.15. To encourage the cooperation between Laos and Myanmar in the field of industry and mining.

Group 3: Transport Linkages and Cooperation

LM.16. To conduct the feasibility study for the construction and find the source of funding for the Laos-Myanmar Friendship Bridge over the Mekong River.

LM.17. To revitalize air linkage between Yangon and Vientiane and encourage the possible air linkage between Mandalay and Luang Prabang.

Group 4: Tourism Cooperation

Short-term

LM.18. Feasibility study of Joint Marketing and Promotion to be known as a single destination based on culture, history, religion, festivals and ecotourism.

LM.19. Revitalization of air linkage between Yangon and Vientiane.

LM.20. Upgrading of border check points.

LM.21. Relaxation of entry formalities.

LM.22. Encourage the participation of private sector in promoting tourism between the two countries.

LM.23. Feasibility study of the joint tourism promotion among Laos, Myanmar and Thailand in the Golden Triangle area.

Long-term

LM.24. Feasibility study of ecotourism development of both countries.

LM.25. Improvement of land and waterway transportation.

LM.26. Strengthening of long-term relationship in the human resource development and exchange of information.

LM.27. Planning for construction of a friendship bridge in border area.

Group 5: Human Resource Development

HRD is incorporated in the above four areas of cooperation.

Annex 6

Bilateral Projects between Lao PDR – Thailand

Proposed Sister-Cities

LT.1. Savannakhet – Mukdahan (Short term)

LT.2. Ton Pheung – Chiang Saen

LT.3. Houay Sai – Chiang Khong

LT.4. Thakhek – Nakhon Phanom

LT.5. Pakse – Ubon Ratchatani

LT.6. Muang Nguen – Houay Kon (to be considered)

LT.7. Vientiane  – Nong Khai

Group 1: Trade and Investment Cooperation

LT.8. Promotion of trade and investment to the existing Special Economic Zones (Savan - Seno) or industrial estates and border trade zones
 
LT.9. Expansion of coverage under GSP and AISP offered by Thailand

LT.10. Reviews of rules and regulation to facilitate 2-way trade

LT.11. Exchange of investment mission between DDFI and BOI

LT.12. Intensifying exchange of trade and investment fairs in public and private sectors

LT.13. Cooperation between Thai-Laos Customs Department

LT.14. Facilitation of cross-border transport of goods and transit of goods to/from the third country

LT.15. Assistance on the production of goods in Laos and market access

LT.16. Study on economic structure in the future in labor intensive sectors such as agriculture

LT.17. Establishment of ECS Business Council (to be considered)

LT.18. Feasibility Study for the establishment of wholesale markets and distribution centers in Lao PDR and border areas

LT.19. Establishment of one-stop-service centers at the border checkpoints

LT.20. Feasibility study on the implementation of barter trade and account trade system

Group 2: Agricultural and Industrial Cooperation

Agricultural Cooperation

LT.21. Contract farming for field crops production: soybean, corn, peanut, cashew nut, castor bean, potato and livestock.

LT.22. Establishment of storage for agricultural products in Lao PDR

LT.23. Strengthening of sanitary and phyto-sanitary regulation/ standardization and capacity.

Industrial Cooperation

LT.24. Feasibility study on the establishment of industrial estate in Savan-Seno in Lao PDR

LT.25. Feasibility study for the establishment of the center for commodity processing and distribution in Mukdahan

LT.26. Promotion of SMEs/SMIs cooperation

LT.27. Continue to cooperate in energy sector, especially in hydro power.

Group 3: Transport Linkages and Cooperation

LT.28. Chiang Khong – Houay Sai – Luang Nam Tha – Boten Route

LT.29. Huaikon – Pak Beng Route and extension to Hongsa - Luang Prabang Route

LT.30. Bridge over Mekong River connecting Mukdahan and Savannakhet

LT.31. Nong Khai – Tha Na Lang Railway Project

LT.32. Bridge over the Huang River

LT.33. Improve and upgrade border checkpoints to the transit checkpoint for goods and passengers and facilities at Chiang Khong – Houay Sai and Vang Tao – Chong Mek

