• Cambodia is set to host the sixth Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Environment Ministers' Meeting.
• The meeting aims to enhance cooperation among GMS countries and address environmental issues in the region.
• The GMS vision focuses on environmental protection and sustainable management of natural resources.

The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) is set to witness a significant event as Cambodia prepares to host the sixth GMS Environment Ministers' Meeting. Scheduled from September 10 to 13, the meeting will take place in the nation's capital, Phnom Penh, as confirmed by a news release from the Cambodian Ministry of Environment.

The gathering is expected to bring together environment ministers or their representatives from the six GMS countries, namely Cambodia, China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. The assembly of these representatives signifies the collective will to address environmental issues in the region.

GMS Vision and Objectives

The primary objective of the meeting is to review and discuss strategic documents that aim to enhance cooperation among the GMS countries. The ultimate goal is to fully realize the GMS vision for the Mekong region. This vision is centered around environmental protection and the sustainable management of natural resources, both within the region and globally.

Cambodian Minister of Environment, Eang Sophalleth, has expressed his belief that the meeting will significantly contribute to environmental protection and the sustainable management of natural resources in the region and the globe.

Principles and Previous Meetings

The meeting is part of a subregional cooperation program that focuses on its fundamental strengths of community, connectivity, and competitiveness. It embraces the core principles of environmental sustainability and resilience, internal and external integration, and inclusivity. These principles are crucial for building a GMS community with a shared future that is bright and prosperous.

The GMS Environment Ministers' Meetings are held periodically, with the previous one having taken place in 2018 in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The frequency of these meetings suggests the importance placed on environmental issues by the GMS countries and their commitment to addressing these issues collectively.

Historical Context and Future Implications

The GMS Environment Ministers' Meeting is part of a broader trend of regional cooperation on environmental issues. For instance, the Mekong River Commission, established in 1995, is another example of regional cooperation among Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. The commission aims to promote sustainable development and manage shared water resources in the Mekong River Basin.

The upcoming meeting in Phnom Penh is a continuation of these efforts. It is a testament to the importance of regional cooperation in addressing environmental challenges and managing shared natural resources. The meeting will provide a platform for the GMS countries to share their experiences, learn from each other, and collectively work towards a sustainable future.