Study Dissemination Meeting Highlights Strategic Partnership and Pathways for Regional Resilience
June 25, 2025 – The Mekong Institute (MI), and the United Kingdom (UK)’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) jointly convened a Study Dissemination Meeting to present the findings of a joint research initiative, “Strategic Directions in Addressing Global Issues Impacting the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).”
The online meeting, attended by over 20 representatives from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Officemarked the conclusion of the FCDO-supported study. It provided a platform for robust discussions on key research findings, knowledge exchange, and potential areas for future UK–MI collaboration in the Mekong region.
This timely study reflects the shared commitment of MI and the UK Government to proactively respond to the fast-evolving global and regional landscape. Through a combination of desk research, in-depth consultations, and stakeholder interviews, the study examined a series of pressing issues affecting the Mekong subregion. These include global supply chain disruptions, post-pandemic economic recovery, biodiversity loss, the rapid pace of artificial intelligence and digital transformation, persistent gender inequality, and emerging public health risks.
The findings serve not only as a foundation for MI’s forthcoming Strategic Plan (2026-2030) but also offer actionable recommendations that align with existing subregional cooperation mechanisms. By identifying practical strategies for greater collaboration, the study aims to reinforce MI’s role as a responsive and forward-looking institution supporting sustainable development in the GMS.
“This collaboration with the UK represents more than a single research effort—it demonstrates our shared belief in the power of strategic foresight, evidence-based solutions, and inclusive dialogue,” said Mr. Madhurjya Kumar Dutta, MI’s Director of the Trade and Investment Facilitation Department. “The study’s findings will directly inform MI’s strategic direction and reinforce our mission to build a more resilient, connected, and sustainable Mekong region. We look forward to building on this momentum with continued partnerships that deliver real impact.”
“This initiative is a testament to the UK’s enduring support for inclusive and evidence-based policy dialogue in the Mekong region,” said First Secretary at British Embassy Bangkok, Matthew Phillips. “We are proud to partner with MI in generating insights that can inform decision-making and foster resilient, equitable growth.”
The partnership between MI and the UK underscores a shared vision of a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Mekong Subregion—one that is prepared to meet today’s challenges and shape tomorrow’s opportunities.
