The Mekong River Commission (MRC) opened an education and visitor center, and launched the One Mekong app to promote disaster management and strengthen regional cooperation.

The opening ceremony took place at the MRC Secretariat headquarters in Lao capital Vientiane on Monday, with the participation of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, relevant government officials, and invited guests.

The center offers interactive exhibits, physical and digital maps and books, real-time monitoring tools, and insights into Mekong's history and role in regional cooperation.

In his speech, Sonexay emphasized the significance of the center, stating that this landmark facility will serve as a symbol of cooperation and knowledge among the Mekong countries, partners and stakeholders.

The center will also provide regular training programs, including conferences and educational sessions for professionals, researchers, students and the general public, to promote understanding of the importance of water resources and the ongoing work of the MRC.

Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the MRC Secretariat, Anoulak Kittikhoun, said that the center serves as a hub for information, a bridge for knowledge in implementation, and a link to the community in achieving its goals.

Along with the opening of the center, the MRC Secretariat also launched its highly anticipated One Mekong App, a tool designed to provide real-time monitoring and forecasting data directly to the public.

The MRC is an intergovernmental organization for regional dialogue and cooperation in the lower Mekong river basin, and was established in 1995 based on the Mekong Agreement among Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam.