Phnom Penh, July 31, 2025 — The Mekong Institute (MI) and Yunnan Normal University (YNNU) formalized a new chapter of cooperation with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening regional capacity development, research collaboration, and knowledge exchange across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).
Held on the sidelines of the Mekong Forum 2025 at Shangri-La Phnom Penh, the signing ceremony underscored the Forum’s theme of “Harnessing an Inclusive and Resilient GMS through New Economies.” The MOU was signed by Prof. Dr. Xu Rui, Vice President of YNNU, and Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn, Executive Director of MI, in the presence of H.E. Mr. Chea Chantum, Secretary-General of the General Secretariat for Population and Development, Ministry of Planning of Cambodia, and Chairman of the MI Council.
“This MOU marks a strategic alignment of our institutions’ strengths and a shared commitment to knowledge-driven and inclusive development across the region,” said Ms. Tina Wang, Program Manager of MI’s Sustainable Energy and Environment Department, who served as Master of Ceremonies.
The partnership outlines key areas of collaboration, including:
- Joint research and innovation projects addressing regional challenges;
- Academic and professional exchanges involving scholars, faculty, and staff;
- Knowledge-sharing initiatives, including co-publications and regional network development;
- Co-organized capacity development programs, such as training workshops and conferences; and
- Student and youth engagement through internships, fellowships, and learning exchanges.
Prof. Dr. Xu reaffirmed YNNU’s commitment to contributing to regional integration through academic excellence and collaborative research. Mr. Suriyan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing MI’s readiness to work closely with YNNU to develop programs that are inclusive, impactful, and aligned with the sustainable development priorities of the GMS.
The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photo and a spirit of mutual appreciation—signaling the start of a meaningful and enduring partnership that aims to build stronger, knowledge-based linkages across borders.
