Dr Sonexay Siphandone (centre), flanked by other dignitaries, pens the MRC Education and Visitor Centre and the “One Mekong” app.

Mekong River Commission opens visitor centre

The Mekong River Commission (MRC) Education and Visitor Centre officially opened to the public in Vientiane on Monday, offering insights into the sustainable development of the Mekong River.
The centre, located at the Mekong River Commission’s headquarters in Vientiane, aims to raise awareness of the Mekong River’s vital role in Southeast Asia’s development and the importance of transboundary water cooperation.
It features exhibits, models, and educational resources, offering visitors insights into the Mekong Basin’s history, fisheries, and river monitoring tools.
Another key highlight is the Situation Room, a real-time monitoring hub linked to the MRC’s Regional Flood and Drought Management Centre in Phnom Penh. This tool supports disaster management, climate adaptation, and regional cooperation.
The centre will also host regular courses for scholars, students, and the public to deepen understanding of the Mekong River and its challenges.
The event also featured the launch of the “One Mekong” app, which provides real-time river level monitoring and forecasting. The app, available on both the App Store and Google Play, aims to help communities prepare for floods and other challenges.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone emphasised Laos’ role in fostering collaboration and sustainable development, saying “Laos has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the Mekong Agreement, particularly in executing the functions and roles assigned to the Mekong River Commission.”
“This commitment underscores our dedication to the sustainable management and development of the Mekong Basin,” he said.
He highlighted the significance of the 20th anniversary of the MRC Secretariat headquarters in Laos, saying “Since 2004, it has been a privilege for Laos to serve as the host of the MRC Secretariat.
At the same time, he expressed his gratitude to development partners, including Japan, Morocco, and the United States, for their support in establishing the MRC Education and Visitor Centre
Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Bounkham Vorachit highlighted the centre’s role in fostering awareness and innovation.
She said the MRC Education and Visitor Centre would serve as a platform to educate the public, particularly young people, about the Mekong River’s ecosystems and the challenges it faces, while also promoting regional cooperation.
“The inauguration of the MRC Education and Visitor Centre, along with the One Mekong App, marks a new chapter in educating the public about the Mekong Basin’s ecosystems and challenges, particularly for young people,” she said.
Mr Anoulak Kittikhoun highlighted the centre’s role in educating the public about the importance of preserving the Mekong River and fostering cooperation between Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, China and Myanmar.
“Visitors to the centre can explore the Situation Room, where experts monitor river conditions and forecast changes. Tours are available upon registration to ensure a tailored experience,” he said.
Ambassadors from various countries attended the opening ceremony.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update December 25, 2024)