On 25 March 2026, Mr. Chetthaphan Maksamphan, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, and H.E. Mr. Zhang Jianwei, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand, co-chaired Mekong - Lancang Cooperation (MLC) Week 2026, co-hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs together with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand, at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel in Bangkok, on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the MLC framework.

The MLC Week 2026 formed part of the preparations for the 5th MLC Leaders’ Meeting, which Thailand is scheduled to host later this year, with a view to achieving tangible outcomes and reflecting Thailand’s proactive role in advancing sustainable regional cooperation. The event also highlighted the progress achieved under the MLC framework over the past decade, during which Thailand has played a key role as a co-founder and active member, working closely to drive cooperation with all member countries, namely Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam.

During the “MLC 10th Anniversary Collaboration Dialogue” session, which was a platform for representatives from the public sector, international organizations, academia, and youth to exchange views on the achievements of cooperation over the past decade and future directions, participants reflected on the role of the MLC in promoting tangible regional cooperation, as well as in shaping the direction for the “next decade.” Discussions emphasized transboundary challenges affecting development, the advancement of innovation and technology, and inclusive and sustainable development, while also providing space for youth participation in shaping the vision of future cooperation, thereby reflecting a development approach that prioritizes the younger generation and the continuity of cooperation in the long term.

To date, Thai agencies have implemented more than 112 projects under the Mekong - Lancang Cooperation Special Fund (MLCSF). In 2025, an additional 19 projects received support, covering key areas such as science, technology, water resources management, and climate change response. These initiatives contribute to improving the well-being of the people and promoting sustainable development across the sub-region.