Myanmar youths attend ASEAN-Japan Young Environmental Leaders Symposium

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that Myanmar representatives participated in the inaugural ASEAN-Japan Young Environmental Leaders Symposium held in Tokyo, Japan, on 15 March.
The symposium, themed ‘Inspiring Change’ and ‘Creating Impact,’ took place at the Bellesalle Onarimon Ekimae Hall in Tokyo, Japan. At the event, 11 projects developed by 37 selected students from ASEAN countries and Japan were presented.
The ASEAN-Japan Centre selected these projects from 100 youths aged between 15 and 18 who submitted proposals on eliminating plastics in regional and marine environments to the ASEAN-Japan Centre. One of the chosen projects was the ‘Stay Aquatic’ initiative, created by four high school students from No 2 BEHS in Pathein Township, Ayeyawady Region, namely Maung Min Thant, Ma Hnin Wint Htal, Ma Kyi Sin Thant, and Ma Phoo Pwint Aung.
Ekkaphab Phanthavong, the Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) of ASEAN for Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), delivered a speech online. Additionally, Mr. Michihiro OOI, the Director of the Marine Environment Division of the Ministry of Environment of Japan, gave the opening speech.
The event was attended by U Soe Han, the Myanmar Ambassador to Japan, diplomats from ASEAN offices, officials, representatives from the ASEAN-Japan Centre, selected students, and guests. The report indicates that the project is a collaboration between ASEAN and Japan, planned in December 2023 as part of the Joint Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. — ASH/TMT