The Mekong River provides millions of people in and beyond Southeast Asia with food, water, and agricultural productivity. Twenty percent of the world’s freshwater fish comes from the Mekong River, supplying the shelves of stores across the globe. However, the river system is threatened by climate change and upstream dams. While many countries of the Mekong basin prioritize the health of the river, China places economic growth above those concerns. How can the United States, China, and Lower Mekong River (LMR) countries work together to keep the Mekong healthy? 

Brian Eyler joins the National Committee in an interview recorded on October 11, 2024 to explain the global significance of the Mekong River, pressing threats to the region, and how U.S.-China collaboration can keep the river healthy. 

About the speaker: https://www.ncuscr.org/video/mekong-river/