(KPL) The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on June 27 signed a grant agreement with the Mekong River Commission (MRC) to provide up to USD 5 million for the new Mekong Basin Partnership. The signing ceremony held at the MRC Secretariat, demonstrates the continuous support of the U.S. to strengthen transboundary coordination and management of water and related resources, contributing to the achievement of the MRC’s Basin Development Strategy.

The agreement offers the MRC a substantial resource boost to respond to the development challenges in MRC’s priority strategies. This approach provides MRC’s Member Countries – Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam – technical assistance in collecting and using data for informed decisions. It also convenes relevant stakeholders, including local communities, civil society organizations, the private sector, and development partners, to engage in discussions beneficial to the Mekong’s well-being.    

The new partnership advances USAID’s commitment to channel a larger portion of development funding directly to local partners. It also aligns with the priorities of the Mekong-U.S. Partnership to support the autonomy and sustainable growth of the Mekong sub-region. “USAID is committed to partnering with regional leaders that bring together national governments in Lower Mekong countries to tackle complex challenges, accelerate sustainable development, build climate resilience, and promote economic prosperity,” said Dr. Steven G. Olive, Director of USAID’s Regional Development Mission for Asia.

Another cornerstone of this Agreement is the improvement of technologies and tools for managing river basins through remote sensing and satellite systems. Additionally, a virtual model of key locations in the basin will be created to analyze and visualize current and potential flood and drought impacts.

“This agreement signifies a return of USAID to directly supporting the Mekong River Commission to better meet our needs and priorities in the MRC Strategic Plan. Through this partnership, we can better support our member countries with new data, tools and foster inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders, contributing to the resilience of the communities that depend on the great Mekong River,” said Dr. Anoulak Kittikhoun, Chief Executive Officer of the MRC.

The collaboration between the MRC and USAID underlines a shared commitment to sustainable development and regional stability. As the Mekong River continues to face increasing pressures from climate change, population growth, and infrastructure development, the combined efforts facilitated by this grant will play a crucial role in ensuring the river's health and vitality.

KPL