In a press statement released following their 4^th meeting in Laos, ministers from China, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam reaffirmed that the MLC is based on consensus, equality, mutual consultation and coordination, voluntarism, shared contribution, and shared benefits. They reiterated respect for the UN charter and international law, and called for a spirit of friendship, openness, and inclusivity. They also pledged to foster higher productivity and work out a cooperation plan to connect Mekong-Lancang countries and boost cross-border economic development.