US re-engagement with Mekong region poses opportunities and ambiguity, say CSOs
The US plan to invest over 20 million USD to support Mekong countries in clean energy transition, environmental protection, and regional interconnection was made at the end of the Bangkok APEC meeting. In the eyes of civil societies along the riverbank, the final picture still leaves many questions unanswered.
At the US Embassy residence on 20 November, Vice President Kamala Harris convened climate activists from Northern Thailand and business leaders related to clean energy innovation.
The Vice President announced that the Biden Administration intends to request additional funding of up to 20 million USD in addition to the Japan-U.S.-Mekong Power Partnership (JUMPP), the cooperation framework announced in August 2019. The money is aimed at providing energy security, greater regional power flows, clean energy integration, decarbonisation, and resilience.
Yiamyut Sutthichaya
