Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar Launch Joint Action Plan Under “Clear Skies Strategy” to Tackle Transboundary Haze

On October 29, 2024, at 1:30 p.m., Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), along with Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, launched a joint action plan to address transboundary haze issues under the Clear Skies Strategy (2024–2030). Joining the launch were Mrs. Bounkham Vorlachit, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment of Laos, and H.E. Mr. Khin Maung Yi, Union Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation of Myanmar, in a ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also present were MNRE Permanent Secretary Mr. Jatuporn Buruspat, MNRE Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr. Chayanun Phakdeejit, Pollution Control Department Director Miss Preeyaporn Suwanaged, Director General of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation Mr. Athapol Charoenshunsa, and senior officials from government and private sectors, both domestic and international. This collaborative effort reaffirms the commitment of the three nations to combat transboundary haze with integrated and practical measures.

Dr. Chalermchai emphasized Thailand’s dedication to addressing forest fires, particulate pollution, and transboundary haze through extensive cooperation among government agencies, citizens, and civil society. The three countries have worked together on these issues for over a decade, initiating the Clear Skies Strategy and establishing the 2024–2030 joint action plan to prevent and mitigate haze pollution. This partnership elevates regional cooperation to sub-regional levels, enhancing awareness and understanding among all stakeholders about the impacts of transboundary air pollution to achieve a genuinely haze-free region.