This session aims to discuss establishing river basin systems as foundations for food security, climate resilience, natural capital, and economic stability by framing scientific risks and value creation opportunities across integrated basin systems; clarifying macroeconomic stakes; exploring governance and cooperation on energy, water infrastructure, and basin management; identifying financing and resilience pathways; developing a shared mission-oriented vision for Asia’s Resilient River Basins; and defining the roles of ADB, international financing institutions, regional bodies, and knowledge partners in advancing science-based, economically informed basin governance.
Introduction to the Session
Lance Gore, OIC-Director, SD2-AFNR, ADB
Opening remarks
Scott Morris, Vice President (Region 2), ADB
Keynote Address
- Chann Sinath, Secretary of State MOWRAM, Cambodia
Topic: “The Mekong and Tonle Sap: Cambodia’s Food Security and the Challenge of Cooperative Stewardship” - Alue Dohong, Assistant Director General / Regional Representative, FAO
Topic: “River Basins – the Foundation of Food Security, Natural Capital and Economic Stability” - Henk Ovink, Global Commission for the Economics of Water
Topic: “Valuing Water Systems: Governance, Risk, and Financing for Basin Resilience”
High‑Level Panel — What Will It Take to Secure Asia’s River Basin Systems for Food and Economic Resilience?
Panelists:
- Chann Sinath, MOWRAM
- Henk Ovink, Global Commission for the Economics of Water
- Lifeng Li, Director, FAO
- Dale Whittington, Professor, University of North Carolina
- Hester Biemans, Professor, Wageningen University
- Cleo Kawawaki, Director General of Strategic Fundraising
Audience Q&A
Closing Remarks
Qingfeng Zhang, Senior Director, Sector Department 2 – Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development, ADB
