Mekong hurt by sweet talkWhen a regional grouping or cooperation framework marks its anniversary, it's typical that respective members, through the government or the Foreign Affairs Ministry, send a congratulatory note. The Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) framework that links Mekong riparian countries, namely China, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar Vietnam and Thailand is no exception. The MLC was conceived and pushed by China, with Thailand's support, and celebrates its fifth year this month. Sending Thailand's congratulatory note on behalf of the Thai government this week was Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Don Pramudwinai. Excessive development has tremendously hurt the river, which is known for its diversity second only to the Amazon.

Source: Bangkok Post March 26, 2021 23:15 UTC