How can the nations of the GMS particularly those lagging behind economically build up the necessary human resources, knowledge and expertise, to facilitate equitable growth and a more prosperous region A key strategy would be long-term investment in the regions youth; investment in those who will have to overcome the challenges of new social and economic realities in a more integrated and dynamic region. 

Continuing over 15 years of commitment to human resource development in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), the inaugural Mekong Institute New Zealand Ambassador Scholarships (MINZAS) Roundtable Meeting took place on 23-24 July at the Mekong Institute Residential Training Center. The Meeting constitutes the final phase of the MINZAS scholarship program which offers funding and technical support for researches by masters students from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand (CLMT). 

H.E. Mr. Tony Lynch, New Zealand Ambassador to Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand, addressed 12 MINZAS scholars and their mentors during the opening ceremony. In his opening remarks, he expressed his strong support and enthusiasm for continued investment in the regions emerging leaders. 

The inaugural roundtable meeting provides a venue for the young researchers to present the results of their studies and to engage in rigorous academic analysis from regional subject-matter experts. 

The MINZAS program exemplifies the long-standing connection between New Zealand and MI and the shared belief in accelerating economic and social integration through intensified human resource development efforts.