LT.34. Feasibility study on the construction of Mekong bridge at Houay Sai – Chiang Khong

LT.35. Increase border checkpoints at Chiang Saen, Xieng kok and Tonpheung (Thai request)

Group 4: Tourism Cooperation

LT.36. Feasibility study of joint tourism route between Ubon Ratchathani - Pakse

LT.37. Exploring of feasibility study on eco-tourism along border Lao-Thai in southern part of Laos

LT.38. Caravan tour and bicycle tours

LT.39. Organize FAM TRIP for medias and tour operators from the third country

LT.40. Thailand proposes to waive cross-border fee for Laos citizen entering  Thailand at Thai border checkpoints

LT.41. Feasibility study on the introduction of joint smart card for temporary entry

LT.42. Review of the extent of access via temporary border pass

LT.43. Feasibility study of the introduction of joint visa, including visa fees

Group 5: Human Resource Development

LT.44. Technical assistance and training on farm product cultivation, including development of plant protection system, training on crop production and processing, training on creating activities of One Village One Product on crops

LT.45. Organize workshop and training courses including field visits of OTOP of Thailand to Laos authorities dealing with OVOP

LT.46. Post-graduated scholarship on industrial, handicraft and mining sector to Lao students

LT.47. Technical assistance in the study of appropriate regulatory and management framework for Savan - Seno Industrial estate

LT.48. Research for potential projects in Savan-Seno Industrial estate

LT.49. Scholarship to Laotian students in Savannakhet on vocational education in Mukdahan

LT.50. Scholarship and training courses related to the 5 areas of ECS cooperation

Annex 7

Bilateral Projects between Myanmar and Thailand

Showcase, Immediate and Short Term Projects, Programs and Cooperation Arrangements (2003 - 2005)

Proposed Sister Cities

MT.1.  Myawaddy – Mae Sot

MT.2.  Tachilek – Mae Sai

MT.3.  Koh Song – Ranong

MT.4. Phaya Thone Zu – Three Pagodas

MT.5. Dawei – Kanchanaburi

MT.6. Bokpyin – Bang Sapan

MT.7. Myeik – Phuket

MT.8. Kyaing Tong – Chiang Rai

MT.9. Mandalay – Chiang Mai

MT.10. Yangon – Bangkok

Group 1: Trade and Investment Cooperation

MT.11. Encouragement of increased use of Myanmar-Thai currencies for border    trade.

MT.12. Implementation of account trade.

MT.13. Facilitation of transit shipment of goods to third country.

MT.14. Expansion of the products under AISP.

MT.15. Facilitation the exchange of trade information.

MT.16. Promotion of Thai investment in Myanmar.

MT.17. Promotion of export oriented investment opportunities.

MT.18. Promotion of joint trade fairs and trade missions.

MT.19. Feasibility study for the establishment of wholesale markets and     distribution centers at border areas.

MT.20. Establishment of Myanmar-Thai ECS Business Council.

MT.21. One stop service center in tourism and trade in Myanmar at the border    areas.

Group 2: Agricultural and Industrial Cooperation

Agricultural Cooperation

MT.22. Promotion of contract farming of potential cash crops (i.e., corn, soybean,    maize, castor bean, fruits and vegetables) and livestock in Myawaddy and  Tachilek.

MT.23. Collaborative research on varietal improvement, production and     processing technology for potential food crops and industrial crops.

MT.24. Strengthening and standardization of sanitary and phytosanitary for food    crops and livestock

MT.25. Exploration of market opportunities for key agricultural products.

MT.26. Feasibility study on the production of food crops and value added products. 

MT.27. Exchange of plant germplasm of food and industrial crops.

MT.28. Joint venture for production of hybrid seeds of corn, vegetables and    flowers.

MT.29. Technical assistance and training courses on field crops such as soybean,    castor bean, maize, potato and cashew nut.

MT.30. Two-way technical assistance and training on forestry.

Industrial Cooperation

MT.31. Feasibility study on the establishment of agro-based industries in border    areas.

MT.32. Feasibility study of Special Border Economic Zone in Myawaddy - Mae    Sot.

MT.33. Feasibility study on the establishment of industrial estate in Mawlamyine    and Pa-an.

