On June 29th, 2022, the Launching Ceremony of the LMC Water Center-MRC Joint Study was held online and offline.

The six countries along the Lancang-Mekong River all attach great importance to this study, the proposal of which has been approved by the Joint Working Group on Lancang Mekong Water Resources Cooperation and the Mekong River Commission Joint Committee. The Inception Report was prepared by the joint team of LMC and MRC earlier this year. This study is co-financed by the LMC Special Fund of the Chinese government, resources of MRC and othe LMC member countries.

This Joint Study, entitled“Joint Study on the Changing Patterns of Hydrological Conditions of the Lancang-Mekong River Basin and Adaptation Strategies”aims to assess the characteristics and fundamental causes of flood and drought in the Basin. It will also propose different adaptation measures, including better information sharing and coordination of water infrastructures, for the six Lang-Mekong countries to effectively address flood and drought risks, as well as the impact of low flows, in a context of changing climate.

“This joint study is not just another pure scientific task. It is also to promote mutual sharing of hydrological and meteorological data, models and other knowledge as information sharing is critical for the success of this study and river management.” said Mr. Hao Zhao, Secretary General of LMC Water Center. “We  trust that by launching this Joint Study today, together with MRCS, we can promote coordination and cooperation across the river basin, taking joint and concerted actions to deal with floods, droughts and other impacts caused by climate change and human activities, and addressing water-related issues of common concerns. ”

Dr. Anoulak Kittikhoun, CEO of MRCS, pointed out the importance of the Joint Study, which will improve understanding of the causes and conditions of the changing patterns of hydrological conditions of the Lancang-Mekong River Basin, enhance mutual trust among lancang-Mekong countries and foster cooperation partnership. MRCS will actively carry out data collection and analysis and jointly promote the Joint Study.

“I look forward to the Joint Study between MRCS and LMC Water Center. Thailand strongly supports the study and ready to share needed data”, said Mr Saravuth Cheevaprasert, Deputy Secretary General, Office of National Water Resources, Thailand.

The launch was held back to back with the MRC's 12th Regional Stakeholder Forum. It was also attended by representatives from Department of International Cooperation, Science and Technology, Ministry of Water Resources, Changjiang River Water Resources Commission, China Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research, Nanjing Hydraulic Research Institute, Huaneng Lancang Hydropower from the Chinese side, and particpants from other LMC member countries, as well as  representatives of international partners such as Global Water Partnerhship (GWP) and International Water Management Institute (IWMI).