Ministers from countries participating in negotiations over RCEP gathered at the 10th inter-sessional meeting held in the form of a video conference on June 23 under the chair of Vietnam’s Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh.
Minister Anh spoke highly of negotiators’ efforts since the beginning of the year. He affirmed that as ASEAN Chair in 2020 Vietnam has been working closely with other member countries to maintain the bloc’s leadership and close cooperation.
Participating ministers pointed out the unprecedented challenges due to the coronavirus outbreak. Therefore it is necessary to enhance cooperation to promote strong and flexible economic recovery along with sustainable, balanced, and comprehensive growth in the post-pandemic period.
Facing the pandemic and emerging trade protectionism the officials reiterated their determination to sign the RCEP at the fourth RCEP Summit in November./.
