Government to upgrade ASEAN development initiative through tech

The centres in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos will be upgraded to Singapore Cooperation Centers.

The Singapore government has pledged to enhance support for a regional initiative that aims to narrow the development gap amongst member countries of the ASEAN, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in a speech at the 51st ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting.

A total of three Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) centres in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos are set to be upgraded into Singapore Cooperation Centres which will feature an expanded “range of technical assistance and offer new modalities for capacity building.”

“Singapore hopes to share our experiences, and at the same time, learn from our neighbours and partners,” PM Lee added.

Also read: Singapore signs revised trans-pacific trade deal

PM Lee also urged deeper economic integration from member countries amidst heating trade tensions between the US and the trading bloc’s other dialogue partners including China, EU and Canada.

“The rules-based multilateral trading system which has underpinned ASEAN’s growth and prosperity is under pressure. It is important that ASEAN continues to support the multilateral system and work with like-minded partners to deepen our web of cooperation.”

Also read: Trade war could drag Singapore GDP down to 2.7%

He cited efforts to conclude the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership by the end of the year which, once operational will be the world’s largest trading bloc that covers a third of the world’s GDP.

The ASEAN-EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement is also another area that will send a clear signal of the bloc’s commitment to economic integration and trade liberalisation.

“Chairing ASEAN at its 51st year is a significant responsibility. Singapore hopes to work with fellow ASEAN colleagues, to forge a new way forward for ASEAN and together as our theme for the chairmanship has it, to, build an 'innovative and resilient ASEAN' for future generations,” he added.

Also Read

Singapore ranks second in global economic freedom

Economists forecast modest NODX growth for Singapore in 2024

Since you're here...

...there are many ways you can work with us to advertise your company and connect to your customers. Our team can help you dight and create an advertising campaign, in print and digital, on this website and in print magazine.

We can also organize a real life or digital event for you and find thought leader speakers as well as industry leaders, who could be your potential partners, to join the event. We also run some awards programmes which give you an opportunity to be recognized for your achievements during the year and you can join this as a participant or a sponsor.

Let us help you drive your business forward with a good partnership!

I want to download the media kit