MT.34. Negotiation of Agreement on the Promotion and Protection of Investment.

MT.35. Development of hydropower project at Thanlwin River, and power    generated from natural gas project via Mae-Sot – Myawaddy – Pa-an –    Thaton –Yangon.

Group 3: Transport Linkages and Cooperation

Showcase, Immediate and Short-Term Projects, Programs and Cooperation Arrangements (2003-2005):

MT.36. Expedite construction of the 2nd Friendship Bridge (Tachilek – Mae Sai).

MT.37. Expedite road construction from Mae Sot – Myawaddy – Pa-an – Thaton.

MT.38. Development of Myawaddy – Kawkareik – Mudon – Mawlamyine.

MT.38. Training course on road planning, design, construction, maintenance and    management.

MT.39. Training course on road planning, design, construction, maintenance and    management.

Medium to Long-Term Myanmar-Thailand (CT) Projects, Programs and Cooperation Arrangements (2003-2012)

MT.40. Development of Phaya Thone Zu – Thanbyuzayat – Mawlamyine Road. 

Group 4: Tourism Cooperation

Showcase, Immediate and Short-Term Projects, Programs and Cooperation Arrangements (2003-2005):

MT.41. Organizing of friendship caravan tours and cross country tours.

MT.42. Implementation of Two Countries – One Destination Joint Tours.

MT.43. Relaxation of entry formalities and regulations.

MT.44. Development of air linkages between Yangon – Bangkok and Mandalay –    Chiang Mai.

MT.45. Kawthaung and Phuket as Sister Cities for tourism development.

MT.46. Implementation of Agreement on Tourism Cooperation between Thailand    and Myanmar signed on 24th July 1998.

MT.47. Participation of Myanmar’s tour operators in various tourism promotion in   Thailand.

MT.48. Cooperation in promotional materials distribution.

MT.49. Opening of potential border points of entry.

MT.50. Feasibility study on on-land route tourism along the GMS’ East-West    Economic Corridor.

Medium to Long-Term Myanmar-Thailand (CT) Projects, Programs and Cooperation Arrangements (2003-2012)

MT.51. Feasibility study of combined destination programs in Andaman and    Myeik Archipelago.

MT.52. Joint promotion of potential tourist sites of both nations.

MT.53. Transfer of information technology for tourism industry.

MT.54. Exchange of information for long-term tourism relationship.

MT.55. Development of Asian Highway road linkages.

MT.56. Feasibility study of marine tourism development in the region

Group 5: Human Resource Development

MT.57. Provision of the following training courses
a. Export promotion strategy
b. Rules and regulations of imports and exports
c. Basic training on account trade practice
d. Financial services and management
e. Trade and investment policy
f. Rules and regulations of trade and investment
g. GSP and international trade practice
h. WTO agreement implementation
i. Promotion of SME enterprises
j. Competition policy and economic development
k. Arrangement & management of trade exhibition
l. Management of electronic commerce
m. Special program for post-graduate study in international trade, marketing, business administration, information technology, economic and finance
n. Management of agricultural sustainable development
o. Field crops development
p. Post harvest rice processing
q. Parboiling process technology
r. Electric power generating technology from Husk
s. Grain storage and handling technology
t. Rubber roll and abrasive roll production technology
u. Bran oil extraction and refining and bran stabilizing
v. Livestock management
w. Reservation and conservation of living species
x. Forestry management
y. Risk assessment in environmental aspect
z. Planning and development for electrical power system
aa.  Maintenance and management of electrical power house
bb. Vocational training for industrial laborers
cc.  Feasibility studies on construction & maintenance projects (conducted in various aspects:
      economic, engineering and environmental)
dd. Cross-border traffic systematic management
ee. Management and maintenance of roads and bridges
ff.  Ecological tourism
gg. Reservation and conservation of tourism resources
hh. Hotel/accommodation management
ii.   Tourist Police
jj.   Tourism service providers

MT.58. Projects 
a.  Trade Point/ Trade Net (Short Term)
b.  Trade Information Services (Immediate Term)
c.  Electric Power Generating from Husk
d.  Rice Bran Oil Mill Project