(KPL) Through the Mekong-Australia Partnership (MAP), Australia has supported climate, water, and energy projects across the subregion.

In Laos, this has included construction of a fish passage way in Vang Vieng, which will benefit over 400 families and help preserve over 100 local fish species.

Under MAP, we also delivered short courses and trainings to 365 emerging leaders from Laos and the Mekong region covering topics from leadership to gender equality.  In partnership with the World Bank and ADB, MAP also supported public financial management and gender responsive data.

At the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit, Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced Australia's further investment of $222.5 million to support the resilience and prosperity of the Mekong subregion through the Mekong-Australia Partnership.

The second phase of funding over the next five years will focus on addressing share priorities and challenges, with a particular emphasis on improving water security, responding to climate change, building economic resilience, and combating transnational crime. We will continue to support inclusive leadership, research, short courses, alumni engagement and regional dialogues.

Foreign Minister Wong said ‘The Mekong-Australia Partnership complements Australia's longstanding bilateral partnerships and ASEAN development cooperation. Australia will continue to work with our Mekong partners to shape and secure the future of the region and all those who live in it.’

Separately, Australian government also announced a $10 million Climate and Clean Energy Window from the Southeast Asia Government to Government Partnerships programme announced in May 2023. Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen said “Australia is strengthening cooperation with our ASEAN partners, working together to rewire our region and build new clean energy manufacturing and trade opportunities.”

KPL