On 29 October 2021, H.E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs met with representatives of the Northeast Community Network in Seven Provinces of Mekong River Basin (ComNet Mekong) led by Mrs. Ormbun Thipsuna to discuss impacts of Mekong River resources management on the livelihood of people along the river and environmental changes in the Mekong River. The ComNet Mekong’s representatives called for the Ministry to coordinate with related agencies to address the issues and mitigate cross-border impact, through bilateral and multilateral cooperation, particularly on the exchange of water data, local-to-local cooperation with neighboring countries, as well as acting as a bridge of understanding between related government authorities and local civil society organisations.

The Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs reaffirmed that the livelihood of people lay at the heart of public diplomacy and pledged to act as a bridge to address these concerns and provide solutions for the people in the foreign affairs dimensions. The Ministry stands ready to cooperate with civil society organisations to harness Mekong River resources for sustainable development.