25th ASEAN Summit begins in Nay Pyi Taw
By Digital Content



NAY PYI TAW, Nov 12 -- Myanmar President Thein Sein opened the 25th ASEAN Summit today in Nay Pyi Taw, expressing his confidence in a united and prosperous ASEAN.

In the morning, the meeting resolved to form a high-level working group to draft guidelines for ASEAN development after formation of the ASEAN Community in 2018.

In his opening speech President Thein Sein said that ASEAN should promote both internal and external cooperation.

He also emphasized the summit's important agenda of developing a united, peaceful and prosperous ASEAN.

Despite the uncertainty of the global economy, consumer spending within ASEAN remained strong and the ASEAN economy should grow by 5 per cent next year, the Myanmar president said.

He called on ASEAN member states to promote cultural cooperation, mutual trust, international roles, sustainable development and competitiveness to cope with global challenges including disasters, terror attacks, epidemics and food and energy crises.

The Myanmar president recalled ASEAN achievements and situations and condemned the disappearance of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH317 and terrorist violence.

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is attending the ASEAN Summit for the first time. (MCOT online news)


-- TNA 2014-11-12

ASEAN SUMMIT
Prayut thanks Asean for understanding political situation

BANGKOK: -- Thai prime minister on Wednesday thanked Asean grouping for understanding Thailand's political situation and affirms its commitment in continuing and strengthening Asean economic cooperation.

In his speech at the opening of Asean Summit in Myanmar, Prayut thanked the Asean members, assuring that Thailand will be ready for a quick transition into the Asean economic community (AEC) in next year.

He suggested that the 2015 be devoted to logistics and infrastructure development between member nations by standardizing cross-border regulations and procedures as well as designating special economic development zones along the borders to facilitate regional trade.

To monitor cross-border issues such as drug and human trafficking, Prayut said Asean members needed to agree to a regional action plan as well as the ASEAN Convention on Trafficking in Persons.

Finally, he said the grouping should swiftly conclude its Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement by 2015 in order to boost trade in the region and promote environmental awareness.

He also praised Myanmar for its excellent hosting of the summit and expressed his appreciation in becoming part of the Asean fraternity.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/aec/Prayut-thanks-Asean-for-understanding-political-si-30247588.html


-- The Nation 2014-11-12