Why is the mekong river so important to southeast asia?

The Mekong Region is the main focus of International Rivers' work in Southeast Asia. As it passes through China, Burma, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the Mekong River bursts with color and life. Sixty million people live in the lower Mekong Basin and their livelihoods and cultures are intimately connected with the river’s natural cycles. Boasting one of the world’s most diverse and productive inland fisheries, the Mekong supplies people with about 80% of their protein needs.

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