The eighth annual summit, held Wednesday and Thursday, brought together leaders from Cambodia, China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam, along with the Asian Development Bank president.
The six countries launched the GMS Economic Cooperation Program in 1992 to improve regional infrastructure and drive economic growth through trade and investment.
Li called the GMS a vital platform for cooperation between China and Mekong countries amid global challenges. He urged members to strengthen collaboration by leveraging economic strengths and expanding partnerships in various sectors.
To enhance trade and regional markets, Li proposed advancing Belt and Road initiatives, implementing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and accelerating the next phase of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area.
He emphasized innovation and suggested advancing regional power grids while promoting cooperation in new energy, automotive and clean energy sectors. Li also called for improved infrastructure connectivity and policy alignment to support regional economic integration.
Li also announced China will issue "Lancang-Mekong visas" for the Mekong countries and five-year multiple-entry visas for eligible business people.
Foreign leaders praised China's role in GMS economic cooperation and pledged to align strategies while expanding innovation-driven, inclusive and sustainable growth in trade, agriculture, digital economy, health and tourism.
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