Khon Kaen, Thailand — The Mekong Institute (MI) convened the Regional Expert-Level Workshop on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) from October 20 to 22, 2025, at its headquarters in Khon Kaen, Thailand.

Funded by the Mekong–Korea Cooperation Fund (MKCF) under the Promoting Regional and International Connectivity through the Regional Project Identification, Monitoring and Evaluation of MKCF Projects (PRIME) Project, the workshop gathered representatives from government agencies, financial institutions, law enforcement authorities, and an international organization from Mekong countries and the Republic of Korea.

Over three days, participants engaged in interactive sessions—featuring expert presentations, group discussions, and collaborative exercises—designed to strengthen regional cooperation and deepen understanding of the evolving AML/CFT landscape. Discussions underscored the importance of harmonized frameworks, enhanced data-sharing, and coordinated enforcement mechanisms in tackling cross-border financial crimes.

Participants also assessed institutional capacities and explored how regional collaboration can be advanced through practical, results-based approaches. The exchanges helped identify key regional challenges, map institutional strengths and gaps, and outline actionable steps to enhance policy coordination and operational collaboration.

The workshop concluded with forward-looking recommendations aimed at improving information-sharing, promoting policy coherence, and reinforcing regional security frameworks to prevent financial crimes.

Implemented under MI’s Regional Project Identification, Monitoring and Evaluation of MKCF Projects (PRIME) Project, the workshop reinforces ongoing efforts to build a cohesive regional response to financial crimes, fostering greater transparency, stability, and trust across the Mekong region.