China calls for joint Thailand-Myanmar probe into Mekong pollution

China has called for a joint investigation by Thailand and Myanmar into the heavy metal contamination of Mekong River tributaries [...] to identify those truly responsible.

[...] Responding to recent protests outside the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok and the Chinese Consulate-General in Chiang Mai over the pollution, the spokesperson said China [...] understands the environmental and health concerns of people living along the river basin.

"The issue needs to be investigated on the basis of facts, science and responsibility so that those responsible can be clearly identified," the spokesperson said. [...]

The statement came after environmental and human rights groups accused Chinese-backed rare earth and gold mining operations in Myanmar's Shan State of causing cross-border pollution, affecting the Kok, Sai, Ruak and Mekong rivers in northern Thailand. The protesters called on both the Thai and Chinese governments to take responsibility for addressing the alleged environmental damage and ensuring greater accountability by overseas investors.