In this file photo dated Nov 15, 2022, Laos' Vice Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Bounkham Vorachit delivers a speech at the Sharm el-Sheikh International Convention Centre, in Egypt's Red Sea resort city of the same name, during the COP27 climate conference. (PHOTO / AFP)

VIENTIANE — The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, China, Japan and South Korea (ASEAN Plus Three) gathered at the 18th ASEAN Plus Three Environment Minister Meeting (EMM) in Lao capital Vientiane, to discuss and promote collaboration on the environment.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on Thursday, Lao Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Bounkham Vorachit said environmental issues are cross-sectoral in nature and have significant impacts on socio-economic development and human wellbeing both at the regional and global levels.

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The continued collaboration with China, Japan and South Korea is the key to achieving sustainable development for all ASEAN member countries, said Bounkham.

The EMM has been held annually to promote environmental cooperation among the ASEAN Plus Three countries.