MRC Navigation Program, China, Lao PDR, Thailand, Vietnam
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The Mekong River Commision (MRC) has formulated a Strategy and Programme for navigation development on the Mekong River in close cooperation with MRC member countries and regional development partners which have been approved by the MRC Joint Committee and Council in 2003/2004. Forming an essential driving force in the programme, article 9 of the 1995 MRC Agreement on Freedom of Navigation gives the organisation a powerful mandate to promote and coordinate cross-border navigation on the Mekong River.
The programme addresses issues as diverse as regional transport planning and the comparative advantages of waterborne transport, a new legal framework for Mekong navigation, measures to strengthen safety and environmental protection, improved information and coordination systems and institutional development through capacity and partnership building within the navigation sector.
The Government of Belgium will assist MRC in implementing the Navigation Programme. This Project has the objective "to promote freedom of navigation and increase the international trade opportunities for the MRC member countries’ mutual benefit, and to assist in coordination and cooperation in developing effective and safe waterborne transport in a sustainable and protective manner for the waterway environment.
Royal Haskoning was assigned to assist in this Project and carried out the following activities:
- Preparation of the terms of reference, project proposals, specifications, tender documents, etc. as required for the mobilization of the inputs to implement the programme activities especially the activities that will be carried out in 2006-2007.
- Help in the organization and preparation of, and carry out, appraisal missions in China, Lao PDR and Thailand, and in Viet Nam.
- Coordination, organisation and facilitation of the NAP implementation work plans, budget plans, technical studies, training and workshop schedules, etc. in a well coordinated and harmonized manner.
- Assistance in IWT marketing and promotion in particular help to prepare Atlas of Ports and Landings facilities on the Lower Mekong Basin.
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