Council Commends Outcomes of Mekong Forum 2025 and Endorses New Strategic Direction
Phnom Penh, July 31, 2025 – The Mekong Institute (MI) convened its Council Meeting 1/2025 in Phnom Penh, co-hosted by the Royal Government of Cambodia and chaired by H.E. Mr. Chea Chantum, Secretary-General, General Secretariat for Population and Development, Ministry of Planning of Cambodia, and Chairman of the MI Council. The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format, allowing participation both onsite and online to ensure wider engagement from member country representatives and development partners.
The Council reviewed MI’s achievements and endorsed key decisions shaping the Institute’s future direction, including approval of the revised activity plan and budget for the second half of 2025 and endorsement of the draft MI Strategic Plan 2026–2030 with a refined Results Framework.
Council members commended the successful Mekong Forum 2025, which engaged over 280 senior officials, business leaders, and development partners under the theme “Harnessing Inclusive and Resilient GMS Through New Economies.” Discussions focused on the circular, care, and creative economies as new pillars of growth, emphasizing the need for policy shifts, partnerships, and investments to drive more resilient and people-centered development.
They also extended their deep appreciation to H.E. Mr. Chea Chantum for his outstanding leadership as MI Council Chair (2023–2025). Under his guidance, MI navigated an important stage of its operations, advanced financial sustainability initiatives, strengthened partnerships with development partners, and expanded the Institute’s impact through high-level policy dialogues and flagship regional programs. His direction has been instrumental in positioning MI as a trusted platform for promoting connectivity and resilience across the Greater Mekong Subregion.
Reflecting on his term, H.E. Mr. Chea Chantum said:
“It has been an honor to serve the Mekong Institute at a time of both challenges and opportunities. Together, we have strengthened MI’s foundations and its role as a regional platform for connectivity and resilience.”
MI Executive Director Suriyan Vichitlekarn expressed appreciation for the Council’s guidance:
“These decisions reflect the strong commitment of our member countries and partners. They enable MI to deliver greater impact, especially as we advance our new strategic plan and prepare for our 30th anniversary.”
Council members and development partners reaffirmed support for MI’s programs and initiatives aimed at advancing sustainable development and regional cooperation across the Greater Mekong Subregion.
