China, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand have agreed to intensify their collaborative efforts to combat cross-border crime.
China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand discussed cross-border crime on Friday at the Informal Discussion Between the Foreign Ministers of China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that security is crucial for the development of all countries. He pointed out that the security situation in the region is currently undergoing complex changes, with persistent cross-border crimes such as online gambling and telecom fraud posing threats to people's safety, property, social stability, and national image.
Wang highlighted the need for increased joint efforts among regional countries to effectively combat these crimes. He also mentioned that the Global Security Initiative proposed by China has received positive responses from countries like Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. These countries have jointly carried out activities to combat cross-border crime, resulting in the arrest of more than 50,000 individuals involved in gambling and fraud since last year.
Wang expressed China's willingness to collaborate with other countries to intensify efforts to crack down on cross-border crime and protect their homelands. He called for tighter border control, guarding of borders, control of important ports, and the complete blocking of illegal border crossing routes.
Additionally, Wang urged the facilitation of smooth exchange of intelligence and information, continued joint operations to repatriate lawless individuals who have fled across the border, and the prompt enforcement of justice. He proposed the early convening of a ministerial meeting on law enforcement and security cooperation in the Lancang-Mekong region, the advancement of the operation of "the Safety of the Lancang-Mekong Region," and the mobilization of resources from all sides.
Wang also emphasized the integration of human resources, intelligence, technology, and equipment, as well as the coordination of joint operations among the four countries to enhance transnational cooperation efficiency. Countries were also encouraged to deepen exchanges and cooperation in legal and judicial fields, conduct judicial and law enforcement training, and enhance their capacity for combating and governance.
The foreign ministers of the four countries agreed to strengthen cooperation, maintain closer coordination, and intensify efforts to combat cross-border crime such as online gambling, telecom fraud, drug trafficking, and human trafficking to jointly safeguard the peace and tranquility of the region.
