Thailand to Address Call Centre Scams at Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Meeting

The Thai government is set to leverage the upcoming Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) meeting to gain regional support in combatting call centre scam gangs. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has tasked Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa with spearheading this initiative during the 9th MLC meeting, scheduled for Thursday and Friday in Chiang Mai.

Regional Cooperation to Combat Cross-Border Crime

Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa emphasized the crucial role of regional collaboration in tackling transnational crimes, including narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, and fraudulent activities like call centre scams. The MLC framework, which includes countries such as Laos, China, and India, recognizes the urgency of these issues and is committed to enhancing joint efforts to address them effectively.

Thailand is prepared to advance this critical agenda within the MLC framework. Maris expressed appreciation to Laos for its intensified crackdown on call centre scams in the Golden Triangle region. This collective effort underscores the need for shared responsibility and coordinated action across borders to tackle such criminal activities.

Keynote Speech and Joint Press Conference

Prime Minister Srettha will deliver a keynote address titled “Towards Safer and Cleaner Mekong Lancang” on Friday. Following the MLC foreign affairs ministers' meeting, Maris and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, will participate in a joint press conference to discuss the outcomes and future steps of the collaboration.

MLC Framework and Thailand’s Role

The Mekong-Lancang Cooperation framework, established in 2012 by Thailand, includes six member countries: Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and China. The framework focuses on fostering sustainable development, reducing regional disparities, and enhancing ASEAN collaboration. The MLC aims to create a shared future of peace and prosperity for the Mekong region.

In December, PM Srettha Thavisin reinforced Thailand’s commitment to the MLC by proposing a vision for a unified and prosperous future during the 4th Leaders’ Meeting. Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke set the event’s theme as "Join Hands on the Building of a Community of Shared Future and Modernisation among Mekong-Lancang Countries," highlighting the importance of regional unity and progress.

Conclusion

As the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation meeting approaches, Thailand’s focus on addressing call centre scams reflects a broader commitment to regional security and cooperation. The collaborative efforts within the MLC framework are crucial in tackling cross-border crimes and enhancing the safety and well-being of the Mekong region's residents.