(VOVworld) - The 5th Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) Summit opened in Thailand on Saturday. In his speech, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung said the Mekong sub-region can be a rapid and prosperous growth region as its “Competitiveness, Connectivity and Community” Strategy is included in the “sustainable and comprehensive development” goal. Mr. Dung said the GMS needs to assure the balance between the economics, human and environment, enhance dialogues between member countries to raise the efficiency of cooperation in the coming time. The Prime Minister said the Mekong river is a link connecting countries, so member countries should show their responsibility to manage and use the water source as well as preserve values of this river.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung spoke at the 5th Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) Summit in Thailand (Photo: nguyentandung.org)

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung was addressing the summit: “GSM needs to promote  programs on environment and human resource development to fuel economic growth. Transition to green growth must be supported. Cooperation and experience sharing in urban water management, rural water and safe water management should be restored. Besides the Mekong River Commission, the GMS should play an important role in capacity building and cooperation between member states along the Mekong River in sustainable use and management of water resources.”

 The Prime Minister joined small group discussions and highlighted Vietnam’s view to treasure comprehensive and sustainable development for growth, with harmonization between the people, the nature and regional countries. The Prime Minister made suggestions on promoting connectivity between the GMS and other regional initiatives as well as the roadmap towards ASEAN Community next year. Participants agreed on a joint declaration and Vietnam’s hosting of Greater Mekong Sub region summit next year.

On this occasion, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung met with Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. The two leaders agreed to implement effectively the agreements reached during recent visit to Vietnam by Mr. Prayuth Chan-ocha. They also showed determination in enhancing cooperation in economics, trade and investment, land and water ways, opening more bus routes connecting between Vietnam and Thailand to boost cultural exchange and tourism. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said Thailand is taking into consideration of the signing of a cooperative labor agreement between the two countries. The two sides agreed to foster cooperation in communication and education of fishermen and dealing with any marine violations based on international laws.