PHNOM PENH: The 6th Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Environment Ministers’ Meeting (EMM-6) officially commenced on the morning of September 13, 2024, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The meeting is chaired by Mr. Eang Sophalleth, the Minister of Environment of Cambodia, alongside Mr. Fatima Yasmin, Vice President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This significant gathering brings together environment ministers from six GMS countries, including China, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
The GMS Ministerial Meeting on Environment serves as a high-level forum aimed at fostering collaboration among member countries on regional environmental strategies and policies. Hosted in Cambodia, this meeting underscores the importance of collective action towards addressing pressing environmental issues within the subregion.
During this year’s session, the ministers are expected to adopt two pivotal documents: the "GMS 2030 Strategic Framework for Accelerating Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability" and the "Phnom Penh Joint Statement on Pollution Prevention Plastics in GMS." These documents will focus on sharing local knowledge, capacity building across the GMS, and establishing forward-looking programs to tackle climate change and environmental challenges.
This meeting follows the commitments made at the 2021 Summit, where the GMS member countries reinforced their dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable development. This includes alignment with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. The GMS 2030 Strategic Framework aims to outline priority actions that accelerate the implementation of national and international commitments relating to climate resilience, greenhouse gas reduction, and the conservation of biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
Moreover, the GMS 2030 Strategic Framework is designed to lay a robust foundation for climate and environmental cooperation, enhancing technical assistance and investment programs along with financial support for member countries.
Cambodia places significant emphasis on combating pollution, both at the national and regional levels. As part of its commitment, the country has initiated an extensive campaign aimed at preventing plastic pollution in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The "Today I Do Not Use Plastic Bags" campaign highlights Cambodia’s proactive approach to reducing plastic waste, showcasing successful community-based initiatives to combat this critical environmental issue.
As the meeting unfolds, it is anticipated that valuable insights and collaborative strategies will emerge, paving the way for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the Greater Mekong Subregion. The EMM-6 not only reflects the collective vision of member nations but also showcases their commitment to fostering a healthier, sustainable environment for generations to come.
