Officials at the 29th ASEAN Economic Ministers' (AEM) Retreat in Magelang, Central Java province of Indonesia (Source: VNA) If the PEDs are fully implemented, they can significantly helpbolster ASEAN economic integration and post-pandemic recovery in the region,Hourn told a press conference of the recent 29th ASEAN Economic Ministers'(AEM) Retreat in Magelang, Central Java province.
The PEDs, agreed at the AEM Retreat, were categorised intothree strategic thrusts, namely Recovery and Rebuilding: Rebuilding Regional Growththrough Connected Markets and New Competitiveness; Digital Economy:Accelerating Inclusive Digital Economy Transformation and Participation; andSustainability: Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth for a Resilient Future.
The meeting also discussed the strategic steps to developintra-ASEAN trade and investment potential so that the region can have a moreresilient economic growth.
Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn said ASEAN is pursuing theimplementation of several key initiatives to improve its economic integration.Its member countries are also pursuing to carry out the ASEAN IndustrialProject-based initiatives to build a resilient supply chain that optimises the potentialof mineral resources and technology in the region.
The 29th AEM Retreat also discussed strategicsteps to strengthen digitalisation and sustainability in the region as well asASEAN’s pillars of economic integration.
Besides, the participating ministers agreed to implement atransformative regional development mindset that enables ASEAN to build a strong,resilient, and inclusive future, Kao added./.