Phnom Penh—Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Environment Ministers or their representatives recently endorsed two significant documents aimed at addressing urgent environmental challenges, as announced in a joint ministerial statement.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the endorsed documents include the 2030 Strategic Framework for Accelerating Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability in the GMS, and the Phnom Penh Joint Statement on Plastic Pollution Control. These were approved during the sixth GMS Environment Ministers’ Meeting in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. The strategic framework aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, policy harmonization, and coordinated implementation of initiatives across the GMS to enhance climate and disaster resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve biodiversity, and promote environmental sustainability.

The meeting also highlighted the launch of new initiatives under the strategic framework, supported by an Asian Development Bank (ADB) technical assistance project and an investment pipeline focused on enhancing climate resilience, supporting a low-carbon transition, developing a circular green economy, and promoting nature-based solutions.

The joint statement on plastic pollution control addressed the escalating crisis of plastic pollution affecting communities, economies, and ecosystems. It emphasizes key actions such as encouraging the circular economy, developing sustainable alternatives to plastics, and raising environmental education and awareness among citizens.

Cambodian Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth stated that the adoption of these documents underscores the collective commitment of the GMS countries—Cambodia, China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam—to a greener and more sustainable future. The documents provide clear roadmaps for regional cooperation and emphasize the partnership’s strength in pursuing sustainable and resilient development for the region.

The ministers acknowledged the significant threats of climate change, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable resource use, emphasizing the need for urgent, coordinated action to ensure a sustainable future for the people and the planet. They reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating climate action and promoting environmental sustainability through continued cooperation, innovation, and determination.