Mekong Institute (MI) held a Development Partner’s Meeting on April 27, 2015 in Bangkok, Thailand. The delegates reviewed the results of MI’s current Strategic Plan (2011-2015); while MI solicited ideas and support from the development partners to formulate the next Strategic Plan (2016-2020). 

Over 40 representatives from governments and international organizations participated. The meeting provided a platform to discuss the currents needs of the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS). Most of the development partners showed great interest in MI’s programs in agriculture and trade & investment. Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, MI Steering Committee Chairman, emphasized the integration of technology in MI’s programs. 

The GMS is about to leap into the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). The capacity gaps should be narrowed between and among member countries of the ASEAN to promote regional cooperation in the AEC.