We now continue our special series Beyond the Wall. It's said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Today, we focus on China's proactive diplomacy. The Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Mechanism involves China and 5 Southeast Asian states. It's seen as a big step in forging good relationships with its neighbors. CGTN's correspondent Han Bin went along the Mekong to see how the new policy is reshaping the life of people living along the river.

The "golden waterway" for trade. The Mekong, known as the Mother of All Rivers, provides life-sustaining resources to millions. Trade is expanding, and changes are taking place. Here, at the Luang Chai Meang temple, in northern Laos, across the border from Thailand and Myanmar, the monks are witnessing the expansion of the port in Ban Moon village. They're expecting a tourist boom.

"The temple is right next to the Mekong River. We go there to collect water every day. Sometimes we relax in the water. This river is so closely linked to our lives."

Ban Moon used to be almost unknown to the outside world. The Lao follow Buddhism, which promotes harmony between man and nature. They cherish the river, and believe it's home to a sacred dragon that can protect their good life. They pray for the river to flow peacefully forever.

WEN PEI LUANG CHAI MEANG TEMPLE "If the tap in the temple were to run dry, we'd have to go to the Mekong River to fetch water. So I hope that China, Myanmar, Laos and other countries along the river will work together to protect the water source."

HAN BIN LAOS "The Mekong links China and five other states, carrying potential for growing economies through border trade, cultural exchange and infrastructure projects. That's the driving factor in China's moves for economic integration through transport linkage."

And this region may well hold the biggest opportunity for growth. Ever since 2011, joint law enforcement has been carried out by China, Myanmar, Laos and Thailand. The aim is to boost stability, and access to trade. This monthly patrol, which crosses the borders of participating countries, is seen as a diplomatic effort in strengthening regional security and economy.

Here, at Guanlei Port, China's gateway to the Mekong, transport businesses are growing year by year. China mainly imports timber, rubber and mineral ore from Southeast Asia, and exports commodities and daily necessities.

Li Guolin may know the river better than anyone else. He's been a ship's captain on the Mekong for 15 years. This cargo of timber is coming from Laos. His ship can carry some 200 tons of goods each time. He says business is closely linked with the safety on the route, and China's relations with the neighboring countries.

LI GUOLIN CARGO SHIP CAPTAIN "Man goes to higher positions while water goes to lower places. I hope to sail bigger and better ships in the future."

Li's biggest concern is this stretch, which is difficult to navigate. Reefs and rapids are everywhere. A controversial plan to widen the passage gained consensus. South China Sea disputes have strained relations in the neighborhood. The Mekong River is a testing ground for proactive diplomacy based on shared interests and mutual benefits. China says the aim is to strengthen not only security, but also access to trade.

PANUUAT CHAISAKORN THAI MARINE POLICE "The joint patrol by the four countries bears great significance, as it benefits the people along the route. We have more confidence in this joint operation."

TAN JIANHUA CHINESE BORDER POLICE "I hope the river will become safer. Let it be the bond of friendship, and people of the four nations along the river will enjoy a better life."

Traffic on the Mekong is likely to see a significant increase as the neighbors expand their trade agreements. For the monks at the Luang Chai Meang Temple, they know something is going to change. More than ever before, no one can step into the same river twice. Han Bin, CGTN Laos.