Vientiane, Lao PDR, Nov 5, 2025 — The Mekong Institute (MI) Executive Director, Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn, met with the MI Council Chairman, Mr. Somboun Sihanak, Director General of the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR, to discuss key institutional priorities and collaborative plans moving forward.
During the meeting, both sides discussed the key points of MI’s new Strategic Plan 2026–2030 and its implementation plan, which will be presented for discussion and endorsement at the upcoming MI Council Meeting. The exchange underscored the importance of ensuring that the new plan effectively guides MI’s future programs and strategic direction to respond to the evolving needs of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).
In line with the new Strategic Plan, Mr. Somboun reaffirmed Lao PDR’s commitment to advancing the Chairmanship’s Initiatives under the theme “Connectivity and Resilience,” which aim to transform the Chair’s vision into impactful actions that strengthen regional cooperation and promote sustainable development across the GMS.
The meeting also covered preparations for the upcoming MI Governing Board Meeting 2/2025, which will be hosted by the Government of Lao PDR in Champasak Province. Both sides discussed logistical and substantive arrangements to ensure the successful conduct of the meeting in December 2025.
Mr. Somboun further expressed his strong support for MI’s flagship events in 2026, including the MI 30th Anniversary Commemoration and the Mekong Forum 2026, reaffirming Lao PDR’s leadership and partnership with MI in advancing shared regional goals.
