The Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM) workshop on water and river basinmanagement will take place in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho fromMarch 20-23, with nearly 150 delegates from 51 ASEM member nations andrelevant organisations taking part.

Initiated byVietnam , the event is the first activity of a joint initiative of sixMekong–Danube Cooperation Initiative member nations, and was adopted atthe ninth ASEM Summit in Vientiane in July, 2012, to establish aperiodic mechanism entitled “ASEM dialogue on sustainable development”.

It takes place at a time when countries are boostinginternational efforts to cope with non-traditional security challenges,with the protection of water resources being a priority.

Participants will discuss ways to enhance links in using and managingwater sources and river basins in combination with green growth,ecological preservation, coping with climate change, food and energysecurity, and the lives of locals.

On top of this, aceremony to mark the 2013 World Water Day themed “Water Cooperation”will also be held, including activities such as a science seminar, aphoto exhibition and the awards ceremony of a painting contest featuringthe idea of water protection.

The day will offermanagers, scientists, students and communities a chance to shareinitiatives on water cooperation, discuss issues regarding education,diplomacy, trans-border water management, financial cooperation,national and international policy frameworks, and the connection betweenwater resource management and the Millennium Development Goals.

The Mekong–Danube Cooperation Initiative member nations includeHungary , Romania , Bulgaria , Laos , Thailand and Vietnam-VNA