(VOVworld)-Vietnam has responded to Laos’ decision to begin the construction of Sayaburi hydro-power plant in the Mekong River.

Foreign Minister spokesman Luong Thanh Nghi

Foreign Minister spokesman Luong Thanh Nghi told reporters on Thursday during a regular press briefing that it’s important to ensure proper and equal utilization of water resources in the Mekong River for the benefits of regional countries and residents along the river. Vietnam has repeatedly expressed its view that the building of hydro power plants along the mainstream of Mekong River must be in line with the river’s management and development masterplan. Vietnam has requested relevant countries to carry out a comprehensive research on the impact by the hydro power plants on the delta’s sustainable development. Spokesman Luong Thanh Nghi: “The Laotian government has decided to go ahead with the construction after making adjustments to minimize impact on the downstream. Laos will terminate the project if major harms occur during the construction. We hope that Laos will continue its environmental impact research and cooperate with Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand to conduct a comprehensive research on environmental and socio-economic impact by all power plants to be built along the Mekong mainstream.”

The spokesman said that Vietnam and China has completed their 2^nd round of talks on sea related issues including maritime environmental protection, scientific research, rescue operation and disaster preparedness. They agreed to hold the next round of talks next year. He said that Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung will participate at the 21^st ASEAN Summit and related meetings from November 17^th to 20^th in Cambodia.