The fourth Summit, which focused on the theme ‘Innovation and Cooperation for a Water Secure and Sustainable Mekong‘, was hosted
by the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and held on 5 April 2023 following a preparatory Ministerial Meeting on 4 April 2023 and an
International Conference of stakeholders on 2-3 April 2023.
The 4th MRC Summit objectives were to:

1. Reaffirm the highest political commitment to the 1995 Mekong Agreement and the mandate of the MRC as a treaty-based inter
   governmental river basin organization for Mekong cooperation;
2. Recognize the progress and achievements of the MRC in fostering cooperation and managing transboundary issues since the last
   Summit and its role going forward;
3. Recognize the broader regional developments, challenges and opportunities and the need for a multilateral cooperation, joint
   effort and partnership; and
4. Provide directions and guidance on enhancing innovation and cooperation for the water-secured Mekong in line with the priorities
   stipulated in the Basin Development Strategy 2021-2030.

The International Conference of the 4th MRC Summit provided an opportunity for the MRC and stakeholders from the riparian
countries, NGOs, academia, regional/international organizations, the private sector, and other river basin organizations to exchange
perspectives, best practices and cutting-edge ideas. Leading by the theme “Innovation and Cooperation for a Water Secure and
Sustainable Mekong”, the Conference covered two sessions: 1) How innovative technologies are transforming water management and
2) How responsible financing and gender inclusiveness are making a difference in water resources management.