China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand agree to step up joint efforts to combat cross-border crime

China, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand discussed efforts to combat cross-border crime at an informal meeting of their foreign ministers in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that regional security is essential for development and that rising cross-border crimes, including online gambling and telecom fraud, are threatening public safety and stability. The countries have collaborated on initiatives under China’s Global Security Initiative, resulting in the arrest of over 50,000 people involved in gambling and fraud since last year. Wang called for tightening border control, enhancing intelligence sharing, and advancing joint law enforcement operations. The foreign ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation, particularly in combating online fraud, drug and human trafficking, to protect regional peace and security.

Source – CGTN